Battery Safety Standards Update: IEC 62133 Undergoes Major Changes

Commentary Contributed by John C. Copeland, Co-Owner and Technical Manager, Energy Assurance LLC

The IEC 62133 family of standards has enabled international harmonization of safety testing for small-format cells and batteries since its initial release in 2002 followed by a major revision in 2012.  Recognizing the substantial shifts in the rechargeable battery market from nickel to lithium chemistries, the standard underwent its most dramatic change in 2017.  This article will familiarize the reader with those latest changes and their impact on attaining cell and battery pack compliance. Read more about Battery Safety Standards Update: IEC 62133 Undergoes Major Changes

Why Proper Cell Balancing is Necessary in Battery Packs

Contributed Commentary by Anton Beck, Battery Product Manager, Epec

When a lithium battery pack is designed using multiple cells in series, it is very important to design the electronic features to continually balance the cell voltages. This is not only for the performance of the battery pack, but also for optimal life cycles. Read more about Why Proper Cell Balancing is Necessary in Battery Packs