Lithium Battery Transportation Regulations

Title Large IconLithium Battery Transportation Regulations

Discover the comprehensive regulations governing the transportation of lithium batteries, encompassing both primary (non-rechargeable) and secondary (rechargeable) lithium batteries, as outlined by the U.S. Department of Transportation. This includes detailed guidelines on how to safely ship lithium and rechargeable lithium-ion and lithium polymer cells and batteries within the United States, as stipulated by Part 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR Sections 100 – 185) of the U.S. Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR).

For those interested in the specifics, 49 CFR 173.185 outlines the regulations pertaining to lithium cells and batteries in the U.S. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with these regulations to ensure compliance and safety in the transportation of these materials.

Internationally, the transportation of lithium cells and batteries is subject to the regulations of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Technical Instructions, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations, and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code. These international guidelines are crucial for ensuring the safe and regulated transportation of lithium batteries across borders.

Under the United Nations (UN) transportation regulations, primary lithium and rechargeable lithium-ion and polymer cells and batteries must adhere to UN T1 – T8 testing regulations. These tests are specified in the latest revision of the recommendations on the transport of dangerous goods, manual of tests and criteria (ST/SG/AC.10.46/Rev.7), ensuring the safety and compliance of lithium battery transportation worldwide.

  • T1: Attitude Simulation
  • T2: Thermal
  • T3: Vibration
  • T4: Shock
  • T5: External Short Circuit
  • T6: Impact
  • T7: Overcharge
  • T8: Forced Discharge

These tests only must be performed once for each cell or battery type of a given design. Additional testing is required when a previously tested cell or battery undergoes design or construction changes as follows:

  1. A chance of more than 0.1 g or 20% by mass, whichever is greater, to the cathode, to the anode, or to the electrolyte; or
  2. A change that would materially affect the test results.