RRC power solutions - this name stands for the highest reliability and innovative technologies in the field of mobile power supply.
RRC standard battery packs and standard battery chargers offer various benefits. They do not require NRE or development costs, are readily available, and have worldwide approvals. Furthermore, we continuously adjust our products regarding new regulations. We would like to introduce you to the recent regulatory changes.
European Battery Regulation
The European Battery Regulation 2023/1542 is a new legislation that came into force on August 17, 2023. It replaces the Batteries Directive (Directive 2006/66/EC) and aims to address various aspects of battery production, use, and disposal.
Key points of the regulation include:
- Restrictions on substances: The regulation continues to restrict the use of mercury and cadmium in batteries and introduces a limitation for lead in portable batteries.
- Collection targets: Producers are required to meet specific targets for collecting of waste portable batteries and waste batteries for light means of transport. For example, the regulation sets targets of a 63% collection rate for waste portable batteries by the end of 2027 and a 51% collection rate for waste batteries for light means of transport by the end of 2028.
- Full life-cycle approach: The European Battery Regulation takes a complete life-cycle approach, addressing the sourcing, manufacturing, use, and recycling of batteries. This approach aligns with the circularity ambitions of the European Green Deal and aims to promote a more sustainable and circular economy.
- Mandatory sustainability requirements: The regulation seeks to introduce mandatory requirements on sustainability, safety, and labeling for the marketing and use of batteries. This includes carbon footprint rules, minimum recycled content, performance and durability criteria, and end-of-life management requirements.
In summary, the regulation aims to improve the functioning of the internal market, promote a circular economy, and minimize the environmental and social impact of batteries throughout their life cycle.
China: CQC becomes CCC
The approval and certification logo, formerly CQC, is being replaced with a new CCC logo. The organization administering those certifications is still called CQC, which stands for "China Quality Certification Center".
The Chinese National Certification and Accreditation Administration (CNCA) Commission has changed the mandatory CCC certification for lithium-ion batteries. On March 16, 2023, the CNCA issued an announcement regarding the compulsory product certification management for lithium-ion batteries. This announcement states that lithium-ion batteries are now subject to mandatory product certification management in China.
The changes in CCC certification for lithium-ion batteries are driven by the new GB Standard GB31241-2022, which is titled "Safety Specifications for Lithium-ion Batteries and Battery Packs for Portable Electronic Products". This new standard is expected to be compulsory starting from July 31, 2024. To reduce the certification cost for enterprises, the appointed certification bodies will carry out CCC certification of lithium-ion batteries and battery packs according to this new GB Standard.
Furthermore, starting from August 1, 2023, the designated certification body will also begin certification work for other newly included products. This includes certification for lithium-ion batteries and battery packs, mobile power supplies, power adapters, and chargers for telecommunication terminals.
Implementing these changes in CCC certification for lithium-ion batteries aims to ensure the safety and quality of these products in the Chinese market.
Japan announces new standard for lithium-ion batteries
The Japanese regulation J62133-2 plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and reliability of lithium-ion batteries in the Japanese market. This regulation sets forth specific requirements and testing criteria that battery manufacturers must adhere to before their products can be sold in Japan. J62133-2 focuses on the safety aspects of lithium-ion batteries, addressing concerns such as overcharging, short circuits, and thermal runaway. It specifies the necessary tests and criteria to evaluate battery performance, including electrical, mechanical, and environmental aspects.
To comply with J62133-2, manufacturers must invest in robust testing procedures, quality control measures, and documentation to demonstrate the safety and reliability of their lithium-ion batteries. This ensures that consumers in Japan can have peace of mind when using these products.
In summary, the Japanese regulation J62133-2 sets the benchmark for safety and reliability in the context of lithium-ion batteries. Manufacturers must comply with these requirements to enter or sustain their presence in the Japanese market.
The regulations are more cosmetic. In simple terms, J62133-2 is the Japanese transition to IEC62133-2, which RRC already uses for our CB (Certification Body) reports.
Additional regulation for air transport of batteries
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has recently introduced a new stack test for battery transportation by air, enhancing the safety and reliability of battery shipments.
For the new stack test, three full shipping boxes will be stacked, and a weight is added to simulate a 3-meter-high tower of shipping boxes. After a waiting period, the test is passed if there is no deformation.
The IATA stack test is designed to assess the compatibility and integrity of battery packs during air transportation. It involves subjecting stacked battery packs to various mechanical and environmental stressors to simulate real-world conditions. The purpose of this test is to evaluate the potential risks associated with transporting batteries by air and ensure they can withstand the rigors of the journey without compromising safety. For battery manufacturers and suppliers, compliance with the IATA stack test is crucial. Adhering to this test helps demonstrate that battery packs are properly packaged, protected, and capable of withstanding the challenges they may encounter during air transportation. It provides an added layer of confidence for both manufacturers and end-users, assuring that batteries will arrive at their destination safely.
At RRC Power Solutions, we understand the importance of meeting regulatory requirements and ensuring the safety of our lithium-ion battery packs. Our commitment to compliance, coupled with our German engineering expertise, enables us to provide our customers with top-notch mobile power supply products that meet the stringent standards described above.
We pride ourselves on being a multinational company with a rich history in energy storage, constantly innovating and setting new industry standards. Our customer-focused approach ensures that we cater to our client’s needs everywhere in the world, delivering reliable and safe power solutions that not only meet regulatory requirements but exceed expectations.
RRC already meets the requirements of the European Battery Regulation and the additional regulations for the air transport of batteries. In addition, we have already initiated all necessary measures to meet the other new demands by the end of the year.
