IEC 62973-4:2021

Overview

IEC 62973-4:2021 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that specifies requirements for secondary sealed nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries used as auxiliary power supply systems in railway rolling stock. This standard complements IEC 62973-1, which addresses battery requirements for all types of rolling stock, including trams, metros, commuter trains, and high-speed rail. Focusing on sealed Ni-MH battery technologies, IEC 62973-4 covers characteristics, environmental considerations, safety, mechanical design, electrical interfaces, and testing procedures essential for ensuring reliable and safe battery performance in railway applications.

Key Topics

• Battery Technology Scope
  IEC 62973-4 applies specifically to secondary sealed nickel-metal hydride batteries, which provide robust and efficient auxiliary power solutions for rolling stock systems.

• System Requirements
  The standard defines system voltage, charging and discharging characteristics, charge retention (self-discharge), capacity sizing, and temperature compensation during charging to optimize battery reliability and lifespan.

• Safety and Protection
  It highlights critical safety measures including protection against deep discharge, thermal management, and fire protection to guarantee operational safety and compliance with rolling stock requirements.

• Mechanical and Electrical Interfaces
  The document specifies mechanical design parameters and standardized electrical interface requirements for battery modules and their integration with battery chargers, helping ensure compatibility and maintainability.

• Environmental and Storage Conditions
  Specifications on environmental conditions for operation, storage, and transportation are included to maintain battery integrity across diverse railway service environments.

• Testing and Quality Assurance
  IEC 62973-4 outlines comprehensive type and routine testing procedures such as electrical characteristic tests, dielectric tests, shock and vibration tests, and reliability assessments to ensure batteries meet performance and safety criteria.

Applications

• Railway Rolling Stock Auxiliary Power
  These Ni-MH batteries serve as reliable auxiliary power supplies for wide-ranging rolling stock types, including light rail vehicles, trams, commuter trains, locomotives, and high-speed trains.

• Backup Power Systems
  The batteries ensure continuous auxiliary power for critical control, signaling, and communication systems, enhancing overall railway safety and operational stability.

• Energy Storage for Subsystems
  Designed for seamless integration with onboard chargers and energy management systems, these batteries support power needs during train start-up, stationary periods, or unexpected power interruptions.

Related Standards

• IEC 62973-1
  Provides overarching requirements for batteries used in all rolling stock types, serving as the foundational standard aligned with IEC 62973-4 specifics.

• IEC 62675
  Addresses the standardization of battery charger interfaces and functionality necessary for auxiliary power supply systems.

• IEC 63115-1 and IEC 63115-2
  Cover additional aspects of battery system requirements and testing relevant to railway applications, supporting IEC 62973-4 implementation.

Keywords: IEC 62973-4, nickel-metal hydride batteries, railway auxiliary power, rolling stock batteries, sealed Ni-MH batteries, railway battery standards, battery charging systems, battery testing railway, IEC railway standards, battery safety in trains.