Rosslyn, VA: The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) has published ANSI C18.3M, Part 1-2008 for Portable Lithium Primary Cells and Batteries—General and Specifications. This standard applies to portable lithium primary cells and batteries, including lithium/carbon monofluoride, lithium/manganese dioxide, and lithium/iron disulfide.
ANSI C18.3M Part 1 contains general requirements and information, such as scope, applicable definitions, general descriptions of battery dimensions, terminal requirements, marking requirements, general design conditions, and test conditions. Section 2 features specification sheets for various types of cells and batteries. Safety requirements are covered in ANSI C18.3M, Part 2 for Portable Lithium Primary Cells and Batteries—Safety Standard, a separate document.
This updated version includes new standardized battery types 24LF (AAA 1.5 V lithium), 5047 (CRV3 3.0 V lithium), and 5048 (Prismatic 3.0 V lithium) as well as a reformat of the lithium coin specification sheets.
According to Marc Boolish, a member of the American National Standards Committee C18 on Portable Cells and Batteries that processed and approved the submittal, this publication ensures the electrical and physical interchangeability of products from different manufacturers; minimizes proliferation of cell and battery types; defines a standard of performance and provides guidance for its assessment; and provides guidance to consumers, manufacturers, and designers.
“This is achieved by specifying nomenclature, dimensions, polarity, terminals, marking, test conditions, and procedures,” Boolish said. “It also recognizes the work of the International Electrotechnical Commission in establishing worldwide standard requirements for portable lithium primary batteries.”
The contents and scope of ANSI C18.3M, Part 1-2007 may be viewed, or a hardcopy or electronic copy purchased for $75 by visiting NEMA’s website or by contacting IHS at 800-854-7179 (within the U.S.), 303-397-7956 (international), 303-397-2740 (fax).