IEC 60086-1:2021
(Main)Primary batteries - Part 1: General
Primary batteries - Part 1: General
IEC 60086-1:2021 is intended to standardize primary batteries with respect to dimensions, nomenclature, terminal configurations, markings, test methods, typical performance, safety and environmental aspects. This document on one side specifies requirements for primary cells and batteries. On the other side, this document also specifies procedures of how requirements for these batteries are to be standardised. As a classification tool for primary batteries, this document specifies system letters, electrodes, electrolytes, and nominal as well as maximum open circuit voltage of electrochemical systems. The object of this part of IEC 60086 is to benefit primary battery users, device designers and battery manufacturers by ensuring that batteries from different manufacturers are interchangeable according to standard form, fit and function. Furthermore, to ensure compliance with the above, this part specifies standard test methods for testing primary cells and batteries.
The contents of the corrigendum of June 2022 have been included in this copy.
Piles électriques - Partie 1: Généralités
L’IEC 60086-1:2021 est destinée à normaliser les piles électriques en ce qui concerne les dimensions, la nomenclature, les configurations des bornes, les marquages, les méthodes d’essai, les caractéristiques types de fonctionnement, la sécurité et les aspects environnementaux. Le présent document spécifie d’une part les exigences pour les piles électriques. D’autre part, le présent document spécifie également des procédures de normalisation des exigences relatives à ces piles. En tant qu’outil de classification des piles électriques, le présent document spécifie les lettres des systèmes, les électrodes, les électrolytes et les tensions nominales, ainsi que maximales en circuit ouvert des systèmes électrochimiques. L’objectif de la présente partie de l’IEC 60086 est d’assurer aux utilisateurs, aux concepteurs de dispositifs et aux fabricants de piles que les piles de différents fabricants sont interchangeables par leur forme, leur montage et leur fonction. De plus, pour assurer la conformité à ce qui précède, la présente partie spécifie des méthodes d’essai normalisées pour les piles électriques.
Le contenu du corrigendum de juin 2022 a été pris en considération dans cet exemplaire.
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IEC 60086-1 ®
Edition 13.0 2021-04
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
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Primary batteries –
Part 1: General
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IEC 60086-1 ®
Edition 13.0 2021-04
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Primary batteries –
Part 1: General
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 29.220.10 ISBN 978-2-8322-9758-2
– 2 – IEC 60086-1:2021 RLV © IEC 2021
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 5
INTRODUCTION . 2
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms and definitions . 9
4 Requirements . 12
4.1 General . 12
4.1.1 Design . 12
4.1.2 Battery dimensions . 12
4.1.3 Terminals . 12
4.1.4 Classification (electrochemical system) . 13
4.1.5 Designation . 14
4.1.6 Marking . 14
4.1.7 Interchangeability: battery voltage . 16
4.2 Performance . 17
4.2.1 Discharge performance . 17
4.2.2 Dimensional stability . 17
4.2.3 Leakage . 17
4.2.4 Open-circuit voltage limits . 17
4.2.5 Service output . 17
4.2.6 Safety . 17
4.2.7 Validity of testing . 17
5 Performance – Testing . 17
5.1 General Capacity testing versus application and service output testing . 17
5.2 Discharge testing . 18
5.2.1 General . 18
5.2.2 Application tests . 18
5.2.3 Service output tests . 19
5.3 Conformance check to a specified minimum average duration . 19
5.4 Calculation method of the specified Guidance for considering proposed
value of a minimum average duration . 20
5.5 OCV testing . 20
5.6 Insulation resistance . 20
5.7 Battery dimensions . 20
5.8 Leakage and deformation . 20
6 Performance – Test conditions . 20
6.1 Storage and discharge conditions . 20
6.2 Commencement of discharge tests after storage . 21
6.3 Discharge test conditions . 21
6.3.1 General . 21
6.3.2 Compliance . 21
6.4 Load resistance . 21
6.5 Time periods . 22
6.6 Test condition tolerances . 22
6.7 Activation of ‘P’-system batteries . 22
6.8 Measuring equipment . 22
6.8.1 Voltage measurement . 22
6.8.2 Mechanical measurement . 23
7 Sampling and quality assurance . 23
8 Battery packaging . 23
Annex A (normative) Criteria for the standardization of batteries . 24
Annex B (informative) Recommendations for equipment design . 25
B.1 Technical liaison . 25
B.2 Battery compartment . 25
B.2.1 General . 25
B.2.2 Limiting access by children . 26
B.3 Voltage cut-off . 26
Annex C (normative) Designation system (nomenclature) . 27
C.1 General . 27
C.2 Designation system in use up to October 1990. 27
C.2.1 General . 27
C.2.2 Cells . 27
C.2.3 Electrochemical system . 29
C.2.4 Batteries . 29
C.2.5 Modifiers . 30
C.2.6 Examples. 30
C.3 Designation system in use since October 1990 . 30
C.3.1 General . 30
C.3.2 Round batteries . 30
C.3.3 Non-round batteries . 34
C.3.4 Ambiguity . 37
Annex D (informative) Standard discharge voltage U – Definition and method of
s
determination . 39
D.1 Definition . 39
D.2 Determination . 39
D.2.1 General considerations: the C/R-plot . 39
D.2.2 Determination of the standard discharge resistor R . 40
s
D.2.3 Determination of the standard discharge capacity C and standard
s
discharge time t . 41
s
D.3 Experimental conditions to be observed and test results . 42
Annex E (informative) Preparation of standard methods of measuring performance
(SMMP) of consumer goods . 43
E.1 General . 43
E.2 Performance characteristics . 43
E.3 Criteria for the development of test methods . 43
Annex F (informative) Calculation method for the specified value of minimum average
duration .
Annex F (informative) Guidance for proposing value of minimum average duration . 44
F.1 General . 45
F.2 Sampling. 45
F.3 Calculation method . 45
Annex G (normative) Code of practice for packaging, shipment, storage, use and
disposal of primary batteries . 46
G.1 General . 46
– 4 – IEC 60086-1:2021 RLV © IEC 2021
G.2 Packaging . 46
G.3 Transport and handling . 46
G.4 Storage and stock rotation . 46
G.5 Displays at sales points . 47
G.6 Selection, use and disposal . 47
G.6.1 Purchase . 47
G.6.2 Installation . 47
G.6.3 Use . 47
G.6.4 Replacement . 48
G.6.5 Disposal . 48
Annex H (informative) Compliance checklist . 49
Bibliography . 50
Figure 1 – Ingestion gauge .
Figure C.1 – Designation system for round batteries: d < 100 mm;
height h < 100 mm . 31
Figure C.2 – Diameter code for non-recommended diameters . 32
Figure C.3 – Height code for denoting the hundredths of a millimetre of height . 33
Figure C.4 – Designation system for round batteries: d ≥ 100 mm; height h ≥ 100 mm . 34
1 1
Figure C.5 – Designation system for non-round batteries, dimensions < 100 mm . 35
Figure C.6 – Designation system for non-round batteries, dimensions ≥ 100 mm . 36
Figure C.7 – Height code for discrimination per tenth of a millimetre . 36
Figure D.1 – Normalized C/R-plot (schematic) . 40
Figure D.2 – Standard discharge voltage (schematic) . 41
Table 1 – Standardized electrochemical systems . 14
Table 2 – Marking requirements . 15
Table 3 – Conditions for storage before and during discharge testing . 20
Table 4 – Resistive loads for new tests . 22
Table 5 – Time periods for new tests . 22
Table 6 – Test condition tolerances . 22
Table A.1 – Items necessary to standardize . 24
Table C.1 – Physical designation and dimensions of round cells and batteries . 28
Table C.2 – Physical designation and nominal overall dimensions of flat cells . 29
Table C.3 – Physical designation and dimensions of square cells and batteries . 29
Table C.4 – Diameter code for recommended diameter . 32
Table C.5 – Physical designation and dimensions of round cells and batteries
based on Clause C.2 . 37
Table C.6 – Physical designation and dimensions of non-round batteries
based on Clause C.2 . 38
Table D.1 – Standard discharge voltage by system . 42
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
PRIMARY BATTERIES –
Part 1: General
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote international
co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To this end and
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preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested in the subject dealt with
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Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
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3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
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4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
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6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
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8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of patent
rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This redline version of the official IEC Standard allows the user to identify the changes
made to the previous edition IEC 60086-1:2015. A vertical bar appears in the margin
wherever a change has been made. Additions are in green text, deletions are in
strikethrough red text.
– 6 – IEC 60086-1:2021 RLV © IEC 2021
International Standard IEC 60086-1 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 35: Primary
cells and batteries.
This thirteenth edition cancels and replaces the twelfth edition published in 2015. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) a compliance checklist was added as an Annex H;
b) definitions were harmonized with the other 60086 series documents;
c) the nominal voltage of the zinc air system is now listed as either 1,4 V or 1,45 V;
d) Annex F for calculation of MAD values was simplified;
e) a validity period for testing was added;
f) the accelerated aging test at 45 °C was changed from 13 to 4 weeks;
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
35/1465/FDIS 35/1469/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this International Standard can be found in the
report on voting indicated in the above table.
The language used for the development of this International Standard is English.
This document was drafted in accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2, and developed in
accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and ISO/IEC Directives, IEC Supplement, available
at www.iec.ch/members_experts/refdocs. The main document types developed by IEC are
described in greater detail at www.iec.ch/standardsdev/publications.
A list of all parts in the IEC 60086 series, under the general title Primary batteries, can be found
on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to
the specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct understanding
of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a colour printer.
The contents of the corrigendum 1 (2022-06) have been included in this copy.
INTRODUCTION
The technical content of this part of IEC 60086 provides fundamental requirements and
information on primary cells and batteries. All batteries within the IEC 60086 series are
considered dry cell batteries. In this sense, IEC 60086-1 is the main component of the
IEC 60086 series and forms the basis for the subsequent parts. For example, this part includes
elementary information on definitions, nomenclature, dimensions and marking. While specific
requirements are included, the content of this part tends to explain methodology (how) and
justification (why).
Over the years, this part has been changed to improve its content and remains under continual
scrutiny to ensure that the publication is kept up to date with the advances in both battery and
battery-powered device technologies.
NOTE Safety information is requirements and recommendations are available in IEC 60086-4,
IEC 60086-5 and IEC 62281. Specifications are available in IEC 60086-2 and IEC 60086-3.
Environmental aspects are dealt with in IEC 60086-6.
– 8 – IEC 60086-1:2021 RLV © IEC 2021
PRIMARY BATTERIES –
Part 1: General
1 Scope
This part of IEC 60086 is intended to standardize primary batteries with respect to dimensions,
nomenclature, terminal configurations, markings, test methods, typical performance, safety and
environmental aspects.
As a primary battery classification tool, electrochemical systems are also standardized with
respect to system letter, electrodes, electrolyte, nominal and maximum open circuit voltage.
NOTE The requirements justifying the inclusion or the ongoing retention of batteries in the IEC 60086 series are
given in Annex A.
This document on one side specifies requirements for primary cells and batteries. On the other
side, this document also specifies procedures of how requirements for these batteries are to be
standardised.
As a classification tool for primary batteries, this document specifies system letters, electrodes,
electrolytes, and nominal as well as maximum open circuit voltage of electrochemical systems.
The object of this part of IEC 60086 is to benefit primary battery users, device designers and
battery manufacturers by ensuring that batteries from different manufacturers are
interchangeable according to standard form, fit and function. Furthermore, to ensure
compliance with the above, this part specifies standard test methods for testing primary cells
and batteries.
This document also contains requirements in Annex A justifying the inclusion or the ongoing
retention of batteries in the IEC 60086 series.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies.
For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60086-2:2015− , Primary batteries – Part 2: Physical and electrical specifications
IEC 60086-3:2011, Primary batteries – Part 3: Watch batteries
IEC 60086-4:2014, Primary batteries – Part 4: Safety of lithium batteries
IEC 60086-5:2011, Primary batteries – Part 5: Safety of batteries with aqueous electrolyte
___________
To be published.
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at http://www.iso.org/obp
3.1
application test
simulation of the actual use of a battery in a specific application
3.2
battery
one or more cells electrically connected and fitted in a case, with terminals, markings and
protective devices etc., as necessary for use
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-01-04, modified – removal of "fitted with devices
necessary for use.]
3.3
button (cell or battery)
small round cell or battery where the overall height is less than the diameter, containing
aqueous electrolyte
Note 1 to entry: In English, the term “button (cell or battery)” is only used for non-lithium batteries while the term
“coin (cell or battery)” is used for lithium batteries only. In languages other than English, the terms “coin” and “button”
are often used interchangeably, regardless of the electrochemical system. See coin (cell or battery), lithium button
(cell or battery).
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004 482-02-40]
3.4
cell
basic functional unit, consisting of an assembly of electrodes, electrolyte, container, terminals
and usually separators, that is a source of electric energy obtained by direct conversion of
chemical energy
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-01-01]
3.5
closed-circuit voltage
CCV
voltage across the terminals of a battery when it is on discharge
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-03-28, modified – "voltage between the terminals of a cell
or battery" replaced by "voltage across the terminals of a battery".]
3.6
coin (cell or battery)
see button (cell or battery)
lithium button (cell or battery)
small round cell or battery where the overall height is less than the diameter, containing non-
aqueous electrolyte
Note 1 to entry: The nominal voltage of lithium batteries is typically greater than 2 V.
– 10 – IEC 60086-1:2021 RLV © IEC 2021
Note 2 to entry: See button (cell or battery).
3.7
cylindrical (cell or battery)
round cell or battery in which the overall height is equal to or greater than the diameter
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482: 2004, 482-02-39, modified – "cell with a cylindrical shape" replaced
with "round cell or battery"]
3.8
discharge (of a primary battery)
operation during which a battery delivers current to an external circuit
3.9
dry (primary) battery
primary battery in which the liquid electrolyte is essentially immobilized
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-04-14, modified – replacement of "containing an
immobilized electrolyte.]
3.10
effective internal resistance – DC method
the internal d.c. resistance of any electrochemical cell is defined by the following relation:
∆U (V)
R (Ω) =
i
∆i (A)
3.10
end-point voltage
EV
specified voltage of a battery at which the battery discharge is terminated
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-03-30]
3.11
leakage
unplanned escape of electrolyte, gas or other material from a cell or battery
Note 1 to entry: Leakage in this sense should not be confused with the test evaluation criteria for leakage specified
in Clause 4 and Clause 5 of this document.
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-02-32]
3.12
minimum average duration
MAD
minimum average time on discharge which is met by a sample of batteries
Note 1 to entry: The discharge test is carried out according to the specified methods or standards and designed to
show conformity with the standard applicable to the battery types.
3.13
nominal voltage (of a primary battery)
V U
n n
suitable approximate value of the voltage used to designate or identify a cell, a battery or an
electrochemical system
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-03-31, modified – addition of "(of a primary battery)" and
symbol V U .]
n n
3.14
open-circuit voltage
OCV
voltage across the terminals of a cell or battery when it is off discharge
3.15
primary (cell or battery)
cell or battery that is not designed to be electrically recharged
3.16
round (cell or battery)
cell or battery with circular cross section
3.17
service output (of a primary battery)
service life, or capacity, or energy output of a battery under specified conditions of discharge
3.18
service output test
test designed to measure the service output of a battery
Note 1 to entry: A service output test may be prescribed, for example, when
a) an application test is too complex to replicate;
b) the duration of an application test would make it impractical for routine testing purposes.
3.20
small battery
cell or battery fitting entirely within the limits of the truncated cylinder as defined in Figure 1
Inner dimensions in millimetres (mm)
+0,1
∅ 31,7 0
IEC
Figure 1 – Ingestion gauge
3.19
storage life
duration under specified conditions at the end of which a battery retains its ability to perform a
specified service output
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-03-47, modified – "function" replaced by "service output".]
+0,1
25,4 0
+0,1
57,1 0
– 12 – IEC 60086-1:2021 RLV © IEC 2021
3.20
terminals (of a primary battery)
conductive parts of a battery that provide connection to an external circuit
4 Requirements
4.1 General
4.1.1 Design
Primary batteries are sold mainly in consumer markets. In recent years, they have become more
sophisticated in both chemistry and construction, for example both capacity and rate capability
have increased to meet the growing demands from new, battery-powered equipment technology.
When designing primary batteries, the aforementioned considerations shall be taken into
account. Specifically, their dimensional conformity and stability, their physical and electrical
performance and their safe operation under normal use and foreseeable misuse conditions shall
be assured.
Additional information on equipment design can be found in Annex B.
4.1.2 Battery dimensions
The dimensions for individual types of batteries are given in IEC 60086-2 and IEC 60086-3.
4.1.3 Terminals
4.1.3.1 General
Terminals shall be in accordance with Clause 6 of IEC 60086-2:2015.
Their physical shape shall be designed in such a way that they ensure that the batteries make
and maintain good electrical contact at all times.
They shall be made of materials that provide good electrical conductivity and resistance to
corrosion.
4.1.3.2 Contact pressure resistance
Where stated in the battery specification tables or the individual specification sheets in
IEC 60086-2, the following applies:
– a force of 10 N applied through a steel ball of 1 mm diameter at the centre of each contact
area for a period of 10 s shall not cause any apparent deformation which might prevent
satisfactory operation of the battery.
NOTE See also IEC 60086-3 for exceptions.
4.1.3.3 Cap and base
This type of terminal is used for batteries which have their dimensions specified according to
Figures 1 to 7 of IEC 60086-2:2015 and which have the cylindrical side of the battery insulated
from the terminals.
4.1.3.4 Cap and case
This type of terminal is used for batteries which have their dimensions specified according to
Figures 8, 9, 10, 14, 15 and 16 of IEC 60086-2:2015, but in which the cylindrical side of the
battery forms part of the positive terminal.
4.1.3.5 Screw terminals
This contact consists of a threaded rod in combination with either a metal or insulated metal
nut.
4.1.3.6 Flat contacts
These are essentially flat metal surfaces adapted to make electrical contact by suitable contact
mechanisms bearing against them.
4.1.3.7 Flat or spiral springs
These contacts comprise flat metal strips or spirally wound wires which are in a form that
provides pressure contact.
4.1.3.8 Plug-in-sockets
These are made up of a suitable assembly of metal contacts, mounted in an insulated housing
or holding device and adapted to receive the corresponding pins of a mating plug.
4.1.3.9 Snap fasteners
4.1.3.9.1 General
These contacts are composed of a combination comprising a stud (non-resilient) for the positive
terminal and a socket (resilient) for the negative terminal.
They shall be of suitable metal so as to provide efficient electrical connection when joined to
the corresponding parts of an external circuit.
4.1.3.9.2 Snap fastener
This type of terminal consists of a stud for the positive terminal and a socket for the negative
terminal. These shall be made from nickel plated steel or other suitable material. They shall be
designed to provide a secure physical and electrical connection, when fitted with similar
corresponding parts for connection to an electrical circuit.
4.1.3.10 Wire
Wire leads may be single or multi-strand flexible insulated tinned copper. The positive terminal
wire covering shall be red and the negative black.
4.1.3.11 Other spring contacts or clips
These contacts are generally used on batteries when the corresponding parts of the external
circuit are not precisely known. They shall be of spring brass or of other material having similar
properties.
4.1.4 Classification (electrochemical system)
Primary batteries are classified according to their electrochemical system.
Each system, with the exception of the zinc-ammonium chloride, zinc chloride-manganese
dioxide system, has been allocated a letter denoting the particular system.
The electrochemical systems that have been standardized up to now are given in Table 1.
– 14 – IEC 60086-1:2021 RLV © IEC 2021
Table 1 – Standardized electrochemical systems
Maximum
Negative Nominal
Letter Electrolyte Positive electrode open circuit
electrode voltage
voltage
V V
No letter Zinc (Zn) Ammonium chloride, Manganese dioxide (MnO ) 1,5 1,73
zinc chloride
A Zinc (Zn) Ammonium chloride, Oxygen (O ) 1,4 1,55
zinc chloride
B Lithium (Li) Organic electrolyte Carbon monofluoride (CF) 3,0 3,7
x
C Lithium (Li) Organic electrolyte Manganese dioxide (MnO ) 3,0 3,7
E Lithium (Li) Non-aqueous Thionyl chloride (SOCl ) 3,6 3,9
inorganic
F Lithium (Li) Organic electrolyte Iron disulfide (FeS ) 1,5 1,83
G Lithium (Li) Organic electrolyte Copper (II) oxide (CuO) 1,5 2,3
L Zinc (Zn) Alkali metal hydroxide Manganese dioxide (MnO ) 1,5 1,68
P Zinc (Zn) Alkali metal hydroxide Oxygen (O ) 1,4 or 1,45 1,59
S Zinc (Zn) Alkali metal hydroxide Silver oxide (Ag O) 1,55 1,63
W Lithium (Li) Organic electrolyte Sulphur dioxide (SO ) 3,0 3,05
Y Lithium (Li) Non-aqueous Sulfuryl chloride (SO Cl ) 3,9 4,1
2 2
inorganic
Z Zinc (Zn) Alkali metal hydroxide Nickel oxyhydroxide 1,5 1,78
(NiOOH)
NOTE 1 The value of the nominal voltage is not verifiable; therefore it is only given as a reference.
NOTE 2 The maximum open-circuit voltage (3.14) is measured as defined in 5.5 and 6.8.1.
NOTE 3 When referring to an electrochemical system, common protocol is to list negative electrode first, followed
by positive electrode, i.e. lithium-iron disulfide.
NOTE 4 Reference to the electrochemical systems of this table usually appears in a simplified form such as, for
example, “B and C system batteries” or “batteries of the no letter system”.
4.1.5 Designation
The designation of primary batteries is based on their physical parameters, their
electrochemical system as well as modifiers, if needed.
A comprehensive explanation of the designation system (nomenclature) can be found in
Annex C.
4.1.6 Marking
4.1.6.1 General (see Table 2)
For an overview of marking requirements refer to Table 2. With the exception of small batteries
too small to mark with all items (see 4.1.6.2), each battery shall be marked with the following
information:
a) designation, IEC or common;
b) expiration of a recommended usage period or year and month or week of manufacture.
The year and month or week of manufacture may be in code;
c) polarity of the positive (+) terminal;
d) nominal voltage;
e) name or trade mark of the manufacturer or supplier;
f) cautionary advice.
NOTE Examples of the common designations can be found in Annex D of IEC 60086-2:2015.
4.1.6.2 Marking of smaller batteries (see Table 2)
a) Batteries designated in the IEC as small Some batteries, mainly category 3 and category 4
batteries, have a surface too small to accommodate all markings shown in 4.1.6.1. For these
batteries the designation 4.1.6.1a) and the polarity 4.1.6.1c) shall be marked on the battery.
All other markings shown in 4.1.6.1 may be given on the immediate packing instead of on
the battery.
b) For P-system batteries, 4.1.6.1a) may be on the battery, the sealing tab or the package.
4.1.6.1c) may be marked on the sealing tab and/or on the battery. 4.1.6.1b), 4.1.6.1d) and
4.1.6.1e) may be given on the immediate packing instead of on the battery. The nominal
voltage may be marked either 1,4 V or 1,45 V.
c) Caution for ingestion of swallowable batteries shall be given. Refer to current valid versions
of IEC 60086-4:2014 (7.2 a) and 9.2) and IEC 60086-5:2011 (7.1 l) and 9.2) for details.
Table 2 – Marking requirements
Small batteries Batteries too
Batteries with the
small to accommodate all
exception of small
markings
Marking
batteries too small to
P-system
accommodate all markings
batteries
a) Designation, IEC or common A A C
b) Expiration of a recommended usage
period or year and month or week of
A B B
manufacture. The year and month or week
of manufacture may be in code
c) Polarity of the positive (+) terminal A A D
d) Nominal voltage A B B
e) Name or trade mark of the manufacturer
A B B
or supplier
a a
f) Cautionary advice
A B B
Key
A: shall be marked on the battery
B: may be marked on the immediate packing instead of on the battery
C: may be marked on the battery, the sealing tab or the immediate packing
D: may be marked on the sealing tab and/or on the battery
a
Caution for ingestion of swallowable batteries shall be given. Refer to IEC 60086-4:2014 (7.2a) and 9.2) and
IEC 60086-5:2011 (7.1l) and 9.2) for details.
4.1.6.3 Marking of batteries regarding method of disposal
Marking of batteries with respect to the method of disposal shall be in accordance with local
legal requirements.
– 16 – IEC 60086-1:2021 RLV © IEC 2021
4.1.7 Interchangeability: battery voltage
Primary batteries as presently standardized in the IEC 60086 series can be categorized by their
standard discharge voltage U . For a new battery system, its interchangeability by voltage is
s
assessed for compliance with the following Formula (1):
n × 0,85 U ≤ m × U ≤ n × 1,15 U
(1)
r s r
where
n is the number of cells connected in series, based on reference voltage U ;
r
m is the number of cells connected in series, based on standard discharge voltage U ;
s
U is the reference voltage;
r
U is the standard discharge voltage.
s
Currently, two voltage ranges that conform to the above formula have been identified. They are
identified by reference voltage U , which is the midpoint of the relevant voltage range.
r
Voltage range 1, U = 1,40 V: Batteries having a standard discharge voltage m × U equal to or
r s
within the range of n × 1,19 V to n × 1,61 V.
Voltage range 2, U = 3,20 V: Batteries having a standard discharge voltage m × U equal to or
r s
within the range of n × 2,72 V to n × 3,68 V.
The term Details on the standard discharge voltage and related quantities, as well as the
methods of their determination, are given in Annex D.
NOTE For single-cell batteries and for multi-cell batteries assembled with cells of the same voltage range, m and n
will be identical; m and n will be different for multi-cell
...
IEC 60086-1 ®
Edition 13.0 2021-04
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Primary batteries –
Part 1: General
Piles electriques –
Partie 1: Généralités
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IEC 60086-1 ®
Edition 13.0 2021-04
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Primary batteries –
Part 1: General
Piles electriques –
Partie 1: Généralités
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 29.220.10 ISBN 978-2-8322-9672-1
– 2 – IEC 60086-1:2021 © IEC 2021
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 5
INTRODUCTION . 7
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms and definitions . 8
4 Requirements . 11
4.1 General . 11
4.1.1 Design . 11
4.1.2 Battery dimensions . 11
4.1.3 Terminals . 11
4.1.4 Classification (electrochemical system) . 13
4.1.5 Designation . 14
4.1.6 Marking . 14
4.1.7 Interchangeability: battery voltage . 15
4.2 Performance . 16
4.2.1 Discharge performance . 16
4.2.2 Dimensional stability . 16
4.2.3 Leakage . 16
4.2.4 Open-circuit voltage limits . 16
4.2.5 Service output . 16
4.2.6 Safety . 16
4.2.7 Validity of testing . 17
5 Performance – Testing . 17
5.1 Capacity testing versus application and service output testing . 17
5.2 Discharge testing . 17
5.2.1 General . 17
5.2.2 Application tests . 18
5.2.3 Service output tests . 18
5.3 Conformance check to a specified minimum average duration . 19
5.4 Guidance for considering proposed value of minimum average duration . 19
5.5 OCV testing . 19
5.6 Insulation resistance . 19
5.7 Battery dimensions . 19
5.8 Leakage and deformation . 19
6 Performance – Test conditions . 20
6.1 Storage and discharge conditions . 20
6.2 Commencement of discharge tests after storage . 20
6.3 Discharge test conditions . 20
6.3.1 General . 20
6.3.2 Compliance . 20
6.4 Load resistance . 21
6.5 Time periods . 21
6.6 Test condition tolerances . 21
6.7 Activation of ‘P’-system batteries . 21
6.8 Measuring equipment . 22
6.8.1 Voltage measurement . 22
6.8.2 Mechanical measurement . 22
7 Sampling and quality assurance . 22
8 Battery packaging . 22
Annex A (normative) Criteria for the standardization of batteries . 23
Annex B (informative) Recommendations for equipment design . 24
B.1 Technical liaison . 24
B.2 Battery compartment . 24
B.2.1 General . 24
B.2.2 Limiting access by children . 25
B.3 Voltage cut-off . 25
Annex C (normative) Designation system (nomenclature) . 26
C.1 General . 26
C.2 Designation system in use up to October 1990. 26
C.2.1 General . 26
C.2.2 Cells . 26
C.2.3 Electrochemical system . 28
C.2.4 Batteries . 28
C.2.5 Modifiers . 29
C.2.6 Examples. 29
C.3 Designation system in use since October 1990 . 29
C.3.1 General . 29
C.3.2 Round batteries . 29
C.3.3 Non-round batteries . 33
C.3.4 Ambiguity . 36
Annex D (informative) Standard discharge voltage U – Definition and method of
s
determination . 38
D.1 Definition . 38
D.2 Determination . 38
D.2.1 General considerations: the C/R-plot . 38
D.2.2 Determination of the standard discharge resistor R . 39
s
D.2.3 Determination of the standard discharge capacity C and standard
s
discharge time t . 40
s
D.3 Experimental conditions to be observed and test results . 41
Annex E (informative) Preparation of standard methods of measuring performance
(SMMP) of consumer goods . 42
E.1 General . 42
E.2 Performance characteristics . 42
E.3 Criteria for the development of test methods . 42
Annex F (informative) Guidance for proposing value of minimum average duration . 43
F.1 General . 43
F.2 Sampling. 43
F.3 Calculation method . 43
Annex G (normative) Code of practice for packaging, shipment, storage, use and
disposal of primary batteries . 44
G.1 General . 44
G.2 Packaging . 44
G.3 Transport and handling . 44
G.4 Storage and stock rotation . 44
– 4 – IEC 60086-1:2021 © IEC 2021
G.5 Displays at sales points . 45
G.6 Selection, use and disposal . 45
G.6.1 Purchase . 45
G.6.2 Installation . 45
G.6.3 Use . 45
G.6.4 Replacement . 46
G.6.5 Disposal . 46
Annex H (informative) Compliance checklist . 47
Bibliography . 48
Figure C.1 – Designation system for round batteries: d < 100 mm;
height h < 100 mm . 30
Figure C.2 – Diameter code for non-recommended diameters . 31
Figure C.3 – Height code for denoting the hundredths of a millimetre of height . 32
Figure C.4 – Designation system for round batteries: d ≥ 100 mm; height h ≥ 100 mm . 33
1 1
Figure C.5 – Designation system for non-round batteries, dimensions < 100 mm . 34
Figure C.6 – Designation system for non-round batteries, dimensions ≥ 100 mm . 35
Figure C.7 – Height code for discrimination per tenth of a millimetre . 35
Figure D.1 – Normalized C/R-plot (schematic) . 39
Figure D.2 – Standard discharge voltage (schematic) . 40
Table 1 – Standardized electrochemical systems . 13
Table 2 – Marking requirements . 15
Table 3 – Conditions for storage before and during discharge testing . 20
Table 4 – Resistive loads for tests . 21
Table 5 – Time periods for tests . 21
Table 6 – Test condition tolerances . 21
Table A.1 – Items necessary to standardize . 23
Table C.1 – Physical designation and dimensions of round cells and batteries . 27
Table C.2 – Physical designation and nominal overall dimensions of flat cells . 28
Table C.3 – Physical designation and dimensions of square cells and batteries . 28
Table C.4 – Diameter code for recommended diameter . 31
Table C.5 – Physical designation and dimensions of round cells and batteries
based on Clause C.2 . 36
Table C.6 – Physical designation and dimensions of non-round batteries
based on Clause C.2 . 37
Table D.1 – Standard discharge voltage by system . 41
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
PRIMARY BATTERIES –
Part 1: General
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote international
co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To this end and
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preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested in the subject dealt with
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Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence between
any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of conformity. IEC is not responsible for any
services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of patent
rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 60086-1 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 35: Primary
cells and batteries.
This thirteenth edition cancels and replaces the twelfth edition published in 2015. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) a compliance checklist was added as an Annex H;
b) definitions were harmonized with the other 60086 series documents;
c) the nominal voltage of the zinc air system is now listed as either 1,4 V or 1,45 V;
d) Annex F for calculation of MAD values was simplified;
e) a validity period for testing was added;
f) the accelerated aging test at 45 °C was changed from 13 to 4 weeks;
– 6 – IEC 60086-1:2021 © IEC 2021
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
35/1465/FDIS 35/1469/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this International Standard can be found in the
report on voting indicated in the above table.
The language used for the development of this International Standard is English.
This document was drafted in accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2, and developed in
accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and ISO/IEC Directives, IEC Supplement, available
at www.iec.ch/members_experts/refdocs. The main document types developed by IEC are
described in greater detail at www.iec.ch/standardsdev/publications.
A list of all parts in the IEC 60086 series, under the general title Primary batteries, can be found
on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to
the specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
INTRODUCTION
The technical content of this part of IEC 60086 provides fundamental requirements and
information on primary cells and batteries. All batteries within the IEC 60086 series are
considered dry cell batteries. In this sense, IEC 60086-1 is the main component of the
IEC 60086 series and forms the basis for the subsequent parts. For example, this part includes
elementary information on definitions, nomenclature, dimensions and marking. While specific
requirements are included, the content of this part tends to explain methodology (how) and
justification (why).
Over the years, this part has been changed to improve its content and remains under continual
scrutiny to ensure that the publication is kept up to date with the advances in both battery and
battery-powered device technologies.
Safety requirements and recommendations are available in IEC 60086-4, IEC 60086-5 and
IEC 62281. Specifications are available in IEC 60086-2 and IEC 60086-3. Environmental
aspects are dealt with in IEC 60086-6.
– 8 – IEC 60086-1:2021 © IEC 2021
PRIMARY BATTERIES –
Part 1: General
1 Scope
This part of IEC 60086 is intended to standardize primary batteries with respect to dimensions,
nomenclature, terminal configurations, markings, test methods, typical performance, safety and
environmental aspects.
This document on one side specifies requirements for primary cells and batteries. On the other
side, this document also specifies procedures of how requirements for these batteries are to be
standardised.
As a classification tool for primary batteries, this document specifies system letters, electrodes,
electrolytes, and nominal as well as maximum open circuit voltage of electrochemical systems.
The object of this part of IEC 60086 is to benefit primary battery users, device designers and
battery manufacturers by ensuring that batteries from different manufacturers are
interchangeable according to standard form, fit and function. Furthermore, to ensure
compliance with the above, this part specifies standard test methods for testing primary cells
and batteries.
This document also contains requirements in Annex A justifying the inclusion or the ongoing
retention of batteries in the IEC 60086 series.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies.
For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60086-2:2015, Primary batteries – Part 2: Physical and electrical specifications
IEC 60086-3, Primary batteries – Part 3: Watch batteries
IEC 60086-4, Primary batteries – Part 4: Safety of lithium batteries
IEC 60086-5, Primary batteries – Part 5: Safety of batteries with aqueous electrolyte
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at http://www.iso.org/obp
3.1
application test
simulation of the actual use of a battery in a specific application
3.2
battery
one or more cells electrically connected and fitted in a case, with terminals, markings and
protective devices etc., as necessary for use
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-01-04, modified – removal of "fitted with devices
necessary for use.]
3.3
button (cell or battery)
small round cell or battery where the overall height is less than the diameter, containing
aqueous electrolyte
Note 1 to entry: See coin (cell or battery), lithium button (cell or battery).
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004 482-02-40]
3.4
cell
basic functional unit, consisting of an assembly of electrodes, electrolyte, container, terminals
and usually separators, that is a source of electric energy obtained by direct conversion of
chemical energy
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-01-01]
3.5
closed-circuit voltage
CCV
voltage across the terminals of a battery when it is on discharge
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-03-28, modified – "voltage between the terminals of a cell
or battery" replaced by "voltage across the terminals of a battery".]
3.6
coin (cell or battery)
lithium button (cell or battery)
small round cell or battery where the overall height is less than the diameter, containing non-
aqueous electrolyte
Note 1 to entry: The nominal voltage of lithium batteries is typically greater than 2 V.
Note 2 to entry: See button (cell or battery).
3.7
cylindrical (cell or battery)
round cell or battery in which the overall height is equal to or greater than the diameter
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482: 2004, 482-02-39, modified – "cell with a cylindrical shape" replaced
with "round cell or battery"]
3.8
discharge (of a primary battery)
operation during which a battery delivers current to an external circuit
– 10 – IEC 60086-1:2021 © IEC 2021
3.9
dry (primary) battery
primary battery in which the liquid electrolyte is essentially immobilized
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-04-14, modified – replacement of "containing an
immobilized electrolyte.]
3.10
end-point voltage
EV
specified voltage of a battery at which the battery discharge is terminated
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-03-30]
3.11
leakage
unplanned escape of electrolyte, gas or other material from a cell or battery
Note 1 to entry: Leakage in this sense should not be confused with the test evaluation criteria for leakage specified
in Clause 4 and Clause 5 of this document.
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-02-32]
3.12
minimum average duration
MAD
minimum average time on discharge which is met by a sample of batteries
Note 1 to entry: The discharge test is carried out according to the specified methods or standards and designed to
show conformity with the standard applicable to the battery types.
3.13
nominal voltage (of a primary battery)
U
n
suitable approximate value of the voltage used to designate or identify a cell, a battery or an
electrochemical system
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-03-31, modified – addition of "(of a primary battery)" and
symbol U .]
n
3.14
open-circuit voltage
OCV
voltage across the terminals of a cell or battery when it is off discharge
3.15
primary (cell or battery)
cell or battery that is not designed to be electrically recharged
3.16
round (cell or battery)
cell or battery with circular cross section
3.17
service output (of a primary battery)
service life, or capacity, or energy output of a battery under specified conditions of discharge
3.18
service output test
test designed to measure the service output of a battery
Note 1 to entry: A service output test may be prescribed, for example, when
a) an application test is too complex to replicate;
b) the duration of an application test would make it impractical for routine testing purposes.
3.19
storage life
duration under specified conditions at the end of which a battery retains its ability to perform a
specified service output
[SOURCE:IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-03-47, modified – "function" replaced by "service output".]
3.20
terminals (of a primary battery)
conductive parts of a battery that provide connection to an external circuit
4 Requirements
4.1 General
4.1.1 Design
Primary batteries are sold mainly in consumer markets. In recent years, they have become more
sophisticated in both chemistry and construction, for example both capacity and rate capability
have increased to meet the growing demands from new, battery-powered equipment technology.
When designing primary batteries, the aforementioned considerations shall be taken into
account. Specifically, their dimensional conformity and stability, their physical and electrical
performance and their safe operation under normal use and foreseeable misuse conditions shall
be assured.
Additional information on equipment design can be found in Annex B.
4.1.2 Battery dimensions
The dimensions for individual types of batteries are given in IEC 60086-2 and IEC 60086-3.
4.1.3 Terminals
4.1.3.1 General
Terminals shall be in accordance with Clause 6 of IEC 60086-2:2015.
Their physical shape shall be designed in such a way that they ensure that the batteries make
and maintain good electrical contact at all times.
They shall be made of materials that provide good electrical conductivity and resistance to
corrosion.
– 12 – IEC 60086-1:2021 © IEC 2021
4.1.3.2 Contact pressure resistance
Where stated in the battery specification tables or the individual specification sheets in
IEC 60086-2, the following applies:
– a force of 10 N applied through a steel ball of 1 mm diameter at the centre of each contact
area for a period of 10 s shall not cause any apparent deformation which might prevent
satisfactory operation of the battery.
NOTE See also IEC 60086-3 for exceptions.
4.1.3.3 Cap and base
This type of terminal is used for batteries which have their dimensions specified according to
Figures 1 to 7 of IEC 60086-2:2015 and which have the cylindrical side of the battery insulated
from the terminals.
4.1.3.4 Cap and case
This type of terminal is used for batteries which have their dimensions specified according to
Figures 8, 9, 10, 14, 15 and 16 of IEC 60086-2:2015, but in which the cylindrical side of the
battery forms part of the positive terminal.
4.1.3.5 Screw terminals
This contact consists of a threaded rod in combination with either a metal or insulated metal
nut.
4.1.3.6 Flat contacts
These are essentially flat metal surfaces adapted to make electrical contact by suitable contact
mechanisms bearing against them.
4.1.3.7 Flat or spiral springs
These contacts comprise flat metal strips or spirally wound wires which are in a form that
provides pressure contact.
4.1.3.8 Plug-in-sockets
These are made up of a suitable assembly of metal contacts, mounted in an insulated housing
or holding device and adapted to receive the corresponding pins of a mating plug.
4.1.3.9 Snap fasteners
4.1.3.9.1 General
These contacts are composed of a combination comprising a stud (non-resilient) for the positive
terminal and a socket (resilient) for the negative terminal.
They shall be of suitable metal so as to provide efficient electrical connection when joined to
the corresponding parts of an external circuit.
4.1.3.9.2 Snap fastener
This type of terminal consists of a stud for the positive terminal and a socket for the negative
terminal. These shall be made from nickel plated steel or other suitable material. They shall be
designed to provide a secure physical and electrical connection, when fitted with similar
corresponding parts for connection to an electrical circuit.
4.1.3.10 Wire
Wire leads may be single or multi-strand flexible insulated tinned copper. The positive terminal
wire covering shall be red and the negative black.
4.1.3.11 Other spring contacts or clips
These contacts are generally used on batteries when the corresponding parts of the external
circuit are not precisely known. They shall be of spring brass or of other material having similar
properties.
4.1.4 Classification (electrochemical system)
Primary batteries are classified according to their electrochemical system.
Each system, with the exception of the zinc-ammonium chloride, zinc chloride-manganese
dioxide system, has been allocated a letter denoting the particular system.
The electrochemical systems that have been standardized up to now are given in Table 1.
Table 1 – Standardized electrochemical systems
Maximum
Negative Nominal
Letter Electrolyte Positive electrode open circuit
electrode voltage
voltage
V V
No letter Zinc (Zn) Ammonium chloride, Manganese dioxide (MnO ) 1,5 1,73
zinc chloride
A Zinc (Zn) Ammonium chloride, Oxygen (O ) 1,4 1,55
zinc chloride
B Lithium (Li) Organic electrolyte Carbon monofluoride (CF) 3,0 3,7
x
C Lithium (Li) Organic electrolyte Manganese dioxide (MnO ) 3,0 3,7
E Lithium (Li) Non-aqueous Thionyl chloride (SOCl ) 3,6 3,9
inorganic
F Lithium (Li) Organic electrolyte Iron disulfide (FeS ) 1,5 1,83
G Lithium (Li) Organic electrolyte Copper (II) oxide (CuO) 1,5 2,3
L Zinc (Zn) Alkali metal hydroxide Manganese dioxide (MnO ) 1,5 1,68
P Zinc (Zn) Alkali metal hydroxide Oxygen (O ) 1,4 or 1,45 1,59
S Zinc (Zn) Alkali metal hydroxide Silver oxide (Ag O) 1,55 1,63
W Lithium (Li) Organic electrolyte Sulphur dioxide (SO ) 3,0 3,05
Y Lithium (Li) Non-aqueous Sulfuryl chloride (SO Cl ) 3,9 4,1
2 2
inorganic
Z Zinc (Zn) Alkali metal hydroxide Nickel oxyhydroxide 1,5 1,78
(NiOOH)
NOTE 1 The value of the nominal voltage is not verifiable; therefore it is only given as a reference.
NOTE 2 The maximum open-circuit voltage (3.14) is measured as defined in 5.5 and 6.8.1.
NOTE 3 When referring to an electrochemical system, common protocol is to list negative electrode first, followed
by positive electrode, i.e. lithium-iron disulfide.
NOTE 4 Reference to the electrochemical systems of this table usually appears in a simplified form such as, for
example, “B and C system batteries” or “batteries of the no letter system”.
– 14 – IEC 60086-1:2021 © IEC 2021
4.1.5 Designation
The designation of primary batteries is based on their physical parameters, their
electrochemical system as well as modifiers, if needed.
A comprehensive explanation of the designation system (nomenclature) can be found in
Annex C.
4.1.6 Marking
4.1.6.1 General
For an overview of marking requirements refer to Table 2. With the exception of batteries too
small to mark with all items (see 4.1.6.2), each battery shall be marked with the following
information:
a) designation, IEC or common;
b) expiration of a recommended usage period or year and month or week of manufacture.
The year and month or week of manufacture may be in code;
c) polarity of the positive (+) terminal;
d) nominal voltage;
e) name or trade mark of the manufacturer or supplier;
f) cautionary advice.
NOTE Examples of the common designations can be found in Annex D of IEC 60086-2:2015.
4.1.6.2 Marking of smaller batteries
a) Some batteries, mainly category 3 and category 4 batteries, have a surface too small to
accommodate all markings shown in 4.1.6.1. For these batteries the designation 4.1.6.1a)
and the polarity 4.1.6.1c) shall be marked on the battery. All other markings shown in 4.1.6.1
may be given on the immediate packing instead of on the battery.
b) For P-system batteries, 4.1.6.1a) may be on the battery, the sealing tab or the package.
4.1.6.1c) may be marked on the sealing tab and/or on the battery. 4.1.6.1b), 4.1.6.1d) and
4.1.6.1e) may be given on the immediate packing instead of on the battery. The nominal
voltage may be marked either 1,4 V or 1,45 V.
c) Caution for ingestion of swallowable batteries shall be given. Refer to current valid versions
of IEC 60086-4 and IEC 60086-5 for details.
Table 2 – Marking requirements
Batteries too small to
Batteries with the
accommodate all markings
exception of batteries too
Marking
small to accommodate all
P-system
markings
batteries
a) Designation, IEC or common A A C
b) Expiration of a recommended usage
period or year and month or week of
A B B
manufacture. The year and month or week
of manufacture may be in code
c) Polarity of the positive (+) terminal A A D
d) Nominal voltage A B B
e) Name or trade mark of the manufacturer
A B B
or supplier
a a
f) Cautionary advice
A B B
Key
A: shall be marked on the battery
B: may be marked on the immediate packing instead of on the battery
C: may be marked on the battery, the sealing tab or the immediate packing
D: may be marked on the sealing tab and/or on the battery
a
Caution for ingestion of swallowable batteries shall be given. Refer to IEC 60086-4 and IEC 60086-5 for details.
4.1.6.3 Marking of batteries regarding method of disposal
Marking of batteries with respect to the method of disposal shall be in accordance with local
legal requirements.
4.1.7 Interchangeability: battery voltage
Primary batteries as presently standardized in the IEC 60086 series can be categorized by their
standard discharge voltage U . For a new battery system, its interchangeability by voltage is
s
assessed for compliance with the following Formula (1):
n×0,85 1U ≤ mU≤ ≤×n,15 U (1)
rs r
where
n is the number of cells connected in series, based on reference voltage U ;
r
m is the number of cells connected in series, based on standard discharge voltage U ;
s
U is the reference voltage;
r
U is the standard discharge voltage.
s
Currently, two voltage ranges that conform to the above formula have been identified. They are
identified by reference voltage U , which is the midpoint of the relevant voltage range.
r
Voltage range 1, U = 1,40 V: Batteries having a standard discharge voltage m × U equal to or
r s
within the range of n × 1,19 V to n × 1,61 V.
Voltage range 2, U = 3,20 V: Batteries having a standard discharge voltage m × U equal to or
r s
within the range of n × 2,72 V to n × 3,68 V.
– 16 – IEC 60086-1:2021 © IEC 2021
Details on the standard discharge voltage and related quantities, as well as the methods of their
determination, are given in Annex D.
NOTE For single-cell batteries and for multi-cell batteries assembled with cells of the same voltage range, m and n
...
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