IEC 61439-7:2018

Overview

IEC 61439-7:2018 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that specifies requirements for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies designed for specific applications. These assemblies are intended for outdoor public locations such as marinas, camping sites, market squares, and electric vehicle charging stations. The scope includes assemblies with rated voltages up to 1,000 V AC or 1,500 V DC, used for the generation, transmission, distribution, conversion, and control of electric energy, and designed to be operated by ordinary persons.

This first edition consolidates and replaces the previous technical specification published in 2014, with significant updates including new classifications for mechanical resistance, revised testing requirements, and new endurance tests for individual switching devices, especially those used in electric vehicle supply equipment.

Key Topics

• Application-Specific Assemblies
  IEC 61439-7 addresses assemblies tailored for unique environments such as:

  • Marinas (AMHS)
  • Camping sites (ACCS)
  • Market squares and similar public spaces (AMPS)
  • Electric vehicle charging stations (AEVCS) for conductive charging Modes 3 and 4

• Rated Voltage and Usage
  The assemblies covered operate at voltages not exceeding 1,000 V AC or 1,500 V DC. They are intended for electrical energy management, including connection to energy generation, transmission, and distribution systems.

• Mechanical Resistance Classification
  New classifications introduced classify stationary assemblies by mechanical robustness, ensuring suitability for outdoor and potentially harsh environments.

• Testing and Verification
  The standard provides comprehensive mechanical and performance test requirements, including:

  • Resistance to static and shock loads
  • Mechanical strength of doors and enclosures
  • Endurance tests for switching devices specific to electric vehicle charging stations

• User-Friendly Design
  Assemblies are intended for operation by non-specialists, facilitating safe plug and unplug operations of electrical equipment in public spaces.

• Integration with Other Standards
  IEC 61439-7 harmonizes with related IEC standards, notably IEC 61439-1 for general rules on low-voltage assemblies and IEC 61851-1 for electric vehicle conductive charging systems.

Applications

IEC 61439-7:2018 is crucial for manufacturers, designers, and operators involved in the deployment of low-voltage electric switchgear and controlgear assemblies in specific public and outdoor environments:

• Marinas and Ports
  Assemblies designed to withstand environmental factors such as moisture, salt, and mechanical impact, providing safe energy distribution and control for maritime facilities.

• Campgrounds and Recreational Areas
  Facilitate the power supply and management in camping sites and similar locations where outdoor electrical assemblies must be durable and simple to operate by campers and visitors.

• Market Squares and Outdoor Public Areas
  Enable safe electrical supply and control in open public areas used for markets or events, ensuring stability and protection for various temporary or permanent installations.

• Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
  Supports the growing infrastructure for electric vehicles by ensuring assemblies meet stringent endurance and performance requirements, including compatibility with Mode 3 and Mode 4 conductive charging.

Related Standards

IEC 61439-7 relies on and complements several key standards to ensure a comprehensive regulatory framework:

• IEC 61439-1:2011 – General rules for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies, providing foundational principles applied in Part 7.

• IEC 61851-1:2017 – Electric vehicle conductive charging systems, specifying functional and safety requirements integrated into assemblies designed for EV charging.

• Other parts of IEC 61439 series – Covering assemblies for general use, specific industrial or commercial applications, and additional safety and performance conditions.

Keywords: IEC 61439-7:2018, low-voltage switchgear assemblies, controlgear assemblies, marinas, camping sites, market squares, electric vehicle charging stations, EV charging, mechanical resistance classification, outdoor electrical assemblies, low-voltage electrical standards, IEC standards, electric energy distribution, conductive charging systems.