Corvus Energy develops state of health (SOH) tests for marine battery systems

Corvus Energy has developed a DNV-accepted method for data-driven state of health (SOH) tests, which are mandatory for marine battery systems. According to the company, it is the first marine ESS supplier to provide this.

These SOHs for marine battery systems are mandatory and give an overall assessment of the condition, performance and safety of the batteries over time. These tests help determine the battery’s capacity, efficiency and remaining life. Using data-driven approaches in these tests enhances accuracy and efficiency in monitoring and maintaining marine battery systems. In addition, the test reportedly can be done with close to no disruption to normal operation, which reduces costs and off-hire time for the vessel.

Lars Ole Valøen, executive vice president and chief technical officer at Corvus, explained, “We recognized very early that we could reduce cost and unwanted non-operation for shipowners significantly if we could do the annual SOH test without taking the vessel out of operation. However, due to the high complexity of battery degradation processes, it has taken almost five years to gather sufficient degradation data from the field and develop robust data-driven SOH algorithms. The work has been carried out by our experienced team of battery experts in collaboration with world-class research institutions and class society DNV. Large amounts of data from our installations, lab test data and a powerful digital twin approach have been used to allow simplified test procedure requirements without compromising the accuracy of the test. This method will also make more frequent SOH testing a real choice going forward, enabling improved safety and more predictable operation, especially toward the end of the life of a battery installation.”

Sondre Austreim, discipline lead electro at Norwegian ferry operator Fjord 1, said, “Recognizing the costly and disruptive nature of traditional state of health (SOH) testing, which meant taking the vessel out of operation for a full day, we sought a more efficient solution to fulfill this class-required task without compromising operational continuity. The process was akin to extracting an oil sample from a diesel engine, necessitating its shutdown until the analysis of the sample was completed and the report was received. Fjord 1 is pleased to recognize the introduction of a new, more efficient methodology for state of health (SOH) testing by Corvus. This innovative approach, grounded in digital twin technology, represents a step forward for operational efficiency. We are grateful for the opportunity to give our input and are satisfied with the outcome. Fjord 1 looks forward to witnessing the positive impacts this new methodology will bring to our fleet.”

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