IEC 63115-2:2021

Overview

IEC 63115-2:2021 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) focused on the safety requirements of sealed nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) cells and batteries. Specifically designed for industrial applications, this standard excludes road vehicle uses and addresses alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes within secondary cells and batteries.

This standard ensures the safe design, testing, and operation of NiMH battery systems utilized across various industrial sectors. As an authoritative guideline, IEC 63115-2:2021 establishes minimum common safety requirements that apply uniformly regardless of the specific industrial use case. It promotes a risk-managed approach to safety by detailing test procedures related to mechanical, thermal, electrical, and environmental stresses while emphasizing the importance of battery management systems (BMS) for functional safety.

Key Topics

• Scope and Application: Safety standards for sealed NiMH cells and batteries employed in industrial equipment and machinery, excluding automotive road vehicles.
• Safety Requirements: General safety considerations including insulation, wiring, venting, temperature, voltage, current management, and terminal connector specifics.
• Testing Protocols:
  • Mechanical tests such as vibration, drop, crush, and mechanical shock assessments.
  • Electrical abuse tests including external short-circuit, overcharge, and reverse charge conditions.
  • Environmental tests covering temperature cycling, low pressure (altitude), and enclosure stress.
• Battery Management System (BMS): Requirements for monitoring and controlling battery safety parameters to prevent overheating and manage charge/discharge protocols.
• Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC): Guidelines to ensure safe operation within various electromagnetic environments.
• Marking and Information: Safety labelling, designation requirements, and user information essential for handling and operational safety.

Applications

IEC 63115-2:2021 applies broadly to industrial settings where sealed nickel-metal hydride batteries are implemented, including but not limited to:

• Industrial automation equipment
• Robotics and manufacturing tools
• Backup power and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)
• Portable industrial devices requiring reliable and safe battery solutions
• Renewable energy storage systems and power tools in industrial environments

By adhering to IEC 63115-2:2021, manufacturers and users can ensure that NiMH batteries meet stringent safety standards minimizing hazards related to electrical, mechanical, and thermal abuses. The standard supports lifecycle safety by mandating robust quality plans, safety testing, and BMS integration, crucial for industrial safety and operational continuity.

Related Standards

IEC 63115-2:2021 complements other relevant standards and references, including:

• IEC 63115-1:2020: Specifies performance requirements for sealed nickel-metal hydride cells and batteries for industrial use.
• IEC 60050-482: Electrotechnical vocabulary defining primary and secondary cells and batteries terminology.
• ISO/IEC Guide 51: Provides safety guidelines and principles for including safety aspects in international standards.
• Other IEC standards addressing specific battery chemistries or applications that may supersede parts of IEC 63115-2 when applicable (e.g., IEC 62675 for special applications).

Adopting IEC 63115-2:2021 ensures compliance with internationally recognized safety benchmarks, enhancing product reliability and user trust in industrial battery systems. This standard is a critical resource for designers, manufacturers, testing laboratories, and end-users committed to safety and performance excellence in industrial battery technology.

Keywords: IEC 63115-2, nickel-metal hydride batteries, NiMH, industrial batteries, battery safety standard, sealed batteries, battery management system, BMS, secondary cells, electrical safety, mechanical testing, overcharge protection, industrial applications, electrochemical safety, IEC battery standards.