Cell testing


Cell testing forms the foundation for understanding the characteristics and performance of the final battery pack. We test cells in all formats—cylindrical, prismatic, and pouch—using either a provided cell holder or a custom-designed fixture created in-house.

Capabilities

  • 560 channels: 5V, 50A each
  • Parallel configuration: Up to 4000A
  • Climatic testing: –40 °C to +70 °C, humidity from 10% to 98%
  • Optional thermal management: External cooling/heating via cooling plates or heat sinks

 

Test Types

At VDL ETS we perform a wide range of advanced cell tests to accurately characterize the electrochemical behavior, performance, and lifetime of individual battery cells.
Our laboratory infrastructure supports both research and development as well as industrial‑level validation. Below is an overview of the key test types we offer.

Performance Testing

Performance tests determine the core capabilities of a battery cell under controlled and standardized conditions. These tests provide insight into:

  • Capacity, energy content, efficiency
  • Internal resistance (DCIR)
  • Charge and discharge rate capability (C‑rates)
  • Power performance

Lifecycle & Aging Testing
Lifecycle testing quantifies cell degradation over hundreds to thousands of charge–discharge cycles.
We examine:

  • Cycle life under various C‑rates
  • Calendar aging at different temperatures and states of charge
  • Aging under stress (e.g., high temperature or high charge currents)

Environmental Testing
Battery cells are exposed to a wide variety of operating conditions throughout their lifecycle.
In our environmental chambers, we simulate scenarios such as:

  • Temperature testing from –20°C to +60°C
  • Thermal cycling
  • Humidity and condensation exposure

These tests allow us to evaluate cell performance and reliability outside ideal laboratory environments.

Specialized Testing
In addition to standardized protocols, we offer customized tests tailored to specific development or validation programs:

  • Fast‑charging characterization
  • High‑power stress profiles for automotive applications
  • Custom drive cycles (e.g., WLTP, US06, or OEM‑specific profiles)
  • Detailed electrical analysis at various SOC and temperature conditions