IEC 61800-2:2015

Overview

IEC 61800-2:2015 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that specifies the general requirements and rating specifications for low voltage adjustable speed alternating current (a.c.) power drive systems. These systems incorporate semiconductor power conversion along with control, protection, monitoring, and measurement means, specifically intended for a.c. motors operating from line-to-line voltages up to and including 1 kV at 50 Hz or 60 Hz, and/or d.c. voltages up to 1.5 kV on the input side.

This standard addresses the essential characteristics, environmental conditions, ratings, performance, and testing requirements to ensure safety, efficiency, and consistency across low voltage adjustable speed a.c. power drive systems (PDS). It serves as a foundational document for manufacturers and customers to develop mutually agreed-upon specifications that foster interoperability, reliability, and regulatory compliance. Notably, IEC 61800-2:2015 excludes traction applications and electric vehicles from its scope, which are covered by other IEC standards.

Key Topics

• Scope and Definitions: The standard clearly defines adjustable speed electric a.c. power drive systems, their principal parts, and voltage classifications. It aligns terminology to facilitate consistent use across the whole IEC 61800 series.

• Ratings and Performance: IEC 61800-2 details how to specify input and output ratings, operating quadrants, and control equipment properties. It also defines performance metrics like operational stability, fault supervision, and minimum status indication requirements.

• Topology and Characteristics: It describes basic topologies for Block Diode Modules (BDM), Controlled Diode Modules (CDM), and the overall Power Drive Systems. This includes diagrams and examples of various configurations to aid practical implementation.

• Environmental and Safety Specifications: This standard sets guidelines for the environmental conditions of installation, transport and storage, including service in explosive atmospheres. It also covers electrical safety, functional safety, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and ecological design requirements.

• Testing and Validation: Requirements for type, sample, and routine testing are specified to link design conditions directly to test procedures, covering performance tests, safety, EMC, eco-design, and environmental conditions to ensure product quality and adherence to standards.

• Marking and Documentation: Clear requirements for product markings, safety labels, and information documentation are included to assist proper application, maintenance, and regulatory compliance.

Applications

IEC 61800-2:2015 is critical for industries utilizing low voltage adjustable speed a.c. power drives, such as:

• Manufacturing and Automation: Ensures compatibility and safety of adjustable speed drives used in conveyor belts, robotic arms, and other motor-driven equipment.

• HVAC Systems: Establishes performance criteria for drive systems controlling fans, pumps, and compressors to optimize energy efficiency.

• Material Handling: Supports specification and testing of drives used in cranes, hoists, and elevators by defining operational and environmental requirements.

• Renewable Energy: Applicable in systems where low voltage a.c. motor drives are integrated for energy conversion and control.

• General Industrial Equipment: Enables standardization of adjustable speed drives across various applications demanding energy efficient and safe motor control.

Related Standards

IEC 61800-2:2015 is part of the broader IEC 61800 series focusing on adjustable speed electrical power drive systems. Key related standards include:

• IEC 61800-1: General requirements covering adjustable speed d.c. power drive systems.

• IEC 61800-3: Requirements pertaining to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of adjustable speed drives.

• IEC 61800-4: Specifies rating and performance requirements for adjustable speed drives above 1 kV a.c.

• IEC 61800-5-1 and 5-2: Define electrical and functional safety requirements for power drive systems.

• IEC 61800-6: Focuses on load duty aspects.

• IEC 61800-7: Communication profiles for power drive systems.

• IEC TS 61800-8: Provides specifications for power interface voltage.

Together, these standards ensure a comprehensive regulatory framework for the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of adjustable speed electrical power drive systems, reinforcing global safety, interoperability, and performance guarantees.

Keywords: IEC 61800-2, adjustable speed electric drive systems, low voltage a.c. power drives, semiconductor power conversion, power drive system ratings, electric motor control, electrical safety standards, functional safety, EMC, eco design standards, industrial motor drives, IEC 61800 series standards.