Overview
IEC 61056-2:2012 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that specifies the dimensions, terminals, and marking for general purpose lead-acid batteries of the valve-regulated type (VRLA). This standard applies to batteries used for both cyclic and float charge applications, commonly found in portable equipment such as tools, toys, static emergency power supplies, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and general power supplies.
This third edition, published in 2012, revises the 2002 version by introducing new battery designations and updated marking requirements to ensure uniformity and clarity across manufacturers and applications. IEC 61056-2 complements and refers to IEC 61056-1, which covers general requirements and testing methods for VRLA batteries.
Key Topics
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Battery Dimensions:
The standard defines the external container dimensions (length, width, height) for prismatic (P-type) and cylindrical (C-type) valve-regulated lead-acid batteries. Standardized dimensions ensure compatibility and interchangeability in various applications. Dimensions are associated with nominal voltages and capacities, allowing users to select batteries that fit their device or system layouts precisely.
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Terminal Types:
IEC 61056-2 specifies several terminal shapes and connection types, including:
- F-contacts: Flat contacts for easy connection.
- B-contacts: Bolt and nut systems designed for secure fixing.
- Lead-type terminals: Terminals connected via insulated lead wires.
- Screw contacts: Embedment of bolts or nuts for wire connections.
- Button contacts (K-contact): Small, compact terminals for specific applications.
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Marking Requirements:
Clear, permanent marking on each battery is mandatory for user safety and product identification. The marking must include:
- Manufacturer's name or trademark
- Type designation or product name
- Nominal voltage (expressed in multiples of 2.0 V)
- Rated capacity (C20)
- Polarity (+ and – symbols)
- Date of manufacture or code
- Safety symbols as per applicable standards
- Recycling symbol in compliance with IEC 61429
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Polarity Marking:
Polarity must be visually indicated on battery terminals using "+" for positive and "–" for negative. Where color-coded lead wires are used to show polarity, IEC 60445 guidelines apply to ensure clarity and safety.
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Battery Classification:
Batteries are classified by their physical characteristics into prismatic or cylindrical types with detailed tables listing dimensions and capacities for standardized types like 2P100, 6P30, and 2C50.
Applications
IEC 61056-2:2012 covers valve-regulated lead-acid batteries typically used in:
- Portable electronic and electrical tools
- Toys using rechargeable batteries
- Backup power supplies for critical systems such as UPS units
- Static emergency power systems
- General power supply applications requiring sealed lead-acid batteries with regulated valves for safety and durability
This standard facilitates the design, manufacturing, purchasing, and maintenance of VRLA batteries by ensuring dimensional and terminal compatibility, safety in marking, and simplified identification for diverse industries worldwide.
Related Standards
To fully comply with global requirements for lead-acid batteries, IEC 61056-2 references and aligns with other IEC standards:
- IEC 61056-1:2012 - General requirements, functional characteristics and test methods for VRLA batteries
- IEC 60445 - Identification of equipment terminals and conductor terminations, relevant for terminal marking and polarity identification
- IEC 61429 - Recycling symbols and environmentally responsible marking for batteries
- Battery standards for other applications like automotive (IEC 60095 series), traction (IEC 60254 series), and stationary batteries (IEC 60896 series) are excluded but complement overall battery standardization efforts.
By adhering to IEC 61056-2:2012, manufacturers and users ensure that valve-regulated lead-acid batteries have standardized dimensions, safe and compatible terminal designs, and essential product marking, supporting product reliability, user safety, and international interoperability in various electrical and electronic applications.