Overview
EN 62561-3:2017 (IEC 62561-3:2017) is the CLC/CENELEC adoption of the international standard that defines requirements and test methods for isolating spark gaps (ISG) used in lightning protection systems (LPSC). ISGs provide a means for indirect bonding of a lightning protection system to adjacent metalwork where a direct bond is not possible for functional reasons. The 2017 edition is a technical revision of the 2012 edition and adds a new classification for ISG installation location and an updated flow chart of tests.
Key Topics and Requirements
This standard addresses both product requirements and test procedures. Major technical topics include:
- Classification
- By lightning‑current carrying capability
- By installation location (new in 2017)
- Electrical requirements
- Rated impulse sparkover voltage
- Rated DC and power‑frequency withstand voltages
- Lightning current carrying capability
- Isolation resistance
- Environmental and mechanical requirements
- UV resistance for outdoor ISGs
- Corrosion resistance (salt mist, humid sulphurous, ammonia)
- Mechanical strength and hammer/impact tests
- Marking and documentation
- Required markings, installation instructions and test report content
- Tests and conformity
- Test flow chart (sequence of environmental, mechanical and electrical tests)
- UV-light, corrosion, mechanical, and electrical test procedures
- Acceptance criteria and structure of the test report
- Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) considerations for ISG designs
Applications and Who Uses This Standard
EN 62561-3 is aimed at stakeholders involved in design, manufacture, installation and assessment of lightning protection components:
- Manufacturers of isolating spark gaps and LPSC devices - for product design, type testing and marking.
- Test laboratories and conformity assessment bodies - to perform environmental, mechanical and electrical tests and prepare compliant test reports.
- Lightning protection system designers and specifiers - to select suitable ISGs based on location classification and electrical performance.
- Installers, building engineers and asset owners - to apply correct installation instructions where indirect bonding is required for safety or functional reasons.
- Regulatory and certification organizations - as a reference for compliance and product evaluation.
Related Standards
EN 62561-3 is part of the EN/IEC 62561 series (Lightning protection system components). Related standards referenced include:
- EN/IEC 62561‑1 (connection components)
- EN 62305 (system level lightning protection)
- EN 61643‑11 (surge protective device standards)
- Environmental testing standards (IEC 60068 series)
Using EN 62561-3:2017 ensures ISGs meet harmonized European technical and testing expectations for safety, durability and performance in lightning protection applications.