IEC 61009-2-2:2024

Overview

IEC 61009-2-2:2024 is the second edition of the International Electrotechnical Commission standard for residual current operated circuit‑breakers with integral overcurrent protection (RCBOs) intended for household and similar uses. This part specifically covers RCBOs classified according to IEC 61009‑1:2024 clauses 4.1.2, 4.1.3, 4.1.4, 4.1.5 and 4.1.6. It applies to devices for AC supplies up to 440 V, at 50 Hz, 60 Hz or 50/60 Hz, with rated currents up to 125 A and rated short‑circuit capacities up to 25 000 A (50/60 Hz). Edition 2.0 (2024) cancels the 1991 edition and introduces a technical revision with harmonized clause, table and figure structures across related standards.

Key Topics and Requirements

• Scope and classification: Defines RCBOs by supply conditions per IEC 61009‑1 classifications (4.1.2–4.1.6).
• Rated characteristics: Rated voltages, currents and short‑circuit capacities; standard and preferred values.
• Marking and product information: New marking provisions for RCBOs with a functional earth (FE) and other classification‑specific markings.
• Construction and operation requirements: Includes behaviour in the event of loss of supply and resistance to temporary overvoltages (TOV).
• Comprehensive testing regime: Specific tests and conditions for dielectric properties, temperature‑rise, electrical and mechanical endurance, short‑circuit performance, trip‑free verification, surge current behaviour, reliability, ageing, and TOV.
• FE terminal tests: New tests for FE‑connected RCBOs - connecting capacity of FE terminal (9.200) and limitation of standing current in the FE (9.201).
• Reference terms: Terms and definitions are now referenced to IEC 62873‑2 to ensure consistency.

Applications and Practical Value

• Design and manufacture of RCBOs for residential and light‑commercial distribution panels.
• Type testing and product development to meet safety and performance requirements for overcurrent and residual‑current protection.
• Certification and conformity assessment by test laboratories and certification bodies.
• Specification and procurement guidance for electrical engineers, installers and authorities seeking RCBOs that meet harmonized international requirements (voltage, current, short‑circuit capacity, FE behaviour).
• Risk mitigation in electrical installations by ensuring correct operation under TOV, short‑circuit and ageing conditions.

Who Should Use This Standard

• RCBO manufacturers and product designers
• Test laboratories and certification bodies
• Electrical safety engineers and specifiers
• Regulators, utilities and installation contractors

Related Standards

• IEC 61009‑1:2024 (general requirements for RCBOs) - this part is to be used in conjunction with it
• IEC 61008 and IEC 60755 series (harmonized clause/module approach)
• IEC 62873‑2 (terms and definitions)

Keywords: IEC 61009‑2‑2, RCBO, residual current operated circuit‑breaker, overcurrent protection, household, functional earth, TOV, short‑circuit, dielectric test, temperature‑rise, IEC 61009‑1.