Coolant Temperature Indicators for Batteries in Electric Tractors and Vehicles

Abstract

The paper accentuates a noticeable shift toward more economical and environmentally friendly electric vehicles within global agriculture, prompted by the growing prices of fuels and lubricants. The widespread adoption of electric vehicles for agricultural tasks encounters limitations, including such factors as performance, cost, service life and safety of traction batteries. The battery thermal management system assumes a key role in regulating battery life. (Research purpose) The study aims to analyze contemporary cooling systems for electric batteries, to identify the type of coolant capable of sustaining the optimal temperature of the traction battery under diverse climatic conditions. (Materials and methods) The paper examines the cooling systems and methods employed for battery temperature control. It provides a theoretical analysis of the effectiveness of thermal regulation for traction batteries, specifically exploring the potential to enhance battery performance through the maintenance of temperature at the required level. To facilitate comparison, several brands of electric vehicles from global automakers were selected. (Results and discussion) The paramount criterion for an effective cooling system is its capacity to rapidly dissipate heat during periods of elevated battery temperature while operating at a gradual pace during startup, thereby ensuring minimal impact on the efficiency of the electric vehicle. Based on this criterion, the paper provides statistical data regarding the modes and operating conditions of traction batteries, including their optimal operating temperature range. Calculations were conducted for three coolant types: ammonia, ethylene glycol and freon R134a. (Conclusions) Despite having an outlet temperature of 22.2 degrees Celsius, ethylene glycol registers 3.3 degrees higher than ammonia and 0.5 degrees higher than tetrafluoroethane, this refrigerant is suitable for application in copper piping.

Keywords

• agricultural machinery
• electric tractors
• electric vehicles
• cooling system
• traction batteries
• battery performance
• coolant