IEC 62271-110:2017

Overview

IEC 62271-110:2017 - High-voltage switchgear and controlgear, Part 110: Inductive load switching - is the fourth edition of the IEC international standard that specifies requirements and type-test procedures for AC switching devices used to interrupt inductive currents on systems above 1 000 V at 50 Hz or 60 Hz. The scope covers indoor and outdoor switching devices, including circuit-breakers (see IEC 62271-100) and high‑voltage contactors (see IEC 62271-106) used for high‑voltage motor current and shunt‑reactor current switching. This edition extends coverage to all switching devices, updates some T10 test applicability (shunt‑reactor tests below 52 kV), and adds requirements for evaluating and reporting a re‑ignition‑free arcing time window.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Applicability: AC switching devices for inductive load switching (motor and shunt reactor currents) on systems >1 000 V.
• Type tests and routine tests: Comprehensive test program including:
  • Dielectric tests and combined voltage tests where applicable
  • Radio interference voltage (R.I.V.) tests
  • Measurement of circuit resistance and temperature‑rise tests
  • Short‑time and peak withstand current tests
  • Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and mechanical/environmental tests
  • Tightness and protection verification
• Inductive switching tests:
  • Detailed procedures for high‑voltage motor current switching and shunt reactor current switching, with specified test circuits, test‑duties and measurements
  • Tables of standard values for prospective transient recovery voltages (PTRV/TRV) across voltage classes (document includes ranges in test tables)
• Reporting and evaluation:
  • Requirements for test reports, including new provisions for assessing and reporting a re‑ignition‑free arcing time window
• Design and selection guidance: Clauses for selection, installation, operation and maintenance, and required information for enquiries, tenders and orders

Practical applications and users

IEC 62271-110:2017 is used by:

• Switchgear and high‑voltage contactor manufacturers for design verification and type‑testing
• Independent test laboratories performing inductive switching and TRV/PTRV tests
• Utilities and system operators specifying equipment for motor switching and shunt‑reactor operations
• Specifiers, procurement teams and conformity assessment bodies drafting technical requirements and acceptance criteria

Practical benefits include safer, more reliable interrupting performance for inductive loads, harmonized test procedures, and clearer reporting (including re‑ignition metrics) to support equipment selection and risk assessment.

Related standards

• IEC 62271 series (high‑voltage switchgear and controlgear)
• IEC 62271-100 (high‑voltage circuit‑breakers)
• IEC 62271-106 (high‑voltage contactors)
• IEC 62271-1 (common specifications)