Samsung details findings of Note7 battery probe

Suboptimal welding, missing insulation tape and an incorrect battery sleeve size likely all contributed to the cases of Samsung Galaxy Note7 smartphones catching fire, which necessitated the device being pulled from the market.

Samsung has released the results of its months-long investigation into the cause of the exploding batteries. At a press conference, the company detailed both the results of both internal and internal evaluations.

Battery experts from UL, Exponent and TUVR all detailed findings of their extensive tests into the devices, and the batteries supplied for the device by two separate suppliers. Each battery was found to have separate manufacturing issues, including deformation at the upper corners.

For one of the batteries, missing insulation tape on the tab and larger than desirable protrusions of welding points likely led to a higher possibility of an explosive malfunction.

Samsung's own battery cell sleeve was also found to be too tight, placing stress on one of the tabs of the batteries, leading to overheating and potentially explosions. But none of the device's components or software were found to contribute.

In a bid to prevent any recurrence of Samsung's battery woes, the company has convened a new Battery Advisory Group of research experts and external advisors, focused on battery safety and innovation.

The company has also introduced new internal and external safety processes, including an 8-point battery safety check.

Image courtesy of Aaron Yoo under CC