IEC 62391-1:2022

Overview

IEC 62391-1:2022 is the latest edition of the international standard specifying generic requirements for fixed electric double-layer capacitors used predominantly in DC circuits of electric and electronic equipment. Published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), this standard establishes unified terminology, detailed inspection procedures, and test methods essential for quality assessment and specification in component manufacturing and testing.

This third edition of IEC 62391-1 introduces a comprehensive restructuring to align with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2. It enhances technical clarity by categorizing test methods more systematically and revising tables, figures, and references. Importantly, annexes now include refined calculation formulas for charging and discharging efficiency, which account for both full and incomplete charge/discharge scenarios due to internal resistance.

Key Topics

• Scope and Application: Covers fixed electric double-layer capacitors primarily for DC electronic and electrical applications, addressing quality and performance verification.
• Standardized Terminology and Symbols: Offers consistent terms and symbols for capacitance, internal resistance, and voltage maintenance, facilitating global communication and documentation.
• Test and Measurement Procedures:
  • Electrical tests such as capacitance measurement by constant current discharge and constant resistance charging.
  • Measurement of internal resistance using AC methods.
  • Leakage current assessment and voltage maintenance evaluation.
• Mechanical and Environmental Testing:
  • Visual inspection and precise dimensional gauging.
  • Robustness of terminations through tensile, bending, torsion, and torque tests.
  • Environmental endurance including rapid temperature changes, damp heat, vibration, and temperature extremes.
• Assembly-Related Tests: Soldering heat resistance, solderability, solvent resistance of components and markings.
• Safety Measures:
  • Passive flammability testing.
  • Pressure relief verification for applicable capacitor designs.
• Quality Assessment: Procedures to classify capacitors by capacitance and internal resistance ensuring conformity to performance classes.

Applications

IEC 62391-1:2022 is critical for manufacturers, testers, and users of fixed electric double-layer capacitors engaged in electric and electronic equipment design and production. Applications include:

• Power Electronics: Ensuring capacitor reliability in power supply filtering, energy storage, and DC bus applications.
• Consumer Electronics: Standardizing component quality in portable devices and household appliances.
• Industrial Equipment: Confirming durability under harsh environmental and mechanical stresses.
• Automotive Electronics: Supporting stringent electrical and mechanical performance requirements in electric vehicles and hybrid systems.
• Energy Systems: Verifying capacitor performance in renewable energy solutions and advanced storage systems.

Compliance with this standard supports improved component reliability, enhanced safety, and optimized performance in diverse electronic and electrical applications.

Related Standards

For a comprehensive approach to capacitor technology and safety compliance, IEC 62391-1 is often used in conjunction with:

• IEC 62391-2 – Fixed electric double-layer capacitors - Part 2: Sectional specification.
• IEC 60068 Series – Environmental testing procedures applicable to electronic components.
• ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2 – Rules for the structure and drafting of International Standards.
• IEC 61071 – General requirements for capacitors used in power electronics.
• IEC 60950 / IEC 62368 – Safety standards covering electrical and electronic equipment.

Adhering to these interconnected standards ensures a holistic quality assurance and safety framework for electric double-layer capacitors across global markets.

Keywords: IEC 62391-1:2022, fixed electric double-layer capacitors, DC circuits, capacitor testing, electrical components, quality assessment, capacitance measurement, internal resistance, mechanical tests, environmental testing, electronic equipment standards, capacitor performance, IEC standards.