IEC 60086-4 is a 90-page standard document established by the International Electrochemical Commission (IEC). It can be described as “Primary batteries Part 4: Safety requirement for lithium batteries.”
This standard applies strictly to lithium batteries, both standardized and non-standardized. According to the standards, a lithium battery must meet specific requirements and tests to be deemed quality and safe for use. Also, the document contains recommended battery designs and precautionary warnings.
The fifth edition of IEC 60086 was published in 2019 as an upgrade from the 4th edition. Some of the upgrades include:
- Modified methods of battery testing to reduce explosions and increase safety
- Behavioral testing of over-discharged lithium batteries to check for safety and performance levels
- Reviewing symbols, labels, and other graphic visuals to aid better representation of brand names
- More stringent rules to ensure the validity of test assessments
- Improved packaging for coin batteries and to ensure they are child-resistant
- A warning sign or symbol to keep batteries out of reach of children
All these guidelines and standards are essential for safety and prevention of hazards for manufacturers and end-users.
Specific Testing Requirements for IEC 60086-4 Lithium Batteries
Specific standard safety tests must be carried out for lithium batteries to be considered safe for use and to prevent future errors. Below are some of these standard tests:
Abnormal Charging
This test checks the battery’s reaction when incorrectly charged. The “abnormal charging” test is important so that if the end-user unintentionally charges a battery wrongly, there will be no hazardous consequences.
Altitude Simulation Test
At high altitudes, the air pressure is reduced. Altitude simulation tests a battery’s response or status in this condition.
Crush Test
Can the battery be squeezed or crushed without harmful consequences? This test answers the question.
Forced Discharge Test
It is important to check a battery’s reactivity when forced to discharge within a short time. This test is necessary so that if an end user drains the battery within a period, it does not overheat or explode.
Free Fall Test
When a battery is dropped from a certain height, what happens? Does it explode, disintegrate, or remain intact?
Impact Test
When a battery is hit with an object, can the battery withstand the impact?
This test tests a battery’s strength and resistance to an impact.
Sock Test
Subject a lithium battery to shock or vibrations, does it withstand the impact? Or does it cause harm? A shock test checks the battery tolerance for shock or vibrations.
Thermal Abuse Test
Assess the battery’s status and performance when it’s consciously subjected to a high temperature for a long time.
Thermal Cycling Test
Assess the battery’s stability under cycles of extremely high and low temperatures.
Vibration Test
Check the battery’s reaction to high and low vibration intensity to detect its strength. This test is necessary, especially if the battery will be transported from one point to another.
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Why are Lithium-ion Batteries Commonly Used
Lithium-ion batteries are the most popular because of their versatility and efficiency. But you may wonder, what makes lithium batteries stand out from other types of batteries? This is because of its structural composition.
A lithium battery is made up of 4 compartments: anode, cathode, electrode, and separator. What makes lithium-ion batteries stand out is the chemical reaction between the cathode, which contains lithium, electrolyte, and separator.
Due to the instability of lithium, it is combined with oxygen to give lithium oxide at the cathode. The more lithium ions at the cathode, the larger the potential difference between the cathode and the anode, and the greater the voltage. To ensure there is current, lithium-ion batteries use a separator that distinguishes the cathode from the anode.
Applications of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are of various sizes and shapes depending on the need and the type of equipment or gadget. Also, lithium-ion batteries can store energy for later use in portable forms. Hence, it is more preferred.
Examples of appliances, gadgets, and equipment where lithium batteries are used include:
- Power banks
- UPS
- Mobile phones
- Tablets
- Laptops
- Electronic appliances
- Electric automobiles
- Solar power
Advantages of Lithium-Ion Batteries
High Power Density
This is one of the biggest flex lithium batteries have over other types of batteries. In layman’s terms, we can say that lithium-ion batteries have a longer lifespan once charged. Little wonder why this is the perfect choice for gadgets likes phones, laptops, tablets, and power banks. With a lithium-ion battery, you can be sure that you don’t have to constantly be attached to your charging ports.
Low Self-Discharge
In addition to its longer battery life, lithium batteries have low to no self-discharge rate on batteries that haven’t been used in a long time.
Traditionally, we know that if a battery hasn’t been used for a long time, it begins to self-discharge. However, in the case of lithium batteries, the reverse is the case, as in most cases, the self-discharge rate is so low that it can be ignored.
Low Maintenance
Lithium-ion batteries require little to no maintenance. This makes them stand out in comparison to other battery chemistries like lead acid, mercury, and nickel-cadmium batteries.
Varieties
Variety, they say, is a spice of life. Lithium-ion batteries come in various sizes depending on the needs of the users.
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Limitations of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Everything that has an advantage also has a disadvantage, and lithium-ion batteries are not exempted. Here are some disadvantages of lithium-ion batteries.
Expensive
Whilst we celebrate lithium-ion batteries as a technological discovery, we acknowledge they come at a cost.
They are more expensive compared to others, such as lead-acid and nickel metal hydride batteries.
Highly Flammable
Sadly, lithium-ion batteries are highly flammable. Users need to be cautious and careful and handle these batteries to prevent hazards.
Developing Technology
Lithium-ion batteries are a new technological discovery that manufacturers are tapping into. However, there is a lot of research being done daily, and new discoveries are being made.
While it may be to our advantage, it can also be to our disadvantage if there are reports in the future of lithium-ion batteries causing harm to health.
How to Store Lithium Batteries Safely
Lithium batteries are gradually becoming a household name in most homes, offices, and factories. Their low maintenance, low self-discharge rate, and high power density distinguish them from other batteries.
A battery with these high qualities deserves delicate care. Your battery storage is important so that you don’t waste your investment and can maximize the battery’s lifespan and performance. There are three major factors to consider when storing your lithium batteries safely, and they include:
Charge Levels
One of the factors people fail to pay attention to when storing batteries for a long time is the charge level. In contrast to other battery types, lithium-ion batteries should be at least 40-50% charged (not fully charged and or drained). The result of charging a lithium battery to its full capacity is that it stresses the anode, cathode, and electrolytes. Over time, the battery would lose its capacity.
If you can recall the time you bought your phone, you’d observe the battery was not fully charged. Oftentimes, it’s usually 40-50% charged, then you charge till it’s full. Most phones in the gadget shops can stay on the shelf for as long as 6 months to 1 year, so it would be disadvantageous to have them fully charged while storing them for a long period.
Also, storing a completely depleted battery can cause irrevocable damage. Therefore, we advise optimum charge levels between 40-50% of the battery’s capacity.
Humidity Control
One of the challenges of storing lithium batteries is the ability to maintain low humidity. Ideally, a moisture-free environment is the best to prevent the battery terminals from rusting, corrosion of circuits, and other internal damages.
If it’s difficult to attain moisture-free space because you stay in a humid environment, get moisture-absorbing tools such as dehumidifiers and place them in your storage space. By doing this, you can create a moisture-free environment to protect your lithium batteries.
Temperature Regulation
Lithium-ion batteries are sensitive to extremely high and low temperatures. Therefore, temperature control is a critical aspect of battery storage. Ideally, batteries should be stored at room temperature. At this temperature, you are certain the battery is in stable condition and not deteriorating.
Do not expose your batteries to sunlight or heat sources for a long period. It may lead to an internal expansion in the battery and disorient the battery’s structure. In the same way, extremely cold temperatures will cause your battery to fail or stop functioning. If you stay in a hot or extremely cold environment, get temperature regulators.
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Tips for Storing Lithium Batteries
The above factors are key things every battery owner should know. But some practicable storage tips will help keep your battery in premium condition for a longer time.
Organize Batteries by Age and Type
The first step in increasing the longevity of your batteries is proper organization. Categorize and store batteries based on their age and type. It makes sense to separate lithium batteries from non-lithium batteries to prevent chemical reactions.
Store batteries of the same age together, with the older batteries proceeding before the younger ones. For a more detailed organization, label all batteries based on their names, ages, and type. With this level of organization, it’s easy to identify batteries and keep track.
Create an Ideal Storage Space
The ideal temperature to store batteries is at room temperature. Avoid storing batteries in extremely cold or hot conditions. If possible, ensure the humidity levels are not more than 50%. Ensure the storage space is well-ventilated to prevent a buildup of heat. Alternatively, get a temperature regulator if you want your lithium batteries to stay long and still be at optimum capacity.
Practice Safe Handling Methods
Safe handling of lithium batteries is paramount. The first safety tip is to handle all batteries with clean and dry hands to prevent introducing moisture to the batteries. When transporting batteries in and out of the store, do so with caution to prevent mishandling or damage.
Cover all exposed terminals with rubber tapes or plastics for safety and protection. These may seem inconsequential to some people, but we assure you they are important in increasing your battery’s lifespan.
Best Place to Keep Lithium Batteries
There are lots of questions on the best place to store lithium batteries.
One of the most popular questions is: Can I store my lithium batteries in the house or outside?
The question we ask in return is: Is your house conductive enough to store the battery? Before you answer, here are some things to note:
- The intended storage area must be free of dust and well-ventilated to prevent a buildup of heat.
- Do not store your batteries in areas that have flammable materials. An example is storing your battery in the kitchen, where you have a gas cooker.
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and other heat sources. For extra precaution, use a battery management system to monitor the battery’s health and avert potential hazards.
- Temperature instability can alter a battery’s performance and longevity. When you store or use your batteries in an environment with high temperatures, ensure you control the temperature by investing in temperature regulators.
- For outdoor storage, it is advisable to use waterproof and insulated equipment to protect batteries from extreme heat, cold, and humidity.
Conclusion
Understanding the safety guidelines are put in place to ensure that batteries manufactured are of quality.
The guidelines are created to ensure the safety and prevention of hazards for end users and manufacturers.
Specific tests like vibration, altitude simulation, abnormal charge, and shock tests are crucial for a battery’s readiness. If a battery fails to meet any of the above criteria, it is considered unsuitable for public use. Following our tips lets you have the best of your lithium batteries, and you can expect your batteries to serve you for a long time. Always remember that prioritizing your safety first when handling lithium batteries is key.
Do you face challenges testing your lithium-ion batteries? Contact us at Sinexcel-Re for your battery testing solutions.