BS EN 50342-6:2015+A1:2018

What is BS EN 50342-6-Lead-acid starter batteries for micro-cycle applications about? 

BS EN 50342-6 is the sixth part of a multi-series standard that serves technical specifications for lead-acid starter batteries for micro-cycle applications that enables the development and assessment of batteries and ensure the safety and performance in micro-cycle applications. 

BS EN 50342-6 specifies is applicable to lead-acid batteries with a nominal voltage of 12 V, used primarily as a power source for the starting of internal combustion engines (ICE), lighting and also for auxiliary equipment of ICE vehicles. These batteries are commonly called “starter batteries”. BS EN 50342-6 also includes batteries with nominal voltage 6 V. 

Batteries under BS EN 50342-6 are used for micro-cycle applications in vehicles which can also be called Start-Stop (or Stop-Start, idling-stop system, micro-hybrid or idle-stop-and-go) applications. 

BS EN 50342-6 is applicable to batteries for the following purposes: 

• Lead-acid batteries of the dimensions according to EN 50342-2 for vehicles with the capability to automatically switch off the ICE during vehicle operation either in standstill or moving (“Start-Stop”) 
• Lead-acid batteries of the dimensions according to EN 50342-2 for vehicles with Start-Stop applications with the capability to recover braking energy or energy from other sources 

Note 1: BS EN 50342-6 is not applicable to batteries for purposes other than mentioned above, but it is applicable to EFB delivered in dry-charged conditions according to EN 50342-1:2015, Clause 7.

Note 2: The applicability of this standard also for batteries according to EN 50342-4 is under consideration.

Who is BS EN 50342-6-Lead-acid starter batteries for micro-cycle applications for? 

BS EN 50342-6 on Lead-acid starter batteries for micro-cycle applications applies to: 

• Manufacturers of lead-acid starter batteries 
• Dealers and importers of lead-acid starter batteries 
• Testing houses and labs for batteries 
• Automobile manufacturers 

Why should you use BS EN 50342-6-Lead-acid starter batteries for micro-cycle applications? 

Lead-acid batteries are designed for starting automotive engines. Lead-acid batteries have a large number of thin plates designed for maximum surface area, and, therefore, maximum current output. Because the thinner and lighter cell plates do not extend all the way to the bottom of the battery casing, starting batteries are lighter than deep-cycle batteries of the same size. 

BS EN 50342-6 provides you guidance on the designation of starter batteries, delivery condition, general test conditions, test sequence, inspection, requirements and battery performance levels that ensure the performance and operability of lead-acid starter batteries. 

BS EN 50342-6 also provides you guidance on inspection and test procedures that include charging of batteries, micro-hybrid test, dynamic charge acceptance test and endurance in cycle test that allows you to ensure the operational stability of batteries for micro-cycle applications. 

Guidance in BS EN 50342-6 ensures the operational safety, performance and longevity of lead-acid starter batteries in micro-cycle applications. 

What’s changed since the last update? 

BS EN 50342-6:2015+A1:2018 supersedes BS EN 50342-6:2015, which is now withdrawn. Changes in BS EN 50342-6:2015+A1:2018 are date fixes which include - 

• Latest date by which BS EN 50342-6:2015+A1:2018 has to be implemented at national level by publication of identical national standard or by endorsement 
• Latest date by which the national standards conflicting with BS EN 50342-6:2015+A1:2018 have to be withdrawn