Secondary lithium cells and batteries are an integral component for most portable applications. From your cellphone to your car, lithium batteries have taken over the market due to their higher energy density, longer life, and better performance. However, selecting the right type of lithium battery for your use case can be a daunting task. That is where the International Electrotechnical Commission's (IEC) standard IEC 61960-3:2017 comes into play.IEC 61960-3:2017 is a set of internationally recognized standards that provide manufacturers, regulators, and end-users with guidelines to ensure the safety, quality, and reliability of secondary lithium cells and batteries. The standard specifies the technical requirements for prismatic and cylindrical lithium secondary cells and batteries made from them, used in portable applications.Prismatic lithium batteries are commonly used in electronic devices, power tools, and electric vehicles. They are flat, rectangular batteries, and their shape allows them to fit snugly into devices, making them more energy efficient and space-saving. Cylindrical lithium batteries are commonly used in laptops, digital cameras, and toys. These batteries have a cylindrical shape and are popular due to their higher capacity and longer life.IEC 61960-3:2017 is divided into different sections, each providing critical specifications that must be met during the manufacturing process. For example, the standard specifies the physical, mechanical, and electrical parameters of the batteries, test methods and requirements for safety, environmental requirements, and more. Manufacturers must ensure that their products meet the parameters specified by the standard for quality, reliability, and safety.One major advantage of following the guidelines provided by IEC 61960-3:2017 is that it ensures that these batteries are safe to use. Lithium batteries have a high energy density, which means they can deliver more power. However, they are also susceptible to thermal-unstable conditions that can cause fires, explosions, and other hazards. IEC 61960-3:2017 includes precise safety standards manufacturers must follow to ensure that the batteries do not pose any hazards to the environment or people.Additionally, following IEC 61960-3:2017 ensures that lithium batteries are reliable and long-lasting. The standard specifies requirements for the electrical performance of the battery, including capacity, voltage, and internal resistance. These parameters ensure that the batteries are optimal for use in portable devices, providing steady and consistent power output throughout their lifecycle.In conclusion, the IEC 61960-3:2017 standard provides manufacturers, regulators, and end-users with critical guidelines for ensuring the quality, safety, and reliability of secondary lithium cells and batteries. Adhering to the guidelines specified in the standard ensures that batteries are safe to use, perform satisfactorily, and have a longer lifespan, which is essential for the environment and people's safety. When purchasing portable devices that use secondary lithium cells and batteries, it is essential to check if the product adheres to the IEC 61960-3:2017 standard.
Read More