IEC 60898-2:2016

Overview

IEC 60898-2:2016 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that specifies additional requirements for single- and two-pole circuit-breakers designed for overcurrent protection in household and similar installations. This part of the IEC 60898 series focuses specifically on circuit-breakers suitable for both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) operation. The standard covers circuit-breakers with rated DC voltages up to 220 V for single-pole and 440 V for two-pole devices, rated currents up to 125 A, and DC short-circuit capacities not exceeding 10,000 A.

This edition supersedes the original 2000 edition and its 2003 amendment, incorporating significant technical revisions including alignment with IEC 60898-1:2015 and the introduction of new testing procedures like test Icn1. It is intended to be used alongside IEC 60898-1, which addresses circuit-breakers for AC operation.

Key Topics

• Scope and Applicability: Extends requirements for overcurrent protection devices capable of interrupting both AC and DC currents within specified voltage and current ratings typical for household and similar installations.

• Classification:

  • Single-pole and two-pole circuit-breakers with two protected poles.
  • Classification by instantaneous tripping current ranges specific for AC and DC.
  • Categorization based on time constants (T ≤ 4 ms and T ≤ 15 ms) to address the characteristics of DC circuit interruptions.

• Rated Voltages and Currents:

  • Rated DC voltage limits: 220 V for single-pole and 440 V for two-pole.
  • Rated current up to 125 A.
  • Rated DC short-circuit capacity up to 10,000 A.

• Instantaneous Tripping Characteristics:

  • For AC: Type B (3 I to 5 I); Type C (5 I to 10 I).
  • For DC: Type B (4 I to 7 I); Type C (7 I to 15 I).

• Markings and Product Information:

  • Clear labeling of rated AC and DC voltages, current ratings, and tripping characteristics.
  • Conformance marks and manufacturer declarations regarding operational parameters.

• Testing Requirements:

  • Comprehensive test sequences ensuring reliable performance in both AC and DC applications.
  • Introduction of test Icn1 for assessing breaking capacity.

• Construction and Operation:

  • Design considerations for reliable switching and interruption of DC currents, which typically present different arc quenching challenges compared to AC.
  • Requirements tailored to time constants encountered in practical DC circuits.

Applications

IEC 60898-2:2016 serves as a critical benchmark for manufacturers, electrical engineers, and standards organizations involved in the design, certification, installation, and maintenance of circuit-breakers in environments where both AC and DC overcurrent protection is required. Typical applications include:

• Residential and Commercial Buildings: Circuit-breakers protecting household electrical circuits that may have DC loads or systems with backup batteries and solar PV installations.

• Direct Current Systems: Protection in DC circuits such as telecommunications, solar photovoltaic (PV) power systems, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and electric vehicle charging stations.

• Hybrid AC/DC Installations: Modern electrical systems integrating both AC and DC power distribution networks, requiring compliant circuit-breakers for safe operation.

• Electrical Panels and Switchboards: Ensuring proper selection and use of circuit-breakers that comply with international safety standards for AC and DC operation.

By defining precise technical and testing requirements, IEC 60898-2 helps improve electrical safety, system reliability, and operational consistency across installations integrating direct current applications alongside traditional alternating current systems.

Related Standards

• IEC 60898-1:2015: This part addresses circuit-breakers for overcurrent protection in household and similar installations operating on AC. IEC 60898-2 is a complementary document extending requirements to DC and combined AC/DC operation.

• IEC 60947 Series: Covers low-voltage switchgear and controlgear, including circuit-breakers used in industrial applications.

• IEC 61439 Series: Standards for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies, which may incorporate circuit-breakers conforming to IEC 60898-2.

• IEC 60269 Series: Pertains to low-voltage fuses providing additional or alternative overcurrent protection.

• ISO/IEC Directives: Governing principles for writing and structuring international standards, followed in the drafting of IEC 60898-2.

These related standards provide a broader framework for electrical protection devices, ensuring harmonization and interoperability in electrical installations worldwide.

Keywords: IEC 60898-2, circuit-breakers, overcurrent protection, DC circuit-breakers, AC/DC operation, household electrical safety, rated voltage, rated current, DC short-circuit capacity, electrical accessories, IEC standards, instantaneous tripping, time constant, electrical installation safety.