Dismantling batteries

Flexibly dismantling used batteries from different manufacturers in a small space

Electric vehicle batteries reach the end of their life cycle after around 15,000 charging cycles. How can large quantities of used batteries from different manufacturers be sustainably recycled? The first step involves mechanically dismantling the battery. Festo offers a space-saving and efficient application for dismantling. Automated processes save time and thanks to model-independent processing a large number of batteries can be dismantled.

Given the expected quantities of used batteries, automation is an economical solution for dismantling. Working safely and cleanly is extremely important in this highly sensitive process in order to protect people and the environment from hazards that sensitive or aggressive substances can cause if improperly discharged. Dismantling the packs into modules, battery cells and other components is basically divided into four work steps:

  • Checking the cooling circuit
  • Cutting open the adhesive bead (sealant) between the housing top and bottom parts
  • Fixing the housing top part into place
  • Lifting the upper part of the housing

The core of this application is a space-saving three-dimensional gantry in which the housing top part is dismantled fully automatically. This requires a high degree of flexibility and precision because batteries are designed differently depending on the manufacturer and vehicle model.