United Nations Testing

The UN Publication "Recommendations on the Transport Of Dangerous Goods Model Regulations" and its counterpart "Recommendations on the Transport Of Dangerous Goods Manual of Tests and Criteria" are the internationally recognized authority for the testing, packaging, and shipping of Dangerous Goods.

Epec follows these documents and provide our customers with safe, tested battery assemblies that can weather the rigors of transport. New battery assemblies requiring testing are certified for transport against a series of tests as applicable.

At a Glance: United Nations Testing

• United Nations transportation testing helps verify that lithium and other battery assemblies can safely withstand the hazards encountered during shipping, including altitude, vibration, shock, thermal exposure, and electrical faults.
• Epec tests battery assemblies against applicable UN transportation requirements to support the safe movement of batteries through global transportation networks.
• Testing may include eight key evaluations covering low-pressure environments, temperature extremes, vibration, impact events, short circuits, overcharge conditions, and forced discharge scenarios.

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T.1 Altitude

This test simulates air transport under low-pressure conditions.

T.2 Thermal

This test assesses cell and battery seal integrity and internal electrical connections. The test is conducted using rapid and extreme temperature changes.

T.3 Vibration

This test simulates vibration during transport.

T.4 Shock

This test simulates possible impacts during transport.

T.5 External Short Circuit

This test simulates an external short circuit.

T.6 Impact

This test simulates an impact. (Cell Only)

T.7 Overcharge

This test evaluates the ability of a rechargeable battery to withstand an overcharge condition.

T.8 Forced Discharge

This test evaluates the ability of a primary or a rechargeable cell to withstand a forced discharge condition.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Links

• What is UN battery testing?
• Why is UN testing important for battery transportation?
• What tests are included in the UN transportation testing process?
• Which batteries require UN transportation testing?
• What does the altitude simulation test evaluate?

What is UN battery testing?

UN battery testing refers to the testing requirements defined in the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods. These tests are designed to evaluate whether battery cells and battery assemblies can safely withstand transportation conditions encountered during air, ground, and sea shipment. Compliance helps demonstrate that batteries can be transported without creating unacceptable safety risks.

Why is UN testing important for battery transportation?

Battery products can be exposed to vibration, impacts, temperature changes, pressure variations, and electrical faults during transport. UN testing helps verify that battery assemblies can withstand these conditions while maintaining their integrity and safety. Successful testing supports regulatory compliance and helps facilitate the movement of batteries through global shipping channels.

What tests are included in the UN transportation testing process?

The UN testing program includes several evaluations identified as T.1 through T.8. These tests cover altitude simulation, thermal cycling, vibration, shock, external short circuit, impact, overcharge, and forced discharge conditions. Each test is intended to simulate a specific hazard that batteries may encounter during transportation and handling.

Which batteries require UN transportation testing?

New battery assemblies intended for transport may require testing based on the applicable transportation regulations and battery chemistry. Both lithium-ion and lithium metal battery products commonly undergo UN transportation testing before shipment. The specific testing requirements depend on the battery type, configuration, and intended transportation method.

What does the altitude simulation test evaluate?

The T.1 altitude test simulates low-pressure conditions that may be encountered during air transportation. This evaluation helps determine whether the battery can maintain safe operation and structural integrity when exposed to reduced atmospheric pressure. The test is an important part of confirming that batteries can withstand the environmental conditions associated with aviation transport.

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Safe Battery Assemblies for Transportation

Epec adheres to international standards for Dangerous Goods transport. Our tested battery assemblies withstand rigorous testing, including altitude, thermal, vibration, and more. Trust us for safe and reliable battery solutions.

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