IEC 62973-2:2020

• Abstract:

  IEC 62973-2:2020 applies to NiCd rechargeable batteries for auxiliary power supply systems used on railway vehicles. It is an extension of IEC 62973-1:2018 which specifies common requirements for all battery technologies of other parts of IEC 62973. Unless otherwise specified, the requirements of IEC 62973-1:2018 apply.; Battery systems described in this document are used in conjunction with charging systems onboard rolling stock, as described in IEC 62973-1:2018. Charging systems (e.g. LVPS, converters, etc.) are excluded from the scope of this document.; This document also specifies the design, operation parameters, safety recommendations, routine and type tests, as well as marking and designation. This document is used in addition to IEC 60623:2017 or IEC 62259:2003 for NiCd Cells.

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 26-May-2020
• ICS: 29.220.99 - Other cells and batteries
• ICS: 45.060.01 - Railway rolling stock in general
• Technical Committee: TC 9 - Electrical equipment and systems for railways
• Drafting Committee: PT 62973-2 - TC 9/PT 62973-2
• Current Stage: PPUB - Publication issued
• Start Date: 27-May-2020
• Completion Date: 22-May-2020

Overview - IEC 62973-2:2020 (NiCd batteries for railway rolling stock)

IEC 62973-2:2020 is the International Electrotechnical Commission standard that specifies requirements for Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) rechargeable batteries used as auxiliary power supplies on railway vehicles (rolling stock). It is a technology‑specific extension of IEC 62973-1:2018, which defines common requirements for battery systems in railway applications. IEC 62973-2 covers design, operational parameters, safety guidance, marking and designation, plus routine and type testing for NiCd battery systems. Charging systems (LVPS, converters, etc.) are excluded from its scope.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Battery types and constructions: Definitions and characteristics of NiCd cells, monoblocs, crates, trays and battery boxes, and electrode/plate technologies (e.g., sintered, fibre, pocket).
• System requirements: Guidance on system voltage, charging and discharging behaviour, charge retention (self‑discharge), and battery capacity sizing for auxiliary loads.
• Charging characteristics: Required charge regimes, temperature compensation during charging, and interactions with onboard charging systems (charging equipment itself is out of scope).
• Safety and protection: Recommendations on deep discharge protection, thermal management, fire protection and required safety signs/markings.
• Mechanical and environmental design: Mounting, accessibility, shock and vibration resistance, ventilation and water filling systems appropriate for rolling stock environments.
• Testing and verification: Type tests and routine tests for electrical characteristics, dielectric strength, load profile verification, shock/vibration and documentation of test results. Annexes provide typical load profiles and a normative methodology for load profile verification.
• Maintenance, storage and transport: Requirements and recommended practices for safe storage, transportation and periodic maintenance.

Practical applications

IEC 62973-2:2020 is used to ensure NiCd battery systems for auxiliary functions (lighting, control circuits, emergency systems, communications, etc.) are safe, reliable and interoperable in railway vehicles. It supports:

• Battery system design and validation for new rolling stock
• Procurement specifications for NiCd battery suppliers
• Type approval, testing and commissioning procedures
• Operation and maintenance planning for fleet engineers and depot teams

Who should use this standard

• Rolling stock designers and system integrators
• Battery manufacturers and cell/monobloc suppliers
• Railway operators, maintenance engineers and depot personnel
• Test laboratories, certification bodies and procurement teams

Related standards

• IEC 62973-1:2018 - Common requirements for railway battery systems
• IEC 60623:2017 and IEC 62259:2003 - Standards referenced for NiCd cell specifications
• Other parts of the IEC 62973 series for different battery technologies

Keywords: IEC 62973-2:2020, NiCd batteries, railway rolling stock, auxiliary power supply, battery testing, charging characteristics, battery safety.

IEC 62973-2 ®
Edition 1.0 2020-05
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Railway applications – Rolling stock – Batteries for auxiliary power supply
systems –
Part 2: Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) batteries
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IEC 62973-2 ®
Edition 1.0 2020-05
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Railway applications – Rolling stock – Batteries for auxiliary power supply

systems –
Part 2: Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) batteries

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 45.060.01; 29.220.99 ISBN 978-2-8322-8234-2

– 2 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 5
INTRODUCTION . 7
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviated terms . 9
3.1 Terms and definitions . 9
3.2 Abbreviated terms . 11
4 General requirements . 12
4.1 Definitions of components of a battery system, refer to Figure 1 (images are
examples) . 12
4.2 Definitions of NiCd battery type . 12
4.2.1 General . 12
4.2.2 Sintered/PBE plate/electrode technology . 13
4.2.3 Sintered/sintered plate/electrode technology . 13
4.2.4 Fiber plate/electrode technology . 13
4.2.5 Pocket plate/electrode technology . 13
4.3 Environmental conditions . 13
4.4 System requirements . 13
4.4.1 System voltage . 13
4.4.2 Charging requirements . 15
4.4.3 Discharging requirements . 17
4.4.4 Charge retention (self-discharge) . 18
4.4.5 Requirements for battery capacity sizing. 18
4.5 Safety and protection requirements . 19
4.5.1 General . 19
4.5.2 Deep discharge of batteries . 19
4.5.3 Temperature compensation during charging . 20
4.6 Fire protection . 20
4.7 Maintenance . 20
4.8 Charging characteristics . 20
4.9 Optional additional components to battery system . 20
4.9.1 General . 20
4.9.2 Battery information system . 21
4.9.3 Battery heater . 21
4.9.4 Thermostat or cut-off switch. 21
5 Mechanical design of battery system . 21
5.1 General . 21
5.2 Interface mechanism . 21
5.3 Location of battery system on the vehicle . 21
5.4 Accessibility to the battery . 22
5.5 Shock and vibration . 22
5.6 Ventilation of battery box . 22
5.7 Water filling system . 22
6 Electrical interface . 22
6.1 General . 22
6.2 External electrical connections interface . 23

7 Markings. 23
7.1 Safety signs . 23
7.1.1 Outside the box . 23
7.1.2 Tray, crate or other places inside the box . 23
7.1.3 Cells or monobloc batteries . 23
7.2 Nameplate . 24
7.2.1 Battery box . 24
7.2.2 Nameplates on tray, crate or other nameplates inside the box . 24
7.2.3 Cells or monoblocs . 24
8 Storage and transportation conditions . 24
8.1 Transportation . 24
8.2 Storage of batteries . 24
9 Testing . 25
9.1 General . 25
9.2 Type test . 25
9.2.1 General . 25
9.2.2 Parameter measurement tolerances . 26
9.2.3 Electrical characteristic tests . 26
9.2.4 Dielectric test . 26
9.2.5 Load profile test . 26
9.2.6 Shock and vibration test . 26
9.3 Routine test . 27
9.3.1 General . 27
9.3.2 Visual checks . 27
9.3.3 Dielectric test . 27
9.3.4 Electrical characteristics tests . 27
Annex A (informative) Examples of typical load profiles . 28
A.1 General . 28
A.2 Example of load profile – High speed train (Figure A.1) . 28
A.3 Example of load profile – Regional train/ EMU (Figure A.2) . 29
Annex B (normative) NiCd load profile verification . 30
B.1 General . 30
B.2 General methodology . 30
B.3 Battery sizing documentation . 31
B.4 Operational verification (load profile test) . 31
B.5 Test report . 32
Annex C (informative) Declaration of cell model range representative of the testing . 33
C.1 Electrical performance declaration . 33
C.2 Shock and vibration declaration . 33
Bibliography . 34

Figure 1 – Definition of NiCd cell(s), monobloc battery, crate, tray, and box . 12
Figure 2 – Example of a NiCd cell discharge curve at various constant discharge
currents based on percentage of capacity . 14
Figure 3 – Example of a NiCd cell charge curves . 15
Figure 4 – Typical NiCd battery charging characteristics . 17
Figure 5 – Typical schematic of an electrical interface of a battery system . 23

– 4 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
Figure A.1 – Example of load profile for high speed train (without starting up segment) . 28
Figure A.2 – Example of load profile for regional train/ EMU (without starting up
segment) . 29

Table 1 – Requirements of the charging characteristics . 15
Table 2 – Typical NiCd battery charging characteristics . 16
Table 3 – Parameters and responsibility for battery capacity sizing . 19
Table 4 – Type test and routine test . 25

INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
RAILWAY APPLICATIONS – ROLLING STOCK –
BATTERIES FOR AUXILIARY POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS –

Part 2: Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) batteries

FOREWORD
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International Standard IEC 62973-2 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 9:
Electrical equipment and systems for railways.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
9/2585/FDIS 9/2594/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.
This document has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.

– 6 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
A list of all parts in the IEC 62973 series, published under the general title Railway
applications – Rolling stock – Batteries for auxiliary power supply systems, 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.
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INTRODUCTION
This document considers the requirements for vented or partial recombination Nickel
Cadmium (NiCd) batteries following IEC 62973-1:2018.
In this document the interface with a LVPS or charger is specified and the LVPS or charger
itself is out of scope.
– 8 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
RAILWAY APPLICATIONS – ROLLING STOCK –
BATTERIES FOR AUXILIARY POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS –

Part 2: Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) batteries

1 Scope
This part of IEC 62973 applies to NiCd rechargeable batteries for auxiliary power supply
systems used on railway vehicles. It is an extension of IEC 62973-1:2018 which specifies
common requirements for all battery technologies of other parts of IEC 62973. Unless
otherwise specified, the requirements of IEC 62973-1:2018 apply.
Battery systems described in this document are used in conjunction with charging systems
onboard rolling stock, as described in IEC 62973-1:2018. Charging systems (e.g. LVPS,
converters, etc.) are excluded from the scope of this document.
This document also specifies the design, operation parameters, safety recommendations,
routine and type tests, as well as marking and designation.
This document is used in addition to IEC 60623:2017 or IEC 62259:2003 for NiCd Cells.
Specific requirements on subcomponents within the battery systems are covered in this
document, e.g. temperature measurement components.
When there is an existing IEC standard specifying additional test conditions and requirements
for NiCd batteries used in specific railway applications and which conflicts with this document,
the latter takes precedence.
The main objective of this document is to achieve standardization of the electrical interfaces
by considering NiCd battery parameters to allow for calculating the NiCd battery capacity
required for a specific load profile.
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 60051 (all parts), Direct acting indicating analogue electrical measuring instruments and
their accessories
IEC 60077-1, Railway applications – Electric equipment for rolling stock – Part 1: General
service conditions and general rules
IEC 60623:2017, Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid
electrolytes – Vented nickel-cadmium prismatic rechargeable single cells
IEC 61373:2010, Railway applications – Rolling stock equipment – Shock and vibration test
IEC 62259:2003, Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid
electrolytes – Nickel cadmium prismatic secondary single cells with partial gas recombination

IEC 62485-2:2010, Safety requirements for secondary batteries and battery installations –
Part 2: Stationary batteries
IEC 62973-1:2018, Railway applications Rolling stock – Batteries for auxiliary power supply
systems – Part 1: General requirements
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviated terms
3.1 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
NOTE All typical battery related descriptions are defined in IEC 60050-482.
3.1.1
battery crate
container with frame walls for holding several cells or batteries
Note 1 to entry: Refer to 4.1 and Clause 5.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004/AMD1:2016, 482-05-10, modified – Note 1 to entry has been
added.]
3.1.2
battery tray
container with a base and walls for holding several cells or batteries
Note 1 to entry: Refer to 4.1 and Clause 5.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004/AMD1:2016, 482-02-35, modified – Note 1 to entry has been
added.]
3.1.3
cell
basic functional unit of NiCd battery, 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/AMD1:2016, 482-01-01, modified – Note has been deleted
and the specific use “of NiCd battery" has been added.]
3.1.4
monobloc battery
battery with multiple separate but electrically connected cell compartments each of which is
designed to house an assembly of electrodes, electrolyte, terminals or interconnections and
possible separators
Note 1 to entry: The cells in a monobloc battery can be connected in series or in parallel.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-02-17]

– 10 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
3.1.5
nickel cadmium battery
secondary battery with an alkaline electrolyte, a positive electrode containing nickel oxide and
a negative electrode of cadmium
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004/AMD1:2016, 482-05-02, modified – A synonym has been
removed.]
3.1.6
rated capacity,
C
n
capacity value of a battery determined under IEC 60623:2017 specified conditions and
declared by the battery manufacturer
3.1.7
state of charge
SOC
remaining capacity to be discharged, normally expressed as a percentage of the full battery
rated capacity as expressed in relevant standards
Note 1 to entry: Practical definitions of SOC are dependent upon chosen technologies.
3.1.8
depth of discharge
DOD
capacity removed from a battery during discharge in relation to its full rated capacity
expressed as a percentage
Note 1 to entry: It is the complement of SOC.
Note 2 to entry: As one increases, the other decreases by the same amount.
3.1.9
ageing factor,
quantitative factor expressing the degradation in the ability of the battery, due to usage, to
deliver electrical energy under specified operating conditions such as, but not limited to,
operating ambient temperature, cycling considering depth of discharge (DOD), and
maintenance practices
3.1.10
nickel cadmium battery information system
electronic system collecting and analyzing battery data to provide additional information, i.e.
information not necessary for battery operation
Note 1 to entry: Additional information can be information about e.g. condition-based maintenance.
3.1.11
battery system
battery
system that includes battery tray(s), battery crate(s), monobloc(s), electrical components
and/or equipment and associated electromechanical components and connections
3.1.12
end user
organization which operates the battery system
Note 1 to entry: The end user is normally an organization which operates the vehicle equipped with the battery
system, unless the responsibility is delegated to a main contractor or consultant.

3.1.13
system integrator
organization which has the technical responsibility of the complete battery system and
charging system
Note 1 to entry: The system integrator can be the end user or the train manufacturer, or none of them.
3.1.14
manufacturer,
organization which has the technical responsibility for its scope of supply
Note 1 to entry: The manufacturer can be the train builder or the system integrator of a battery system, a cell
manufacturer, etc. If necessary to explicitly distinguish, “train manufacturer”, “battery system manufacturer” or “cell
manufacturer” is expressed.
3.2 Abbreviated terms
AC Alternating Current
C Capacity at the n-hour rate
n
CCCV Constant Current Constant Voltage
DC Direct Current
DOD Depth Of Discharge
EMU Electrical Multiple Unit
FEA Finite Element Analysis
LVPS Low Voltage Power Supply
NiCd Nickel Cadmium
PBE Plastic Bonded Electrode
SOC State Of Charge
– 12 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
4 General requirements
4.1 Definitions of components of a battery system, refer to Figure 1
(images are examples)
Figure 1 – Definition of NiCd cell(s), monobloc battery, crate, tray, and box
Some batteries may not include all the above components, e.g. single cells may be installed
in a tray without crates.
4.2 Definitions of NiCd battery type
4.2.1 General
A battery consists of several cells or monoblocs, and/or assembled in trays, crates, and then
assembled in a battery box. Internally, each cell has plate stacks consisting of several
positive and negative plates that are separated by a single or multilayer separator. These are
held by a supporting structure which in turn are connected to positive and negative terminals
that extend to the outside of the cell container.
The positive active material is nickel hydroxide, and the negative active material is cadmium-
hydroxide.
The plate stacks are surrounded by alkaline electrolyte, an aqueous solution mainly of
potassium hydroxide (KOH), and distilled or deionized water. The electrolyte does not
participate in the electrochemical reaction, which takes place in the cell, but only acts as an
ion-carrying medium with its specific gravity remaining fairly constant allowing for large
electrolyte reserves to be used. The electrolyte does not chemically change or degrade due to
charge/ discharge cycles.
Due to NiCd electrochemistry technology, some abuse conditions can be tolerated at the cell
level, e.g. overcharging will cause water electrolysis, but only water is consumed. Since there
is no chemical change or degradation of electrolyte, it is not necessary to add complex control
systems to handle such cases.
4.2.2 Sintered/PBE plate/electrode technology
The sintered positive plate/ electrode is obtained by chemical impregnation of nickel
hydroxide into a porous nickel sinter coated thin steel strip that is previously perforated and
nickel-plated.
The negative plastic bonded electrode (PBE) is obtained by the coating of slurry consisting of
cadmium oxide mixed with a plastic binder onto a nickel-plated thin perforated steel strip.
4.2.3 Sintered/sintered plate/electrode technology
The sintered positive and negative plate/electrode is obtained by chemical impregnation of
nickel hydroxide and cadmium oxide into a porous nickel sinter coated thin steel strip that is
previously perforated and nickel-plated.
4.2.4 Fiber plate/electrode technology
Both the positive and negative plates/electrodes consist of non-woven fibers of nickel or
nickel-plated plastic fibers of high porosity.
4.2.5 Pocket plate/electrode technology
Both the positive and negative plates/electrodes consist of several flat, perforated metal
pockets made from perforated steel strips linked together encapsulating the active materials.
4.3 Environmental conditions
NiCd cells/ batteries can perform at extreme temperatures: below –25 °C or above +40 °C.
Especially when at one extreme temperature is specified, deviations for the opposite extreme
temperature may be agreed between end user and/ or system integrator and cell/ battery
manufacturer.
4.4 System requirements
4.4.1 System voltage
The charging voltage for the NiCd battery is dependent on the number of cells, temperature,
and its plate/electrode technology.
Although the nominal battery voltage is set by Table 1 of IEC 62973-1:2018, the number of
cells can vary due to the cell charging requirements by their plate/electrode technology.

– 14 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
Due to higher cell charging voltage required by the fiber or pocket plate technology, a lower
number of cells can be used in series with a higher capacity. While due to lower charging
voltage of sintered/PBE or sintered/sintered plate technology, more cells can be used in
series with a lower capacity. Less cells with a higher capacity or more cells with lower
capacity would provide similar energy.
The optimised number of cells in a NiCd battery calculated by the battery manufacturer shall
allow to operate between the minimum and maximum equipment operating voltage range
considering the operating conditions and battery load profile. Then the operational battery
charging voltage at 20 °C shall be set considering the calculated number of cells and
individual cell charging characteristics. Refer to Table 2.
The NiCd battery nominal voltages and the discharge voltages are different. Figure 2 shows
typical discharges of a NiCd cell at different constant discharging currents (shown in multiples
of C or multiples of I , C and I are related, e.g. 0,2 C is equivalent to I ) that vary by
n n n n 5 5
battery discharge rate designation (e.g. L, M, H per IEC 60623:2017). This discharge curve
(discharge voltages relative to discharge capacities based on constant current discharges)
shall be available at different temperatures.

Figure 2 – Example of a NiCd cell discharge curve at various constant
discharge currents based on percentage of capacity
The following example, a) in Figure 3 shows a typical charge of a NiCd cell at constant
charging current at 0,2 C (equivalent to I ) for the initial phase followed by b) in Figure 3
5 5
constant charging voltage for the last phase depending on the NiCd battery type
plate/electrode technology. Charging curves shall be available from battery manufacturers.
Typically, the charging function is performed by the LVPS or charger in a low voltage system
architecture.
a) Example of charge b) Example of charge
current rate curve voltage curve

NOTE The positive sign of current in a) in Figure 3 shows the charging condition. When the charge and discharge
currents are combined in the same curve, the charge current is depicted with a negative sign opposite to the sign
in the load profile as described in Annex A.
Figure 3 – Example of a NiCd cell charge curves
4.4.2 Charging requirements
The required battery charging characteristics and the optimum charging method are specified
according to Table 1 and Table 2 respectively.
Table 1 – Requirements of the charging characteristics
Requirements Characteristics
Normal condition Float charge by LVPS or charger with temperature compensation.
Charging method Depending on NiCd battery type plate/electrode technology. Refer to Table 2.
Steady state control The charge voltage tolerance refers to the voltage demand according to the ideal
tolerance of the battery charging characteristic of the battery.
charge voltage output at the
In case of temperature compensation ± 1,5 % or lower tolerance.
charging system
Without temperature compensation ± 1 % or lower tolerance.
Charging voltage ripple ≤ 5 % (according to IEC 60077-1 but with disconnected battery).
Charging current ripple The battery charging current shall be DC, as any superimposed AC component in
the charging current can lead to a temperature increase of the battery. The AC
content in the charging current shall not exceed values as per IEC 62485-2:2010.
Temperature compensation Temperature compensation as required by the NiCd battery type plate/electrode
technology. Refer to Table 2.
Detection of temperature Signal from sensor on battery or battery compartment, detection inside battery
charging system.
The float and boost charge concept in Table 2 are illustrated in Figure 4.

– 16 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
Table 2 – Typical NiCd battery charging characteristics
NiCd battery charging characteristics Float charging Boost charge at Remarks
voltage at 20 °C 20 °C
Basic data for Charging voltage at 1,40 V/ cell 1,60 V/ cell See points ① and ② on
charging (Note 1) 20 °C (Note 2) (Note 2) Figure 4
Mandatory, change NA 45°C See point ③ on Figure 4
from boost to float
The switch point from
charging
boost to float charge is
based on parameters
such as temperature,
current and/or time
Temperature Typical case with a -3 mV/ cell/ °C -3 mV/ cell/ °C See Figure 4
correction single value (Note 3) (Note 3)
Switching set Mandatory stop Up to 70 °C maximum See point ④ on Figure 4
points charging of battery
(all charge
modes) Standard, from boost NA The switch point Current measurement
to float charging from boost to float necessary as well as
charge is based on temperature and/or time
parameters such
as temperature,
current and/or time
(Note 4)
Standard, from float The switch point NA Current measurement
to boost charging from float to boost necessary as well as
charge is based on temperature and/or time
parameters such
as temperature,
current and/or time
(Note 4)
NOTE 1 When single level charging is used, the boost charge voltage = the float charge voltage.
NOTE 2 The values of the charging voltages for the different charge modes are indicative values. The
manufacturer can choose different values for reaching a certain state of charge depending on the NiCd
technology. Those values are clearly indicated in the cell documentation and available upon request from the cell
manufacturer. The voltage tolerance is taken at maximum ±1 %.
NOTE 3 A temperature compensation is necessary, a typical value is of -0,003 V/°C/cell. In case the numerical
value is adjusted for some type of cells specified as CCCV, it is clearly indicated in the cell manufacturer‘s
documentation and in the approval documents. It is possible to have 3 values;
• one for temperatures lower than or equal to T , (T ≤ 45 °C, e.g. T = 20 °C)
1 1 1
• one for temperature higher than T , and lower than or equal 45 °C, and
• one for temperature higher than 45 °C.
NOTE 4 The charging current can vary depending on the designed charging current value as indicated on the
documentation provided by the manufacturer for the cell.
NOTE 5 Point ⑤ in Figure 4 corresponds to the maximum charging voltage at the equipment as expressed in
Table 1 of IEC 62973-1:2018.
NOTE The location of the temperature sensor is agreed between the end user and battery manufacturer. Refer to
4.5.3.
Figure 4 – Typical NiCd battery charging characteristics
The charging voltage of the battery shall be limited to the maximum voltage at the equipment
in Table 1 of IEC 62973-1:2018. The temperature compensation voltage control should be
limited to these values considering the charging cell voltage values in Table 2 multiplied by
the number of cells in series for the battery.
The typical charging voltages per cell for most applications are shown in Table 2 with
temperature compensation voltage control. Higher or lower values, within the above limits,
can be selected depending on sizing and application parameters (e.g. in Japan for
sintered/PBE, a single level float charge voltage of 1,43 V/cell without temperature
compensation voltage control charging is typical).
In some cases, in agreement between the end user and manufacturer, the temperature
compensation voltage control charging may not be required. This information shall be agreed
upon prior to calculating the battery capacity required for a specific load profile. In such a
case, the battery temperature sensor may be omitted. It is the responsibility of the battery
manufacturer to calculate the additional battery capacity needed to consider the non-
temperature compensated charging regime. In case of extreme low temperature, a heater can
be added to limit the additional capacity needed. Then the temperature activation point of the
heater shall be agreed prior to battery capacity calculation.
4.4.3 Discharging requirements
4.4.3.1 General
There are different discharging performances for NiCd battery technologies (e.g. sintered/
PBE, sintered/sintered, fiber, pocket plate) while in service or storage affected due to:
– load profile (emergency back-up for auxiliaries and/or during normal operation such as
neutral section or power gaps);
– off line discharge when power is not present;

– 18 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
– low and high temperature discharging requirements;
– charge retention (self-discharge);
– deep discharge.
Some of the above discharging requirements are described in the following subclauses.
4.4.3.2 Load profile
The load profile shall be considered for the complete battery. As the number cells can be
adjusted to optimize charging, it will influence the load per cell. Refer to 4.4.1. This is to be
taken in consideration when calculating the discharge per cell.
4.4.3.3 Extended discharge time
A NiCd battery withstands an extended discharge without permanent damage. Therefore,
there is no need for reconditioning to recover the battery performances after this extended
discharge.
4.4.3.4 Low or high temperature performance
Discharge performance is characterized at specified low temperature as per IEC 60623:2017,
in 7.3.5 or at high temperature in 7.3.6. In case previously performed test results are available
at or worse than the requested condition, these can be used without retesting by similarity.
The sizing calculation parameters and temperature derating factor shall be in accordance with
the performance characteristics of the battery.
4.4.4 Charge retention (self-discharge)
Self-discharge can lead to a completely discharged NiCd battery over an extended time.
However, this does not permanently damage the NiCd battery and it is even recommended to
store the battery in a completely discharged state where self-discharge does not occur. A
specific condition may be recommended by the cell manufacturer depending on the NiCd
technology (e.g. storage in unfilled condition).
The charge retention characteristic is outlined in IEC 60623:2017, 7.4.
For storage of batteries, refer to 8.2.
4.4.5 Requirements for battery capacity sizing
The NiCd battery manufacturer shall define the following parameters according to the NiCd
cell technology:
– SOC according to the charging parameters (voltage, temperature compensation, number
of cells, battery plate/electrode technology) and environmental conditions,
– ageing factor depending upon but not limited to the operating ambient temperature,
cycling at the corresponding DOD, maintenance, and required lifetime.
In case the end user and/ or system integrator dictates any less severe values of the above
parameters as proposed by the NiCd battery manufacturer, the result of the operational
verification test B.4 in Annex B may not be representative of reality over the lifetime of the
battery.
The requirements for battery capacity sizing are specified according to Table 3.

Table 3 – Parameters and responsibility for battery capacity sizing
Parameters needed Responsibilities of parameters to Values
for battery sizing be provided
Load profile (W, Ω, A) Provided by the system integrator Load profile cases each in W, Ω, A
over a specified duration period
Low or high temperature for sizing As specified by the train High and low temperature in °C as
to the load profile (°C) manufacturer or in conjunction with described in 4.4.3.4 of IEC 62973-
the end user 1:2018
Charging voltage for battery system Battery or cell manufacturer Number of cells x requested
at 20 °C charging voltage per cell
State of Charge (SOC) at 20 °C Provided by the battery or cell Percentage of rated capacity as
under float charging conditions (%) manufacturer described in IEC 60623:2017 or
IEC 62259:2003 as applicable
Ageing factor (%) Provided by the battery or cell Percentage of rated capacity as
manufacturer described in IEC 60623:2017 or
IEC 62259:2003 as applicable
Requested cycle capability (number Specified by the end user Number of cycles and duration
of load profile cycles and time (partial or full) of load profile per
duration) week, month or year
Useful battery life at an average Provided by the battery or cell Years
...

IEC 62973-2 ®
Edition 1.0 2020-05
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Applications ferroviaires - Matériel roulant - Batteries pour systèmes
d'alimentation auxiliaires -
Partie 2 : Batteries nickel-cadmium (NiCd)
ICS 45.060.01; 29.220.99 ISBN 978-2-8327-1421-8

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– 36 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
SOMMAIRE
AVANT-PROPOS . 39
INTRODUCTION . 41
1 Domaine d'application . 42
2 Références normatives . 42
3 Termes, définitions et termes abrégés . 43
3.1 Termes et définitions . 43
3.2 Termes abrégés . 45
4 Exigences générales . 46
4.1 Définitions des composants d'un système de batterie, voir la Figure 1 (figure
purement illustrative) . 46
4.2 Définitions des types de batteries NiCd . 46
4.2.1 Généralités . 46
4.2.2 Technologie plaques/électrodes fritté/PBE . 47
4.2.3 Technologie plaques/électrodes fritté/fritté . 47
4.2.4 Technologie plaques/électrodes fibres . 47
4.2.5 Technologie plaques/électrodes pochettes . 47
4.3 Conditions de températures ambiantes . 47
4.4 Exigences système . 48
4.4.1 Tension réseau . 48
4.4.2 Exigences de charge . 50
4.4.3 Exigences de décharge . 53
4.4.4 Conservation de la charge (autodécharge) . 53
4.4.5 Exigences de dimensionnement de la capacité de la batterie . 54
4.5 Exigences de sécurité et de protection . 55
4.5.1 Généralités . 55
4.5.2 Décharge profonde des batteries . 55
4.5.3 Compensation en température pendant la charge . 55
4.6 Protection contre les incendies . 56
4.7 Maintenance . 56
4.8 Caractéristiques de charge . 56
4.9 Composants supplémentaires facultatifs du système de batterie . 56
4.9.1 Généralités . 56
4.9.2 Système d'informations de la batterie . 56
4.9.3 Dispositif de chauffage de la batterie . 56
4.9.4 Thermostat ou dispositif de coupure . 57
5 Conception mécanique du système de batterie . 57
5.1 Généralités . 57
5.2 Mécanisme d'interface . 57
5.3 Emplacement du système de batterie sur le véhicule . 57
5.4 Accessibilité de la batterie . 57
5.5 Chocs et vibrations . 57
5.6 Ventilation du coffre batterie . 58
5.7 Système de remplissage en eau . 58
6 Interface électrique . 59
6.1 Généralités . 59
6.2 Interface des connexions électriques externes . 59

7 Marquages . 59
7.1 Symboles de sécurité . 59
7.1.1 Extérieur du coffre . 59
7.1.2 Caisse de groupement, châssis ou autres emplacements à l'intérieur du
coffre . 59
7.1.3 Éléments ou batteries monoblocs . 60
7.2 Plaque signalétique . 60
7.2.1 Coffre batterie . 60
7.2.2 Plaques signalétiques de la caisse de groupement, du châssis ou
autres plaques signalétiques à l'intérieur du coffre . 60
7.2.3 Éléments ou monoblocs . 60
8 Conditions de stockage et de transport . 60
8.1 Transport . 60
8.2 Stockage des batteries . 60
9 Essais . 61
9.1 Généralités . 61
9.2 Essai de type . 62
9.2.1 Généralités . 62
9.2.2 Tolérances de mesurage de paramètre . 62
9.2.3 Essais de caractéristiques électriques . 62
9.2.4 Essai diélectrique . 62
9.2.5 Essai de profil de charge . 63
9.2.6 Essai de chocs et vibrations . 63
9.3 Essai individuel de série . 63
9.3.1 Généralités . 63
9.3.2 Vérifications visuelles . 63
9.3.3 Essai diélectrique . 63
9.3.4 Essais de caractéristiques électriques . 64
Annexe A (informative) Exemples de profils de charge types . 65
A.1 Généralités . 65
A.2 Exemple de profil de charge pour les trains à grande vitesse (Figure A.1) . 65
A.3 Exemple de profil de charge pour les trains régionaux/EMU (Figure A.2) . 66
Annexe B (normative) Vérification du profil de charge NiCd . 67
B.1 Généralités . 67
B.2 Méthodologie générale . 67
B.3 Documentation relative au dimensionnement de la batterie . 68
B.4 Vérification en fonctionnement (essai de profil de charge) . 68
B.5 Rapport d'essai . 69
Annexe C (informative) Déclaration de représentativité d'un modèle d'élément pour les
essais . 70
C.1 Déclaration de représentativité pour les performances électriques . 70
C.2 Déclaration de représentativité pour l'essai de chocs et vibrations . 70
Bibliographie . 71

Figure 1 – Représentation d'un ou plusieurs éléments NiCd, d'une batterie monobloc
NiCd, d'un châssis, d'une caisse de groupement et d'un coffre batterie. 46
Figure 2 – Exemple de courbe de décharge d'un élément NiCd à différents courants de
décharge constants en fonction du pourcentage de capacité . 49
Figure 3 – Exemples de courbes de charge d'un élément NiCd . 49

– 38 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
Figure 4 – Caractéristiques de charge types des batteries NiCd . 52
Figure 5 – Schéma type de l'interface électrique d'un système de batterie . 59
Figure A.1 – Exemple de profil de charge pour les trains à grande vitesse (sans
segment de démarrage) . 65
Figure A.2 – Exemple de profil de charge pour les trains régionaux/EMU (sans
segment de démarrage) . 66

Tableau 1 – Exigences de caractéristiques de charge . 50
Tableau 2 – Caractéristiques de charge types des batteries NiCd . 51
Tableau 3 – Paramètres et responsabilités concernant le dimensionnement de la
capacité de la batterie . 54
Tableau 4 – Essai de type et essai individuel de série . 61

COMMISSION ÉLECTROTECHNIQUE INTERNATIONALE
____________
APPLICATIONS FERROVIAIRES – MATÉRIEL ROULANT –
BATTERIES POUR SYSTÈMES D'ALIMENTATION AUXILIAIRES –

Partie 2: Batteries nickel-cadmium (NiCd)

AVANT-PROPOS
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l'objet de droits de brevet. L'IEC ne saurait être tenue pour responsable de ne pas avoir identifié de tels droits
de brevets et de ne pas avoir signalé leur existence.
La Norme internationale IEC 62973-2 a été établie par le comité d'études 9 de l'IEC: Matériels
et systèmes électriques ferroviaires.
La présente version bilingue (2026-08) correspond à la version anglaise monolingue publiée
en 2020-05.
La version française de cette norme n'a pas été soumise au vote.
Ce document a été rédigé selon les Directives ISO/IEC, Partie 2.
Une liste de toutes les parties de la série IEC 62973, publiées sous le titre général
Applications ferroviaires – Matériel roulant – Batteries pour systèmes d'alimentation auxiliaire,
peut être consultée sur le site web de l'IEC.

– 40 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
Le comité a décidé que le contenu de ce document ne sera pas modifié avant la date de
stabilité indiquée sur le site web de l'IEC sous "http://webstore.iec.ch" dans les données
relatives au document recherché. À cette date, le document sera
• reconduit,
• supprimé,
• remplacé par une édition révisée, ou
• amendé.
IMPORTANT – Le logo "colour inside" qui se trouve sur la page de couverture de
cette publication indique qu'elle contient des couleurs qui sont considérées comme
utiles à une bonne compréhension de son contenu. Les utilisateurs devraient, par
conséquent, imprimer cette publication en utilisant une imprimante couleur.

INTRODUCTION
Le présent document établit les exigences relatives aux batteries nickel-cadmium (NiCd)
ouvertes ou à recombinaison partielle des gaz conformément à l'IEC 62973-1:2018.
Le présent document spécifie l'interface avec une alimentation basse tension ou un chargeur ;
les alimentations basse tension et les chargeurs ne relèvent pas du domaine d'application du
présent document.
– 42 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
APPLICATIONS FERROVIAIRES – MATÉRIEL ROULANT –
BATTERIES POUR SYSTÈMES D'ALIMENTATION AUXILIAIRES –

Partie 2: Batteries nickel-cadmium (NiCd)

1 Domaine d'application
La présente partie de l'IEC 62973 s'applique aux différentes batteries NiCd rechargeables
destinées aux systèmes d'alimentation auxiliaire utilisés sur les véhicules ferroviaires. Elle
constitue un prolongement de l'IEC 62973-1:2018 qui spécifie les exigences communes à
l'ensemble des technologies de batteries couvertes par les autres parties de l'IEC 62973.
Sauf spécification contraire, les exigences de l'IEC 62973-1:2018 s'appliquent.
Les systèmes de batterie décrits dans le présent document sont utilisés conjointement avec
des systèmes de charge embarqués sur le matériel roulant, actuellement décrits dans
l'IEC 62973-1:2018. Les systèmes de charge (convertisseurs d'alimentation basse tension,
etc.) ne relèvent pas du domaine d'application du présent document.
Le présent document spécifie également la conception, les paramètres d'exploitation, les
recommandations de sécurité, les essais individuels de série et les essais de type, ainsi que
le marquage et la désignation.
Le présent document est destiné à être utilisé en complément des normes IEC 60623:2017 ou
IEC 62259:2003 relatives aux éléments NiCd.
Les exigences spécifiques aux sous-composants des systèmes de batterie (composants de
mesurage de la température, par exemple) sont couvertes dans le présent document.
Dans l'éventualité où il existerait une norme IEC qui spécifie des conditions d'essai et des
exigences supplémentaires concernant les batteries NiCd utilisées dans des applications
ferroviaires particulières et qui serait en conflit avec le présent document, le présent
document prévaut.
Le principal objectif du présent document est d'aboutir à la normalisation des interfaces
électriques en étudiant différents paramètres de batteries NiCd dans le but de calculer la
capacité de batterie NiCd exigée pour un profil de charge donné.
2 Références normatives
Les documents suivants sont cités dans le texte de sorte qu'ils constituent, pour tout ou partie
de leur contenu, des exigences du présent document. Pour les références datées, seule
l'édition citée s'applique. Pour les références non datées, la dernière édition du document de
référence s'applique (y compris les éventuels amendements).
IEC 60051 (toutes les parties), Appareils mesureurs électriques indicateurs analogiques à
action directe et leurs accessoires
IEC 60077-1, Applications ferroviaires – Équipements électriques du matériel roulant –
Partie 1: Conditions générales de service et règles générales
IEC 60623:2017, Accumulateurs alcalins et autres accumulateurs à électrolyte non acide –
Éléments individuels parallélépipédiques rechargeables ouverts au nickel-cadmium

IEC 61373:2010, Applications ferroviaires – Matériel roulant – Essais de chocs et vibrations
IEC 62259:2003, Accumulateurs alcalins et autres accumulateurs à électrolyte non-acide –
Éléments d'accumulateurs individuels parallélépipédiques au nickel-cadmium à
recombinaison partielle des gaz
IEC 62485-2:2010, Exigences de sécurité pour les batteries d'accumulateurs et les
installations de batteries – Partie 2: Batteries stationnaires
IEC 62973-1:2018, Applications ferroviaires – Matériel roulant – Batteries pour systèmes
d'alimentation auxiliaire – Partie 1: Exigences générales
3 Termes, définitions et termes abrégés
3.1 Termes et définitions
Pour les besoins du présent document, les termes et définitions suivants s'appliquent.
L'ISO et l'IEC tiennent à jour des bases de données terminologiques destinées à être utilisées
en normalisation, consultables aux adresses suivantes :
• IEC Electropedia: disponible à l'adresse http://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: disponible à l'adresse http://www.iso.org/obp
NOTE Les descriptions spécifiques aux batteries sont fournies dans l'IEC 60050-482.
3.1.1
châssis
conteneur à parois évidées destiné à grouper plusieurs éléments ou batteries
Note 1 à l'article: Voir 4.1 et Article 5.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004, AMD1:2016, 482-05-10, modifié – La Note 1 à l'article a été
ajoutée.]
3.1.2
caisse de groupement
coffre de groupement
conteneur muni d'une plaque de fond et de parois destiné à contenir plusieurs éléments ou
batteries
Note 1 à l'article: Voir 4.1 et Article 5.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004, AMD1:2016, 482-02-35, modifié – La Note 1 à l'article a été
ajoutée.]
3.1.3
élément
unité fonctionnelle de base d'une batterie NiCd, consistant en un assemblage d'électrodes,
d'électrolyte, de conteneur, de bornes et généralement de séparateurs, qui est une source
d'énergie électrique obtenue par transformation directe d'énergie chimique
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004/AMD1:2016, 482-01-01, modifié – La Note a été supprimée
et l'utilisation spécifique « d'une batterie NiCd » a été ajoutée.]

– 44 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
3.1.4
batterie monobloc
batterie comportant plusieurs compartiments d'éléments séparés mais reliés électriquement,
dont chacun est conçu pour renfermer un assemblage d'électrodes, d'électrolyte, de bornes
ou d'interconnexions et éventuellement de séparateurs
Note 1 à l'article: Les éléments dans une batterie monobloc peuvent être connectés en série ou en parallèle.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-02-17]
3.1.5
batterie nickel-cadmium
batterie d'accumulateurs comprenant un électrolyte alcalin, une électrode positive contenant
de l'oxyde de nickel et une électrode négative en cadmium
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004/AMD1:2016, 482-05-02, modifiée – Un synonyme a été
supprimé.]
3.1.6
capacité assignée,
C
n
valeur de la capacité d'une batterie déterminée dans des conditions spécifiées par
l'IEC 60623:2017 et déclarée par le fabricant de la batterie
3.1.7
état de charge
SOC
capacité de charge disponible d'une batterie, normalement exprimée en pourcentage de sa
capacité assignée totale telle que définie dans les normes applicables
Note 1 à l'article: Les définitions pratiques du terme « état de charge » dépendent des technologies retenues.
3.1.8
profondeur de décharge
DOD
capacité déchargée d'une batterie, exprimée en pourcentage par rapport à sa capacité
assignée totale
Note 1 à l'article: C'est le complément de l'état de charge.
Note 2 à l'article: Lorsque l'un des deux augmente, l'autre diminue dans les mêmes proportions.
Note 3 à l'article: L'abréviation « DOD » est dérivée du terme anglais développé correspondant « Depth Of Note 4
à l'article: Discharge ».
3.1.9
facteur de vieillissement,
facteur quantitatif qui exprime la dégradation de la capacité de la batterie, en raison de
l'utilisation, à fournir de l'énergie électrique selon les conditions de service spécifiées,
notamment: la température ambiante de fonctionnement, les cyclages selon la profondeur de
décharge (DOD) et les pratiques de maintenance
3.1.10
système d'informations d'une batterie nickel-cadmium
système électronique qui recueille et analyse les données de la batterie afin de délivrer des
informations supplémentaires c'est-à-dire des informations non nécessaires au
fonctionnement de la batterie
Note 1 à l'article: Les informations supplémentaires peuvent être des informations qui concernent la maintenance
conditionnelle, par exemple.
3.1.11
système de batterie
batterie
système comportant une ou plusieurs caisses de groupement, châssis, batteries monoblocs,
ainsi que des composants électriques et/ou des équipements ainsi que leurs composants et
connexions électromécaniques associés
3.1.12
utilisateur final
organisme qui exploite le système de batterie
Note 1 à l'article: En règle générale, l'utilisateur final est l'organisme qui exploite le véhicule équipé du système
de batterie, à moins que la responsabilité n'ait été déléguée à un consultant ou à un maître d'œuvre
3.1.13
intégrateur système
organisme qui a la responsabilité technique du système de batterie complet et de son
système de charge
Note 1 à l'article: L'intégrateur système peut être l'utilisateur final ou le fabricant du train, voire aucun d'entre eux.
3.1.14
fabricant
organisme qui a la responsabilité technique pour son contrat de fourniture
Note 1 à l'article: Le fabricant peut être le constructeur du train ou l'intégrateur système d'un système de batterie,
un fabricant d'élément, etc. Si nécessaire, la distinction entre « fabricant du train », « fabricant du système de
batterie » et « fabricant de l'élément » sera faite de manière explicite.
3.2 Termes abrégés
CA Courant alternatif
C Capacité pour n heures
n
CCCV (Constant Current Constant Voltage) Courant constant, tension constante
CC Courant continu
DOD (Depth Of Discharge) Profondeur de décharge
EMU (Electrical Multiple Unit) Rame électrique
FEA (Finite Element Analysis) Analyse par éléments finis
LVPS (Low Voltage Power Supply) Alimentation basse tension
NiCd Nickel-cadmium
PBE (Plastic Bonded Electrode) Électrode à liant polymère
SOC (State Of Charge) État de charge

– 46 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
4 Exigences générales
4.1 Définitions des composants d'un système de batterie, voir la Figure 1
(figure purement illustrative)

Figure 1 – Représentation d'un ou plusieurs éléments NiCd, d'une batterie monobloc
NiCd, d'un châssis, d'une caisse de groupement et d'un coffre batterie
Certaines batteries peuvent ne pas inclure la totalité des composants indiqués ci-dessus ; par
exemple, les éléments individuels peuvent être installés dans une caisse de groupement,
sans châssis.
4.2 Définitions des types de batteries NiCd
4.2.1 Généralités
Une batterie se compose de plusieurs éléments ou monoblocs, qui sont assemblés dans des
châssis et/ou dans des caisses de groupement et enfin dans un coffre batterie. Chaque
élément renferme des piles de plaques constituées de plusieurs plaques négatives et
positives isolées par un séparateur monocouche ou multicouche. Celles-ci sont maintenues
par une structure de support qui à son tour est connectée à des bornes négative et positive
qui sortent à l'extérieur du conteneur d'éléments.

La matière active positive est l'hydroxyde de nickel et la matière active négative est
l'hydroxyde de cadmium.
Les piles de plaques sont entourées d'un électrolyte alcalin, à savoir une solution aqueuse
principalement constituée d'hydroxyde de potassium (KOH) et d'eau distillée ou déionisée.
L'électrolyte ne participe pas à la réaction électrochimique qui a lieu dans l'élément et ne sert
que de milieu conducteur (grâce aux ions qu'il contient) qui peut être stocké en grande
quantité grâce à sa densité relativement constante. La composition chimique de l'électrolyte
n'évolue pas avec les cycles de charge/décharge et l'électrolyte ne se dégrade pas au fil des
cycles.
Avec la technologie électrochimique NiCd, certaines conditions d'utilisation critiques peuvent
être tolérées au niveau de l'élément, par exemple une surcharge qui provoquera une réaction
d'hydrolyse de l'eau, mais où seule l'eau sera consommée. Comme l'électrolyte ne change
pas de composition chimique et ne se dégrade pas, il n'est pas nécessaire d'ajouter des
systèmes de contrôle complexes pour gérer ce type de situations.
4.2.2 Technologie plaques/électrodes fritté/PBE
La plaque/électrode positive frittée est obtenue par imprégnation chimique d'hydroxyde de
nickel sur un fin ruban d'acier préalablement perforé, plaqué au nickel et revêtu d'un fritté de
nickel poreux.
L'électrode à liant polymère (PBE) négative est obtenue en enduisant un mélange
relativement visqueux constitué d'oxyde de cadmium et de liant polymère sur un fin ruban
d'acier préalablement perforé et plaqué au nickel.
4.2.3 Technologie plaques/électrodes fritté/fritté
La plaque/électrode positive et négative frittée est obtenue par imprégnation chimique
d'hydroxyde de nickel et d'oxyde de cadmium sur un fin ruban d'acier préalablement perforé,
plaqué au nickel et revêtu d'un fritté de nickel poreux.
4.2.4 Technologie plaques/électrodes fibres
Les plaques/électrodes positive et négative se composent toutes deux de fibres non tissées
de nickel ou de fibres plastiques enduites de nickel de porosité importante.
4.2.5 Technologie plaques/électrodes pochettes
Les plaques/électrodes positive et négative se composent toutes deux de plusieurs pochettes
métalliques perforées plates, fabriquées à partir de plusieurs rubans d'acier perforés reliés
ensemble de sorte à enfermer les matières actives.
4.3 Conditions de températures ambiantes
Les éléments/batteries NiCd peuvent fonctionner à des températures extrêmes, c'est-à-dire
inférieures à –25 °C ou supérieures à +40 °C.
En particulier, lorsqu'une température extrême est spécifiée, des écarts pour l'autre
température peuvent être convenus entre l'utilisateur final et/ou l'intégrateur système et le
fabricant de l'élément/de la batterie.

– 48 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
4.4 Exigences système
4.4.1 Tension réseau
La tension de charge de la batterie NiCd dépend du nombre d'éléments, de la température et
de la technologie de ses plaques/électrodes.
Même si la tension nominale d'une batterie est déterminée selon le Tableau 1 de l'IEC 62973-
1:2018, le nombre d'éléments peut varier, car les exigences de charge par élément varient en
fonction de la technologie de leurs plaques/électrodes.
Étant donné que la technologie plaques fibres ou pochettes exige une tension de charge par
élément plus importante, il est possible d'utiliser un nombre inférieur d'éléments en série avec
une capacité supérieure. À l'inverse, étant donné que la technologie plaques/électrodes
fritté/PBE ou fritté/fritté a une tension de charge plus faible, il est possible d'utiliser un
nombre plus important d'éléments en série avec une capacité inférieure. Le fait d'utiliser un
plus petit nombre d'éléments avec une capacité supérieure ou d'utiliser un plus grand nombre
d'éléments avec une capacité inférieure n'a pas d'impact sur le plan de la quantité d'énergie
disponible.
Le nombre optimisé d'éléments dans une batterie NiCd calculé par le fabricant de la batterie
doit garantir le bon fonctionnement entre les limites minimale et maximale de la plage de
tensions de service de l'équipement en fonction des conditions de service et du profil de
charge de la batterie. La tension de charge de la batterie en service à 20 °C doit ensuite être
déterminée en prenant en compte le nombre d'éléments et les caractéristiques de charge des
éléments individuels. Voir Tableau 2.
Les tensions nominales et les tensions de décharge des batteries NiCd sont différentes. La
Figure 2 représente des décharges types d'un élément NiCd à différents courants de
ou en multiples de I , C et I étant liés, par
décharge constants (notés en multiples de C
n n n n
exemple 0,2 C équivaut à I ) qui varient avec le taux assigné de décharge de la batterie (par
5 5
exemple, L, M, H conformément à l'IEC 60623:2017). Cette courbe de décharge (tensions de
décharge en fonction des capacités de décharge avec des courants de décharge constants)
doit être établie pour différentes températures.

Figure 2 – Exemple de courbe de décharge d'un élément NiCd à différents courants de
décharge constants en fonction du pourcentage de capacité
Dans l'exemple suivant, le a) de la Figure 3 représente la charge type d'un élément NiCd
selon un courant de charge constant à 0,2 C (équivalant à I ) pendant la phase initiale. Le b)
5 5
de la Figure 3 représente la tension de charge constante pendant la dernière phase pour la
technologie plaques/électrodes type de la batterie NiCd. Les fabricants de batteries doivent
rendre disponibles les courbes de charge.
En général, la fonction de charge est réalisée par l'alimentation LVPS ou le chargeur dans
une architecture système basse tension.

a) Exemple de courbe b) Exemple de courbe
de taux de courant de charge de tension de charge

NOTE Le signe positif du courant dans le a) de la Figure 3 représente l'état de charge. Lorsque les courants de
charge et de décharge sont représentés sur une même courbe, le courant de charge est indiqué avec un signe
négatif, contraire à celui du profil de charge, comme cela est décrit dans l'Annexe A.
Figure 3 – Exemples de courbes de charge d'un élément NiCd

– 50 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
4.4.2 Exigences de charge
Les caractéristiques exigées pour charger la batterie et la méthode de charge optimale sont
spécifiées dans le Tableau 1 et le Tableau 2, respectivement.
Tableau 1 – Exigences de caractéristiques de charge
Exigences Caractéristiques
Condition normale Alimentation LVPS ou chargeur en charge flottante (« floating ») avec
compensation en température.
Méthode de charge Selon la technologie plaques/électrodes type de la batterie NiCd. Voir Tableau 2.
Tolérance de régulation en La tolérance de tension de charge fait référence à la demande en tension
régime établi de la sortie de conformément à la caractéristique de charge idéale de la batterie.
tension de charge de la
En cas de compensation en température, tolérance de ± 1,5 % ou inférieure.
batterie au niveau du
système de charge
En l'absence de compensation en température, tolérance de ± 1 % ou inférieure.
Ondulation de la tension de ≤ 5 % (selon l'IEC 60077-1, mais avec la batterie déconnectée).
charge
Ondulation du courant de Le courant de charge de la batterie doit être du courant continu, car toute
charge composante en courant alternatif superposée au courant de charge peut faire
monter la température de la batterie. La part en courant alternatif du courant de
charge ne doit pas dépasser les valeurs définies dans l'IEC 62485-2:2010.
Compensation en Compensation en température exigée par la technologie plaques/électrodes type
température de la batterie NiCd. Voir Tableau 2.
Détection de la température Signal transmis par un capteur fixé sur la batterie ou sur le compartiment de la
batterie, détection à l'intérieur du système de charge de la batterie.

Le concept de charge flottante et de charge rapide du Tableau 2 est représenté dans la
Figure 4.
Tableau 2 – Caractéristiques de charge types des batteries NiCd
Caractéristiques de charge des Tension de Charge rapide à Remarques
batteries NiCd charge flottante à 20 °C
20 °C
Données de Tension de charge à 1,40 V/élément 1,60 V/élément Voir points ① et ② sur
charge de base 20 °C (Note 2) (Note 2) la Figure 4
(Note 1)
Obligatoire, passage NA 45 °C Voir point ③ sur la
de la charge rapide
Figure 4
à la charge flottante
Le point de bascule de la
charge rapide à la
charge flottante dépend
de paramètres tels que
la température, le
courant et/ou le temps
Correction de Cas type avec une -3 mV/élément/°C -3 mV/élément/°C Voir Figure 4
température seule valeur (Note 3) (Note 3)
Points de bascule Obligatoire, arrêt de Jusqu'à 70 °C au maximum Voir point ④ sur la
de consigne la charge de la Figure 4
(tous les modes batterie
de charge)
Standard, passage NA Le point de Nécessité de mesurer le
de la charge rapide bascule de la courant ainsi que la
à la charge flottante charge rapide à la température et/ou le
charge flottante temps
dépend de
paramètres tels
que la
température, le
courant et/ou le
temps (Note 4)
Standard, passage Le point de NA Nécessité de mesurer le
de la charge bascule de la courant ainsi que la
flottante à la charge charge flottante à température et/ou le
rapide la charge rapide temps
dépend de
paramètres tels
que la
température, le
courant et/ou le
temps (Note 4)
NOTE 1 Lorsqu'un seul niveau de charge est utilisé, la tension de charge rapide est la tension de charge
flottante.
NOTE 2 Les valeurs des tensions de charge des différents modes de charge sont des valeurs indicatives. Le
fabricant peut choisir des valeurs différentes afin d'obtenir un certain état de charge en fonction de la technologie
NiCd. Ces valeurs sont clairement indiquées dans la documentation de l'élément et sont communiquées par le
fabricant de l'élément sur demande. Les tolérances de tension adoptées sont de +/- 1 % au maximum.
NOTE 3 Une compensation en température est nécessaire: -0,003 V/°C/élément est une valeur type de
compensation. Si la valeur numérique est ajustée pour certains types d'éléments spécifiés comme étant alimentés
en CCCV, cela est clairement indiqué dans la documentation du fabricant de l'élément et dans les documents
d'approbation. Il est possible d'avoir 3 valeurs:
• une pour les températures inférieures à T , (T ≤ 45 °C, par exemple T = 20 °C)
1 1 1
• une pour les températures supérieures à T , et inférieures ou égales à 45 °C, et
• une pour les températures supérieures à 45 °C.
NOTE 4 Le courant de charge peut varier en fonction de la valeur de courant de charge indiquée dans la
documentation fournie par le fabricant de l'élément.
NOTE 5 Le point ⑤ sur la Figure 4 correspond à la tension de charge maximale au niveau de l'équipement,
indiquée dans le Tableau 1 de l'IEC 62973-1:2018.

– 52 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020

NOTE L'emplacement du capteur de température est déterminé d'un commun accord entre l'utilisateur final et le
fabricant de la batterie. Voir 4.5.3.
Figure 4 – Caractéristiques de charge types des batteries NiCd
La tension de charge de la batterie doit être limitée à la tension maximale au niveau de
l'équipement indiquée dans le Tableau 1 de l'IEC 62973-1:2018. Il convient de limiter la
régulation de la tension par compensation en température à ces valeurs en prenant en
compte les valeurs obtenues en multipliant la tension de charge par élément du Tableau 2 par
le nombre d'éléments en série de la batterie.
Les tensions de charge par élément types applicables à la plupart des applications sont
indiquées dans le Tableau 2 avec régulation de la tension par compensation en température.
Il est possible de choisir des valeurs plus élevées ou plus faibles en fonction des dimensions
et des paramètres d'application (par exemple, au Japon pour la technologie fritté/PBE, une
tension de charge flottante à un seul niveau de 1,43 V/élément sans régulation de la tension
de charge par compensation en température est couramment employée).
Dans certains cas, sous réserve d'un accord entre l'utilisateur final et le fabricant, la
régulation de la tension de charge par compensation en température peut ne pas être exigée.
Ces informations doivent faire l'objet d'un accord préalable avant de procéder au calcul de la
capacité de batterie exigée pour un profil de charge donné. Dans ce cas, le capteur de
température de la batterie peut ne pas être pris en compte. Le calcul de la capacité
supplémentaire de la batterie nécessaire pour prendre en compte le régime
...

IEC 62973-2 ®
Edition 1.0 2020-05
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
Railway applications - Rolling stock - Batteries for auxiliary power supply
systems -
Part 2: Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) batteries
ICS 45.060.01; 29.220.99 ISBN 978-2-8327-1421-8

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– 2 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 5
INTRODUCTION . 7
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviated terms . 9
3.1 Terms and definitions . 9
3.2 Abbreviated terms . 11
4 General requirements . 12
4.1 Definitions of components of a battery system, refer to Figure 1 (images are
examples) . 12
4.2 Definitions of NiCd battery type . 12
4.2.1 General . 12
4.2.2 Sintered/PBE plate/electrode technology . 13
4.2.3 Sintered/sintered plate/electrode technology . 13
4.2.4 Fiber plate/electrode technology . 13
4.2.5 Pocket plate/electrode technology . 13
4.3 Environmental conditions . 13
4.4 System requirements . 13
4.4.1 System voltage . 13
4.4.2 Charging requirements . 15
4.4.3 Discharging requirements . 17
4.4.4 Charge retention (self-discharge) . 18
4.4.5 Requirements for battery capacity sizing. 18
4.5 Safety and protection requirements . 19
4.5.1 General . 19
4.5.2 Deep discharge of batteries . 19
4.5.3 Temperature compensation during charging . 20
4.6 Fire protection . 20
4.7 Maintenance . 20
4.8 Charging characteristics . 20
4.9 Optional additional components to battery system . 20
4.9.1 General . 20
4.9.2 Battery information system . 21
4.9.3 Battery heater . 21
4.9.4 Thermostat or cut-off switch. 21
5 Mechanical design of battery system . 21
5.1 General . 21
5.2 Interface mechanism . 21
5.3 Location of battery system on the vehicle . 21
5.4 Accessibility to the battery . 22
5.5 Shock and vibration . 22
5.6 Ventilation of battery box . 22
5.7 Water filling system . 22
6 Electrical interface . 22
6.1 General . 22
6.2 External electrical connections interface . 23

7 Markings. 23
7.1 Safety signs . 23
7.1.1 Outside the box . 23
7.1.2 Tray, crate or other places inside the box . 23
7.1.3 Cells or monobloc batteries . 23
7.2 Nameplate . 24
7.2.1 Battery box . 24
7.2.2 Nameplates on tray, crate or other nameplates inside the box . 24
7.2.3 Cells or monoblocs . 24
8 Storage and transportation conditions . 24
8.1 Transportation . 24
8.2 Storage of batteries . 24
9 Testing . 25
9.1 General . 25
9.2 Type test . 25
9.2.1 General . 25
9.2.2 Parameter measurement tolerances . 26
9.2.3 Electrical characteristic tests . 26
9.2.4 Dielectric test . 26
9.2.5 Load profile test . 26
9.2.6 Shock and vibration test . 26
9.3 Routine test . 27
9.3.1 General . 27
9.3.2 Visual checks . 27
9.3.3 Dielectric test . 27
9.3.4 Electrical characteristics tests . 27
Annex A (informative) Examples of typical load profiles . 28
A.1 General . 28
A.2 Example of load profile – High speed train (Figure A.1) . 28
A.3 Example of load profile – Regional train/ EMU (Figure A.2) . 29
Annex B (normative) NiCd load profile verification . 30
B.1 General . 30
B.2 General methodology . 30
B.3 Battery sizing documentation . 31
B.4 Operational verification (load profile test) . 31
B.5 Test report . 32
Annex C (informative) Declaration of cell model range representative of the testing . 33
C.1 Electrical performance declaration . 33
C.2 Shock and vibration declaration . 33
Bibliography . 34

Figure 1 – Definition of NiCd cell(s), monobloc battery, crate, tray, and box . 12
Figure 2 – Example of a NiCd cell discharge curve at various constant discharge
currents based on percentage of capacity . 14
Figure 3 – Example of a NiCd cell charge curves . 15
Figure 4 – Typical NiCd battery charging characteristics . 17
Figure 5 – Typical schematic of an electrical interface of a battery system . 23

– 4 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
Figure A.1 – Example of load profile for high speed train (without starting up segment) . 28
Figure A.2 – Example of load profile for regional train/ EMU (without starting up
segment) . 29

Table 1 – Requirements of the charging characteristics . 15
Table 2 – Typical NiCd battery charging characteristics . 16
Table 3 – Parameters and responsibility for battery capacity sizing . 19
Table 4 – Type test and routine test . 25

INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
RAILWAY APPLICATIONS – ROLLING STOCK –
BATTERIES FOR AUXILIARY POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS –

Part 2: Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) batteries

FOREWORD
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International Standard IEC 62973-2 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 9:
Electrical equipment and systems for railways.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
9/2585/FDIS 9/2594/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.
This document has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.

– 6 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
A list of all parts in the IEC 62973 series, published under the general title Railway
applications – Rolling stock – Batteries for auxiliary power supply systems, 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
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INTRODUCTION
This document considers the requirements for vented or partial recombination Nickel
Cadmium (NiCd) batteries following IEC 62973-1:2018.
In this document the interface with a LVPS or charger is specified and the LVPS or charger
itself is out of scope.
– 8 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
RAILWAY APPLICATIONS – ROLLING STOCK –
BATTERIES FOR AUXILIARY POWER SUPPLY SYSTEMS –

Part 2: Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) batteries

1 Scope
This part of IEC 62973 applies to NiCd rechargeable batteries for auxiliary power supply
systems used on railway vehicles. It is an extension of IEC 62973-1:2018 which specifies
common requirements for all battery technologies of other parts of IEC 62973. Unless
otherwise specified, the requirements of IEC 62973-1:2018 apply.
Battery systems described in this document are used in conjunction with charging systems
onboard rolling stock, as described in IEC 62973-1:2018. Charging systems (e.g. LVPS,
converters, etc.) are excluded from the scope of this document.
This document also specifies the design, operation parameters, safety recommendations,
routine and type tests, as well as marking and designation.
This document is used in addition to IEC 60623:2017 or IEC 62259:2003 for NiCd Cells.
Specific requirements on subcomponents within the battery systems are covered in this
document, e.g. temperature measurement components.
When there is an existing IEC standard specifying additional test conditions and requirements
for NiCd batteries used in specific railway applications and which conflicts with this document,
the latter takes precedence.
The main objective of this document is to achieve standardization of the electrical interfaces
by considering NiCd battery parameters to allow for calculating the NiCd battery capacity
required for a specific load profile.
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 60051 (all parts), Direct acting indicating analogue electrical measuring instruments and
their accessories
IEC 60077-1, Railway applications – Electric equipment for rolling stock – Part 1: General
service conditions and general rules
IEC 60623:2017, Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid
electrolytes – Vented nickel-cadmium prismatic rechargeable single cells
IEC 61373:2010, Railway applications – Rolling stock equipment – Shock and vibration test
IEC 62259:2003, Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid
electrolytes – Nickel cadmium prismatic secondary single cells with partial gas recombination

IEC 62485-2:2010, Safety requirements for secondary batteries and battery installations –
Part 2: Stationary batteries
IEC 62973-1:2018, Railway applications Rolling stock – Batteries for auxiliary power supply
systems – Part 1: General requirements
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviated terms
3.1 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
NOTE All typical battery related descriptions are defined in IEC 60050-482.
3.1.1
battery crate
container with frame walls for holding several cells or batteries
Note 1 to entry: Refer to 4.1 and Clause 5.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004/AMD1:2016, 482-05-10, modified – Note 1 to entry has been
added.]
3.1.2
battery tray
container with a base and walls for holding several cells or batteries
Note 1 to entry: Refer to 4.1 and Clause 5.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004/AMD1:2016, 482-02-35, modified – Note 1 to entry has been
added.]
3.1.3
cell
basic functional unit of NiCd battery, 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/AMD1:2016, 482-01-01, modified – Note has been deleted
and the specific use “of NiCd battery" has been added.]
3.1.4
monobloc battery
battery with multiple separate but electrically connected cell compartments each of which is
designed to house an assembly of electrodes, electrolyte, terminals or interconnections and
possible separators
Note 1 to entry: The cells in a monobloc battery can be connected in series or in parallel.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-02-17]

– 10 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
3.1.5
nickel cadmium battery
secondary battery with an alkaline electrolyte, a positive electrode containing nickel oxide and
a negative electrode of cadmium
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004/AMD1:2016, 482-05-02, modified – A synonym has been
removed.]
3.1.6
rated capacity,
C
n
capacity value of a battery determined under IEC 60623:2017 specified conditions and
declared by the battery manufacturer
3.1.7
state of charge
SOC
remaining capacity to be discharged, normally expressed as a percentage of the full battery
rated capacity as expressed in relevant standards
Note 1 to entry: Practical definitions of SOC are dependent upon chosen technologies.
3.1.8
depth of discharge
DOD
capacity removed from a battery during discharge in relation to its full rated capacity
expressed as a percentage
Note 1 to entry: It is the complement of SOC.
Note 2 to entry: As one increases, the other decreases by the same amount.
3.1.9
ageing factor,
quantitative factor expressing the degradation in the ability of the battery, due to usage, to
deliver electrical energy under specified operating conditions such as, but not limited to,
operating ambient temperature, cycling considering depth of discharge (DOD), and
maintenance practices
3.1.10
nickel cadmium battery information system
electronic system collecting and analyzing battery data to provide additional information, i.e.
information not necessary for battery operation
Note 1 to entry: Additional information can be information about e.g. condition-based maintenance.
3.1.11
battery system
battery
system that includes battery tray(s), battery crate(s), monobloc(s), electrical components
and/or equipment and associated electromechanical components and connections
3.1.12
end user
organization which operates the battery system
Note 1 to entry: The end user is normally an organization which operates the vehicle equipped with the battery
system, unless the responsibility is delegated to a main contractor or consultant.

3.1.13
system integrator
organization which has the technical responsibility of the complete battery system and
charging system
Note 1 to entry: The system integrator can be the end user or the train manufacturer, or none of them.
3.1.14
manufacturer,
organization which has the technical responsibility for its scope of supply
Note 1 to entry: The manufacturer can be the train builder or the system integrator of a battery system, a cell
manufacturer, etc. If necessary to explicitly distinguish, “train manufacturer”, “battery system manufacturer” or “cell
manufacturer” is expressed.
3.2 Abbreviated terms
AC Alternating Current
C Capacity at the n-hour rate
n
CCCV Constant Current Constant Voltage
DC Direct Current
DOD Depth Of Discharge
EMU Electrical Multiple Unit
FEA Finite Element Analysis
LVPS Low Voltage Power Supply
NiCd Nickel Cadmium
PBE Plastic Bonded Electrode
SOC State Of Charge
– 12 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
4 General requirements
4.1 Definitions of components of a battery system, refer to Figure 1
(images are examples)
Figure 1 – Definition of NiCd cell(s), monobloc battery, crate, tray, and box
Some batteries may not include all the above components, e.g. single cells may be installed
in a tray without crates.
4.2 Definitions of NiCd battery type
4.2.1 General
A battery consists of several cells or monoblocs, and/or assembled in trays, crates, and then
assembled in a battery box. Internally, each cell has plate stacks consisting of several
positive and negative plates that are separated by a single or multilayer separator. These are
held by a supporting structure which in turn are connected to positive and negative terminals
that extend to the outside of the cell container.
The positive active material is nickel hydroxide, and the negative active material is cadmium-
hydroxide.
The plate stacks are surrounded by alkaline electrolyte, an aqueous solution mainly of
potassium hydroxide (KOH), and distilled or deionized water. The electrolyte does not
participate in the electrochemical reaction, which takes place in the cell, but only acts as an
ion-carrying medium with its specific gravity remaining fairly constant allowing for large
electrolyte reserves to be used. The electrolyte does not chemically change or degrade due to
charge/ discharge cycles.
Due to NiCd electrochemistry technology, some abuse conditions can be tolerated at the cell
level, e.g. overcharging will cause water electrolysis, but only water is consumed. Since there
is no chemical change or degradation of electrolyte, it is not necessary to add complex control
systems to handle such cases.
4.2.2 Sintered/PBE plate/electrode technology
The sintered positive plate/ electrode is obtained by chemical impregnation of nickel
hydroxide into a porous nickel sinter coated thin steel strip that is previously perforated and
nickel-plated.
The negative plastic bonded electrode (PBE) is obtained by the coating of slurry consisting of
cadmium oxide mixed with a plastic binder onto a nickel-plated thin perforated steel strip.
4.2.3 Sintered/sintered plate/electrode technology
The sintered positive and negative plate/electrode is obtained by chemical impregnation of
nickel hydroxide and cadmium oxide into a porous nickel sinter coated thin steel strip that is
previously perforated and nickel-plated.
4.2.4 Fiber plate/electrode technology
Both the positive and negative plates/electrodes consist of non-woven fibers of nickel or
nickel-plated plastic fibers of high porosity.
4.2.5 Pocket plate/electrode technology
Both the positive and negative plates/electrodes consist of several flat, perforated metal
pockets made from perforated steel strips linked together encapsulating the active materials.
4.3 Environmental conditions
NiCd cells/ batteries can perform at extreme temperatures: below –25 °C or above +40 °C.
Especially when at one extreme temperature is specified, deviations for the opposite extreme
temperature may be agreed between end user and/ or system integrator and cell/ battery
manufacturer.
4.4 System requirements
4.4.1 System voltage
The charging voltage for the NiCd battery is dependent on the number of cells, temperature,
and its plate/electrode technology.
Although the nominal battery voltage is set by Table 1 of IEC 62973-1:2018, the number of
cells can vary due to the cell charging requirements by their plate/electrode technology.

– 14 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
Due to higher cell charging voltage required by the fiber or pocket plate technology, a lower
number of cells can be used in series with a higher capacity. While due to lower charging
voltage of sintered/PBE or sintered/sintered plate technology, more cells can be used in
series with a lower capacity. Less cells with a higher capacity or more cells with lower
capacity would provide similar energy.
The optimised number of cells in a NiCd battery calculated by the battery manufacturer shall
allow to operate between the minimum and maximum equipment operating voltage range
considering the operating conditions and battery load profile. Then the operational battery
charging voltage at 20 °C shall be set considering the calculated number of cells and
individual cell charging characteristics. Refer to Table 2.
The NiCd battery nominal voltages and the discharge voltages are different. Figure 2 shows
typical discharges of a NiCd cell at different constant discharging currents (shown in multiples
of C or multiples of I , C and I are related, e.g. 0,2 C is equivalent to I ) that vary by
n n n n 5 5
battery discharge rate designation (e.g. L, M, H per IEC 60623:2017). This discharge curve
(discharge voltages relative to discharge capacities based on constant current discharges)
shall be available at different temperatures.

Figure 2 – Example of a NiCd cell discharge curve at various constant
discharge currents based on percentage of capacity
The following example, a) in Figure 3 shows a typical charge of a NiCd cell at constant
charging current at 0,2 C (equivalent to I ) for the initial phase followed by b) in Figure 3
5 5
constant charging voltage for the last phase depending on the NiCd battery type
plate/electrode technology. Charging curves shall be available from battery manufacturers.
Typically, the charging function is performed by the LVPS or charger in a low voltage system
architecture.
a) Example of charge b) Example of charge
current rate curve voltage curve

NOTE The positive sign of current in a) in Figure 3 shows the charging condition. When the charge and discharge
currents are combined in the same curve, the charge current is depicted with a negative sign opposite to the sign
in the load profile as described in Annex A.
Figure 3 – Example of a NiCd cell charge curves
4.4.2 Charging requirements
The required battery charging characteristics and the optimum charging method are specified
according to Table 1 and Table 2 respectively.
Table 1 – Requirements of the charging characteristics
Requirements Characteristics
Normal condition Float charge by LVPS or charger with temperature compensation.
Charging method Depending on NiCd battery type plate/electrode technology. Refer to Table 2.
Steady state control The charge voltage tolerance refers to the voltage demand according to the ideal
tolerance of the battery charging characteristic of the battery.
charge voltage output at the
In case of temperature compensation ± 1,5 % or lower tolerance.
charging system
Without temperature compensation ± 1 % or lower tolerance.
Charging voltage ripple ≤ 5 % (according to IEC 60077-1 but with disconnected battery).
Charging current ripple The battery charging current shall be DC, as any superimposed AC component in
the charging current can lead to a temperature increase of the battery. The AC
content in the charging current shall not exceed values as per IEC 62485-2:2010.
Temperature compensation Temperature compensation as required by the NiCd battery type plate/electrode
technology. Refer to Table 2.
Detection of temperature Signal from sensor on battery or battery compartment, detection inside battery
charging system.
The float and boost charge concept in Table 2 are illustrated in Figure 4.

– 16 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
Table 2 – Typical NiCd battery charging characteristics
NiCd battery charging characteristics Float charging Boost charge at Remarks
voltage at 20 °C 20 °C
Basic data for Charging voltage at 1,40 V/ cell 1,60 V/ cell See points ① and ② on
charging (Note 1) 20 °C (Note 2) (Note 2) Figure 4
Mandatory, change NA 45°C See point ③ on Figure 4
from boost to float
The switch point from
charging
boost to float charge is
based on parameters
such as temperature,
current and/or time
Temperature Typical case with a -3 mV/ cell/ °C -3 mV/ cell/ °C See Figure 4
correction single value (Note 3) (Note 3)
Switching set Mandatory stop Up to 70 °C maximum See point ④ on Figure 4
points charging of battery
(all charge
modes) Standard, from boost NA The switch point Current measurement
to float charging from boost to float necessary as well as
charge is based on temperature and/or time
parameters such
as temperature,
current and/or time
(Note 4)
Standard, from float The switch point NA Current measurement
to boost charging from float to boost necessary as well as
charge is based on temperature and/or time
parameters such
as temperature,
current and/or time
(Note 4)
NOTE 1 When single level charging is used, the boost charge voltage = the float charge voltage.
NOTE 2 The values of the charging voltages for the different charge modes are indicative values. The
manufacturer can choose different values for reaching a certain state of charge depending on the NiCd
technology. Those values are clearly indicated in the cell documentation and available upon request from the cell
manufacturer. The voltage tolerance is taken at maximum ±1 %.
NOTE 3 A temperature compensation is necessary, a typical value is of -0,003 V/°C/cell. In case the numerical
value is adjusted for some type of cells specified as CCCV, it is clearly indicated in the cell manufacturer‘s
documentation and in the approval documents. It is possible to have 3 values;
• one for temperatures lower than or equal to T , (T ≤ 45 °C, e.g. T = 20 °C)
1 1 1
• one for temperature higher than T , and lower than or equal 45 °C, and
• one for temperature higher than 45 °C.
NOTE 4 The charging current can vary depending on the designed charging current value as indicated on the
documentation provided by the manufacturer for the cell.
NOTE 5 Point ⑤ in Figure 4 corresponds to the maximum charging voltage at the equipment as expressed in
Table 1 of IEC 62973-1:2018.
NOTE The location of the temperature sensor is agreed between the end user and battery manufacturer. Refer to
4.5.3.
Figure 4 – Typical NiCd battery charging characteristics
The charging voltage of the battery shall be limited to the maximum voltage at the equipment
in Table 1 of IEC 62973-1:2018. The temperature compensation voltage control should be
limited to these values considering the charging cell voltage values in Table 2 multiplied by
the number of cells in series for the battery.
The typical charging voltages per cell for most applications are shown in Table 2 with
temperature compensation voltage control. Higher or lower values, within the above limits,
can be selected depending on sizing and application parameters (e.g. in Japan for
sintered/PBE, a single level float charge voltage of 1,43 V/cell without temperature
compensation voltage control charging is typical).
In some cases, in agreement between the end user and manufacturer, the temperature
compensation voltage control charging may not be required. This information shall be agreed
upon prior to calculating the battery capacity required for a specific load profile. In such a
case, the battery temperature sensor may be omitted. It is the responsibility of the battery
manufacturer to calculate the additional battery capacity needed to consider the non-
temperature compensated charging regime. In case of extreme low temperature, a heater can
be added to limit the additional capacity needed. Then the temperature activation point of the
heater shall be agreed prior to battery capacity calculation.
4.4.3 Discharging requirements
4.4.3.1 General
There are different discharging performances for NiCd battery technologies (e.g. sintered/
PBE, sintered/sintered, fiber, pocket plate) while in service or storage affected due to:
– load profile (emergency back-up for auxiliaries and/or during normal operation such as
neutral section or power gaps);
– off line discharge when power is not present;

– 18 – IEC 62973-2:2020 © IEC 2020
– low and high temperature discharging requirements;
– charge retention (self-discharge);
– deep discharge.
Some of the above discharging requirements are described in the following subclauses.
4.4.3.2 Load profile
The load profile shall be considered for the complete battery. As the number cells can be
adjusted to optimize charging, it will influence the load per cell. Refer to 4.4.1. This is to be
taken in consideration when calculating the discharge per cell.
4.4.3.3 Extended discharge time
A NiCd battery withstands an extended discharge without permanent damage. Therefore,
there is no need for reconditioning to recover the battery performances after this extended
discharge.
4.4.3.4 Low or high temperature performance
Discharge performance is characterized at specified low temperature as per IEC 60623:2017,
in 7.3.5 or at high temperature in 7.3.6. In case previously performed test results are available
at or worse than the requested condition, these can be used without retesting by similarity.
The sizing calculation parameters and temperature derating factor shall be in accordance with
the performance characteristics of the battery.
4.4.4 Charge retention (self-discharge)
Self-discharge can lead to a completely discharged NiCd battery over an extended time.
However, this does not permanently damage the NiCd battery and it is even recommended to
store the battery in a completely discharged state where self-discharge does not occur. A
specific condition may be recommended by the cell manufacturer depending on the NiCd
technology (e.g. storage in unfilled condition).
The charge retention characteristic is outlined in IEC 60623:2017, 7.4.
For storage of batteries, refer to 8.2.
4.4.5 Requirements for battery capacity sizing
The NiCd battery manufacturer shall define the following parameters according to the NiCd
cell technology:
– SOC according to the charging parameters (voltage, temperature compensation, number
of cells, battery plate/electrode technology) and environmental conditions,
– ageing factor depending upon but not limited to the operating ambient temperature,
cycling at the corresponding DOD, maintenance, and required lifetime.
In case the end user and/ or system integrator dictates any less severe values of the above
parameters as proposed by the NiCd battery manufacturer, the result of the operational
verification test B.4 in Annex B may not be representative of reality over the lifetime of the
battery.
The requirements for battery capacity sizing are specified according to Table 3.

Table 3 – Parameters and responsibility for battery capacity sizing
Parameters needed Responsibilities of parameters to Values
for battery sizing be provided
Load profile (W, Ω, A) Provided by the system integrator Load profile cases each in W, Ω, A
over a specified duration period
Low or high temperature for sizing As specified by the train High and low temperature in °C as
to the load profile (°C) manufacturer or in conjunction with described in 4.4.3.4 of IEC 62973-
the end user 1:2018
Charging voltage for battery system Battery or cell manufacturer Number of cells x requested
at 20 °C charging voltage per cell
State of Charge (SOC) at 20 °C Provided by the battery or cell Percentage of rated capacity as
under float charging conditions (%) manufacturer described in IEC 60623:2017 or
IEC 62259:2003 as applicable
Ageing factor (%) Provided by the battery or cell Percentage of rated capacity as
manufacturer described in IEC 60623:2017 or
IEC 62259:2003 as applicable
Requested cycle capability (number Specified by the end user Number of cycles and duration
of load profile cycles and time (partial or full) of load profile per
duration) week, month or year
Useful battery life at an average Provided by the battery or cell Years of life duration under typical
annual operating temperature of manufacturer railway conditions
approximately 20 °C under railway
conditions (Years)
End users may require an additional margin, typically expressed as a percentage, for future
loads. Unless it is otherwise specified, this margin is applied to the resulting rated capacity of
the battery sizing per IEC 60623:2017 or IEC 62259:2003 as applicable.
4.5 Safety and protection requirements
4.5.1 General
The cell container material shall be able to withstand the alkaline electrolyte for the
...