FAQ

The sensor can detect localized electric current concentration. Even batteries that have passed aging tests may show electric current concentration when tested using IGS's equipment, indicating significant degradation under charge–discharge cycles which allows to reduce fire risk (even if the battery has a good aging result with voltage drop 0.01 mV/day). If characteristic peaks are observed in the images, it is reasonable to estimate that the corresponding battery should not be shipped. Therefore, makers can reduce the risk for manufacturers to ship out defective products.

The measurement is carried out while the object undergoes both charging and discharging, resulting in an average state between those two conditions.

Detection capability for identifying tiny, short circuits (Detection ability). We have an ability of identifying short circuits with the size below several micrometers. Anything below that is still detectable if there is a spatial localization of an electric current.

The time required can vary between a few to dozens of hours, depending on the sample size (size of the scanning area) and the degree of fault (size of the spatial concentration area of electric current).

Our measurement system is a world’s first technology capable of replacing conventional aging inspection processes that exist.

The installation space required is as follows. It is essential to have no magnetic noise sources (such as high-current wiring) in the vicinity.

- For single-unit (Capable of measuring 2 batteries simultaneously):
Width 3420 mm, Depth 950 mm, Height 1260 mm.

- For multi-unit (Capable of measuring 112 batteries simultaneously):
Width 3950 mm, Depth 4500 mm, Height 2050 mm.

More batteries can be measured simultaneously by increasing the scale of the equipment. Regardless of the equipment scale, time required for measuring non-defective battery with a self-discharge level of 0.01 mV/day takes about a day, but it may take shorter for more defective batteries.

We have multiple successful achievements in visualizing the electric current density distribution of automotive cells, for example, A4 sized cell with a thickness of about 30 mm. We can also accommodate larger sizes if needed.

We have the most number of successful experiences in measuring laminated and prismatic cells (We analyze several hundred units annually).

The single-unit model (capable of measuring two batteries simultaneously) is priced about 35 million yen (manufacturer's suggested retail price) in Japan.

We have supplied the equipment to manufacturers of batteries, electronic components, semiconductors, among others. The lead time is about 3 months.

Yes, we have already sold the equipment to many battery companies.

- USA: Expecting from October 2023

- South Korea: Expecting from September 2023

We have extensive experience in providing analysis services, taking part in collaborative researches, and selling the equipment to many electric vehicle-related companies.

The basic cost is approximately 80,000 yen per one cell testing, but it may vary depending on specific conditions.

It takes about two weeks from receiving the batteries.

Yes, if you send the batteries to our company located in Japan, we can proceed with evaluating them immediately. The availability of measurement depends on factors such as shapes, thickness, or material of the specimen. Please provide us information to discuss the cells you wish to get evaluated.

Strong magnetic fields or presence of power cables may cause measurement noise. Prior to estimation and placing the order, we first conduct on-site magnetic noise check and environmental surveys to inspect the environment to see if the environment is suitable. If the noise level is significant, we proceed to prepare magnetic shielding boxes.

Yes, it is.

Training can be conducted either in Kobe or at the delivery location. The training takes approximately 1 week.