Optimization of a battery thermal management system: Master’s thesis in Sustainable Energy Systems

Abstract

This master’s thesis focuses on the Active Cooling Unit (ACU), a vital component used by Volvo Penta to maintain optimal thermal conditions in battery systems across various applications, including electric on-road, off-road, and Battery Thermal Management System (BTMS) solutions. The ACU employs a secondary loop with a glycol-water mixture as the coolant for heat transfer, effectively separating the refrigerant from the battery cooling circuit.

The ACU is critical for ensuring traction batteries operate within their ideal temperature range. Proper thermal management is essential for safe and durable battery performance, enabling quick charging, efficient energy storage, and reliable power delivery.

This research investigates the current BTMS, aiming to optimize the thermal performance of the ACU. Key areas of focus include improving heat transfer across components, utilizing waste heat to reduce operational costs, and enhancing overall energy efficiency. The study explores and evaluates the use of internal heat exchangers, demonstrating that modifying the cooling circuit and better controlling heat dissipation can significantly improve system efficiency.

The findings of this study have broad applicability in industrial and marine sectors and offer scalable solutions for diverse energy delivery needs, contributing to more sustainable and efficient thermal management practices.