IEC 62271-100:2021

Overview

IEC 62271-100:2021 is the international standard that specifies requirements and direct test methods for high-voltage alternating-current (AC) circuit-breakers used in three-phase systems with voltages above 1 000 V and operating at 50 Hz and/or 60 Hz. Intended for indoor and outdoor installations, this third edition (with Amendment 1 consolidated) updates definitions, aligns with IEC 62271-1:2017, incorporates previous amendments and corrigenda, and restructures key making/breaking test subclauses. Note: this document includes only direct making‑breaking test methods; synthetic test methods are covered in IEC 62271-101.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and applicability: three‑phase AC circuit‑breakers for systems >1 kV, indoor/outdoor, 50/60 Hz.
• Ratings: rated voltage, insulation levels, rated continuous and short‑time currents, peak withstand, rated breaking/making currents, operating sequences and related quantities.
• Design and construction: requirements for liquids, gases, earthing, auxiliary/control circuits, sealing (gas/vacuum/liquid tightness), mechanical loads and degrees of protection.
• Type tests and making‑breaking tests: dielectric tests, short‑time and peak withstand tests, making and breaking procedures, TRV (transient recovery voltage) considerations, terminal and short‑line fault tests.
• Routine tests: dielectric and resistance checks, tightness, mechanical operation and visual inspections.
• Performance verification: electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), radio interference voltage (RIV), X‑radiation tests for vacuum interrupters, and demonstration of arcing times.
• Guidance and annexes: selection guides, installation/operation/maintenance instructions, TRV calculation methods, tolerances, and test report requirements.

Practical applications and who uses this standard

• Manufacturers of high‑voltage circuit‑breakers use IEC 62271-100 to design, test and certify products to international performance and safety criteria.
• Test laboratories and certification bodies rely on the standard for validated type and routine test procedures (making/breaking and dielectric tests).
• Utilities, EPCs and specifiers reference the standard when selecting switchgear for substations and power networks, ensuring correct ratings and switching performance for fault and capacitive switching duties.
• Procurement and compliance teams use it in tenders and contracts to define acceptance tests, documentation and maintenance requirements.
• Design engineers consult annexes (TRV, short‑line faults) and selection guidance to match circuit‑breaker capability with network conditions.

Related standards

• IEC 62271-1 - General definitions and common requirements for high‑voltage switchgear and controlgear.
• IEC 62271-101 - Synthetic testing methods for making/breaking tests (complements IEC 62271-100).

Keywords: IEC 62271-100, high-voltage switchgear, AC circuit-breakers, making‑breaking tests, type tests, TRV, dielectric tests, short-circuit testing, switchgear standards.