IEC 61591:2019

Overview

IEC 61591:2019 is an essential international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that specifies methods for measuring the performance of cooking fume extractors. It applies primarily to household kitchen extractors equipped with a fan used in either recirculation or extraction modes. The standard also covers configurations where the fan is separate from the extractor but controlled by the appliance, as well as down-draft systems positioned beside, behind, or under cooking appliances.

Significantly, this second edition of IEC 61591 incorporates updates improving measurement procedures while focusing on user-relevant performance characteristics. However, it does not provide classification or ranking criteria and excludes safety requirements covered under IEC 60335-1 and IEC 60335-2-31.

Key Topics

• Scope and Application
  IEC 61591:2019 targets household kitchen cooking fume extractors incorporating fans in various configurations. It defines the measurement methods for key performance characteristics that affect appliance functionality and user experience.

• Performance Characteristics Measured

  • Volumetric Airflow: Procedures for accurately assessing the air volume extracted or recirculated by the extractor.
  • Fluid Dynamic Efficiency (FDE): New measurement methods aligned with CENELEC proposals, evaluating the energy efficiency relating to air movement.
  • Odour Reduction: Revised test procedures specifically for recirculation mode, assessing the extractor’s ability to reduce kitchen odours.
  • Grease Absorption: Updated clearer procedures for measuring how effectively the extractor captures grease particles.
  • Effectiveness of Lighting Systems: Modified methods to quantify lighting performance integral to the extractor’s function.

• Instrumentation and Setups
  Details on required instruments and general measurement conditions ensure tests are reproducible and consistent across different models and installation types.

• Exclusions
  The standard excludes performance classification and safety requirements, focusing exclusively on standardized measurement methods.

Applications

IEC 61591:2019 serves multiple stakeholders involved in the design, testing, certification, and marketing of cooking fume extractors:

• Manufacturers and Designers can utilize the standard to optimize product performance, ensuring appliances meet measurable and comparable performance benchmarks.
• Certification Bodies and Test Labs apply these methods to verify product claims regarding airflow, filtration efficiency, odour reduction, and lighting effectiveness.
• Consumers and Retailers gain transparent and reliable information about appliance performance, assisting consumers in making informed purchases based on objective test results.
• Regulators and Standardization Committees can reference IEC 61591 when developing or updating regional regulations for kitchen ventilation appliances.

The standard supports quality assurance and continuous improvement in household kitchen ventilation technologies, enabling manufacturers to innovate efficiently while maintaining compliance with international measurement protocols.

Related Standards

IEC 61591:2019 complements and relates closely to other international standards, providing a comprehensive framework for household appliance performance and safety:

• IEC 60335-1: General safety requirements for household electrical appliances.
• IEC 60335-2-31: Specific safety requirements for range hoods and other cooking fume extractors.
• IEC 60584-1: Specifications for thermocouples used in measurement instruments.
• IEC 60704-2-13: Test codes for determining airborne noise in cooking fume extractors.
• IEC 62301: Measurement of standby power consumption in household appliances.

These interconnected standards help ensure that cooking fume extractors not only meet precise performance criteria but also adhere to stringent safety and environmental standards globally.

By adhering to IEC 61591:2019, manufacturers and technicians achieve consistent, reliable, and transparent performance evaluation methods for cooking fume extractors. This facilitates innovation, regulatory compliance, and enhanced user satisfaction in the global household appliance market.