IEC 60598-2-23:2020

IEC 60598-2-23:2020 Overview

IEC 60598-2-23:2020 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that defines particular requirements for extra-low-voltage (ELV) lighting systems using ELV light sources. This standard applies specifically to lighting systems intended for ordinary interior use, operating at supply voltages not exceeding 1,000 V, with systems where luminaires are connected in parallel and powered via freely suspended continuous supporting conductors or profiles. The current in the ELV part of these systems must not exceed 25 A.

This second edition, published in 2020, replaces the first edition from 1996 and its Amendment 1:2000, incorporating a technical revision. Key updates include extending the scope to include a wider variety of light sources and aligning the requirements with other parts of the IEC 60598-2 series.

Key Topics Covered

• Scope and Application: Specifies requirements for ELV lighting systems, focusing on interior use with extra-low-voltage supply, ensuring safety and functionality for luminaires connected via suspended supporting conductors.
• System Components: Detailed requirements for system elements such as transformers, control gear, supporting conductors, connectors, auxiliary supports, and spacers.
• Safety and Construction: Important provisions around electrical safety, insulation resistance, creepage distances, clearances, earthing provisions, and protection against electric shock to mitigate risks in ELV lighting systems.
• Mechanical Requirements: Guidelines for appropriate mounting of supporting conductors, spacing of main and auxiliary supports, and fixture connections.
• Testing Procedures: Specifies mandatory type tests including endurance, thermal, insulation resistance, electric strength, resistance to heat, fire, dust, and moisture as per IEC 60598-1 and this particular part.
• Marking and Instructions: Requirements for clear and comprehensive installation instructions, marking of all parts, and specification of system components, facilitating correct installation and safe operation.

Practical Applications

IEC 60598-2-23:2020 is essential for manufacturers, designers, installers, and safety assessors involved with extra-low-voltage lighting systems such as:

• Interior Architectural Lighting: Particularly where luminaires are suspended from constructed supporting profiles or conductors for aesthetic and functional lighting.
• Retail and Commercial Spaces: Lighting installations requiring LED or other ELV light sources connected in parallel for flexibility and ease of maintenance.
• Specialized Lighting Kits and Systems: Commercially available lighting kits combining controlgear, transformers, wiring, and fittings prepared as a product system for easy deployment.
• Energy-efficient and Safe Lighting Design: Application in environments that require adherence to safety standards while utilizing ELV technology to minimize electrical hazard risks.

By following IEC 60598-2-23:2020, stakeholders ensure compliance with international safety, reliability, and performance standards, reducing equipment failures and hazards associated with ELV lighting systems.

Related Standards

This standard is designed to be used alongside and complemented by other IEC publications such as:

• IEC 60598-1: General requirements and tests for luminaires, providing foundational guidelines used in conjunction with Part 2-23.
• IEC 61347 series: Lamp controlgear standards specifying safety and performance for electronic transformers and LED drivers used in ELV lighting.
• IEC 61558 series: Safety requirements for transformers and power supply units used within lighting systems, vital for ensuring electrical safety.
• IEC TR 60083: Standards for plugs and socket-outlets, related to components connecting ELV lighting systems to mains supply.

Integration with these standards ensures comprehensive compliance coverage from component level to complete lighting system installations.

Keywords: IEC 60598-2-23, extra-low-voltage lighting systems, ELV light sources, luminaires, supporting conductors, safety standards, interior lighting, transformer, controlgear, electrical safety, lighting system installation, IEC standards.