IEC 60623:2026

• Abstract:

  IEC 60623:2026 specifies marking, designation, dimensions, tests and requirements for vented nickel-cadmium prismatic secondary single cells and battery systems made of them for use in industrial applications.; This sixth edition cancels and replaces the fifth edition published in 2017. This edition constitutes a technical revision.; This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:; a) added a test for internal DC resistance;; b) added a subclause for pulse power calculation;; c) added a test for constant power measurement;; d) added a subclause on the determination of durability parameters.

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 23-Aug-2026
• ICS: 29.220.99 - Other cells and batteries
• Technical Committee: SC 21A - Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes
• Drafting Committee: WG 1 - TC 21/SC 21A/WG 1
• Current Stage: PPUB - Publication issued
• Start Date: 24-Aug-2026
• Completion Date: 26-Jun-2026

• Revises: IEC 60623:2017 - Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes - Vented nickel-cadmium prismatic rechargeable single cells
• Effective Date: 28-Jun-2024

Overview

IEC 60623:2026 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that specifies requirements for secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes. Specifically, this standard applies to vented nickel-cadmium (NiCd) prismatic rechargeable single cells and battery systems designed for industrial applications. The sixth edition of IEC 60623 reflects a comprehensive technical revision, including several key updates to ensure alignment with current industrial needs and technological advances.

This document covers essential criteria such as marking, designation, cell and battery dimensions, testing procedures, and performance requirements. It aims to deliver harmonized quality and safety benchmarks for manufacturers, integrators, and end-users employing NiCd batteries in a wide spectrum of demanding industrial environments.

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Key Topics

• Scope and Definitions: Covers prismatic NiCd rechargeable cells and battery systems, providing terminology and symbols relevant to battery manufacturers and industrial users.
• Designation and Marking: Details requirements for cell and battery identification, including mandatory and optional markings indicating discharge rates, materials, tested temperatures, and special test conditions.
• Dimensions: Specifies dimensional requirements for various prismatic cell and battery constructions, supporting standardization and interchangeability.
• Testing Requirements: Sets forth test methodologies and acceptance criteria for electrical performance-including charge, discharge, endurance, internal resistance, and environmental robustness.
• Performance Requirements: Outlines requirements for rated capacity, nominal voltage, charge retention, operational lifespan, and deep discharge endurance.
• Safety Recommendations: Provides guidelines for safe operation, marking, and handling of prismatic NiCd cells in industrial applications.
• Technical Updates: The 2026 edition introduces:
  • A test for internal DC resistance
  • A subclause for pulse power calculation
  • A test for constant power measurement
  • A new subclause for determination of durability parameters

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Applications

IEC 60623:2026 is highly relevant for a range of industrial battery applications, ensuring correct battery system configuration, predictable performance, and safety. Typical use cases include:

• Stationary Power Backup: Utilized in telecommunications, power plants, and critical infrastructure for uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems.
• Railway and Mass Transit: Supports essential onboard and signaling systems that demand robust and reliable energy storage.
• Renewable Energy Integration: Used in energy storage solutions for solar and wind installations requiring consistent charge/discharge cycles.
• Industrial Equipment: Powers mobile and stationary equipment where reliability, durability, and performance under variable temperature and cycling conditions are critical.
• Emergency Systems: Provides backup for alarm systems, emergency lighting, and safety-critical operations.

Industrial end users, battery system integrators, and manufacturers benefit from the clear guidelines on marking, performance testing, and product qualification, promoting consistent product quality and operational reliability.

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Related Standards

To support proper application and conformity assessment, IEC 60623:2026 references and aligns with several related standards, including:

• IEC 60050-482: International Electrotechnical Vocabulary - Part 482: Primary and secondary cells and batteries (for terminology and definitions).
• IEC 61434: Guide to designation of current in alkaline secondary cell and battery standards.
• IEC 60417: Graphical symbols for use on equipment, ensuring proper battery labeling and instructions.
• Other relevant IEC standards for battery management systems and safety compliance.

Compliance with IEC 60623:2026 ensures manufacturers and users meet global requirements for industrial rechargeable NiCd batteries, facilitating international trade, system integration, and safety assurance.

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By adhering to IEC 60623:2026, organizations can enhance the reliability, safety, and interoperability of industrial battery systems, supporting a broad range of essential applications across multiple sectors.