The maritime industry continues to grapple with fire risks associated with electric vehicles (EVs), as highlighted by incidents like the Morning Midas Blaze in the North Pacific. In response, Skansi Offshore, in collaboration with Knud E. Hansen, has developed a new brine-based fire suppression system. This innovative solution is both environmentally friendly and efficient, designed specifically for onboard use. Currently operational on the Norrøna, which travels the world’s longest Ropax route, the system is set to be installed in two new Roro ships currently under construction.
Unlike conventional fire suppression methods that often fail to extinguish core fires, this brine system targets the battery directly. In the event of a fire, it delivers a cold, saturated salt solution into the cabin, effectively cooling the battery and limiting oxygen exposure to flammable materials. A recent test demonstrated the system’s efficacy, successfully extinguishing a fully developed EV fire in under an hour, a stark contrast to the longer durations typical of lithium-ion battery fires.
Key advantages include direct internal cooling, the prevention of thermal runaway, and the use of non-toxic materials (salt and water). The system integrates seamlessly with existing ship engines and fire hose infrastructure and can be retrofitted with minimal modifications.