A battery specification sheet is a document (or datasheet) that provides a buyer with complete information about the batteries they’re purchasing. Not only does this information act as a way to verify batteries, but it also provides testing labs with the information they need to conduct the right safety and reliability tests.
They will typically include important specifications such as:
- Manufacturer information
- Battery type (cell size: AA, AAA, etc)
- Standard voltage
- Potential hazards
- Material components/ingredients
- Handling and storage guidance
- Recommended operating conditions
- Transport information (especially important with Li-ion batteries which have stringent shipping restrictions)
- Regulatory information
- …and more
Note that while the battery spec sheet may include some safety-related information, for more thorough safety information you should refer to the battery MSDS (material safety data sheet) which outlines safety specifics per battery model.
Why is all of this information important to buyers?
Lithium-ion battery-powered devices, in particular, require additional scrutiny due to the safety risks associated with these rechargeable batteries.
As Li-ion batteries pose a risk of fire and explosion if damaged, stored, or charged incorrectly, safety and reliability testing on the batteries is crucial. But the testing laboratory will need to see the battery specification sheet in order to plan the correct tests based on the types of batteries that you’re planning to import.
Being able to obtain the document from your supplier will also help you to check battery authenticity by cross-checking what is in the sheet with the batteries received. This could be helpful in the cases where a supplier has tried to provide counterfeit or sub-standard batteries in order to improve their profit margin.
What does a battery specification sheet look like?
Here’s a real battery specification sheet for a rechargeable Li-ion battery from an American battery manufacturer.
You should expect to see very similar information in any sheet you receive from suppliers and if your supplier doesn’t provide it as a PDF and it lacks this information, this is a red flag which should lead you to question its veracity.
Just hit the button below to take a look:
