Overview
IEC 61959:2004 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that focuses on the mechanical testing of sealed portable secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes. This standard provides essential requirements and testing procedures to verify the mechanical behavior and robustness of such batteries during handling and normal use. It covers various electrochemical systems including Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd), Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH), and Lithium-based batteries, and addresses different battery shapes such as cylindrical, prismatic, and button types.
The primary objective of IEC 61959:2004 is to ensure that sealed portable secondary cells and batteries withstand mechanical stresses like vibrations and impacts caused by free fall events commonly encountered throughout their lifecycle. By detailing test methods and acceptance criteria, it supports manufacturers, testers, and regulatory bodies in assessing battery durability and safety.
Key Topics
-
Scope and Application
IEC 61959:2004 applies to sealed portable secondary cells and batteries with alkaline or non-acid electrolytes, providing standardized mechanical test methods including vibration and free fall tests.
-
Mechanical Test Requirements
- Vibration Test: Simulates mechanical stresses from transportation and usage. The standard specifies vibration frequencies, amplitudes, and durations to evaluate battery integrity under oscillatory motion.
- Free Fall Test: Validates the battery’s resistance to impact by dropping the cell or battery from calculated heights based on weight, ensuring no leakage or damage occurs.
-
Testing Conditions and Procedures
Detailed tables and criteria define the conditions such as vibration parameters (frequency range, acceleration), drop heights, sample sizes, and inspection procedures both during and after testing.
-
Acceptance Criteria
Post-test evaluations focus on the absence of leaks, physical deformation, electrical functionality such as open circuit voltage retention, and overall safety performance to determine conformity.
-
Terms and Definitions
The standard references IEC 60050(486) for electrotechnical vocabulary ensuring consistent terminology for secondary cells and batteries.
Applications
IEC 61959:2004 is vital for:
Open preview (PDF)Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes - Mechanical tests for sealed portable secondary cells and batteries
