EN50604-1 is a safety standard that addresses the technical requirements for lithium batteries used in Light Electric Vehicles (LEV). LEVs, such as two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and four-wheelers, are powered by electricity and have become increasingly popular due to their eco-friendliness and efficiency.
To ensure the safe and reliable operation of these vehicles, it is crucial to have a comprehensive safety standard like EN50604-1 in place. This article explores the significance of EN50604-1 and its impact on the manufacturing and implementation of lithium batteries for LEVs.
Scope and Classifications of EN50604-1
EN50604-1 classifies LEVs based on their voltage levels:
a) Class A: Vehicles with AC voltage ≤ 30V or DC voltage ≤ 60V.
b) Class B: Vehicles with AC voltage between 30V and 1000V or DC voltage between 60V and 1500V.
LEV: Refers to electrically powered two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and four-wheelers categorized as L1 to L7 types based on ECE/TR ANS-WP29-78r2e regulations.
These classifications play a vital role in determining the appropriate safety measures required for the respective voltage ranges.
Certification Criteria of EN50604-1
Obtaining EN50604-1 certification is crucial for manufacturers of lithium-ion batteries used in Light Electric Vehicles (LEVs). This certification ensures that the battery packs meet essential safety requirements, minimizing the risk of accidents or malfunctions. For example, in the case of our customer, they may need to complete 37 packs + 37 packs after 50 cycles to meet the certification criteria. The entire certification process typically takes around 6 weeks to complete.
Tritek, with its extensive experience in the battery industry, prioritizes safety and quality in manufacturing EN50604-certified batteries for various LEV applications.
Basic Criteria
- Battery Performance Testing: Undergoing comprehensive testing is a fundamental aspect of the EN50604 certification process. For instance, a customer interested in EN50604 certification for their battery pack may require 37 packs + 37 packs after 50 cycles to be tested. These packs will undergo a series of tests, including thermal tests, electrical safety tests, mechanical tests, and environmental tests, to ensure they can withstand various operating conditions.
- Evaluation Period: The entire certification process typically takes around 6 weeks to complete. During this time, our expert team at Tritek ensures that all the necessary tests are conducted meticulously, and the batteries meet or exceed the EN50604 safety and performance standards.
- Compliance Verification: Throughout the certification process, we meticulously verify compliance with EN50604 standards. Our team of experts ensures that the batteries fulfill all the technical requirements and safety measures set forth by the EN50604 standard in advance for your application.
- Continuous Quality Control: At Tritek, we prioritize continuous quality control during the manufacturing process. Our commitment to maintaining the highest quality standards ensures that every battery pack meets the EN50604 certification criteria before reaching our customers.
Additional Criteria
Battery Management System (BMS) and Safety Evaluation
EN50604-1 mandates that the Battery Management System (BMS) is an integral part of the lithium battery pack. The BMS ensures proper monitoring and control of battery parameters, enhancing safety and overall performance. Manufacturers must demonstrate that their BMS meets the required standards.
UN Transportation Certification
UN Transportation Certification: To ensure safe transportation of hazardous materials, including lithium-ion batteries, UN certification is required. Manufacturers must comply with UN transportation regulations and conduct drop tests, vibration tests, and environmental simulations to ensure the batteries’ packaging can withstand transportation conditions.
IEC 62133 and IEC 62660 Certificates
Individual battery cells used in the packs must possess IEC 62133 or IEC 62660 certification. These certificates validate the safety and performance characteristics of the cells, ensuring they are suitable for use in LEVs.
EN50604 Standard Tests
The EN50604 standard includes a series of tests to ensure the safety and reliability of lithium-ion batteries used in light electric vehicles (LEV). These tests cover various aspects of battery performance and safety. Some of the key tests included in the EN50604 standard are:
- Electrical Safety Tests:
- Short Circuit Test: Evaluates the battery’s response to a short circuit condition to ensure it can handle such scenarios safely.
- Overcharge Test: Determines the battery’s ability to withstand overcharging without significant safety risks.
- Over-discharge Test: Verifies the battery’s performance when subjected to deep discharge conditions.
- Mechanical Tests:
- Crush Test: Determines the battery’s ability to withstand mechanical stress and prevent dangerous outcomes like explosion or fire.
- Vibration Test: Evaluates the battery’s resistance to vibrations during typical usage and transportation.
- Thermal Tests:
- Thermal Abuse Test: Simulates extreme temperature conditions to assess the battery’s thermal stability and safety features.
- Thermal Shock Test: Evaluates the battery’s response to rapid changes in temperature, ensuring it can withstand temperature fluctuations.
- Environmental Tests:
- Temperature Cycling Test: Assesses the battery’s performance under varying temperature conditions to verify its stability.
- Humidity Test: Tests the battery’s ability to withstand humid environments without compromising safety.
- Electrochemical Performance Tests:
- Capacity Retention Test: Measures the battery’s ability to maintain its capacity over multiple charge and discharge cycles.
- Cycle Life Test: Evaluates the battery’s longevity and performance after a specified number of charge and discharge cycles.
- Electrical Performance Tests:
- Internal Resistance Measurement: Determines the battery’s internal resistance, which affects its efficiency and performance.
- Charging and Discharging Efficiency Test: Evaluates the battery’s energy transfer efficiency during charging and discharging.
- UN Transportation Tests:
- Drop Test: Ensures the battery’s packaging can withstand accidental drops during transportation.
- Vibration Test: Tests the battery’s packaging integrity under various vibration conditions during transportation.
- Environmental Simulation: Evaluates the battery’s packaging performance under different environmental conditions during transportation.
Tritek batteries can pass all the necessary test and get the EN 50604 certification if our customer needs it.
These tests are essential for assessing the safety and quality of lithium-ion batteries used in light electric vehicles. Manufacturers must comply with these rigorous tests to obtain EN50604 certification, which instills confidence in consumers and promotes the widespread adoption of electric vehicles in the market.
EN50604-1 is a crucial safety standard that plays a pivotal role in the development and implementation of lithium batteries for Light Electric Vehicles (LEV). Tritek, as a trusted battery manufacturer, prioritizes safety and quality, delivering EN50604-certified batteries that instill confidence in consumers and promote the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. With Tritek’s EN50604-certified batteries, you can drive into a safer, and more efficient future of electric mobility.
By complying with EN50604-1 and obtaining necessary certifications, manufacturers can instill confidence in their products’ safety and performance.
