IEC 63056:2020

Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes - Safety requirements for secondary lithium cells and batteries for use in electrical energy storage systems

IEC 63056:2020 specifies requirements and tests for the product safety of secondary lithium cells and batteries used in electrical energy storage systems (Figure 2) with a maximum DC voltage of 1 500 V (nominal).
Basic safety requirements for the secondary lithium cells and batteries used in industrial applications are included in IEC 62619. This document provides additional or specific requirements for electrical energy storage systems.
Since this document covers batteries for various electrical energy storage systems, it includes those requirements which are common and minimum to the electrical energy storage systems.
Examples of appliances that are within the scope of this document are:
• telecommunications,
• central emergency lighting and alarm systems,
• stationary engine starting,
• photovoltaic systems,
• home (residential) energy storage systems (HESS), and
• large energy storage: on-grid/off-grid.
This document applies to cells and batteries for uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).
This document does not apply to portable systems 500 Wh or below, which are covered by IEC 61960-3.
The contents of the corrigendum of June 2021 have been included in this copy.

Accumulateurs alcalins et autres accumulateurs à électrolyte non acide - Exigences de sécurité pour les accumulateurs au lithium pour utilisation dans des systèmes de stockage d’énergie électrique

L'IEC 63056:2020 spécifie les exigences et les essais pour la sécurité des produits des éléments et des batteries d'accumulateurs au lithium utilisés dans des systèmes de stockage d'énergie électrique (Figure 2) ayant une tension continue maximale de 1 500 V (nominale).
L'IEC 62619 comprend les exigences relatives à la sécurité de base des éléments et batteries d'accumulateurs au lithium utilisés dans les applications industrielles. Le présent document inclut des exigences complémentaires ou particulières concernant les systèmes de stockage d'énergie électrique.
Étant donné que le présent document couvre les batteries de différents systèmes de stockage d'énergie électrique, elle comprend les exigences minimales et communes aux systèmes de stockage d'énergie électrique.
Les types suivants d'appareils sont des exemples d'appareils relevant du domaine d'application du présent document:
• télécommunications,
• systèmes centraux d'éclairage d'urgence et d'alarme d'urgence,
• démarrage de moteur stationnaire,
• systèmes photovoltaïques,
• systèmes domestiques (résidentiels) de stockage d'énergie électrique (HESS, home energy storage systems), et
• stockage d'énergie à grande échelle: sur réseau/hors réseau.
Le présent document s'applique aux éléments et batteries conçus pour les alimentations sans interruption (ASI).
Le présent document ne s'applique pas aux systèmes portables de 500 Wh ou moins, qui sont couverts par l'IEC 61960-3.
Le contenu du corrigendum de juin 2021 a été pris en considération dans cet exemplaire.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 26-Mar-2020
• ICS: 29.220.30 - Alkaline secondary cells and batteries
• Technical Committee: SC 21A - Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes
• Drafting Committee: WG 5 - TC 21/SC 21A/WG 5
• Current Stage: PPUB - Publication issued
• Start Date: 27-Mar-2020
• Completion Date: 21-Feb-2020

Relations

• Corrected By: IEC 63056:2020/COR1:2021 - Corrigendum 1 - Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes - Safety requirements for secondary lithium cells and batteries for use in electrical energy storage systems
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023

Overview

IEC 63056:2020 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that sets forth safety requirements for secondary lithium cells and batteries used in electrical energy storage systems. Targeting systems with a nominal maximum DC voltage of up to 1500 V, this standard aims to ensure product safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance across various applications integrating lithium batteries within energy storage infrastructures.

As an important complement to the umbrella standard IEC 62619-which covers industrial secondary lithium cells and batteries-IEC 63056 addresses specific safety considerations applicable to electrical energy storage systems (EESS). This includes protections, testing, and design requirements tailored to energy storage environments ranging from small residential units to large-scale grid-connected systems.

---

Key Topics

• Scope and Applicability
  IEC 63056 focuses on secondary lithium cells and batteries used in energy storage systems such as:

  • Telecommunications backup systems
  • Central emergency lighting and alarm systems
  • Stationary engine starting batteries
  • Photovoltaic (solar) energy storage systems
  • Home (residential) energy storage systems (HESS)
  • Large on-grid and off-grid energy storage solutions
  • Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) operating over 500 Wh
    The standard excludes portable battery systems 500 Wh or below, which fall under IEC 61960-3.

• Safety Requirements and Tests
  The document defines a comprehensive suite of tests and safety criteria including:

  • Resistance to abnormal heat conditions to mitigate fire and thermal runaway risks
  • Electrical insulation and wiring safeguards during transport and installation
  • Overdischarge control and reverse polarity protections
  • Short circuit protection to prevent electrical faults
  • Mechanical durability verified by drop tests (corner, edge, and whole drop) evaluating battery robustness during handling

• Marking, Information, and Documentation
  Clear guidance on battery system marking and necessary safety information ensures end users, installers, and maintenance personnel can operate and manage energy storage systems safely and effectively.

• Normative References
  IEC 63056 references important documents such as IEC 62619, IEC 62620, IEC 60695 (fire hazard testing), and ISO/IEC Guide 51 on safety aspects to maintain harmonized requirements.

---

Applications

IEC 63056 plays a critical role in enhancing safety and performance of lithium-ion battery-based energy storage installations across multiple sectors:

• Telecommunications: Ensures backup power batteries maintain safety in critical communication infrastructure, especially during emergencies and outages.
• Emergency Lighting and Alarm Systems: Supports dependable operation of lighting and alarm systems vital for occupant safety in buildings.
• Stationary Engine Starting: Provides safety boundaries for batteries used to start stationary engines in industrial or utility applications.
• Photovoltaic Energy Storage: Facilitates safe integration of lithium batteries in solar power systems, allowing efficient energy capture and reliable supply even when sunlight is unavailable.
• Residential Energy Storage (HESS): Helps homeowners adopt energy storage systems with reduced risks, supporting renewable energy use and grid independence.
• Grid-Scale Energy Storage: Offers safety requirements for large-scale battery systems used for grid balancing, load leveling, and renewable energy integration.
• Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): Establishes protections for UPS battery banks critical for power continuity in commercial and industrial settings.

By complying with IEC 63056, manufacturers, system integrators, and operators can ensure battery safety, reduce liability risks, and meet regulatory expectations while contributing to sustainable energy goals.

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Related Standards

IEC 63056 works in harmony with the following key standards to form a comprehensive safety framework for lithium secondary cells and batteries:

• IEC 62619 - Safety requirements for secondary lithium cells and batteries in various industrial applications; IEC 63056 builds on and specifies additional requirements for energy storage scenarios.
• IEC 62620 - Secondary lithium cells and batteries specifically designed for industrial use, providing performance and safety criteria.
• IEC 61960-3 - Safety and performance requirements for portable lithium batteries below 500 Wh, excluded from IEC 63056’s scope.
• IEC 60695 Series - Fire hazard testing procedures that support battery safety validation through abnormal heat and flame exposure tests.
• ISO/IEC Guide 51 - Safety aspects guidelines for standard development, underpinning IEC 63056’s risk-based approach.
• IEC 60050-482 - Electrotechnical vocabulary providing standardized terms crucial for consistent interpretation of battery safety specifications.

Together, these standards foster a harmonized approach to secondary lithium battery safety worldwide, facilitating trade and innovation in electrical energy storage systems.

---

Keywords

IEC 63056:2020, lithium battery safety, electrical energy storage system, secondary lithium cells, battery safety testing, photovoltaic energy storage safety, residential energy storage system standards, uninterruptible power supply batteries, lithium battery protective measures, IEC battery standards.

Standards Content (Sample)

IEC 63056 ®
Edition 1.0 2020-03
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid
electrolytes – Safety requirements for secondary lithium cells and batteries
for use in electrical energy storage systems

Accumulateurs alcalins et autres accumulateurs à électrolyte non acide –
Exigences de sécurité pour les accumulateurs au lithium pour utilisation
dans des systèmes de stockage d'énergie électrique

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IEC 63056 ®
Edition 1.0 2020-03
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid

electrolytes – Safety requirements for secondary lithium cells and batteries

for use in electrical energy storage systems

Accumulateurs alcalins et autres accumulateurs à électrolyte non acide –

Exigences de sécurité pour les accumulateurs au lithium pour utilisation

dans des systèmes de stockage d'énergie électrique

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 29.220.30 ISBN 978-2-8322-7862-8

– 2 – IEC 63056:2020 © IEC 2020
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 3
INTRODUCTION . 5
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 7
3 Terms and definitions . 7
4 Parameter measurement tolerances . 9
5 General safety considerations . 10
5.1 General . 10
5.2 Insulation and wiring . 10
5.3 The peak voltage of charging . 11
6 Type test conditions . 11
6.1 General . 11
6.2 Test items . 11
7 Specific requirements and tests . 12
7.1 Basic requirement . 12
7.2 Resistance to abnormal heat . 12
7.3 Casing material of a battery system that can be transported for installation
or maintenance . 12
7.4 Electric insulation check during transport and installation. 12
7.5 Charging procedures for test purposes . 13
7.6 Protection against short circuit during transport and installation . 13
7.7 Protection for reverse connection . 13
7.8 Overdischarge control of voltage (battery system) . 14
7.9 Drop test . 14
7.9.1 General . 14
7.9.2 Whole drop test . 15
7.9.3 Edge and corner drop test . 15
8 Information for Safety . 16
9 Marking and designation . 16
Annex A (informative) Wiring, connections and supply . 17
Bibliography . 18

Figure 1 – IEC 62619 as umbrella standard to various industrial applications. 5
Figure 2 – Scope of IEC 63056 . 6
Figure 3 – Impact location . 15
Figure 4 – Configuration for the shortest edge drop test . 16
Figure 5 – Configuration for the corner drop test . 16

Table 1 – Type test . 12
Table 2 – Drop test method and condition . 14
Table A.1 – IEC 60950-1:2005 subclauses addressing wiring, connections and supply . 17
Table A.2 – Wiring, connections and supply, as addressed in IEC 62368-1 . 17

INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
SECONDARY CELLS AND BATTERIES CONTAINING ALKALINE OR OTHER
NON-ACID ELECTROLYTES – SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR SECONDARY
LITHIUM CELLS AND BATTERIES FOR USE IN ELECTRICAL ENERGY
STORAGE SYSTEMS
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
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patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 63056 has been prepared by subcommittee 21A: Secondary cells
and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes, of IEC technical committee 21:
Secondary cells and batteries.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
21A/718/FDIS 21A/723/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.

– 4 – IEC 63056:2020 © IEC 2020
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 covers safety requirements for secondary lithium cells and batteries for use in
Electrical Energy Storage Systems and is under the umbrella standard IEC 62619 as shown in
Figure 1. As an umbrella standard, IEC 62619 had been developed which covered various
industrial applications in 2017.

Figure 1 – IEC 62619 as umbrella standard to various industrial applications

– 6 – IEC 63056:2020 © IEC 2020
SECONDARY CELLS AND BATTERIES CONTAINING ALKALINE OR OTHER
NON-ACID ELECTROLYTES – SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR SECONDARY
LITHIUM CELLS AND BATTERIES FOR USE IN ELECTRICAL ENERGY
STORAGE SYSTEMS
1 Scope
This document specifies requirements and tests for the product safety of secondary lithium
cells and batteries used in electrical energy storage systems (Figure 2) with a maximum DC
voltage of 1 500 V (nominal).
Basic safety requirements for the secondary lithium cells and batteries used in industrial
applications are included in IEC 62619. This document provides additional or specific
requirements for electrical energy storage systems.
Since this document covers batteries for various electrical energy storage systems, it includes
those requirements which are common and minimum to the electrical energy storage systems.
Examples of appliances that are within the scope of this document are:
• telecommunications,
• central emergency lighting and alarm systems,
• stationary engine starting,
• photovoltaic systems,
• home (residential) energy storage systems (HESS), and
• large energy storage: on-grid/off-grid.
This document applies to cells and batteries for uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).
This document does not apply to portable systems 500 Wh or below, which are covered by
IEC 61960-3.
Figure 2 – Scope of IEC 63056
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and
are indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60050-482, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) – Part 482: Primary and
secondary cells and batteries (available at http://www.electropedia.org/)
IEC 60695-10-2, Fire hazard testing – Part 10-2: Abnormal heat – Ball pressure test method
IEC 60695-11-10, Fire hazard testing – Part 11-10: Test flames – 50 W horizontal and vertical
flame test methods
IEC 60950-1:2005, Information technology equipment – Safety – Part 1: General requirements
IEC 62619, Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes –
Safety requirements for secondary lithium cells and batteries, for use in industrial applications
IEC 62620:2014, Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid
electrolytes – Secondary lithium cells and batteries for use in industrial applications
ISO/IEC Guide 51, Safety aspects – Guidelines for their inclusion in standards
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 60050-482,
ISO/IEC Guide 51, and the following 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
safety
freedom from unacceptable risk
3.2
risk
combination of the probability of occurrence of harm and the severity of that harm
3.3
harm
physical injury or damage to the health of people or damage to property or to the environment
3.4
hazard
potential source of harm
3.5
intended use
use of a product, process or service in accordance with specifications, instructions and
information provided by the supplier

– 8 – IEC 63056:2020 © IEC 2020
3.6
reasonably foreseeable misuse
use of a product, process or service in a way which is not intended by the supplier, but which
may result from readily predictable human behaviour
3.7
secondary lithium cell
cell
secondary cell where electrical energy is derived from the insertion/extraction reactions of
lithium ions or oxidation/reduction reaction of lithium between the negative electrode and the
positive electrode
Note 1 to entry: The cell typically has an electrolyte that consists of a lithium salt and organic solvent compound
in liquid, gel or solid form and has a metal or a laminate film casing. It is not ready for use in an application
because it is not yet fitted with its final housing, terminal arrangement and electronic control device.
3.8
cell block
group of cells connected together in parallel configuration with or without protective devices
(e.g. fuse or positive temperature coefficient device) and monitoring circuitry
Note 1 to entry: It is not ready for use in an application because it is not yet fitted with its final housing, terminal
arrangement and electronic control device.
3.9
module
group of cells connected together in a series and/or parallel configuration with or without
protective devices (e.g. fuse or positive temperature coefficient device) and monitoring
circuitry
3.10
battery pack
energy storage device which comprises one or more cells or modules electrically connected
and has monitoring circuitry which provides information (e.g. cell voltage) to a battery system
to influence the battery’s safety, performance and/or service life
Note 1 to entry: It may incorporate a protective housing and be provided with terminals or other interconnection
arrangement.
3.11
battery system
battery
system which comprises one or more cells, modules or battery packs and has a battery
management system capable of controlling current in case of overcharge, overcurrent,
overdischarge, and overheating
Note 1 to entry: Overdischarge cut off is not mandatory if there is an agreement between the cell manufacturer
and the customer
Note 2 to entry: The battery system may have cooling or heating units. More than one battery system may
constitute a larger battery system.
3.12
battery management system
BMS
set of protection functions associated with a battery to prevent overcharge, overcurrent, over-
temperature, under-temperature and, if applicable, overdischarge and which monitors and/or
manages its state, calculates secondary data, reports that data and/or controls its
environment to influence the battery’s safety, performance and/or service life
Note 1 to entry: Overdischarge cutoff is not mandatory if there is an agreement between the cell manufacturer
and the customer.
Note 2 to entry: The function of the BMS can be assigned to the battery pack or to equipment that uses the
battery.
Note 3 to entry: The BMS can be divided and it can be found partially in the battery pack and partially on the
equipment that uses the battery.
Note 4 to entry: The BMS is sometimes also referred to as a BMU (battery management unit).
Note 5 to entry: This note applies to the French language only.
3.13
leakage
visible escape of liquid electrolyte
3.14
venting
release of excessive internal pressure from a cell, module, battery pack, or battery system in
a manner intended by design to preclude rupture or explosion
3.15
rupture
mechanical failure of a cell container or battery case induced by an internal or external cause,
resulting in exposure or spillage but not ejection of materials
3.16
explosion
failure that occurs when a cell container or battery case opens violently, and solid
components are forcibly expelled
Note 1 to entry: Liquid, gas, and smoke may be erupted.
3.17
fire
emission of flames from a cell, module, battery pack, or battery system
3.18
rated capacity
capacity value of a cell or battery determined under specified conditions and declared by the
manufacturer
Note 1 to entry: The rated capacity is the quantity of electricity C Ah (ampere-hours) declared by the
n
manufacturer, which a single cell or battery can deliver during an n-hour period when charging, storing and
discharging under the conditions specified in IEC 62620:2014, 6.3.1.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-03-15, modified – "battery" has been replaced by "cell
or battery" and Note 1 to entry has been added.]
4 Parameter measurement tolerances
The overall accuracy of controlled or measured values, relative to the specified or actual
parameters, shall be within the following tolerances:
a) ±0,5 % for voltage;
b) ±1 % for current;
c) ±2 °C for temperature;
d) ±0,1 % for time;
e) ±1 % for mass;
f) ±1 % for dimensions.
– 10 – IEC 63056:2020 © IEC 2020
These tolerances comprise the combined accuracy of the measuring instruments, the
measurement techniques used, and all other sources of error in the test procedure.
The details of the instrumentation used shall be provided in any report of results.
5 General safety considerations
5.1 General
Battery systems and the cells they contain shall comply with the applicable general safety
considerations of IEC 62619. Within the standard temperature range, secondary cells can be
charged at the maximum charge current, which is specified from a safety point of view.
Lithium-ion cells shall always be operated within the operating region values and the storage
conditions specified by the manufacturer.
The safety of lithium secondary cells and battery systems requires the consideration of two
sets of applied conditions:
1) intended use;
2) reasonably foreseeable misuse.
Cells and battery systems shall be so designed and constructed that they are safe under
conditions of both intended use and reasonably foreseeable misuse. It may also be expected
that cells and battery systems subjected to intended use shall not only be safe but shall
continue to be functional in all respects.
It is expected that cells or battery systems subjected to misuse may fail to function. However,
even if such a situation occurs, they shall not present any significant hazards.
Potential hazards which are the subject of this document are:
a) fire,
b) burst/explosion,
c) critical electrical short circuit due to leakage of cell electrolyte, mechanical deformation or
incorrect installation,
d) venting that continuously vents out flammable gases,
e) rupture of the casing of cell, module, battery pack, and battery system with exposure of
internal components.
Conformity is checked by the tests in accordance with the appropriate standards in Clause 2.
Moving parts that have potential to cause human injuries shall be applied appropriate design
and necessary measures in order to reduce the risk of injuries, including those that may be
incurred during installation while cells or battery systems are being incorporated into
equipment.
5.2 Insulation and wiring
Wiring and its insulation shall be sufficient to withstand the maximum anticipated voltage,
current, temperature, altitude and humidity requirements. The design of wiring shall be such
that adequate clearances and creepage distances are maintained between conductors in
accordance with IEC 60950-1:2005, 3.1 and 3.2 (test temperature relies on the battery
system’s operating region specified by the manufacturer). Hazardous live parts of the battery
system shall be protected to avoid the risk of electric shocks, including during installation.

The mechanical integrity of the whole battery system (cell/module/BMS) and their connections
shall follow the requirements from the end-use equipment manufacturer. When there are no
requirements provided from the end use equipment in which the battery system is to be
installed, Annex A may be used.
The battery system manufacturer shall indicate the maximum allowed number of series
connections of a module or a battery system in the specification or instruction manual.
5.3 The peak voltage of charging
When a charging current has an alternating component, a battery system manufacturer shall
ensure that the peak voltage of the charging current is under the upper limit charging voltage,
specified by the battery system manufacturer, by monitoring the voltage of every single cell or
cell block.
6 Type test conditions
6.1 General
A battery system that is used outside of its operating region may exhibit hazards resulting
from the cells or battery system. Such risks have to be taken into consideration in order to
prepare a safe test plan.
The test facility should have a sufficient structural integrity and a fire suppression system to
sustain the conditions of overpressure and fire that may occur as a result of testing. The
facility should have a ventilation system to remove and capture gas that might be produced
during the tests. Consideration should be given to high-voltage hazards when applicable.
Warning: THESE TESTS USE PROCEDURES WHICH MAY RESULT IN HARM IF ADEQUATE PRECAUTIONS
ARE NOT TAKEN. TESTS SHOULD ONLY BE PERFORMED BY QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED
TECHNICIANS USING ADEQUATE PROTECTION. TO PREVENT BURNS, PRECAUTIONS SHOULD
BE TAKEN FOR THOSE CELLS OR BATTERY SYSTEMS WHOSE CASINGS MAY EXCEED 75 °C AS
A RESULT OF TESTING.
6.2 Test items
Tests are made with the DUT (device under test), using cells or battery systems that are
stored under conditions specified by the cell manufacturer for not more than six months.
The DUT charged by the method specified in 7.2 shall deliver the rated capacity or more when
they are discharged at 25 °C ± 5 °C, at a constant current of 0,2 I A, down to a specified final
t
voltage. This capacity confirmation may be done in the cell manufacturer's shipping inspection.
In the case of a battery system, the capacity may be calculated on the basis of the cell
capacity measurements during the cell manufacturer's shipping inspection.
Unless otherwise specified, tests are carried out in an ambient temperature of 25 °C ± 5 °C.
NOTE Test conditions are for type tests only and do not imply that intended use includes operation under these
conditions. Similarly, the limit of six months is introduced for consistency and does not imply that cell and battery
system safety is reduced after six months.
The type test is outlined in Table 1.

– 12 – IEC 63056:2020 © IEC 2020
Table 1 – Type test
Test items DUT
7.3 Resistance to abnormal heat minimum of 1
7.5 Protection for short circuit during transport and installation minimum of 1
7.6 Electric insulation check during transport and installation minimum of 1
7.7 Protection for reverse connection minimum of 1
7.8 Drop test minimum of 1
7.9 Overdischarge control of voltage (battery system) minimum of 1

7 Specific requirements and tests
7.1 Basic requirement
Cells and battery systems employed in battery systems evaluated in accordance with this
document shall comply with the test in the safety requirements of IEC 62619 for secondary
lithium cells and battery systems for use in industrial applications, in addition to the test
requirements of this document.
7.2 Resistance to abnormal heat
Non-metallic materials on which parts at HAZARDOUS VOLTAGE are directly mounted shall
be resistant to abnormal heat. Compliance shall be checked by subjecting the part to the ball
pressure test in IEC 60695-10-2. The test is not carried out if it is clear from examination of
the physical characteristics of the material that it will meet the requirements of this test.
The test is made in a heating cabinet at a temperature of (ΔT + T + 15 °C) ± 2 °C.
max
ΔT means the maximum temperature rise of thermoplastic parts during the most adverse
operation specified by the battery system manufacturer at 25 °C ± 5 °C.
T means upper limit ambient temperature specified by the battery system manufacturer.
max
7.3 Casing material of a battery system that can be transported for installation or
maintenance
Thermoplastic materials used for casing should be of class V-2, V-1 or V-0. Where it is not
practical to protect components against overheating under fault conditions, the components
shall be mounted on V-1 CLASS MATERIAL. Additionally, such components shall be
separated from case material of V-2 CLASS MATERIAL by at least 13 mm of air, or by a solid
barrier of V-1 CLASS MATERIAL. Materials shall be tested at a thickness equal to the
smallest thickness used in the application and classified in accordance with IEC 60695-11-10.
7.4 Electric insulation check during transport and installation
The hazardous live parts of the battery pack or battery module or cell block shall be covered
or insulated against contact with the personnel during transport and installation. Compliance
is checked by an insulation resistance test or other equivalent test method to evaluate
electrical insulation.
Unless the end use equipment has specific requirements, the test method shall be in
accordance with the insulation resistance test of IEC 62133:2017, 5.2. Tests are carried out in
an ambient temperature of 25 °C ± 5 °C.

7.5 Charging procedures for test purposes
Prior to charging, the DUT shall be discharged in an ambient temperature of 25 °C ± 5 °C, at
a constant current of 0,2 I A, down to a specified final voltage.
t
Unless otherwise stated in this document, the DUT shall be charged in an ambient
temperature of 25 °C ± 5 °C, using the method specified by the manufacturer.
NOTE 1 Charging and discharging currents for the tests are based on the value of the rated capacity (C Ah).
n
These currents are expressed as a multiple of I A, where: I A = C Ah/1 h (see IEC 61434).
t t n
NOTE 2 A battery system that cannot be discharged at a constant current of 0,2 I A can be discharged at the
t
current specified by the manufacturer.
7.6 Protection against short circuit during transport and installation
A safeguard shall be provided by the battery system manufacturer to reduce the risk of short
circuit for personnel at the time of electrical installation or transport.
Where the battery pack is divided into parts for the purpose of transportation, protective
safeguards shall be provided not only for the battery system, but also for each part.
f) Test
Each fully charged DUT shall be discharged at a constant current of 0,2 I A, to SOC (state
t
of charge) for installation or maintenance, which is specified by the manufacturer. Unless
otherwise specified by the manufacturer, tests are carried out without discharging after
charging in accordance with 7.2.
The DUT is stored in an ambient temperature until its temperature is stabilized at
25 °C ± 5 °C. The DUT is then short-circuited by connecting the positive and negative
terminals. An external resistance to short circuits is (30 mΩ ± 10 mΩ) × module
configuration (= number of series connections / number of parallel connections) or less
than 5 mΩ, whichever is higher.
Total external resistance is less than 100 mΩ.
The cells shall remain on test for 6 h or until the case temperature declines by 80 % of the
maximum temperature rise, whichever is sooner.
g) Acceptance criteria
No rupture, no fire, no explosion.

7.7 Protection for reverse connection
When a battery system has multiple battery packs or modules, the battery system shall remain
in a safe condition at the time of installation, even if one of the battery packs or modules is
connected with opposite polarity to the others.
a) Test
The test shall be carried out at 25 °C ± 5 °C. Each fully charged DUT shall be discharged
at a constant current of 0,2 I A to the SOC for installation or maintenance which is
t
specified by battery system manufacturer. Turn off, if possible, the main power of the BMS
and to the battery system. Connect one of the DUTs of the battery system with opposite
polarity. Connect the remaining other DUTs in the battery system with the correct polarity.
Turn on the main power of the BMS and of the battery system. Charge the battery system
with the conditions specified by the manufacturer, until it is fully charged or charging is
stopped by a safety protection. The battery system shall be put on rest for an hour. If the
battery system can be discharged, discharge it with the maximum specified discharge
current until the battery system stops the discharge. The system shall be rested for an
hour. If the system cannot be discharged, it shall be rested for an hour instead of
discharging then resting.
– 14 – IEC 63056:2020 © IEC 2020
Exception: A DUT which has a feature that prevents a reverse connection, or when
modules or battery packs are connected in the battery system with the BMS at the factory,
this test is not required.
b) Acceptance criteria
No rupture, no fire, no explosion.

7.8 Overdischarge control of voltage (battery system)
The BMS shall control the cell voltage during discharging above the lower limit discharging
voltage of the cells.
c) Test
The test shall be carried out at an ambient temperature of 25 °C ± 5 °C under BMS
controlled conditions. If the battery system has a cooling system, it may remain functional
during the test. The main contactors are closed with the battery system controlled by the
A
BMS. A fully charged battery system shall be discharged at a constant current of 0,2 I
t
to 30 % of the rated capacity. The system shall then be discharged at the specified
maximum discharging current.
The test shall be carried out until the BMS terminates the discharging before exceeding
the lower limit discharging voltage of the cells.
If it is difficult to overdischarge the whole system, the exceeded voltage can be applied to
a part of the system such as the cell(s) in the battery system.
Data acquisition/monitoring shall be continued for 1 h after discharging is stopped. All
functions of the battery system shall be fully operational as designed during the test.
d) Acceptance criteria
The BMS shall interrupt the overdischarging current by an automatic disconnect of the
main contactors in order to protect the battery system against further related severe
effects such as fire, explosion or cell voltages below their specified limits.

7.9 Drop test
7.9.1 General
This test is performed to simulate a drop during installation and maintenance.
The DUT of this test is a cell, a module, or a battery system which can be transported for
installation or maintenance. The manufacturer shall clearly declare the type of DUT.
The drop test is conducted on a DUT. The test method and the height of the drop are
determined by the mass of the DUT as shown in Table 2.
Table 2 – Drop test method and condition
Mass of the DUT, m Test method Orientation Height of drop
m < 7 kg Whole Random 100,0 cm
a
7 kg ≤ m < 20 kg Whole Bottom down direction 100,0 cm
a
20 kg ≤ m < 50 kg Whole Bottom down direction 50,0 cm
50 kg ≤ m < 100 kg Edge and corner - 5,0 cm
m ≥ 100 kg Edge and corner - 2,5 cm
a
The bottom surface of the DUT is specified by the manufacturer

7.9.2 Whole drop test
This test is applied when the mass of the DUT is less than 50 kg.
a) Test
Each fully charged DUT shall be discharged at a constant current of 0,2 I A to the SOC
t
for installation or maintenance specified by the manufacturer. Where SOC for installation
or maintenance is not specified by the manufacturer, tests are carried out without
discharging after charging in accordance with 7.2.
DUT is dropped one time from a height shown in Table 2 onto a flat concrete or metal floor.
In the case of a metal floor, external short circuit of the cell or battery system with the floor
should be avoided by appropriate measures.
In the case where the mass of the DUT is less than 7 kg, the DUT is dropped so as to
obtain impacts in random orientations. In the case where the mass of the DUT is 7 kg or
more but less than 50 kg, the test shall be performed with the DUT dropped in the bottom
down direction. The bottom surface of the DUT is specified by the manufacturer.
After the test, the DUT shall be put on the rest for a minimum of 1 h, and then a visual
inspection shall be performed.
b) Acceptance criteria
No fire, no explosion.
7.9.3 Edge and corner drop test
This test is applied when the mass of the DUT unit is 50 kg or more.
a) Test
Each fully charged DUT shall be discharged at a constant current of 0,2 I A, to SOC for
t
installation or maintenance which is specified by the manufacturer. Unless otherwise
specified by the manufacturer, tests are carried out without discharging after charging in
accordance with 7.2.
The DUT is dropped two times from a height shown in Table 2 onto a flat concrete or
metal floor. The drop test conditions shall ensure, with test arrangements as shown in
Figure 3, Figure 4 and Figure 5, reproducible impact points for the shortest edge drop
impact and the corner impacted. The two impacts, per impact type, shall be on the same
corner and on the same shortest edge. For the corner and edge drops, the DUT shall be
oriented in such a way that a straight line drawn through the corner/edge to be struck and
the DUT geometric centre is approximately perpendicular to the impact surface. After the
test, the DUT shall be put on rest for a minimum of 1 h, and then a visual inspection shall
be performed.
b) Acceptance criteria
No fire, no explosion.
Figure 3 – Impact location
– 16 – IEC 63056:2020 © IEC 2020

Figure 4 – Configuration for the shortest edge drop test

The DUT can be dropped from a hand-held position. If a lifting-release device is used, it should not, on release,
impart rotational or sideward forces to the unit.
Figure 5 – Configuration for the corner drop test
8 Information for Safety
Information for safety in accordance with IEC 62619 shall be provided.
9 Marking and designation
Refer to Clause 5 of IEC 62620:2014.

Annex A
(informative)
Wiring, connections and supply
Table A.1 summarizes wiring, connections and supply, as addressed in IEC 60950-1:2005.
Table A.1 – IEC 60950-1:2005 subclauses addressing wiring, connections and supply
Subclause Title Subclause Title
Current rating and overcurrent
3.1.1 3.1.9 Termination of conductors
protection
3.1.2 Protection against mechanical damage 3.1.10 Sleeving on wiring
3.1.3 Securing of internal wiring 3.2.1.2 Connection to a d.c. mains supply
3.1.4 Insulation of conductors 3.2.5.2 DC power supply cords
3.1.6 Screws for electrical contact pressure 3.2.6 Cord anchorages and strain relief
3.1.7 Insulating materials in electrical 3.2.7 Protection against mechanical damage
connections
3.1.8 Self-tapping and spaced thread screws 3.2.8 Cord guards

Table A.2 summarizes wiring, connections and supply, as addressed in IEC 62368-1.
Table A.2 – Wiring, connections and supply, as addressed in IEC 62368-1
Clauses Title
5.4 Isolation materials and requirements
(including clearances and creepage distances)
G.7 Main supply cords
G.7.1 General
G.7.2 Cross sectional area
G.7.3 Cord anchorages and strain relief for non-detachable power supply cords
G.7.4 Cord entry
G.7.5 Non-detachable cord bend protection

– 18 – IEC 63056:2020 © IEC 2020
Bibliography
IEC 61434, Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes –
Guide to designation of current in alkaline secondary cell and battery standards
IEC 61960-3, Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid
electrolytes – Secondary lithium cells and batteries for portable applications – Part 3:
Prismatic and cylindrical lithium secondary cells and batteries made from them
IEC 62368-1:2018, Audio/video, information and communication technology equipment - Part
1: Safety require
...