IEC 60060-2:2025

Overview

IEC 60060-2:2025, titled High-voltage test techniques - Part 2: Measuring systems, is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). This fourth edition provides a comprehensive framework for the design, testing, calibration, and use of measuring systems specifically intended for high-voltage testing environments. It covers systems and components that measure direct voltage (DC), alternating voltage (AC), lightning impulse, switching impulse, and combined or composite voltages, as specified in IEC 60060-1.

The standard targets laboratory and factory test scenarios while referring to IEC 60060-3 for measurements during on-site testing. Measurement uncertainty limits align with test voltage levels stated in IEC 60071-1, although the principles are extendable to higher-voltage levels with recognition of potentially larger uncertainties.

Key Topics

• Terminology and Definitions: The standard defines key terms related to measuring systems, components, scale factors, rated values, dynamic behavior, uncertainty, and testing procedures essential for consistency and clarity in high-voltage measurements.

• Uncertainty Estimation Methods: IEC 60060-2:2025 elaborates on methodologies for estimating and controlling measurement uncertainties to ensure accuracy and reliability during high-voltage testing.

• System Requirements and Approval: Specifications for the approval, calibration, and verification of measuring systems and their individual components are extensively detailed. This includes the performance tests necessary to validate scale factors, linearity, dynamic behavior, stability under various conditions, interference, and software impacts.

• Measurement Techniques: The standard outlines specific procedures and requirements for measuring direct voltage, alternating voltage, lightning impulses, switching impulses, and combined voltages, ensuring precise high-voltage assessment.

• Technical Revisions: Significant updates from the previous edition include alignment with IEC 60060-1 fourth edition, expanded uncertainty treatment, applicability to all standard insulation levels per IEC 60071-1, updated time parameter definitions, and inclusion of new clauses on combined and composite voltage measurements.

Applications

IEC 60060-2:2025 is indispensable for professionals and organizations involved in:

• Electrical Equipment Testing: Factory and laboratory verification of transformers, insulators, cables, switchgear, and other high-voltage apparatus.

• High-Voltage Measurement Systems Development: Design and calibration of instruments and systems that must comply with international standards for safety and precision.

• Quality Assurance and Compliance: Ensuring measurement systems meet required tolerance and uncertainty thresholds to comply with regulatory frameworks in electrical power and utility industries.

• Research and Development: Innovating next-generation high-voltage measurement technologies with enhanced accuracy and broader voltage level applications.

• On-Site Testing Preparation: While on-site test measurements fall under IEC 60060-3, IEC 60060-2 guides the proper preparation, calibration, and validation of systems used during such tests.

Related Standards

• IEC 60060-1: High-voltage test techniques - Part 1: General definitions and test requirements. Provides the fundamental framework for high-voltage test voltages referenced in IEC 60060-2.

• IEC 60060-3: High-voltage test techniques - Part 3: Documentation of on-site high-voltage test results. Complements IEC 60060-2 for field measurements.

• IEC 60071-1: Insulation coordination - Part 1: Definitions, principles, and rules. Specifies standard insulation levels and test requirements, crucial for defining uncertainty limits in IEC 60060-2.

• IEC Electropedia: The IEC's online electrotechnical vocabulary supports consistent terminology across all standards including 60060 series.

Practical Value

Complying with IEC 60060-2:2025 helps organizations to:

• Achieve accurate and reproducible high-voltage measurements critical for product safety and performance validation.

• Minimize measurement uncertainties using standardized approval and calibration methodologies, thereby ensuring reliability.

• Enhance test system design and maintenance by following rigorous performance and stability testing criteria.

• Support regulatory compliance and acceptance in global markets through adherence to internationally recognized measurement standards.

• Optimize the integration of measurement systems that handle various high-voltage waveforms including composite and combined voltages, advancing capabilities for complex test scenarios.

By implementing IEC 60060-2:2025, industries benefit from improved confidence in test results, robust high-voltage testing procedures, and sustained compliance with evolving electrical safety and performance standards.