This paper explores the application of aluminum alloy compressed air piping systems in the lithium battery industry, with a focus on the advantages of UPIPE products in meeting stringent zinc and copper content requirements.
Abstract
As lithium battery manufacturing processes demand increasingly higher air quality standards, the limitations of traditional piping systems have become more apparent. Research shows that the UPIPE aluminum alloy piping system, with its exceptional corrosion resistance, lightweight properties, and strict material compliance, provides an ideal compressed air delivery solution for lithium battery production.
The article details the technical characteristics, performance advantages, and realworld application cases of UPIPE products in lithium battery production environments, offering reliable material selection guidance for the industry.
Introduction
In lithium battery manufacturing, compressed air, as a critical process gas, directly impacts battery performance and safety. Traditional steel pipes and plastic piping systems are prone to generating particulate matter and metal ion contamination over time, making it difficult to meet the stringent air purity requirements of the lithium battery industry. In particular, controlling zinc and copper content has become a key indicator for evaluating piping system suitability.
The UPIPE aluminum compressed air pipe system addresses this industry challenge through innovative material formulations and manufacturing processes, achieving precise control over zinc and copper content. This provides lithium battery manufacturers with a reliable solution. This paper systematically examines the product' s technical advantages and its application value in the lithium battery industry.
1. Special Requirements for Compressed Air Systems in the Lithium Battery Industry
Lithium battery manufacturing is a highly precise process with strict environmental requirements, where compressed air systems, as essential utilities, significantly influence final product quality. In production, compressed air is widely used in key processes such as electrode coating, winding, and assembly - any minor contamination may lead to performance degradation or even safety hazards.
Of particular concern is the industry' s strict control over metal ion content in compressed air. Zinc and copper can form dendrites inside batteries, potentially causing short circuits or thermal runaway. Studies show that when zinc content exceeds 0.1 mg/m³, it negatively impacts battery cycle life, while copper ions accelerate electrolyte decomposition, reducing capacity retention.
Traditional compressed air piping systems face multiple challenges in this application:
Galvanized steel pipes, while costeffective, suffer from zinc layer peeling, increasing particulate matter and zinc ion contamination.
Copper pipes, though antimicrobial, may release copper ions upon contact with compressed air, failing to meet lithium battery requirements.
Plastic pipes avoid metal contamination but lack sufficient pressure resistance and longterm durability.
2. Advantages of Aluminum Alloy Piping in the Lithium Battery Industry
Aluminum alloy piping demonstrates unique advantages in compressed air systems, making it particularly suitable for lithium battery production environments.
Superior Corrosion Resistance: The naturally formed dense oxide layer on aluminum surfaces prevents further corrosion, ensuring no rustinduced particulate contamination - critical for air purity requirements.
Lightweight Design: With a density only 1/3 that of steel, aluminum pipes reduce installation difficulty and structural support needs, ideal for largescale piping in battery factories.
Thermal Conductivity: Aluminum' s heat dissipation properties improve system efficiency.
Material Safety: Specially treated aluminum alloys minimize metal ion release. Optimized alloy composition and surface treatment prevent zinc/copper leaching, making it the ideal choice for lithium battery applications.
3. UPIPE Product Features & Zinc/Copper Content Control Technology
The UPIPE aluminum compressed air pipe system incorporates innovative technologies to meet lithium battery industry standards:
Material Selection
Uses specific aluminum alloy grades, with:
Zinc content < 0.1%
Copper content ≤ 0.05% - well below industry limits.
Manufacturing Process
Anodized Inner Surface: Forms a uniform, dense alumina barrier, preventing direct contact between aluminum and compressed air, eliminating metal ion migration.
Precision Thickness Control: Balances protection with thermal/flow performance.
Connection & Sealing Technology
PressFit Connections: Eliminate weldinginduced contamination risks.
FoodGrade Seals: Ensure no harmful substance release.
Rigorous Testing: Includes particle counting and metal ion analysis before delivery.
4. UPIPE System Application Cases in the Lithium Battery Industry
UPIPE systems have been successfully deployed in multiple leading lithium battery plants, demonstrating exceptional performance:
Case Study: A major battery factory replaced galvanized steel pipes with UPIPE, achieving:
90%+ reduction in airborne particulates
Full compliance with zinc/copper limits
15% improvement in electrode coating uniformity due to higher air purity.
Operational Advantages:
No open flames (safety compliance)
No threading required - simple locking mechanism for fittings (e.g., Quick Drop, Equal Tee)
Costneutral vs. galvanized pipes with far superior longterm ROI.
Conclusion
The UPIPE aluminum compressed air pipe system sets a new benchmark for lithium battery manufacturing, combining material compliance, installation efficiency, and lifecycle cost advantages. Its zinc/copper control technology and modular design make it the optimal choice for highpurity air supply in critical battery production processes.
