Overview - IEC TS 62271-5:2024 (HVDC switchgear & controlgear)
IEC TS 62271-5:2024 is a Technical Specification that provides common specifications for direct current (DC) high-voltage switchgear and controlgear intended for operation on HVDC transmission systems with direct voltages of 100 kV and above. The document covers indoor and outdoor installations unless other IEC documents for a particular equipment type specify otherwise. It defines terminology, service conditions, ratings, design and construction requirements, and type-test procedures specific to HVDC switchgear and DC controlgear.
Key topics and technical requirements
The specification addresses the full lifecycle of HVDC switchgear design and testing, including:
- Terms and definitions - uniform vocabulary for assemblies, parts, switching devices and operational characteristics.
- Service conditions - normal and special conditions (altitude, pollution, temperature, vibration, wind).
- Ratings - rated direct voltage, rated insulation levels, rated continuous current, short‑time and peak withstand currents, and auxiliary supply ratings.
- Design & construction - requirements for liquids and gases used in equipment, earthing, auxiliary and control circuits, energy storage and operating mechanisms, nameplates, locking and position indication, creepage distances and corrosion protection.
- Enclosure protection - IP (ingress) and IK (impact) coding requirements for indoor/outdoor equipment.
- Gas, vacuum and liquid tightness - controlled/closed/sealed pressure systems and leakage expectations.
- Safety & EMC - protection against electric shock, electromagnetic compatibility, X‑ray emission, and fire hazard considerations.
- Type tests & verification - dielectric tests (including wet tests and partial discharge), continuous current tests, short‑time and peak withstand current tests, resistance measurements, and tightness tests. Test arrangements, pass criteria and reporting requirements are defined.
Practical applications and who uses it
IEC TS 62271-5 is targeted at professionals and organizations involved in HVDC projects, including:
- Manufacturers of HVDC circuit-breakers, disconnectors, switchgear assemblies and related controlgear - for product design and factory testing.
- Utilities and grid operators - for specification, procurement and acceptance testing of HVDC equipment.
- System integrators and engineering firms - for system design, component selection and compliance checks.
- Test laboratories and certification bodies - for performing and reporting type tests defined by the TS.
- Regulatory and standards committees - as a reference for national adoption or harmonization.
Using IEC TS 62271-5 helps ensure safety, interoperability and reliable performance of DC switchgear in high-voltage transmission networks.
Related standards
- Part of the IEC 62271 series (high-voltage switchgear and controlgear).
- Users should consult other IEC documents referenced within the TS for particular equipment types and additional normative requirements.