Testing and Standards
UK Libra is on a mission to set the standards for Lithium Battery testing, monitoring and safety compliance here in the UK. We are also interested in the correct testing in readiness of 2nd life usage, and of course emerging recycling processes.
There are many battery tests and standards worldwide, and it is often difficult to fully appreciate which tests are relevant when operating in global markets.
Tests, Tests and more Tests…
There are tests for lithium-ion battery cells and packs, chargers and adapters, all products will be required to meet a range of standards including UL and IEC Standards as well as key international, national and regional regulations.
What is the difference between UL and IEC standards?
The IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission – European based) and UL (Underwriters Laboratories Inc – US based.) standards differ significantly.
IEC standards specify the minimum device safety requirements.
UL standards, in contrast, specify comprehensive technical details in terms of product safety and application.
The IEC and UL organizations also differ greatly in terms of their general approach.
In addition to standards development, the UL is also responsible for certification (general third-party certification) as well as field acceptance.
Compliance with the standards is monitored more strictly, for example through factory inspections of device manufacturers, to ensure that the framework conditions specified together with the certification are met.
Typical standards
• IEC 60086-1 and IEC 60086-2 Non-rechargeable Performance
• IEC 60086-4 Non-rechargeable Lithium
• IEC 60086-5 Non-rechargeable Alkaline
• IEC 61951-2 and IEC 61951-2 Performance of Rechargeable Ni-Cd or Ni-MH
• IEC 61960 Performance of Rechargeable Lithium
• IEC 62133 First and Second Edition Rechargeable Nickel or Lithium
• UL 1642 Lithium Cell
• UL 2054 Nickel Cell or Lithium/Nickel Packs
• UL 1989 Standby Batteries
• UL/CSA/IEC 60950 (may be evaluated in conjunction with UL 2054)
• UL/CSA/IEC 60065 (batteries used in audio and video equipment)
• Japan’s DENAN Ordinance Article 1 Appendix 9
• CTIA—IEEE 1625 and 1725
• Taiwan’s BSMI standards
• IATA/UN DOT/UN 38.3 T1-T8 (or IEC 62281)