IEC 62873-3-2:2016

Overview

IEC 62873-3-2:2016 specifies particular requirements for residual current operated circuit-breakers (RCDs) that are fitted with flat quick-connect terminations. It applies to RCDs with an integral male tab of nominal 6.3 mm width × 0.8 mm thickness, intended to mate with a female connector for copper conductors, for rated currents up to and including 16 A (usage to 20 A accepted in some countries). This part is supplementary and must be used together with the relevant RCD product standard (IEC 61008-1 or IEC 61009-1).

Key topics and requirements

• Scope & components
  • Covers RCDs having integral male tabs and matching female connectors (flat quick-connect terminations).
  • Connectable conductors: flexible up to 4 mm², rigid stranded up to 2.5 mm² (AWG ≥ 12).
• Dimensional requirements
  • Mandatory tab dimensions and detent locations are specified (see tables and figures in the standard) to ensure interchangeability and secure mating.
• Materials & plating
  • Terminals shall be of metal with adequate mechanical strength, conductivity and corrosion resistance; silver- or tin-plated copper alloys are cited as suitable examples.
• Mechanical retention and testing
  • Male tabs must be securely retained. Compliance is verified by mechanical overload-force tests and other tests referenced in Clause 9.
• Thermal and electrical performance
  • Temperature-rise measurements and construction requirements ensure safe operation at rated current.
• Marking & instructions
  • Manufacturers must provide product identification and connector information, including colour coding of female connectors relative to conductor cross-section (examples: 1 mm² = red; 2.5 mm² = blue or yellow; 4 mm² = yellow).
• Compatibility
  • Shapes may vary (corrugations, folds) provided required dimensions and test performance are met.

Applications and who uses this standard

• Manufacturers and product designers of RCDs and accessories use IEC 62873-3-2 to design compliant flat quick-connect terminations.
• Test and certification laboratories apply the standard’s dimensional, mechanical and thermal test methods for compliance verification.
• Compliance engineers and procurement teams reference the standard when specifying RCDs for household and similar use.
• Electrical installers and specifiers benefit from the clear conductor-connector compatibility and colour-coding guidance when selecting connectors and wiring.

Related standards

• IEC 61008-1 (RCCBs) and IEC 61009-1 (RCBOs) - product standards to be applied in conjunction.
• IEC 61210 - safety requirements for flat quick-connect terminations.
• IEC 62873-2 - vocabulary for RCD-related terms.

Keywords: IEC 62873-3-2, RCD, residual current operated circuit-breaker, flat quick-connect terminations, male tab 6.3 mm, female connector, 16 A, IEC 61008-1, IEC 61009-1, IEC 61210.