IEC 61009-2-1:2024

Overview

IEC 61009-2-1:2024 is the 2nd edition international standard that specifies requirements and test procedures for residual current operated circuit‑breakers with integral overcurrent protection (RCBOs) classified under IEC 61009-1:2024, clause 4.1.1. It applies to RCBOs for household and similar uses for AC voltages up to 440 V, frequencies 50 Hz / 60 Hz / 50/60 Hz, rated currents up to 125 A, and rated short‑circuit capacities up to 25 000 A. This edition replaces the 1991 edition and constitutes a technical revision.

Key Topics and Requirements

• Scope & Classification
  • Defines RCBO behaviour according to supply conditions (classification 4.1.1): operation on residual current across the voltage range (up to 1.1 U to 0 V) with any number of supply conductors connected; RCBOs do not open automatically on loss of supply.
• Harmonization
  • Alignment of clauses, tables and figures with IEC 61008, IEC 61009 and IEC 60755 using a blocks-and-modules approach.
• Terminology
  • Terms and definitions referenced from IEC 62873-2.
• Construction & Marking
  • Requirements for construction, installation information and product marking are used in conjunction with IEC 61009-1:2024.
• Test Regime
  • Detailed tests for: operating characteristics (9.9), temperature‑rise (9.8), verification of trip‑free mechanism (9.15), surge current tests (9.19), reliability (9.20) and ageing (9.21).
  • Test sequences and sample numbers for certification are given in Annex A; routine tests (e.g., dielectric strength) are in Annex D.
  • Test specifics: residual-current tests applied to one pole with five measurements; ambient test temperature normally 20 °C ±5 °C; for multi-frequency RCBOs tests at lowest and highest frequencies unless otherwise specified.
• Test Circuits
  • Includes standard test circuits (Figures 2–4) for operating characteristic verification and tests involving pulsating or smooth DC components.

Applications and Who Uses It

• Manufacturers of RCBOs for design verification, type‑testing and product certification.
• Certification and testing laboratories performing conformity assessment to IEC requirements.
• Electrical specifiers, designers and contractors selecting RCBOs for household and similar installations.
• Regulators and compliance bodies referencing the standard for safety approvals and market surveillance.

Related Standards

• IEC 61009-1:2024 (Part 1: General rules) - to be used together with this document
• IEC 61008, IEC 60755 series - harmonized content
• IEC 61543:2022 - EMC for RCDs
• IEC 62873-2 - vocabulary for residual current devices

Keywords: IEC 61009-2-1:2024, RCBOs, residual current operated circuit-breaker, overcurrent protection, testing, temperature-rise, trip-free, surge current, household electrical safety.