Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes - Sealed nickel-metal hydride cells and batteries for use in industrial applications - Part 1: Performance

IEC 63115-1:2020 specifies the marking, designation, tests and requirements for sealed nickel­metal hydride cells and batteries used in industrial applications, including stationary applications.
When an IEC International Standard specifying test conditions and requirements for cells used in special applications is in conflict with this document, the former takes precedence (e.g. IEC 62675).
The following are some examples of applications that utilize the cells and batteries falling under the scope of this document.
• Stationary applications: telecom, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), electrical energy storage system, utility switching, emergency power and similar applications.
• Motive applications: fork-lift truck, golf cart, AGV (Automatic Guided Vehicle), railway, and marine, excluding road vehicles.
Since this document covers batteries for various industrial applications, it includes those requirements that are common and minimum to the various applications.
This document applies to cells and batteries. If the battery is divided into smaller units, the smaller unit can be tested as representative of the battery. The manufacturer clearly declares the tested unit. The manufacturer can add functions to the tested unit that are present in the final battery.

Accumulateurs alcalins et autres accumulateurs à électrolyte non acide - Accumulateurs étanches au nickel-métal hydrure destinés à l'utilisation dans des applications industrielles - Partie 1: Performances

L'IEC 63115-1:2020 spécifie le marquage, la désignation, les essais et les exigences applicables aux éléments et batteries d'accumulateurs étanches au nickel-métal hydrure utilisés dans les applications industrielles, y compris les applications stationnaires.
Lorsqu'une Norme internationale IEC spécifiant des conditions d'essai et des exigences pour des éléments destinés à des applications particulières est en contradiction avec le présent document, c'est la publication particulière qui prévaut (par exemple, l'IEC 62675).
Quelques exemples d'applications utilisant les éléments et batteries d'accumulateurs relevant du domaine d'application du présent document sont cités ci-dessous.
• Applications stationnaires: télécommunication, alimentation sans interruption (ASI), système de stockage de l'énergie électrique, commutation de services publics, alimentation de secours et applications similaires.
• Applications mobiles: chariot élévateur à fourche, voiturette de golf, véhicule à guidage automatique (VGA), véhicules ferroviaires et maritimes, à l'exclusion des véhicules routiers.
Le présent document inclut les exigences communes et minimales pour plusieurs applications dans la mesure où elle traite des batteries destinées aux différentes applications industrielles.
Le présent document s'applique aux éléments et batteries d'accumulateurs. Si la batterie est constituée d'unités plus petites, l'une d'elles peut être considérée comme représentative de la batterie entière et être soumise à l'essai en tant que telle. Le fabricant déclare clairement l'unité soumise à l'essai. Le fabricant peut ajouter à cette unité d'autres fonctions présentes dans la batterie finale.

General Information

Status
Published
Publication Date
06-Nov-2022
Current Stage
PPUB - Publication issued
Start Date
20-Jan-2020
Completion Date
17-Jan-2020
Ref Project

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Standard
IEC 63115-1:2020 - Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes - Sealed nickel-metal hydride cells and batteries for use in industrial applications - Part 1: Performance
English and French language
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IEC 63115-1:2020+AMD1:2022 CSV - Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes - Sealed nickel-metal hydride cells and batteries for use in industrial applications - Part 1: Performance Released:11/7/2022
English and French language
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IEC 63115-1 ®
Edition 1.0 2020-01
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid
electrolytes – Sealed nickel-metal hydride cells and batteries for use
in industrial applications –
Part 1: Performance
Accumulateurs alcalins et autres accumulateurs à électrolyte non acide –
Accumulateurs étanches au nickel-métal hydrure destinés à l'utilisation
dans les applications industrielles –
Partie 1: Performances
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IEC 63115-1 ®
Edition 1.0 2020-01
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid

electrolytes – Sealed nickel-metal hydride cells and batteries for use

in industrial applications –
Part 1: Performance
Accumulateurs alcalins et autres accumulateurs à électrolyte non acide –

Accumulateurs étanches au nickel-métal hydrure destinés à l'utilisation

dans les applications industrielles –

Partie 1: Performances
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 29.220.30 ISBN 978-2-8322-7735-5

– 2 – IEC 63115-1:2020 © IEC 2020
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms and definitions . 7
4 Parameter measurement tolerances . 8
5 Marking and designation . 9
5.1 Marking . 9
5.2 Cell and monobloc designation . 9
5.3 Module, battery pack and battery system designation . 10
6 Dimensions. 11
6.1 Cylindrical cell . 11
6.2 Prismatic cell and monobloc. 11
6.3 Module, battery pack and battery system . 12
7 Electrical tests . 12
7.1 General . 12
7.2 Charging procedure for test purposes . 13
7.3 Discharge performance . 13
7.3.1 Discharge performance at 20 °C . 13
7.3.2 Discharge performance at 5 °C . 14
7.3.3 Discharge performance at −18 °C . 15
7.4 Charge (capacity) retention and recovery . 15
7.4.1 General . 15
7.4.2 Test method . 15
7.4.3 Acceptance criterion . 16
7.5 Endurance in cycles . 16
7.5.1 General . 16
7.5.2 Test method . 16
7.5.3 Acceptance criterion . 17
7.6 Internal resistance . 17
7.6.1 General . 17
7.6.2 Measurement of the internal AC resistance . 18
7.6.3 Measurement of the internal DC resistance . 18
7.7 Storage . 19
8 Type test conditions . 19
8.1 General . 19
8.2 Sample size . 19
8.3 Conditions for type approval . 22
8.3.1 Dimensions . 22
8.3.2 Electrical tests . 22
Annex A (informative) Battery structure information . 23
A.1 Example 1 . 23
A.2 Example 2 . 23
A.3 Example 3 . 23
A.4 Example 4 . 24
A.5 Example 5 . 24
A.6 Example 6 . 25

A.7 Example 7 . 25
A.8 Example 8 . 26
A.9 Example 9 . 27
Bibliography . 28

Figure 1 – Examples of maximum dimensions of a cylindrical cell . 11
Figure 2 – Examples of maximum dimensions of a prismatic cell and monobloc . 12
Figure 3 – Test sequence . 21
Figure A.1 – Structure 3S . 23
Figure A.2 – Structure 2P . 23
Figure A.3 – Structure 3S2P . 23
Figure A.4 – Structure 2P4S . 24
Figure A.5 – Structure 2P4S3P . 24
Figure A.6 – Structure (2P4S)3P . 25
Figure A.7 – Structure (3S2P)3P . 25
Figure A.8 – Structure (5S)4S . 26
Figure A.9 – Structure ((3S2P)3P)2S . 27

Table 1 – Marking per item type . 9
Table 2 – Discharge performance at 20 °C ± 5 °C . 14
Table 3 – Discharge performance at 5 °C ± 5 °C . 14
Table 4 – Discharge performance at −18 °C ± 5 °C . 15
Table 5 – Endurance test in cycles . 17
Table 6 – Discharge current applied during the measurement of the internal DC
resistance . 18
Table 7 – Sample size for type tests . 20

– 4 – IEC 63115-1:2020 © IEC 2020
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
SECONDARY CELLS AND BATTERIES CONTAINING
ALKALINE OR OTHER NON-ACID ELECTROLYTES –
SEALED NICKEL-METAL HYDRIDE CELLS AND
BATTERIES FOR USE IN INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS –

Part 1: Performance
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
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
this end and in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications,
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Publication(s)"). Their preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested
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with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
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3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
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services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
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Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 63115-1 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/716/FDIS 21A/720/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.
A list of all parts in the IEC 63115, published under the general title Secondary cells and
batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes – Sealed nickel-metal hydride cells
and batteries for use in industrial applications, 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.
IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct
understanding of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a
colour printer.
– 6 – IEC 63115-1:2020 © IEC 2020
SECONDARY CELLS AND BATTERIES CONTAINING
ALKALINE OR OTHER NON-ACID ELECTROLYTES –
SEALED NICKEL-METAL HYDRIDE CELLS AND
BATTERIES FOR USE IN INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS –

Part 1: Performance
1 Scope
This document specifies the marking, designation, tests and requirements for sealed
nickel-metal hydride cells and batteries used in industrial applications, including stationary
applications.
When an IEC International Standard specifying test conditions and requirements for cells
used in special applications is in conflict with this document, the former takes precedence (e.g.
IEC 62675).
The following are some examples of applications that utilize the cells and batteries falling
under the scope of this document.
• Stationary applications: telecom, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), electrical energy
storage system, utility switching, emergency power and similar applications.
• Motive applications: fork-lift truck, golf cart, AGV (Automatic Guided Vehicle), railway, and
marine, excluding road vehicles.
Since this document covers batteries for various industrial applications, it includes those
requirements that are common and minimum to the various applications.
This document applies to cells and batteries. If the battery is divided into smaller units, the
smaller unit can be tested as representative of the battery. The manufacturer clearly declares
the tested unit. The manufacturer can add functions to the tested unit that are present in the
final battery.
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 60050-482:2004, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) – Part 482: Primary and
Secondary cells and batteries
IEC 61434:1996, Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid
electrolytes – Guide to the designation of current in alkaline secondary cell and battery
standards
IEC 62675:2014, Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid
electrolytes – Sealed nickel-metal hydride prismatic rechargeable single cells
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
cell
sealed nickel metal hydride cell
cell containing a nickel hydroxide compound for the positive electrode, a hydrogen absorbing
alloy for the negative electrode, and potassium hydroxide or other alkaline solution as
electrolyte, and not releasing either gas or liquid when operated within the limits specified by
the manufacturer
Note 1 to entry: A sealed cell may be equipped with a safety device to prevent a dangerously high internal
pressure and is designed to operate during its life in its original sealed state. See IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-05-17.
3.2
monobloc
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
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-02-17, modified – "battery" has been omitted from the
term and the note to entry deleted.]
3.3
module ,
group of cells connected together either in series and/or parallel configuration with or without
protective devices (e.g. fuse or PTC) and monitoring circuitry
3.4
battery pack
energy storage device comprised of one or more cells, monoblocs or modules electrically
connected
Note 1 to entry: A battery pack may have a monitoring circuitry which provides information (e.g. cell voltage) to a
battery system.
3.5
battery system
battery
system which comprises one or more cells, cell blocks, monoblocs, modules or battery packs
Note 1 to entry: The battery system has a battery management system to cut off current in case of overcharge,
overcurrent, overdischarge, or overheating.
Note 2 to entry: Overdischarge cut off is not mandatory if there is an agreement on this between the cell
manufacturer and the customer.
Note 3 to entry: The battery system may have cooling or heating units.
Note 4 to entry: The battery system may be enclosed in a battery box.

– 8 – IEC 63115-1:2020 © IEC 2020
3.6
battery management system
BMS
electronic system associated with a battery which has functions to cut off in case of
overcharge, overcurrent, overdischarge, or overheating
Note 1 to entry: The BMS 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 2 to entry: The BMS is sometimes also referred to as a BMU (battery management unit).
Note 3 to entry: This note applies to the French language only.
3.7
final voltage
specified voltage of a battery at which the battery discharge is terminated
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-03-30, modified – The synonyms "end-of-discharge
voltage", "cut-off voltage" and "end-point voltage" have been omitted.]
3.8
nominal voltage
suitable approximate value of the voltage used to designate or identify the voltage of a cell or
battery
Note 1 to entry: The nominal voltage of a sealed nickel-metal hydride single cell is 1,2 V.
Note 2 to entry: The nominal voltage of a battery of n series connected cells is equal to n times the nominal
voltage of a single cell.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-03-31, modified – The words "the voltage of" have been
added; the notes to entry have been added and the reference to electrochemical systems has
been omitted.]
3.9
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
manufacturer which a cell or battery can deliver during a 5 h period when charging, storing and discharging under
the conditions specified in 7.3.1.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-03-15, modified – "cell" has been added to the definition,
along with a note to entry.]
4 Parameter measurement tolerances
The overall accuracy of controlled or measured values, relative to the specified or actual
values, shall be within the following tolerances:
a) ± 1 % for voltage;
b) ± 1 % for current;
c) ± 1 % for capacity;
d) ± 2 °C for temperature;
e) ± 0,1 % for time.
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 each report of results.
5 Marking and designation
5.1 Marking
The marking information per item is shown in Table 1. Each part that is installed or
maintained shall carry clear and durable markings giving the specified information.
If there are designations on a battery system, battery pack or module and if full traceability of
all parts can be ensured by the battery system manufacturer, designations are not necessary
on inner parts. This applies only to battery systems maintained at the battery system
manufacturer's location.
However, for a transportable unit (i.e. a unit that is being shipped), it is necessary to provide
the marking information on the main transportable unit. Furthermore, if there is an
arrangement between the purchaser and the manufacturer as regards marking, the unit shall
comply with that arrangement.
Table 1 – Marking per item type
Marking information Cell or Module or Battery
monobloc battery pack system
Secondary sealed nickel-metal hydride battery or Ni-MH R R R
Polarity R R R
Date of manufacture (which may be in code) R R R
Name or identification of manufacturer or supplier R R R
Rated capacity R R R
Nominal voltage R R R
Appropriate warning statement (including disposal instruction) R R R
Cell designation as specified in 5.2 R -- --
Battery structure as specified in 5.3 -- R R
NOTE "R" = required;
"--" = unnecessary or not applicable

5.2 Cell and monobloc designation
Sealed nickel-metal hydride cells and monoblocs shall be designated with following form:
HA N S A
1 1 1 2
where
A designates the shape of the cell or monobloc in which:
R is cylindrical;
P is prismatic.
A designates the rate capability of the cell in which:
– 10 – IEC 63115-1:2020 © IEC 2020
L is a low rate of discharge type;
M is a medium rate of discharge type;
H is a high rate of discharge type;
X is a very high rate of discharge type.
NOTE These cells are typically but not exclusively used for the following discharge rates:
L up to 0,5 I A,
t
M up to 3,5 I A,
t
H up to 7,0 I A,
t
X over 7,0 I A.
t
N is the group of figures indicative of the rated capacity of the cell, regardless whether a cell
or monobloc is being marked per Table 1 – Marking per item type.
S is the monobloc structure formulation (in the case of a cell, S is not shown):
1 1
a) it describes the number of cells in the minimum constitutive entity and on the right side of
the number, it describes their connection mode in series (S) or in parallel (P).
See Clause A.1 and Clause A.2 in Annex A.
b) in the event that the minimum constitutive entities are connected in series or in parallel, it
describes the number of minimum constitutive entities, and on the right side of the
number, it describes their connection mode in series (S) or in parallel (P).
See Clause A.3 and Clause A.4 in Annex A.
EXAMPLE 1 "HR75H" would designate a cylindrical sealed nickel-metal hydride cell. Its rated capacity is 75 Ah.
It is designed for high discharge rate.
EXAMPLE 2 "HP95M" would designate a prismatic sealed nickel-metal hydride cell. Its rated capacity is 95 Ah. It
is designed for medium discharge rate.
EXAMPLE 3 "HP34[2P5S]H" would designate a monobloc composed of 5S connected prismatic sealed nickel-
metal hydride 2P cells. Its rated capacity is 68 Ah. It is designed for high discharge rate.
EXAMPLE 4 "HP100[10S]L" would designate a battery composed of 10S connected prismatic sealed nickel-
metal hydride monobloc. Its rated capacity is 100 Ah. It is designed for low discharge rate.
5.3 Module, battery pack and battery system designation
Sealed nickel-metal hydride modules, battery packs and battery systems shall be designated
with following form:
HA T N S A
1 1 1 2 2
where
T designates the item type of Table 1 in which:
O is module, in this case N is cell capacity;
Q is battery pack, in this case N is battery pack capacity;
Y is battery system, in this case N is battery system capacity;
S is the battery structure formulation.

The battery designation should include the breakdown structure of the battery. The descriptive
path followed to formulate the battery is from the smallest entity to the largest one:
a) refer to 5.2;
b) refer to 5.3;
c) in the case of larger constitutive entities, the battery designation describes the symbols on
the right side in the same way as mentioned above.
When some constitutive entities can be separated for ease of handling or transportation,
these entities can be distinguished from other entities by bracketing.
Some examples are shown in Clause A.6 to Clause A.9 of Annex A.
EXAMPLE 1 "HRO75H" would designate a cylindrical sealed nickel-metal hydride module. Its rated capacity is
75 Ah. It is designed for a high discharge rate.
EXAMPLE 2 "HPY34[(10S )68S]H" would designate a prismatic sealed nickel-metal hydride battery system. Its
rated capacity is 34 Ah. It is designed for a high discharge rate.
EXAMPLE 3 "HRO540[6P4S]L" would designate a module composed of 4S connected cylindrical sealed
nickel-metal hydride 6P cells. Its rated capacity is 540 Ah as it comprises a 6P, 90 Ah capacity cell. It is designed
for a low discharge rate.
6 Dimensions
6.1 Cylindrical cell
There are no monoblocs with a cylindrical cell. See Figure 1 for examples of maximum
dimensions.
Key
A total width
B total thickness
C diameter
D total length (including terminals)
E total length (excluding terminals)
Figure 1 – Examples of maximum dimensions of a cylindrical cell
6.2 Prismatic cell and monobloc
Refer to IEC 62675:2014, Clause 6. See Figure 2 for examples of maximum dimensions.

– 12 – IEC 63115-1:2020 © IEC 2020

Key
A total width
B total thickness
C diameter
D total length (including terminals)
E total length (excluding terminals)
Figure 2 – Examples of maximum dimensions of a prismatic cell and monobloc
6.3 Module, battery pack and battery system
Dimensions are defined as per the agreement between the user and manufacturer and shall
be stated in the manufacturer's documents.
7 Electrical tests
7.1 General
Electrical tests are applied to cells and/or batteries. If the battery is divided into smaller units,
the unit can be tested as representative of the battery. The manufacturer shall clearly declare
the tested unit. The manufacturer may add to the tested unit, functions which are present in
the final battery.
Charge and discharge currents for the tests in accordance with Clause 7 shall be based on
the rated capacity (C Ah). These currents are expressed as multiples of I A, where
5 t
I A = C Ah/1 h (refer to IEC 61434:1996).
t 5
NOTE In the case of parallel arrangement in a battery system, the total capacity is considered; for example, the
designation "HRO540[6P4S]L" of EXAMPLE 3 in 5.3 has 540 Ah capacity, even if cells have 90 Ah capacity.
In all tests, except where noted, no leakage of electrolyte in liquid form shall be observed for
the test to be acceptable.
A cooling device may be necessary according to manufacturer's instructions. When the
temperature on the cell reaches 70 °C, the charge or discharge should be discontinued.
In all electrical tests, a safety pressure plate may be used on the outer surface of the cell to
prevent a deformation of the cell case.
The manufacturer can use "monobloc(s)" instead of "cell(s)" for any test that specifies "cell(s)"
as the test unit in this document. The cell manufacturer shall clearly declare the test unit for
each test.
7.2 Charging procedure for test purposes
Prior to charging, the cells or batteries shall be discharged at 20 °C ± 5 °C at a constant
current of 0,2 I A down to 1,0 V/cell.
t
Unless otherwise stated in this document, cells or batteries shall be charged in an ambient
temperature of 20 °C ± 5 °C using the method as follows.
The charge shall be carried out at constant current throughout, in accordance with the
conditions specified by cell types as follows.
1) For cells designed for slow charging, the charging procedure for test purposes shall be
carried out at a constant current of 0,1 I A for between 10 h and 16 h (duration to be
t
declared by manufacturer in in the test report).
2) For all other cells, charge shall be carried out under condition (a), (b) or (c).
a) First at a constant current of 0,2 I A for 4 h, then at a constant current of 0,1 I A for 3 h
t t
to 4 h (3 h can be reduced as per the manufacturer's requirements, then apply all tests
in this document). The duration of the charge shall therefore be 7 h to 8 h.
b) First at a constant current of 0,2 I A for 4 h 30 min, then at a constant current of
t
0,05 I A for 3 h to 4 h. The duration of the charge shall therefore be 7 h 30 min to
t
8 h 30 min.
c) First at a constant current of 0,2 I A, for 5 h, then at a constant current of 0,1 I A, for
t t
up to 2 h.
7.3 Discharge performance
7.3.1 Discharge performance at 20 °C
7.3.1.1 General
This test verifies the rated capacity of the cell or battery.
7.3.1.2 Test method
Step 1: The cell or battery shall be fully charged in accordance with 7.2.
Step 2: The cell or battery shall be stored in an ambient temperature of 20 °C ± 5 °C, for not
less than 1 h and not more than 4 h.
Step 3: The cell or battery shall then be discharged in the same ambient temperature and with
a current as specified in Table 2.
7.3.1.3 Acceptance criteria
The duration of discharge time, delivered during step 3 shall be not less than the minimum
specified in Table 2.
– 14 – IEC 63115-1:2020 © IEC 2020
Table 2 – Discharge performance at 20 °C ± 5 °C
Discharge conditions Minimum discharge duration
Rate of constant
Final voltage Cell designation
current
I A V/cell L M H X
t
a
0,2 1,0 5 h 5 h 5 h 5 h
1,0 1,0 38 min 48 min 54 min
b
5,0 0,8 2 min 30 s 6 min 30 s
b
10,0 0,8 1 min 30 s
a
Ten cycles are permitted for this test. The test shall, however, be terminated at the end of the first cycle
of each cell or battery which meets the requirements.
b
Before the discharge tests of 5 I A and 10 I A, a conditioning cycle may be included, if necessary. This
t t
cycle shall consist of charging and discharging in accordance with 6.2.

7.3.2 Discharge performance at 5 °C
7.3.2.1 General
This test verifies the discharge performance at 5 °C of the cell or battery. It shall be measured
in accordance with the following steps.
7.3.2.2 Test method
Step 1: The cell or battery shall be fully charged in accordance with 7.2.
Step 2: The cell or battery shall be stored for not less than 16 h and not more than 24 h at an
ambient test temperature of 5 °C.
Step 3: The cell or battery shall then be discharged at 5 °C, at the discharge rates and at the
final voltage specified in Table 3.
7.3.2.3 Acceptance criterion
The capacity (time), delivered during step 3 shall be not less than that specified for this
characteristic in Table 3 in any discharge current.
Table 3 – Discharge performance at 5 °C ± 5 °C
Discharge conditions Minimum discharge duration
Rate of constant
Final voltage Cell designation
current
I A V/cell L M H X
t
a
0,2 1,0 3 h 24 min 3 h 42 min 3 h 54 min 4 h 18 min

1,0 1,0 25 min 36 min 44 min
b
2,0 1,0  10 min 18 min 30 s
b
3,0 0,8  10 min 30 s
a
Ten cycles are permitted for this test which shall, however, be terminated at the end of the first cycle of each
cell or battery which meets the requirement.
b
Before the 2,0 I A and 3,0 I A discharge tests, a conditioning cycle may be included if necessary. This cycle
t t
shall consist of charging and discharging in accordance with 6.2 and 6.3.1.

7.3.3 Discharge performance at −18 °C
7.3.3.1 General
The test verifies the discharge performance of the cell or battery at −18 °C. It shall be
measured in accordance with the following steps.
7.3.3.2 Test method
Step 1: The cell or battery shall be fully charged in accordance with 7.2.
Step 2: The cell or battery shall be stored for not less than 16 h and not more than 24 h at an
ambient test temperature of −18 °C.
Step 3: The cell or battery shall then be discharged at −18 °C, at the discharge rates and at
the final voltage specified in Table 4.
7.3.3.3 Acceptance criterion
The capacity (time taken) for the discharge carried out in step 3 shall be not less than that
specified for this characteristic in Table 4, for any discharge current.
Table 4 – Discharge performance at −18 °C ± 5 °C
Discharge conditions Minimum discharge duration
Rate of constant
Final voltage Cell designation
current
I A V/cell L M H X
t
a
0,2 1,0 2 h 8 min 2 h 24 min 2 h 39 min 2 h 54 min

1,0 0,9 12 min 21 min 27 min
2,0 0,9  6 min 9 min
3,0 0,8  4 min
a
Ten cycles are permitted for this test. The test shall, however, be terminated at the end of the first cycle
of each cell or battery which meets the requirement.

7.4 Charge (capacity) retention and recovery
7.4.1 General
This test determines firstly the capacity that a cell retains after storage for an extended period
of time, and secondly, the capacity that can be recovered by a subsequent recharge.
7.4.2 Test method
Step 1: The cell shall be charged in accordance with 7.2.
Step 2: The cell shall be stored in an ambient temperature of 20 °C ± 5 °C, for 28 days.
Step 3: The cell shall be discharged in accordance with step 3 at a constant current of 0,2 I A,
t
specified in 7.3.1.
Step 4: The cell shall then be charged in accordance with 7.2 within 24 h following the
discharge of step 3.
– 16 – IEC 63115-1:2020 © IEC 2020
Step 5: The cell shall be stored in an ambient temperature of 20 °C ± 5 °C for not less than
1 h and not more than 4 h.
Step 6: The cell shall be discharged in accordance with step 3 at a constant current of 0,2 I A,
t
specified in 7.3.1.
7.4.3 Acceptance criterion
The charge retention value which is the value of the discharged capacity obtained in step 3
shall be not less than 4 h.
The charge recovery value which is the value of the discharged capacity obtained in step 6
shall be not less than 4,5 h.
7.5 Endurance in cycles
7.5.1 General
Execute this test on cells or batteries which are designed for cycling applications.
This test verifies the capacity of the cell or battery to endure charge/discharge cycles before
its useful capacity is significantly depleted.
The endurance test shall be carried out in an ambient temperature of 20 °C ± 5 °C.
Precautions shall be taken to prevent the cell case temperature from rising above +40 °C
during the test, for example by providing a forced air draught or applying cooling according to
the manufacturer's recommendation.
Before the first cycle, the cell or battery shall have been discharged at a constant current of
0,2 I A down to a final voltage of 1,0 V/cell.
t
The capacity after endurance cycling shall be measured in accordance with 7.5.2 and 7.5.3.
7.5.2 Test method
In order to confirm the cycling characteristic for cells or batteries, one of the following
procedures given in Table 5 shall be carried out. Cycling shall be continuous except that it is
permissible to allow the cell or battery to stand for a short period at the end of discharge of
th th
and 50 cycle in order to start the next 50-cycle sequence at a convenient time.
each 49
Table 5 – Endurance test in cycles
Cycle number Test Charge Discharge
charging
condition
1 1 0,10 I A for 16 h 0,25 I A for 2 h 20 min
t t
2-(a) 0,20 I A for 4 h, then 0,1 I A for 3 h to 4 h
t t
2-(b) 0,20 I A for 4 h 30 min, then 0,05 I A for 3 h
t t
2-(c) 0,20 I A for 5 h, then 0,1 I A for 2 h
t t
2 to 48 1 0,25 I A for 3 h 10 min 0,25 I A for 2 h 20 min
t t
2-(a) 0,25 I A for 2,5 h, then 0,05 I A for 40 min
t t
2-(b) 0,25 I A for 2 h 15 min, then 0,05 I A for 2 h
t t
2-(c) 0,25 I A for 2 h 30 min, then 0,1 I A for 10 min
t t
49 1 0,25 I A for 3 h 10 min 0,2 I A to 1,0 V
t t
2-(a) 0,25 I A for 2,5 h, then 0,05 I A for 40 min
t t
2-(b) 0,25 I A for 2 h 15 min, then 0,05 I A for 2 h
t t
2-(c) 0,25 I A for 2 h 30 min, then 0,1 I A for 10 min
t t
50 1 0,10 I A for 16 h 0,2 I A to 1,0 V
t t
2-(a) 0,20 I A for 4 h, then 0,1 I A for 3 h to 4 h
t t
2-(b) 0,20 I A for 4 h 30 min, then 0,05 I A for 3 h
t t
2-(c) 0,20 I A for 5 h, then 0,1 I A for 2 h
t t
7.5.3 Acceptance criterion
Cycles 1 to 50 shall be repeated until the total
...


IEC 63115-1 ®
Edition 1.1 2022-11
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes
– Sealed nickel-metal hydride cells and batteries for use in industrial
applications –
Part 1: Performance
Accumulateurs alcalins et autres accumulateurs à électrolyte non acide –
Accumulateurs étanches au nickel-métal hydrure destinés à l'utilisation dans les
applications industrielles –
Partie 1: Performances
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IEC 63115-1 ®
Edition 1.1 2022-11
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes
– Sealed nickel-metal hydride cells and batteries for use in industrial
applications –
Part 1: Performance
Accumulateurs alcalins et autres accumulateurs à électrolyte non acide –
Accumulateurs étanches au nickel-métal hydrure destinés à l'utilisation dans
les applications industrielles –
Partie 1: Performances
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 29.220.30 ISBN 978-2-8322-6046-3

IEC 63115-1 ®
Edition 1.1 2022-11
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
REDLINE VERSION
VERSION REDLINE
colour
inside
Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes
– Sealed nickel-metal hydride cells and batteries for use in industrial
applications –
Part 1: Performance
Accumulateurs alcalins et autres accumulateurs à électrolyte non acide –
Accumulateurs étanches au nickel-métal hydrure destinés à l'utilisation dans les
applications industrielles –
Partie 1: Performances
– 2 – IEC 63115-1:2020+AMD1:2022 CSV
© IEC 2022
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms and definitions . 7
4 Parameter measurement tolerances . 8
5 Marking and designation . 9
5.1 Marking . 9
5.2 Cell and monobloc designation . 9
5.3 Module, battery pack and battery system designation . 10
6 Dimensions. 11
6.1 Cylindrical cell . 11
6.2 Prismatic cell and monobloc. 11
6.3 Module, battery pack and battery system . 12
7 Electrical tests . 12
7.1 General . 12
7.2 Charging procedure for test purposes . 13
7.3 Discharge performance . 13
7.3.1 Discharge performance at 20 °C . 13
7.3.2 Discharge performance at 5 °C . 14
7.3.3 Discharge performance at −18 °C . 15
7.4 Charge (capacity) retention and recovery . 15
7.4.1 General . 15
7.4.2 Test method . 15
7.4.3 Acceptance criterion . 16
7.5 Endurance in cycles . 16
7.5.1 General . 16
7.5.2 Test method . 16
7.5.3 Acceptance criterion . 17
7.6 Internal resistance . 17
7.6.1 General . 17
7.6.2 Measurement of the internal AC resistance . 18
7.6.3 Measurement of the internal DC resistance . 18
7.7 Storage . 19
8 Type test conditions . 19
8.1 General . 19
8.2 Sample size . 19
8.3 Conditions for type approval . 22
8.3.1 Dimensions . 22
8.3.2 Electrical tests . 22
Annex A (informative) Battery structure information . 23
A.1 Example 1 . 23
A.2 Example 2 . 23
A.3 Example 3 . 23
A.4 Example 4 . 24
A.5 Example 5 . 24

© IEC 2022
A.6 Example 6 . 25
A.7 Example 7 . 25
A.8 Example 8 . 26
A.9 Example 9 . 27
Bibliography . 28

Figure 1 – Examples of maximum dimensions of a cylindrical cell . 11
Figure 2 – Examples of maximum dimensions of a prismatic cell and monobloc . 12
Figure 3 – Test sequence . 21
Figure A.1 – Structure 3S . 23
Figure A.2 – Structure 2P . 23
Figure A.3 – Structure 3S2P . 23
Figure A.4 – Structure 2P4S . 24
Figure A.5 – Structure 2P4S3P . 24
Figure A.6 – Structure (2P4S)3P . 25
Figure A.7 – Structure (3S2P)3P . 25
Figure A.8 – Structure (5S)4S . 26
Figure A.9 – Structure ((3S2P)3P)2S . 27

Table 1 – Marking per item type . 9
Table 2 – Discharge performance at 20 °C ± 5 °C . 14
Table 3 – Discharge performance at 5 °C ± 5 °C . 14
Table 4 – Discharge performance at −18 °C ± 5 °C . 15
Table 5 – Endurance test in cycles . 17
Table 6 – Discharge current applied during the measurement of the internal DC

resistance . 18
Table 7 – Sample size for type tests . 20

– 4 – IEC 63115-1:2020+AMD1:2022 CSV
© IEC 2022
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
SECONDARY CELLS AND BATTERIES CONTAINING
ALKALINE OR OTHER NON-ACID ELECTROLYTES –
SEALED NICKEL-METAL HYDRIDE CELLS AND
BATTERIES FOR USE IN INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS –

Part 1: Performance
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
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
this end and in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications,
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Publication(s)"). Their preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested
in the subject dealt with may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-
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with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
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between any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in
the latter.
5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of conformity. IEC is not responsible for any
services carried out by independent certification bodies.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
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Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This consolidated version of the official IEC Standard and its amendment has been
prepared for user convenience.
IEC 63115-1 edition 1.1 contains the first edition (2020-01) [documents 21A/716/FDIS
and 21A/720/RVD] and its amendment 1 (2022-11) [documents 21A/811/FDIS and
21A/820/RVD].
In this Redline version, a vertical line in the margin shows where the technical content
is modified by amendment 1. Additions are in green text, deletions are in strikethrough
red text. A separate Final version with all changes accepted is available in this
publication.
© IEC 2022
International Standard IEC 63115-1 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.
This document has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
A list of all parts in the IEC 63115, published under the general title Secondary cells and
batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes – Sealed nickel-metal hydride cells
and batteries for use in industrial applications, can be found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of the base publication and its amendment will
remain unchanged until the stability date indicated on the IEC web site under webstore.iec.ch
in the data related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct
understanding of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a
colour printer.
– 6 – IEC 63115-1:2020+AMD1:2022 CSV
© IEC 2022
SECONDARY CELLS AND BATTERIES CONTAINING
ALKALINE OR OTHER NON-ACID ELECTROLYTES –
SEALED NICKEL-METAL HYDRIDE CELLS AND
BATTERIES FOR USE IN INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS –

Part 1: Performance
1 Scope
This document specifies the marking, designation, tests and requirements for sealed
nickel-metal hydride cells and batteries used in industrial applications, including stationary
applications.
When an IEC International Standard specifying test conditions and requirements for cells
used in special applications is in conflict with this document, the former takes precedence (e.g.
IEC 62675).
The following are some examples of applications that utilize the cells and batteries falling
under the scope of this document.
• Stationary applications: telecom, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), electrical energy
storage system, utility switching, emergency power and similar applications.
• Motive applications: fork-lift truck, golf cart, AGV (Automatic Guided Vehicle), railway, and
marine, excluding road vehicles.
Since this document covers batteries for various industrial applications, it includes those
requirements that are common and minimum to the various applications.
This document applies to cells and batteries. If the battery is divided into smaller units, the
smaller unit can be tested as representative of the battery. The manufacturer clearly declares
the tested unit. The manufacturer can add functions to the tested unit that are present in the
final battery.
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 60050-482:2004, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) – Part 482: Primary and
Secondary cells and batteries
IEC 61434:1996, Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid
electrolytes – Guide to the designation of current in alkaline secondary cell and battery
standards
IEC 62675:2014, Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid
electrolytes – Sealed nickel-metal hydride prismatic rechargeable single cells
ISO/IEC Guide 51, Safety aspects – Guidelines for their inclusion in standards

© IEC 2022
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
cell
sealed nickel metal hydride cell
cell containing a nickel hydroxide compound for the positive electrode, a hydrogen absorbing
alloy for the negative electrode, and potassium hydroxide or other alkaline solution as
electrolyte, and not releasing either gas or liquid when operated within the limits specified by
the manufacturer
Note 1 to entry: A sealed cell may be equipped with a safety device to prevent a dangerously high internal
pressure and is designed to operate during its life in its original sealed state. See IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-05-17.
3.2
monobloc
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
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-02-17, modified – "battery" has been omitted from the
term and the note to entry deleted.]
3.3
module ,
group of cells connected together either in series and/or parallel configuration with or without
protective devices (e.g. fuse or PTC) and monitoring circuitry
3.4
battery pack
energy storage device comprised of one or more cells, monoblocs or modules electrically
connected
Note 1 to entry: A battery pack may have a monitoring circuitry which provides information (e.g. cell voltage) to a
battery system.
3.5
battery system
battery
system which comprises one or more cells, cell blocks, monoblocs, modules or battery packs
Note 1 to entry: The battery system has a battery management system to cut off current in case of overcharge,
overcurrent, overdischarge, or overheating.
Note 2 to entry: Overdischarge cut off is not mandatory if there is an agreement on this between the cell
manufacturer and the customer.
Note 3 to entry: The battery system may have cooling or heating units.
Note 4 to entry: The battery system may be enclosed in a battery box.

– 8 – IEC 63115-1:2020+AMD1:2022 CSV
© IEC 2022
3.6
battery management system
BMS
electronic system associated with a battery which has functions to cut off in case of
overcharge, overcurrent, overdischarge, or overheating
Note 1 to entry: The BMS 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 2 to entry: The BMS is sometimes also referred to as a BMU (battery management unit).
Note 3 to entry: This note applies to the French language only.
3.7
final voltage
specified voltage of a battery at which the battery discharge is terminated
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-03-30, modified – The synonyms "end-of-discharge
voltage", "cut-off voltage" and "end-point voltage" have been omitted.]
3.8
nominal voltage
suitable approximate value of the voltage used to designate or identify the voltage of a cell or
battery
Note 1 to entry: The nominal voltage of a sealed nickel-metal hydride single cell is 1,2 V.
Note 2 to entry: The nominal voltage of a battery of n series connected cells is equal to n times the nominal
voltage of a single cell.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-03-31, modified – The words "the voltage of" have been
added; the notes to entry have been added and the reference to electrochemical systems has
been omitted.]
3.9
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
manufacturer which a cell or battery can deliver during a 5 h period when charging, storing and discharging under
the conditions specified in 7.3.1.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-482:2004, 482-03-15, modified – "cell" has been added to the definition,
along with a note to entry.]
4 Parameter measurement tolerances
The overall accuracy of controlled or measured values, relative to the specified or actual
values, shall be within the following tolerances:
a) ± 1 % for voltage;
b) ± 1 % for current;
c) ± 1 % for capacity;
d) ± 2 °C for temperature;
e) ± 0,1 % for time.
These tolerances comprise the combined accuracy of the measuring instruments, the
measurement techniques used and all other sources of error in the test procedure.

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The details of the instrumentation used shall be provided in each report of results.
5 Marking and designation
5.1 Marking
The marking information per item is shown in Table 1. Each part that is installed or
maintained shall carry clear and durable markings giving the specified information.
If there are designations on a battery system, battery pack or module and if full traceability of
all parts can be ensured by the battery system manufacturer, designations are not necessary
on inner parts. This applies only to battery systems maintained at the battery system
manufacturer's location.
However, for a transportable unit (i.e. a unit that is being shipped), it is necessary to provide
the marking information on the main transportable unit. Furthermore, if there is an
arrangement between the purchaser and the manufacturer as regards marking, the unit shall
comply with that arrangement.
Table 1 – Marking per item type
Marking information Cell or Module or Battery
monobloc battery pack system
Secondary sealed nickel-metal hydride battery or Ni-MH R R R
Polarity R R R
Date of manufacture (which may be in code) R R R
Name or identification of manufacturer or supplier R R R
Rated capacity R R R
Nominal voltage R R R
Appropriate warning statement (including disposal instruction) R R R
Cell designation as specified in 5.2 R -- --
Battery structure as specified in 5.3 -- R R
NOTE "R" = required;
"--" = unnecessary or not applicable

5.2 Cell and monobloc designation
Sealed nickel-metal hydride cells and monoblocs shall be designated with following form:
HA N S A
1 1 1 2
where
A designates the shape of the cell or monobloc in which:
R is cylindrical;
P is prismatic.
A designates the rate capability of the cell in which:
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© IEC 2022
L is a low rate of discharge type;
M is a medium rate of discharge type;
H is a high rate of discharge type;
X is a very high rate of discharge type.
NOTE These cells are typically but not exclusively used for the following discharge rates:
L up to 0,5 I A,
t
M up to 3,5 I A,
t
H up to 7,0 I A,
t
X over 7,0 I A.
t
N is the group of figures indicative of the rated capacity of the cell, regardless whether a cell
or monobloc is being marked per Table 1 – Marking per item type.
S is the monobloc structure formulation (in the case of a cell, S is not shown):
1 1
a) it describes the number of cells in the minimum constitutive entity and on the right side of
the number, it describes their connection mode in series (S) or in parallel (P).
See Clause A.1 and Clause A.2 in Annex A.
b) in the event that the minimum constitutive entities are connected in series or in parallel, it
describes the number of minimum constitutive entities, and on the right side of the
number, it describes their connection mode in series (S) or in parallel (P).
See Clause A.3 and Clause A.4 in Annex A.
EXAMPLE 1 "HR75H" would designate a cylindrical sealed nickel-metal hydride cell. Its rated capacity is 75 Ah.
It is designed for high discharge rate.
EXAMPLE 2 "HP95M" would designate a prismatic sealed nickel-metal hydride cell. Its rated capacity is 95 Ah. It
is designed for medium discharge rate.
EXAMPLE 3 "HP34[2P5S]H" would designate a monobloc composed of 5S connected prismatic sealed nickel-
metal hydride 2P cells. Its rated capacity is 68 Ah. It is designed for high discharge rate.
EXAMPLE 4 "HP100[10S]L" would designate a battery composed of 10S connected prismatic sealed nickel-
metal hydride monobloc. Its rated capacity is 100 Ah. It is designed for low discharge rate.
5.3 Module, battery pack and battery system designation
Sealed nickel-metal hydride modules, battery packs and battery systems shall be designated
with the following form:
HA T N S A
1 1 1 2 2
where
T designates the item type of Table 1 in which:
O is module, in this case N is cell capacity;
Q is battery pack, in this case N is battery pack capacity;
Y is battery system, in this case N is battery system capacity;.
S is the battery structure formulation.

The battery designation should include the breakdown structure of the battery. The descriptive
path followed to formulate the battery is from the smallest entity to the largest one:
a) refer to 5.2;
b) refer to 5.3;
© IEC 2022
c)b) in the case of larger constitutive entities, the battery designation describes the symbols
on the right side of the number in the same way as mentioned above in 5.2 a) and 5.2 b).
When some constitutive entities can be separated for ease of handling or transportation,
these entities can be distinguished from other entities by bracketing.
Some examples are shown in Clause A.6 to Clause A.9 of Annex A.
EXAMPLE 1 "HRO75H" would designate a cylindrical sealed nickel-metal hydride module. Its rated capacity is
75 Ah. It is designed for a high discharge rate.
EXAMPLE 2 "HPY34[(10S )68S]H" would designate a prismatic sealed nickel-metal hydride battery system. Its
rated capacity is 34 Ah. It is designed for a high discharge rate.
EXAMPLE 3 "HRO540[6P4S]L" would designate a module composed of 4S connected cylindrical sealed
nickel-metal hydride 6P cells. Its rated capacity is 540 Ah as it comprises a 6P, 90 Ah capacity cell. It is designed
for a low discharge rate.
6 Dimensions
6.1 Cylindrical cell
There are no monoblocs with a cylindrical cell. See Figure 1 for examples of maximum
dimensions.
Key
A total width
B total thickness
C diameter
D total length (including terminals)
E total length (excluding terminals)
Figure 1 – Examples of maximum dimensions of a cylindrical cell
6.2 Prismatic cell and monobloc
Refer to IEC 62675:2014, Clause 6. See Figure 2 for examples of maximum dimensions.

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© IEC 2022
Key
A total width
B total thickness
C diameter
D total length (including terminals)
E total length (excluding terminals)
Figure 2 – Examples of maximum dimensions of a prismatic cell and monobloc
6.3 Module, battery pack and battery system
Dimensions are defined as per the agreement between the user and manufacturer and shall
be stated in the manufacturer's documents.
7 Electrical tests
7.1 General
Electrical tests are applied to cells and/or batteries. If the battery is divided into smaller units,
the unit can be tested as representative of the battery. The manufacturer shall clearly declare
the tested unit. The manufacturer may add to the tested unit, functions which are present in
the final battery.
Charge and discharge currents for the tests in accordance with Clause 7 shall be based on
the rated capacity (C Ah). These currents are expressed as multiples of I A, where
5 t
I A = C Ah/1 h (refer to IEC 61434:1996).
t 5
NOTE In the case of parallel arrangement in a battery system, the total capacity is considered; for example, the
designation "HRO540[6P4S]L" of EXAMPLE 3 in 5.3 has 540 Ah capacity, even if cells have 90 Ah capacity.
In all tests, except where noted, no leakage of electrolyte in liquid form shall be observed for
the test to be acceptable.
A cooling device may be necessary according to manufacturer's instructions. When the
temperature on the cell reaches 70 °C, the charge or discharge should be discontinued.
In all electrical tests, a safety pressure plate may be used on the outer surface of the cell to
prevent a deformation of the cell case.
The manufacturer can use "monobloc(s)" instead of "cell(s)" for any test that specifies "cell(s)"
as the test unit in this document. The cell manufacturer shall clearly declare the test unit for
each test.
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7.2 Charging procedure for test purposes
Prior to charging, the cells or batteries shall be discharged at 20 °C ± 5 °C at a constant
current of 0,2 I A down to 1,0 V/cell.
t
Unless otherwise stated in this document, cells or batteries shall be charged in an ambient
temperature of 20 °C ± 5 °C using the method as follows.
The charge shall be carried out at constant current throughout, in accordance with the
conditions specified by cell types as follows.
1) For cells designed for slow charging, the charging procedure for test purposes shall be
carried out at a constant current of 0,1 I A for between 10 h and 16 h (duration to be
t
declared by manufacturer in in the test report).
2) For all other cells, charge shall be carried out under condition (a), (b) or (c).
a) First at a constant current of 0,2 I A for 4 h, then at a constant current of 0,1 I A for 3 h
t t
to 4 h (3 h can be reduced as per the manufacturer's requirements, then apply all tests
in this document). The duration of the charge shall therefore be 7 h to 8 h.
b) First at a constant current of 0,2 I A for 4 h 30 min, then at a constant current of
t
0,05 I A for 3 h to 4 h. The duration of the charge shall therefore be 7 h 30 min to
t
8 h 30 min.
c) First at a constant current of 0,2 I A, for 5 h, then at a constant current of 0,1 I A, for
t t
up to 2 h.
7.3 Discharge performance
7.3.1 Discharge performance at 20 °C
7.3.1.1 General
This test verifies the rated capacity of the cell or battery.
7.3.1.2 Test method
Step 1: The cell or battery shall be fully charged in accordance with 7.2.
Step 2: The cell or battery shall be stored in an ambient temperature of 20 °C ± 5 °C, for not
less than 1 h and not more than 4 h.
Step 3: The cell or battery shall then be discharged in the same ambient temperature and with
a current as specified in Table 2.
7.3.1.3 Acceptance criteria
The duration of discharge time, delivered during step 3 shall be not less than the minimum
specified in Table 2.
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© IEC 2022
Table 2 – Discharge performance at 20 °C ± 5 °C
Discharge conditions Minimum discharge duration
Rate of constant
Final voltage Cell designation
current
I A V/cell L M H X
t
a
0,2 1,0 5 h 5 h 5 h 5 h
1,0 1,0 38 min 48 min 54 min
b
5,0 0,8 2 min 30 s 6 min 30 s
b
10,0 0,8 1 min 30 s
a
Ten cycles are permitted for this test. The test shall, however, be terminated at the end of the first cycle
of each cell or battery which meets the requirements.
b
Before the discharge tests of 5 I A and 10 I A, a conditioning cycle may be included, if necessary. This
t t
cycle shall consist of charging and discharging in accordance with 6.2 7.2.

7.3.2 Discharge performance at 5 °C
7.3.2.1 General
This test verifies the discharge performance at 5 °C of the cell or battery. It shall be measured
in accordance with the following steps.
7.3.2.2 Test method
Step 1: The cell or battery shall be fully charged in accordance with 7.2.
Step 2: The cell or battery shall be stored for not less than 16 h and not more than 24 h at an
ambient test temperature of 5 °C.
Step 3: The cell or battery shall then be discharged at 5 °C, at the discharge rates and at the
final voltage specified in Table 3.
7.3.2.3 Acceptance criterion
The capacity (time), delivered during step 3 shall be not less than that specified for this
characteristic in Table 3 in any discharge current.
Table 3 – Discharge performance at 5 °C ± 5 °C
Discharge conditions Minimum discharge duration
Rate of constant
Final voltage Cell designation
current
I A V/cell L M H X
t
a
0,2 1,0 3 h 24 min 3 h 42 min 3 h 54 min 4 h 18 min

1,0 1,0 25 min 36 min 44 min
b
2,0 1,0  10 min 18 min 30 s
b
3,0 0,8  10 min 30 s
a
Ten cycles are permitted for this test which shall, however, be terminated at the end of the first cycle of each
cell or battery which meets the requirement.
b
Before the 2,0 I A and 3,0 I A discharge tests, a conditioning cycle may be included if necessary. This cycle
t t
shall consist of charging and discharging in accordance with 6.2 7.2 and 6.3.1 7.3.1.

© IEC 2022
7.3.3 Discharge performance at −18 °C
7.3.3.1 General
The test verifies the discharge performance of the cell or battery at −18 °C. It shall be
measured in accordance with the following steps.
7.3.3.2 Test method
Step 1: The cell or battery shall be fully charged in accordance with 7.2.
Step 2: The cell or battery shall be stored for not less than 16 h and not more than 24 h at an
ambient test temperature of −18 °C.
Step 3: The cell or battery shall then be discharged at −18 °C, at the discharge rates and at
the final voltage specified in Table 4.
7.3.3.3 Acceptance criterion
The capacity (time taken) for the discharge carried out in step 3 shall be not less than that
specified for this characteristic in Table 4, for any discharge current.
Table 4 – Discharge performance at −18 °C ± 5 °C
Discharge conditions Minimum discharge duration
Rate of constant
Final voltage Cell designation
current
I A V/cell L M H X
t
a
0,2 1,0 2 h 8 min 2 h 24 min 2 h 39 min 2 h 54 min

1,0 0,9 12 min 21 min 27 min
2,0 0,9  6 min 9 min
3,0 0,8  4 min
a
Ten cycles are permitted for this test. The test shall, however, be terminated at the end of the first cycle
of each cell or battery which meets the requirement.

7.4 Charge (capacity) retention and recovery
7.4.1 General
This test determines firstly the capacity that a cell retains after storage for an extended period
of time, and secondly, the capacity that can be recovered by a subsequent recharge.
7.4.2 Test method
Step 1: The cell shall be charged in accordance with 7.2.
Step 2: The cell shall be stored in an ambient temperature of 20 °C ± 5 °C, for 28 days.
Step 3: The cell shall be discharged in accordance with step 3 at a constant current of 0,2 I A,
t
specified in 7.3.1.
Step 4: The cell shall then be charged in accordance with 7.2 within 24 h following the
discharge of step 3.
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© IEC 2022
Step 5: The cell shall be stored in an ambient temperature of 20 °C ± 5 °C for not less than
1 h and not more than 4 h.
Step 6: The cell shall be discharged in accordance with step 3 at a constant current of 0,2 I A,
t
specified in 7.3.1.
7.4.3 Acceptance criterion
The charge retention value which is the value of the discharged capacity obtained in step 3
shall be not less than 4 h.
The charge recovery value which is the value of the discharged capacity obtained in step 6
shall be not less than 4,5 h.
7.5 Endurance in cycles
7.5.1 General
Execute this test on cells or batteries which are designed for cycling applications.
This test verifies the capacity of the cell or battery to endure charge/discharge cycles before
its useful capacity is significantly depleted.
The endurance test shall be carried out in an ambient temperature of 20 °C ± 5 °C.
Precautions shall be taken to prevent the cell case temperature from rising above +40 °C
during the test, for example by providing a forced air draught or applying cooling according to
the manufacturer's recommendation.
Before the first cycle, the cell or battery shall have been discharged at a constant current of
0,2 I A down to a final voltage of 1,0 V/cell.
t
The capacity after endurance cycling shall be measured in accordance with 7.5.2 and 7.5.3.
7.5.2 Test method
In order to confirm the cycling characteristic for cells or batteries, one of the following
procedures given in Table 5 shall be carried out. Cycling shall be continuous except that it is
permissible to allow the cell or battery to stand for a short period at the end of discharge of
th th
and 50 cycle in order to start the next 50-cycle sequence at a convenient time.
each 49
© IEC
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