IEC 60831-1:2014

Overview

IEC 60831-1:2014 specifies requirements for shunt power capacitors of the self-healing type for a.c. systems with a rated voltage up to and including 1 000 V and frequencies 15 Hz to 60 Hz. Covering both single capacitor units and capacitor banks, this third edition (2014) updates performance, testing and rating rules, safety requirements, and provides a practical guide for installation and operation. It also includes Annex A with additional definitions and tests for power filter capacitors and incorporates the May 2014 corrigendum.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and application: Power-factor correction and power filter circuits in a.c. systems ≤ 1 000 V.
• Performance and rating: Uniform rules for capacitance measurement, output calculation and tolerances (see Clauses 7–8).
• Testing framework: Classification into routine, type and acceptance tests (Clause 6) with specific tests such as:
  • Capacitance and loss angle (tan δ) measurements (Clauses 7–8, 14)
  • Voltage tests between terminals and between terminals and container (Clauses 9–10)
  • Sealing, thermal stability, ageing, self‑healing and destruction tests (Clauses 12–19)
  • Lightning impulse and discharge tests (Clauses 15–16)
• Overload limits: Maximum permissible voltage and current clarified (Clauses 20–21).
• Safety and environment: Specific safety rules, discharge-device requirements, container connections and amended environmental protection and plastic quality provisions (Clauses 22–25).
• Marking and documentation: Rating plates, warning plates and instruction sheets for units and banks (Clauses 26–27).
• Installation and operation guidance: Practical guidance on rated voltage selection, operating temperature, overvoltages, overload currents, switching/protection devices, EMC and special service conditions (Clauses 28–37).

Applications and practical value

IEC 60831-1:2014 is essential for:

• Manufacturers designing and certifying self-healing shunt capacitors and capacitor banks.
• Test laboratories performing type, routine and acceptance testing to international criteria.
• Power utilities and industrial electrical engineers specifying components for power-factor correction and harmonic filter applications in low-voltage networks (≤ 1 kV).
• Installers and commissioning teams using the guide to ensure safe installation, proper connection, discharge precautions and compliance with EMC and environmental requirements.

Practical benefits include improved product safety, consistent test procedures, clear rating limits for voltage/current, and installation guidance that reduces field failures and compliance risks.

Related standards

This edition updates normative references used across IEC documentation for capacitors and should be used in conjunction with other IEC electrotechnical standards referenced in the normative section. Annex A specifically addresses additional requirements for power filter capacitors. For procurement, design and conformity activities, consult the latest IEC catalog and national adoptions.