UN 38.3 Test Summary Requirements for Lithium Battery Shipping
UN 38.3 test summaries supply ten mandatory technical data points verifying cell safety across global freight networks under international shipping laws.
Impact Crush T6
Meaning
Mechanical safety protocols evaluate the ability of a battery cell to withstand external physical pressure without experiencing a fire or explosion. Under the un 38.3 testing regime, impact crush t6 specifies the use of a heavy bar or a hydraulic press to apply force to the cell casing. This test simulates the crushing of a cell that might occur during a vehicle accident or a handling error.
Test Procedure
Technicians place the cell on a flat surface and apply a specific amount of force until a voltage drop or a physical deformation occurs. During the impact crush t6 evaluation, the cell is monitored for at least six hours to ensure that no late onset thermal events take place. The pass criteria require that the temperature of the cell does not exceed 170 degrees Celsius.
Failure Mode
Internal short circuits are the most common result of the physical collapse of the separator during the test. If a cell fails the impact crush t6, it indicates that the casing or the internal architecture is insufficient to protect against mechanical stress. These failures are often accompanied by the venting of gas or the ignition of the electrolyte.
Structural reinforcements in the cell design are often tested using this method to verify their effectiveness. Engineers use the results to refine the thickness of the aluminum or steel housing.
Safety Certification
Shipping companies require evidence of this test before they will accept lithium batteries for transport. Because impact crush t6 is a global requirement, a failure can prevent a product from entering the international market. The test data is compiled into a summary report that stays with the product throughout its logistics lifecycle.