IEC 60146-1-1:2024

Overview

IEC 60146-1-1:2024 is the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard that specifies the general requirements for semiconductor power converters and semiconductor power switches utilizing controllable and/or non-controllable electronic valve devices. This standard is crucial for manufacturers, engineers, and industry professionals involved in the design, testing, and application of semiconductor converters, particularly line commutated converters used for converting AC to DC power and vice versa. The fifth edition includes updated calculation methods, coordination with related IEC standards, and omits safety descriptions now covered by IEC 62477.

Key Topics

IEC 60146-1-1:2024 covers several essential areas related to semiconductor converters, ensuring their reliable performance and compatibility in electrical systems:

• Scope and Definitions
  • Applies to all semiconductor power converters and switches, including rectifiers, thyristor-based devices, and transistor switches.
  • Establishes standardized terminology for power electronics, ensuring a common language across industries.
• Performance and Test Requirements
  • Basic operational parameters, rated values, service conditions, and EMC compatibility.
  • Specifies methods for electrical testing, including insulation, performance, thermal, and functional tests for valve assemblies and converter equipment.
• Commutation and Operation
  • Details on commutation types, calculation factors, losses, power factor, and voltage regulation relevant to line commutated converters.
• Service Conditions and Ratings
  • Defines environmental and operational tolerances, cooling requirements, and duty classes.
• Coordination with Other Standards
  • Integrates requirements with IEC 62477 (safety), IEC 61378 (converter transformers), and relevant EMC, insulation, and equipment standards.
• Marking and Documentation
  • Requirements for equipment marking (including rating plates) to support proper identification and usage.
• Annexes
  • Information about harmonics, interharmonics, short-circuit ratio, and safety considerations.

Applications

IEC 60146-1-1:2024 is widely applicable for various sectors employing semiconductor converters, including:

• Industrial Motor Drives: Ensures robust and efficient AC-DC or DC-AC conversion in variable speed drives and DC motor applications.
• Power Supply Infrastructure: Guides the design and testing of rectifiers, inverters, and static switches used in grid infrastructure and industrial plants.
• Renewable Energy Systems: Supports reliable operation of converters in solar, wind, and energy storage systems.
• Railway and Transportation: Covers direct DC converters for rolling stock and related transportation applications.
• HVDC Transmission: Influences the specification of thyristor valves and line-commutated converters in high-voltage direct current systems.
• OEM Equipment Manufacturers: Provides reference requirements for products not covered by dedicated standards, reinforcing interoperability and conformity.

By following IEC 60146-1-1:2024, users benefit from improved device compatibility, easier maintenance, and international acceptance of equipment design.

Related Standards

Integration and compatibility are central in IEC 60146-1-1:2024, with direct reference to several important related IEC standards:

• IEC 62477-1/2: Safety requirements for power electronic converter systems and equipment
• IEC 61378-1: Specification for converter transformers in industrial applications
• IEC 61000 series: Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements for power electronic equipment
• IEC 60700-1: Testing of thyristor valves for HVDC transmission
• IEC 61800-3: EMC requirements for adjustable speed electrical power drive systems
• IEC 60529: Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)
• IEC 60664-1: Insulation coordination for equipment within low-voltage supply systems

For all professionals in power electronics, following IEC 60146-1-1:2024 ensures compliance with the latest international best practices and supports the development and operation of efficient, safe, and reliable semiconductor converter systems.