Frequently Asked Questions

The number of batteries that may be transported in a single container depends on several technical and regulatory factors:

• Battery dimensions — physical size and geometry
• Condition — e.g., like new, non-critical, defective, critically defective, or prototype
• Packaging instructions — the applicable ADR/UN regulation (e.g., SV 376, P 911/LP 906)
• Performance data — specifically watt-hours or rated energy
• Cell chemistry — e.g., NMC, LFP, NCA
• We offer transport containers in various materials, sizes, and configurations, so the permissible load varies depending on the model.

We offer transport containers in a variety of materials, sizes, and configurations, so the maximum load capacity varies depending on the model.

Here is a selection of two products from our portfolio:

The XS-Box 1 Basic for smaller lithium-ion batteries and devices containing lithium-ion batteries and cells, e.g., from smartphones, garden tools, vacuum cleaners, flashlights, measuring devices, etc., for which packaging instructions PI 903 (like new), PI 908 (defective), PI 909 (for recycling), and PI 910 (prototype) apply.

The M-Box X1 E is suitable for transporting multiple lithium-ion batteries from e-bikes, individual HV modules from e-mobility applications, stationary energy storage systems, and multiple smaller lithium-ion batteries from tools such as drills or angle grinders. Of particular note is its design for transporting critically defective lithium-ion batteries in accordance with Packaging Instruction PI 911. This makes the box especially suitable for applications where an increased risk potential must be taken into account.

Our product descriptions and data sheets specify the specific transport application for which each container is designed.

The required packing material is generally already included with our products. You can also find details on this in the product data sheets mentioned above.

Lithium-ion batteries are classified as dangerous goods in accordance with international regulations.

The standard UN numbers (also known as substance numbers) for lithium-ion batteries are as follows:

UN 3480: LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES UN 3481 LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES IN EQUIPMENT or LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES PACKED WITH EQUIPMENT

In addition, virtually the same regulations apply to the transport of lithium-metal batteries.

UN 3090 LITHIUM-METAL BATTERIES UN 3091 LITHIUM-METAL BATTERIES IN EQUIPMENT or LITHIUM-METAL BATTERIES PACKAGED WITH EQUIPMENT Different sets of regulations apply depending on the mode of transport:

• Road: ADR
• Rail: RID
• Inland waterway vessel: ADN
• Maritime vessel: IMDG-Code
• Air transport: IATA-DG

Depending on the condition of the lithium-ion batteries, lithium-ion cells, and/or modules, different transportation and packaging regulations apply. Here is an example for road transport:

New lithium-ion batteries require a UN 38.3 certificate for transport to demonstrate their safety during transit. If this certificate is available, standard transport is permitted in accordance with Packing Instruction PI 903 / LP 903. For example, a large plastic IBC (50 H) approved for dangerous goods in Packaging Group II can be used here. A suitable product for this would be, for example, the Flex-Box 625 Basic.

If a UN 38.3 certificate is not yet available, or if the lithium-ion batteries are prototypes or produced in small batches, transport may be carried out in accordance with Special Provision 310 and the packaging instructions P 910 or LP 905. These require, in addition to a dangerous goods package approved for Packaging Group II, a non-flammable and non-electrically conductive thermal insulation material. For this purpose, the FLEX-Box 975 Advanced, including our fiberglass needle mat, can be used, for example.

If individual lithium-ion batteries and/or cells, as well as devices containing lithium-ion batteries or cells, are to be collected and transported for recycling or disposal, this may be done in accordance with SV 377 and Packaging Instruction P 909. There is no separate packaging instruction in the ADR for the use of large packaging (LP) in this transport scenario! This means that large packaging must not be used for this transport scenario!

A suitable product for this purpose would be the S-Box 1 Basic.

Defective lithium-ion batteries must be transported in accordance with Special Provision 376. This Special Provision, in turn, distinguishes between the “critical” and “non-critical” conditions.

If the lithium-ion battery is not classified as “critical,” it may be packed in accordance with Packing Instruction P 908 and Packing Instruction LP 904. When using a large packaging container for dangerous goods, please note that only a single lithium-ion battery may be placed in the container for this type of transport depending on the model, the M-Box Basic, for example, can be used for this purpose. This box comes complete with our packing material!

The “premium category” involves the transport of critically defective lithium-ion batteries in accordance with Packaging Instruction P 911/LP 906. The container to be used must meet two criteria: first, approval for dangerous goods in Packaging Group I, and second, the so-called “additional testing requirements.” Among other criteria, these stipulate, for example, that in the event of an accident or fire involving a lithium-ion battery inside the box, it must be demonstrated that the outer surfaces do not exceed 100°C for any sustained period and that no flames or fragments escape from the box.

One of our ideal products for this application would be the LP1 Box. This is a double-walled container in which the PyroBubbles filling material is incorporated into the partition wall. The filling material inside the box can be ordered either as loose material (Classic) or in filling cushions (Basic).

Please note: The testing criteria for containers for critically defective lithium-ion batteries are specified by the BAM (Federal Center for Materials Testing and Research) in BAM GGR 024. Compliance with these criteria is mandatory!

Proof of compliance with the additional testing requirements must be provided through a fire test of a lithium-ion battery in our containers! The battery to be transported must be comparable to the tested battery in accordance with specific requirements (e.g., cell chemistry). Alternatively, a fire test conducted in a larger container for a smaller battery may be accepted based on scaling rules. Details regarding the requirements can be found in the aforementioned BAM GGR 024.

Please note that when shipping lithium-ion batteries, it is essential to consult with qualified experts and/or dangerous goods safety advisors to ensure compliance with the legal requirements for transport.

The guidelines presented here are provided as examples and should be considered non-binding.

How do PyroBubbles Premium and Pure M differentiate?

PyroBubbles Premium and Pure M differ in composition, heat resistance, and particle size. The Premium grade is made from pure primary glass, is heat-resistant up to 1050°C, and has a particle size of 0.5–5.0. Premium can be used in fire classes A, B, D, and F.

The Premium grade is made from pure virgin glass, is heat-resistant up to 1050°C, and has a particle size of 0.5–5.0 mm. Premium is suitable for use in fire classes A, B, D, and F.

In contrast, Pure M is made from recycled glass, is heat-resistant up to approximately 900°C, and is available in grain sizes ranging from 2 to 4 mm. This granulate is suitable for use in fire class D.