The IEC 62133 test report is an internationally recognized proof of portable battery safety performance, providing crucial technical support for battery products entering global markets. With the popularity of mobile devices and the rapid growth of portable electronics, battery safety has become a global concern.

IEC 62133 is the International Electrotechnical Commission’s safety standard for portable sealed secondary batteries. Its test report serves as the international benchmark for measuring battery safety performance and is an essential technical document for manufacturers seeking global market access.

1. Overview of the IEC 62133 Standard

IEC 62133 is an international standard developed by the IEC for the safety requirements of portable sealed secondary batteries. The latest versions are:

• IEC 62133-1:2017 (Nickel-based batteries)
• IEC 62133-2:2017 (Lithium-based batteries)

The standard applies to portable sealed secondary battery cells and packs containing alkaline or other non-acidic electrolytes, covering lithium-ion, lithium-polymer, nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH), and nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries.

Since April 15, 2008, according to an IECEE AAG resolution, all single cells or portable rechargeable batteries composed of alkaline or non-acidic electrolytes must comply with IEC 62133 requirements.

2. Scope and Applicable Products

By chemical system:

• Lithium-ion batteries (lithium cobalt oxide, lithium manganese oxide, lithium iron phosphate, ternary materials, etc.)
• Lithium-polymer batteries
• Nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) batteries
• Nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries

By application:

• Batteries for smartphones, tablets, and laptops
• Batteries for portable medical devices
• Batteries for drones and portable tools
• Batteries for other portable electronic devices

3. Core Testing Items

Electrical Safety Tests

• Continuous low-rate charging: Fully charged cells are continuously charged for 28 days according to the manufacturer’s specifications
• External short circuit: Fully charged cells are short-circuited with a total resistance ≤100 mΩ at 20±5°C and 55±5°C
• Overcharge test: Evaluates the battery’s resistance to overcharging without fire or explosion
• Forced discharge test: Assesses safety under abnormal discharge conditions

Mechanical Safety Tests

• Crush test: Applies 13±1 kN of force to fully charged cells
• Free drop: Drops from 1.2 m onto a hard surface
• Mechanical shock: Tests the battery’s ability to withstand impacts
• Vibration test: Simulates transportation vibrations

Environmental Safety Tests

• Thermal abuse: Heats cells from room temperature to 130±2°C at 5±2°C/min and holds for 10 minutes
• Temperature cycling: Cycles between -40°C and 85°C
• Low-pressure test: Simulates high-altitude conditions

4. Testing Process and Sample Requirements

Process:

1. Application and consultation
2. Sample preparation
3. Document submission (specifications, circuit diagrams, etc.)
4. Laboratory testing
5. Report issuance

Sample quantity:

• Routine testing: 25-65 cells, 20-25 batteries
• Full testing: 30-40 cells, 20-30 batteries

5. Importance of the Test Report

Market access requirements:

• Mandatory for EU CE certification
• Important technical basis for Japan’s PSE certification
• Widely recognized in North America despite UL standards dominance
• Required documentation for e-commerce platforms (Amazon, TEMU)

Quality assurance:

• Validates safety performance through rigorous testing
• Helps identify and improve design flaws
• Enhances product quality and technical capabilities

Brand value:

• Increases consumer confidence in product safety
• Enhances brand image and competitiveness
• Provides technical differentiation

6. Standard Updates

2017 version updates:

• Split into two parts (nickel-based and lithium-based batteries)
• Added system-level safety requirements
• Strengthened protection circuit safety requirements
• Improved testing methods and criteria

2023 important revisions:

• Updated thermal abuse test requirements
• Strengthened battery management system requirements
• Improved safety assessment methods

7. Common Issues and Solutions

Typical failure modes:

• Crush test failure: Case rupture, especially with pouch cells
• Thermal abuse failure: Separator shrinkage causing internal short circuits
• Continuous charge failure: Leakage after 28-day charging

Solutions:

• Optimize structural design for better mechanical strength
• Use high-quality separator materials resistant to high temperatures
• Improve charging management systems

8. Selecting a Testing Laboratory

Key considerations:

• Qualification and capability: ISO 17025 accreditation, experienced technical team, and complete testing equipment
• Service quality: Reasonable turnaround time (typically 12–15 working days) and professional technical support
• Global recognition: Internationally recognized test reports and multi-country certification conversion services

Guangdong Energy Storage Testing Technology Co., Ltd. holds both CNAS L13753 and CMA (202019014977) accreditations, offering professional and efficient IEC 62133 testing services to help your products succeed in global markets.