By sion932 
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has long been a cornerstone in establishing global standards for electrical and electronic technologies. Among its extensive portfolio, IEC 60622:2002 stands out as a pivotal standard for sealed nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) prismatic rechargeable single cells, providing rigorous specifications to ensure product quality, safety, and performance consistency across international markets. Published on October 10, 2002, this third edition standard replaced its predecessors, including IEC 60622:1988 and its subsequent amendments, to align with evolving technological advancements and industry needs.
1. Scope and Classification of IEC 60622:2002
IEC 60622:2002 falls under the jurisdiction of IEC Technical Committee 21 (TC 21) and Subcommittee 21A (SC 21A), which specializes in secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes. It is classified under the International Classification for Standards (ICS) code 29.220.30, pertaining to alkaline secondary cells and batteries. The standard’s core scope is to define the marking, tests, and requirements for sealed nickel-cadmium prismatic rechargeable single cells—where “prismatic” refers to cells with rectangular sides and bases, distinguishing them from cylindrical or button-shaped alternatives.
Notably, the standard includes a caveat: if an IEC standard specific to cells for special applications exists and conflicts with IEC 60622:2002, the application-specific standard takes precedence. This flexibility ensures that specialized use cases (e.g., aerospace, medical devices) with unique performance demands are adequately addressed without compromising the general safety and quality framework.
2. Key Specifications and Requirements
At its core, IEC 60622:2002 outlines mandatory tests and performance criteria to validate the reliability of sealed Ni-Cd prismatic cells. While the full standard spans 29 pages (bilingual in English and French) with detailed procedural guidelines, its key requirements can be categorized into two primary areas: safety and performance.
2.1 Safety Tests
Safety is paramount for rechargeable battery technologies, and IEC 60622:2002 includes stringent tests to mitigate risks such as leakage, thermal runaway, and mechanical failure. These tests typically evaluate the cell’s ability to withstand abnormal operating conditions, including overcharging, short-circuiting, and mechanical stress (e.g., impact, vibration). Sealed Ni-Cd cells are required to resist electrolyte leakage under these conditions, as cadmium—while highly conductive and durable—is a toxic substance that poses environmental and health hazards if released.
2.2 Performance Tests
Performance requirements under IEC 60622:2002 focus on ensuring consistent electrochemical behavior across the cell’s lifecycle. This includes specifications for capacity retention, cycle life, charge-discharge efficiency, and operating temperature range. The standard defines standardized charge and discharge protocols to enable uniform testing across manufacturers, ensuring that cells meet declared performance metrics (e.g., nominal capacity, voltage) under specified conditions. Additionally, it addresses long-term stability, with the standard’s stability date set to 2024, indicating its continued relevance and validity for over two decades after publication.
2.3 Marking Requirements
The standard also mandates clear marking on each cell to provide critical information to users, distributors, and recyclers. Required markings typically include the manufacturer’s identifier, nominal voltage, nominal capacity, date code, and compliance with IEC 60622:2002. This transparency facilitates traceability, proper handling, and compliance with regional regulations, particularly regarding the disposal and recycling of cadmium-containing batteries.
3. Adoption and Global Impact
IEC 60622:2002 has been widely adopted as a global benchmark for sealed Ni-Cd prismatic cells, influencing product design, manufacturing processes, and certification across industries. It is recognized by the IECEE (IEC System of Conformity Assessment Schemes for Electrotechnical Equipment and Components) and incorporated into regional standards frameworks, including European (EN) standards. In China, the standard was adopted as GB/T 28867-2012, an equivalent national standard, ensuring alignment with international practices for domestic manufacturers and importers.
The standard’s enduring relevance stems from the unique properties of sealed Ni-Cd prismatic cells, which offer high discharge rates, wide operating temperature ranges, and robust performance in harsh environments. These characteristics make them suitable for a range of applications, including industrial equipment, emergency lighting, and portable power tools—where reliability and durability are critical. By establishing uniform requirements, IEC 60622:2002 reduces trade barriers, enabling manufacturers to market their products globally with confidence in compliance.
4. Limitations and Future Considerations
While IEC 60622:2002 remains a foundational standard, it is important to note its focus on Ni-Cd technology, which has faced increasing scrutiny due to environmental concerns associated with cadmium. As the industry shifts toward more sustainable alternatives (e.g., nickel-metal hydride, lithium-ion batteries), the standard’s applicability may diminish in some sectors. However, for applications where Ni-Cd’s unique performance attributes are irreplaceable, IEC 60622:2002 continues to serve as an essential quality assurance tool.
To date, IEC 60622:2002 has not been replaced by a newer edition, underscoring its robustness and alignment with industry needs. Manufacturers and stakeholders are advised to regularly review updates from IEC TC 21/SC 21A to stay informed about potential revisions or emerging standards that may impact Ni-Cd battery production and compliance.
IEC 60622:2002 plays a critical role in ensuring the safety, performance, and interoperability of sealed nickel-cadmium prismatic rechargeable single cells worldwide. By providing clear test methods and requirements, the standard supports global trade, protects end-users, and promotes environmental responsibility through proper battery design and marking. As the industry evolves, IEC 60622:2002 remains a vital reference for manufacturers, regulators, and engineers working with Ni-Cd technology, reinforcing its position as a cornerstone of international battery standards.
References
- IEC 60622:2002. Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes – Sealed nickel-cadmium prismatic rechargeable single cells. International Electrotechnical Commission, 2002.
- IEC Webstore. (2026). IEC 60622:2002. Retrieved from https://webstore.iec.ch/publication/2732
- Battery Standards Info. (2025). IEC/EN 60622. Retrieved from https://batterystandards.info/standard/iecen-60622