IEC 62742:2021

Overview

IEC 62742:2021 - Electrical and electronic installations in ships - Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) - Ships with a non‑metallic hull - specifies minimum requirements and guidance for achieving electromagnetic compatibility on ships whose hull is made of non‑metallic materials (for example GRP/FRP or wooden constructions). It extends and complements IEC 60533 (which covers metallic hulls) and supports compliance with IMO resolution A.813(19). The standard focuses on EMC emission, immunity and performance criteria for on‑board electrical and electronic equipment and installation practices specific to non‑metallic hull environments.

Key topics and technical requirements

IEC 62742:2021 addresses practical EMC design and installation areas tailored to reduced inherent shielding of non‑metallic hulls. Key topics include:

• Electromagnetic environment (EME) and susceptibility studies to assess likely interference sources and vulnerable systems.
• Shielding strategies: principles for single and multiple protection layers where hull conductivity is insufficient.
• Antenna layout: siting and installation guidance for whip and loop antennas, including antenna ground plane considerations to limit interference and optimize performance.
• Earthing and equipotential bonding systems: recommended earthing topologies, protective earth, earth plates and conductor dimensioning appropriate for non‑metallic ships.
• Cable installation and routing: shielding, bonding, routing and segregation practices to reduce coupling, induced currents and radiated emissions.
• Overvoltage protection: measures to protect equipment from transients, lightning and switching events.
• Filtering and maintenance: recommended use of filters and inspection/testing regimes to maintain EMC performance throughout ship life.

The standard does not cover basic electrical safety (e.g., protection against electric shock) or electromagnetic effects on human beings.

Practical applications and users

IEC 62742 is practical guidance for professionals involved in design, construction and operation of non‑metallic ships and components, including:

• Naval architects and ship designers specifying EMC for composite hulls
• Shipyards and integrators implementing cable routing, earthing and antenna installation
• EMC engineers and test laboratories performing susceptibility studies and acceptance checks
• Equipment manufacturers producing shipboard electronics for composite vessels
• Classification societies, flag administrations and ship operators seeking compliance with IMO requirements

Using IEC 62742 during the design phase reduces in‑service EMI problems and supports certification and safe operation of shipboard systems.

Related standards

• IEC 60533 (EMC for ships with metallic hulls) - primary reference for metallic constructions.
• IMO resolution A.813(19) - regulatory framework supported by IEC 62742.
• Other IEC shipboard installation standards (e.g., IEC 60092 series) are referenced for complementary requirements.