Hyundai Mobis has unveiled a new cooling material designed to prevent overheating of electric vehicle (EV) battery cells during ultra-fast charging. The company plans to secure and commercialize this technology to strengthen its position in the future mobility market.
The material, known as the ‘Pulsating Heat Pipe,’ consists of an aluminium alloy and refrigerant, positioned between battery cells to reduce the temperature spikes that occur during rapid charging. This system is expected to significantly shorten charging times by maintaining stable thermal management even during intense heat generation from ultra-fast charging.
Heat pipes are metal tubes that improve heat transfer efficiency between two objects and are commonly used to cool electronic devices like computer processors and smartphones. The pulsating heat pipe works by circulating refrigerant, diffusing heat through internal vibration, and maintaining effective cooling despite gravitational effects in high-speed vehicles. It offers more than ten times the heat transfer efficiency of standard aluminium, quickly moving heat from overheating battery cells to external cooling systems.
Battery systems (BSA) typically include components like battery management systems (BMS), cooling fans, and electronic devices to manage multiple battery modules (BMA). As BMA modules directly generate electrical energy, optimizing cooling to prevent overheating is crucial. Hyundai Mobis has successfully implemented pulsating heat pipes between each cell, transferring heat to cooling blocks and stabilizing the internal temperature at the module level.
To streamline mass production, Hyundai Mobis has developed a press process that simplifies PHP manufacturing and reduces production costs. The new PHPs, just 0.8mm thick, are significantly thinner than traditional heat pipes (around 6mm), offering a larger surface area for more efficient cooling. These advancements are aimed at encouraging wider adoption of electric vehicles.
Hyundai Mobis, a core affiliate of the Hyundai Motor Group, is a global leader in automotive components and solutions. Renowned for its advanced technologies and innovative approach, the company specializes in automotive electronics, electrification components, and autonomous driving systems.
With a strong focus on R&D, Hyundai Mobis operates state-of-the-art facilities worldwide, contributing to the development of next-generation mobility solutions, including electric and hydrogen fuel cell systems. The company is committed to sustainability, safety, and enhancing the driving experience through cutting-edge technologies. Hyundai Mobis continues to strengthen its global presence, collaborating with automakers and partners to shape the future of mobility.
