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IEC 62133-1:2026 | Latest Update for Ni-MH Ni-Cd Battery Safety Standard

Editor:ESTL Category:Technical information Release time:2026-04-25 Click volume:22

IEC 62133-1:2026 was officially released in March 2026. As the first technical revision for portable sealed nickel-based rechargeable battery (Ni-MH / Ni-Cd) safety standards in nearly nine years, this update focuses on three major optimizations: streamlined terminology, quantified test conditions and refined illustrations, which further tighten the operability of safety access requirements.

1. Basic Standard Comparison

表格

Item IEC 62133-1:2017 (Old Version) IEC 62133-1:2026 (New Version)
Release Date February 2017 March 6, 2026
Edition 1st Edition (ED1) 2nd Edition (ED2)
Scope Portable sealed nickel-based cells and batteries with alkaline electrolytes, including button cells Same as the old version; covers Ni-MH and Ni-Cd rechargeable batteries for remote controls, toys, emergency lights and other portable devices
Core Orientation Separated from IEC 62133:2012, specifying independent safety requirements for nickel batteries Simplified definitions, quantified test parameters and eliminated ambiguous descriptions

2. Core Technical Differences

2.1 Streamlined Terminology & Definition

Three basic definitions have been removed.

  • Old version: Independent definitions for secondary battery, portable battery and portable cell.
  • New version: The above three redundant terms are deleted. The standard focuses more on safety specifications and test methods with simplified content.
  • Impact: The product application scope remains unchanged. Manufacturers do not need to adjust product classification but shall clarify the new citation logic.

2.2 Quantified Ambient Test Temperature (Clause 7.2.3)

Ambient temperature is upgraded from vague room temperature to a fixed range of 20°C±5°C.

  • Old version: No unified numerical requirement for room temperature in high-temperature shell stress tests, leading to inconsistent results.
  • New version: Unified temperature parameters greatly improve test repeatability and global data comparability.
  • Impact: Laboratories must calibrate test environments accordingly. Stable test data helps avoid repeated tests caused by temperature disputes.

2.3 Updated Temperature Cycle Diagram (Figure 1)

  • Old version: Simplified temperature cycle curve with unclear slope and time markers.
  • New version: Fully revised Figure 1 with detailed labeling of temperature rise/fall rates, constant temperature duration and switching nodes, fully aligned with Clause 7.2.3.
  • Impact: Reduced operational ambiguity and ensured unified test procedures worldwide.

2.4 No New Test Items; Core Safety Requirements Unchanged

Both new and old versions maintain the same test scope, including continuous charging, external short circuit, crush, drop, forced discharge and thermal abuse.The pass criteria (no fire, explosion or electrolyte leakage) remain consistent.No major adjustments to existing manufacturer test plans are required.

2.5 Optimized Document Structure & Tighter Compliance Logic

By removing redundant content and quantifying vague conditions, the new standard closes regulatory loopholes and enhances the enforcement of safety regulations, forming an invisible upgrade of compliance thresholds.

3. Summary

IEC 62133-1:2026 is a refined, non-disruptive revision for nickel-based batteries.There are no new safety test items, while terminology simplification, temperature quantification and drawing refinement greatly improve global test consistency.

For Ni-MH and Ni-Cd battery manufacturers, the transition cost is low and the upgrade is smooth. It is only necessary to complete environmental calibration and document updates to meet the latest international market access requirements.

Label: Ni-Cd rechargeable battery test portable sealed nickel battery Ni-MH battery safety standard IEC 62133-1 revision IEC 62133-1:2017 IEC 62133-1:2026
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