Power bank is very easy to use and it can be used to charge phones and other gadgets anytime and anywhere. However, many such incidents have taken place in the last few days, after which even banning its use in flights is being considered. In fact, in recent times, incidents of fire in power banks during flights have come to light in different countries of the world. A few days ago, a power bank caught fire in an Indigo flight in Delhi also. In such a situation, there is a need to use it carefully.

These signs are visible when it gets spoiled

If the power bank gets damaged, it stops charging. One sign of a bad power bank is the phone not charging. Apart from this, there are many such signs which show that the power bank has been damaged and it is no longer safe to use it. If you see any of the following signs in the power bank, then the power bank needs to be replaced.

• If swelling has occurred in the power bank then its use should be stopped. The risk of fire increases due to swelling in the power bank.
• If the power bank is overheating while charging the phone or other devices, then switch it off. It overheats due to some internal fault or short circuit. It may explode if it continuously overheats.
• If unusual smell is coming from the power bank then stop using it. Such smell occurs due to any defect or leak in some internal part.
• If you notice any crack or any other defect in your power bank, then stop using it. Due to such problems its use is not safe.

Why do power banks catch fire in flight?

Power banks with lithium-ion batteries store more energy in a smaller pack. Many times, due to defect, physical damage, overcharging or internal short circuit, the chemical reaction in the battery reaches the thermal runaway state. This means that the battery heats up quickly, but is unable to cool down. Apart from this, the risk of fire increases due to many reasons like change in pressure in the aircraft, continuous vibration and heat.

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The incidents of fire in power banks during flights are increasing. Recently, a power bank caught fire in an Indigo flight. The government has taken this incident seriously and now new rules are being made regarding power banks. It is being told that there may be a ban on carrying or using power banks in flights. In the meantime, let us know why fire occurs in power banks and how it can be prevented.

Why does power bank catch fire in flight?

Power banks with lithium-ion batteries store more energy in a compact pack. Sometimes due to defect, physical damage, overcharging or internal short circuit, the chemical reaction reaches thermal runaway state. This means that the battery heats up quickly, but is unable to cool down. Apart from this, the risk of fire increases due to many reasons like change in pressure in the aircraft, continuous vibration and heat.

Careless handling

Sometimes carelessness in handling the power bank can also cause fire. Keeping a power bank in a tight pocket along with coins and keys can cause big losses. Similarly, fast-charging or poor quality cable increases the voltage and can create a risk of fire. Apart from this, due to less airflow, charging the power bank from the USB port near the seat increases the heat and there is a risk of fire.

What to do to protect yourself from fire?

Passengers can prevent the power bank from catching fire in the cabin by taking some precautions. For this, always use only BIS certified and good quality power banks. Do not carry a damaged power bank with you while traveling by air and do not keep the power bank with metal objects while packing your luggage. If there is a ban on power bank charging in any aircraft, then do not charge it.

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