What is UN 38.3 Testing for Lithium Batteries?
UN 38.3 lithium battery testing: summary
Section 38.3 of the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria sets design-type tests for lithium-metal and lithium-ion cells and batteries. A battery type must pass the tests that apply to its design before it can normally be offered for transport under the relevant dangerous-goods entries. The tests check how it withstands transport-related conditions; they are not a general quality or product-safety certification.
The eight tests
Test
What it simulates
T.1 Altitude simulation
Low air pressure during air transport
T.2 Thermal test
Repeated temperature changes
T.3 Vibration
Vibration during transport
T.4 Shock
Mechanical shock
T.5 External short circuit
An external short circuit
T.6 Impact or crush
Mechanical damage to a cell or battery
T.7 Overcharge
Overcharging a rechargeable battery
T.8 Forced discharge
Forced discharge of a cell
The applicable test sequence depends on whether the item is a cell or battery, whether it is rechargeable, and how cells are assembled into batteries. The test matrix in 38.3 specifies which tests apply; it does not mean every lithium cell or battery is subjected to all eight tests. For example, T.7 concerns rechargeable batteries, while T.8 concerns cells. UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, section 38.3
What does passing establish?
Each required test has acceptance criteria. Broadly, the tests look for outcomes such as leakage, venting, disassembly, rupture or fire, with additional criteria for particular tests. The detailed definitions and limits in the Manual apply, including its current definition of rupture. A test report should therefore identify the precise cell or battery design tested and the results against the applicable criteria.
When is a new test type needed?
Testing applies to a design type, not automatically to every individual unit. A design change can require reassessment or testing if it could affect the test results. Changes to cell chemistry or materials, safety devices, cell arrangement or number of cells, or battery energy and voltage may be relevant. The Manual sets criteria for deciding when a changed design is considered a new type.
Test summaries
The UN provisions require manufacturers and subsequent distributors of cells and batteries to make a lithium battery test summary available. It identifies the manufacturer and test laboratory, the cell or battery, the report, the tests performed and their results, and the Manual edition used. It is supporting evidence that the type was tested; it is not, by itself, proof that a particular shipment is correctly classified, packaged, marked or documented. UNECE: Manual and amendments
Practical check: match the test summary to the exact model and battery configuration being shipped, and check that it covers the applicable 38.3 requirements. If the supplier cannot provide a matching summary or test evidence, resolve that before offering the battery for transport.