IEC 60947-5-1:2016

Overview

IEC 60947-5-1:2016 is the fourth edition international standard for electromechanical control circuit devices used in low-voltage switchgear and controlgear. It specifies construction, performance, testing and product information requirements for devices and switching elements intended for controlling, signalling and interlocking of switchgear and controlgear with rated voltages up to 1 000 V AC (≤ 1 000 Hz) or 600 V DC. This edition is a technical revision of the 2003 edition and includes updates to normative references, EMC, material tests, and new requirements (for example, screwless-type clamping units), additional tables and an annex.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope & rated values: Devices covered are intended for control circuits and switching elements with the stated AC/DC voltage limits.
• Constructional requirements: Materials, current-carrying parts, clearances and creepage distances, terminal design and class II insulation options.
• Performance requirements: Ability to make/break under normal and abnormal loads, conditional short-circuit current performance, maximum recovery time and durability.
• Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC): Updated immunity and emission requirements and related testing procedures.
• Tests: Type, routine, sampling and special tests (mechanical and electrical durability, dielectric tests, performance sequences, EMC tests). Annexes provide electrical ratings, inductive test loads and durability test procedures.
• New/updated items in 2016 edition: material requirements and tests, EMC updates, restructured clauses, requirements for screwless clamping units, updated and new tables and figures, and a new Annex N.
• Product information & marking: Requirements for terminal identification, functional markings, operating diagrams, time-delay markings and installation/maintenance instructions.

Practical applications

• Design, manufacture and validation of pilot switches, contactor relays, rotary switches and other electromechanical control devices used in industrial control panels, motor control centres, machine safety interlocks and signalling systems.
• Test laboratories performing type and routine testing to demonstrate conformity.
• Equipment specifiers and procurement teams using the standard to select devices that meet safety, performance and EMC requirements.
• Maintenance and safety engineers referencing durability, marking and installation requirements for safe operation and replacement.

Who should use this standard

• Switchgear and controlgear manufacturers
• Electrical and control system designers / panel builders
• Test houses and certification bodies
• Electrical safety engineers and facility maintenance teams

Related standards

• IEC 60947-1:2007 (general rules) - this document is to be read in conjunction with IEC 60947-5-1.
• Other parts of the IEC 60947 series covering low-voltage switchgear and controlgear.

Keywords: IEC 60947-5-1, electromechanical control circuit devices, low-voltage switchgear, controlgear, EMC requirements, rated voltage, screwless clamping units, utilization categories, durability tests.