Differences between the IEC and IEEE electrical equipment standards

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REVIEWING EQUIPMENT STANDARDS

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LOBAL USERS OF ELECTRICAL power equipment are increasingly given the option of using equipment that implements either the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA)/the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or the International
Digital Object Identifier 10.1109/MIAS.2013.2282565 Date of publication: 31 October 2013

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B y M a r c e l o V a l d e s , X u h u i Re n , S h r i d h ava l Sa p r e , M a r t y T r ive t t e , & S t eve n M ei n e r s

Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards. In many parts of the world, either set of standards may apply. IEC and IEEE standards have come substantially closer over the last decade. However, differences remain. In this article, the authors will explain the differences in the applicable standards and what those differences might mean to a user. The intent is to provide the user with an analytical basis upon which to understand the

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1077-2618/14/$31.002014IEEE

tradeoffs that may be made in choosing one set of standards over the other. Electrical Equipment Standards From a myriad national standards for medium-voltage (MV) electrical equipment, two sets of standards emerge as predominant, those issued by the ANSI and IEC. ANSI standards predominate in North America and are generally composed of documents created by the IEEE or NEMA and adopted by ANSI as broadly accepted consensus standards. IEC standards predominate in Europe and much of the rest of the world, either as the accepted standard or as the predominant model for local national standards commonly used within a particular country. IEEE standards are written by IEEE working groups (WGs) sponsored by various IEEE committees, which are in turn sponsored by IEEE Societies, and in the case of C37 standards, sponsored by the IEEE Power & Energy Societys Switchgear Committee. These committees and WGs are manned by industry experts from manufacturer, user, and consultant ranks that volunteer to create and maintain the IEEE standards. The final vote on IEEE standards is performed by members of the IEEE Standards Association via an online vote handling process to assure balanced participation and inclusion of various perspectives and opinions. IEC international standards are also consensus based and are written by manufacturing, government, user, and design representatives from many countries around the world. The IEC standard voting process is focused on balanced participation from the various participating countries. Each member country has one vote to accept a proposed standard. The main IEEE/ANSI standards family that defines MV switchgear, circuit breakers (CBs), and related technology are the C37 standards [5][14]. Additional related standards are used by NEMA members to document test protocols and criteria for verification of adherence to the standards [17], [18]. The predominant IEC standards are the 62271 standards [19], [21][35] written by the 17A and 17C committees. Over the last decade, these standards have come significantly closer; however, they remain different in several ways. Similarly, the equipment that is built to meet these standards and the needs and desires of the various markets that use the equipment also differ. In some markets and applications, users have a choice of buying and installing equipment to either of these standards as well as local national standards. To state that one standard is better than or not as rigorous as the other would not be correct. They are different, and their differences merit recognition. In some cases, manufacturers offer equipment that predominantly reflects the traditions and requirements of one set of standards but is offered to the market as meeting the requirements of the other. Manufacturers often design a product for one set of requirements and then modify it to meet the requirements of the other. This type of hybrid product is becoming increasingly common in North American markets and is, in fact, influencing how the North American standards are evolving.

Common Standards Scope Both sets of standards rely on a base document for common requirements [14], [21], a base document for CBs [7], [22], and a base document (or two in the case of ANSI equipment) for the equipment [9], [10], [35]. Both sets of standards also refer to a long list of other documents for test protocols, specific requirements for special applications and definitions of various conditions, test requirements, and other items that warrant separate treatment.
IEC 62271 Series

IEC standards describe various subsets of devices covered by various standards and limit the scope within those standards. The 62271 numbering system has organized the various relevant documents within the IEC standards into one numbering system. The scope of this article will be devices covered by the IEC 62271 family of standards: IEC 62271-1-2011-08, Common Specifications [21] IEC 62271-100-2008-04, Alternating Current Circuit Breakers [22] IEC 62271-200-2011-10, AC Metal-Enclosed Switchgear and Controlgear for Rated Voltages Above 1 kV and up to and Including 52 kV [35]. This family of standards was first published in 2001 under a new organization using the 62271 prefix; however, they incorporated material from other now-superseded IEC standards that are several decades older. Table 1 lists the common ratings defined within IEC 62271-1 [21, Sec. 4, p. 32] and 62271-100 [22, Sec. 4, pp. 4344], applicable to. CBs and associated switchgear for 50 or 60 Hz and applications above 1,000 V. CBs may be one or three pole for use in single- or three-phase systems. CBs with controlled per-pole mechanisms intended for nonsimultaneous operation are not included at this time but are under consideration for future inclusion. Devices that depend on manual operation for closing or opening are not included.

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ANSI, IEEE, and NEMA

ANSI standards for switchgear are written by IEEE WGs, sponsored by the Switchgear Committee of the IEEE Power & Energy Society, and published by the IEEE. The ANSI adopts these IEEE standards. IEEE C37.06-2009 [7], IEEE C37.04 [5], [6] and the C37.20.# series [9][13] define the requirements for CBs and equipment. Other standards, C37.5# [15][18], define test protocols and acceptance criteria used by Underwriters Laboratories and significantly mimic the test sections of the C37.20 standards. Other C37 standards define applications and other related parameters. IEEE standards for switchgear assemblies are divided into three categories: 1)  m etal-enclosed (ME) power switchgear, further divided into three categories: a) low-voltage power CB (C37.20.1) b) metal-clad (MC) switchgear (C37.20.2) c) ME interrupter switchgear (C37.20.3) 2) ME bus (C37.23) 3) control switchboards (C37.21). The IEC standards do not have an MC versus ME gear. The IEC relies on two sets of definitions

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TABLe 1. BASIC SWITCHGEAR RATINGS STIPULATED FOR IEC AND IEEE EQUIPMENT. IEEE C37.100.1-2007, Sec. 4, p. 9 a)  Rated maximum voltage ( V ) or ( U r ) b)  Rated insulation level ( U d ), ( U s ), ( U p ) c)  Rated power frequency ( fr ) d)  Rated continuous current ( I r ) e) Rated short-time withstand current ( I k ) IEEE C37.20.2-1999, Sec. 5, p. 6 a)  Rated maximum voltage b) Rated insulation levels c)  Rated power frequency d)  Rated continuous current e) Rated short-time withstand (avg. rms current, 2 sec., 2.6 # rms-first cyc. Pk.) IEC 62271-1-2011-08, Sec. 4, p. 32 a) Rated voltage ( U r ) b) Rated insulation level c) Rated frequency ( fr ) d)  Rated normal current ( Ir ) e) Rated short-time withstand current ( I k ) IEC 62271-200-2011-10, Sec. 4, p. 15 a) R  ated voltage ( U r ) and number of phases b) Rated insulation level c) Rated frequency ( fr ) d)  Rated normal current ( I r ) (for main circuits) e) Rated short-time withstand current ( I k, I ke ) (main and earthing circuits) f) Rated peak withstand current ( I p, I pe ) (main and earthing circuits) g)  Rated duration of short circuit ( t k, t ke ) (for main and earthing circuits)

f) Rated peak withstand current ( I p ) g)  Rated duration of short circuit ( t k ) h) R  ated supply voltage of closing and opening devices and of auxiliary ciruits ( U a ) i)  Rated supply frequency of closing and opening devices and of auxiliary ciruits j) R  ated pressure of compressed gas supply for insulation or operation

f)  Rated momentary with- f) Rated peak withstand stand (2.6 # Rated rms current ( I p ) short-time withstand) g)  Rated duration of short circuit ( t k ) IEEE Standard C37.06 Standard for ac HighVoltage Circuit Breakers Rated on a Symmetrical Basis, Table 18, p. 38

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h)  Rated supply voltage h)  Rated values of the of closing and components forming opening devices and part of the metalof auxiliary circuits ( U a ) enclosed switchgear and controlgear i)  Rated supply including their frequency of closing, operating devices and opening devices and auxiliary equipment of auxiliary circuits j)  Rated pressure of compressed gas supply for controlled pressure systems

IEEE Standard C37.20.7 Guide for Testing MetalEnclosed Switchgear Rated up to 38 kV for Internal Arcing Faults

j)  Ratings of the internal arc classifications (IAC), if assigned by manufacturer. k) Rated filling level (fluid- i) Rated filling level (fluidfilled compartments) filled compartments)

Where multiple symbols are listed as or, the first is the IEEE symbol, the second is the IEC symbol. Where "or" is not stated, the symbols are common. Arc-resistant(AR) preferred ratings are covered by this C37.20.7 standard.

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for partition class and service continuity; see the Switchgear Type: MC, ME, and Service Continuity section. ANSI MC switchgear is characterized by several features identified in C37.20.2 [9, Sec. 3.1.5, pp. 4, 5] that may be summarized as follows (italics are added by the author): Drawout self-aligning CB element with a connected  and disconnected position with self-coupling primary and manual or self-coupling secondary terminations. Optional within IEC standards.

ajor subcomponents and assemblies are completely M enclosed by metal barriers with no intentional openings. The main interrupting device or mounting shall include a metal barrier, such that when a cubicle door is open on a closed CB, no primary live components are exposed. Optional within IEC standards. All live parts are enclosed within grounded metal  compartments. Optional within IEC standards. Automatic shutters, which cover primary circuit  elements, are used to cover the primary connections

when a CB is removed. Optional mostly consist of two series of tests. within IEC standards. One series is at power frequency, Manufacturers Primary bus conductors and con requiring a voltage to be applied for a nections are covered with insulatfixed period of time, and the other often design a ing materials. Optional within IEC series requires a voltage pulse to be standards. applied with a defined rate of rise, product for Mechanical interlocks are provided  duration, and decay. Both standards one set of for proper operating sequence under define different tests for dry versus wet normal operating conditions. conditions. Wet conditions apply to reQUireMeNTS Instrumentation and wiring are iso CBs specifically designed for outdoor lated by grounded metal barriers applications, which are typically used and then from all primary circuit elements. for overhead lines. Outdoor CBs have Optional within IEC standards. traditionally been referred to in North modify it to Within IEC equipment, many of America as distribution CBs. However, these characteristics are currently availcurrently both the IEC and IEEE stanmeet the able, but some are not mandatory by dards refer to this class of devices as requirement of standard in the base product, and hence S2-type outdoor circuit breakers. the user should specify the features if they S2-type devices are not the main subthe other. are desired. It is common in IEC regions ject of this article. to specify MC to gain these features. The standards also include CBs for However, the traditional IEC MC conapplications above 38 kV. This artistruction does not fully satisfy the requirements of C37.20.2 cle, however, shall focus on devices rated for application MC construction. It is recommended to be specific on each at 38 kV and below in MC or ME equipment, which feature desired when expecting that type of equipment. has traditionally been called MV switchgear in North The main IEEE standards germane to MV and high- America and within IEC markets as well. voltage switchgear are as follows: IEEE C37.100.1-2007, Standard of Common Require- Service Conditions ments for High-Voltage Power Switchgear Rated Above Service conditions within both sets of standards are defined 1,000 V [14] as normal and special as well as usual and unusual within IEEE C37.04-1999 (R2006), Standard Rating Struc- IEEE documents. Normal conditions are divided into  ture for AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers [5] indoor and outdoor in both standards. The defined condiIEEE C37.04b-2008, Standard for Rating Structure for tions are mostly defined within the common documents ac High-Voltage Circuit Breakers Rated on a Symmetri- and seem to closely align between the two sets of docucal Current Basis Amendment 2: To Change the Descrip- ments. Both standards put the responsibility to identify tion of Transient Recovery Voltage for Harmonization with special conditions on the specifier or user. IEC 62271-100 [6] IEEE C37.06-2009, Standard for AC High-Voltage Temperature and Humidity (IEC 62271-1, Sec. 2.1.1, Circuit Breakers Rated on a Symmetrical Current Basis- 2.1.2, and 2.2.3; IEEE C37.100.1, Sec. 2.1.1, 2.1.2, and Preferred Ratings and Related Required Capabilities for 2.2.3; and IEEE C37.20.2, Sec. 8.1.4.3) Both standards provide for an upper-normal temperature Voltages Above 1,000 V [7] I EEE C37.20.2-1999, Standard for Metal-Clad of 40 C. The IEC standard also defines the 24-h average Switchgear [9] maximum temperature as 35 C. For both standards, the IEEE C37.20.3-2001, Standard for Metal-Enclosed normal maximum is the same for indoor and outdoor Interrupter Switchgear [10]. equipment. The ANSI standards establish a symmetrical current For outdoor equipment, the normal low-temperature rating structure and construction requirements for all preferred values are defined by the IEC standard as indoor and outdoor types of ac high-voltage CBs rated -10 C, -20 C, -30 C, and -40 C. For indoor above 1,000 V. Similar to the IEC standards, they are only equipment, the preferred minimums are -5 C, -15 C, applicable to three-pole devices for three-phase systems and -25 C. This indicates that user specifications need to and single-pole devices for single-phase systems. The CBs identify which temperature rating is desired. The IEEE covered are for use at 50 or 60 Hz. Generator CBs are cov- standard only defines one normal range as +40 C to ered in a dedicated standard, C37.013. Reclosers are cov- -30 C. Both standards define special conditions as ered by C37.60-2003-IEEE standard requirements for -50C to 40 C for very cold climates and 5 C to 55C Overhead, Pad-Mounted, Dry Vault, and Submersible Auto- for very hot climates. The IEEE standard also identifies matic Circuit Reclosers, and Fault Interrupters for Alternating the rating for cold climates as -40 C to 40 C and that Current Systems up to 38 kV, jointly published by IEC as for hot climates as -15 C to 50 C. Since multiple ratIEC 62271-111:2005 in 2005. ings are possible under each standard, it is up to the specifications to refer to the proper rating for the application Voltage Ratings and Tests in General when the equipment is specified. The methods for testing the dielectric capability of The IEC standard defines normal solar radiation on switchgear are similar within the two standards and outdoor gear at 1,000 W/m 2. The IEEE standard

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defines normal as 1,040 W/m2. IEEE provides guidance on how to account for higher levels of solar radiation in IEEE C37.24. The IEC standard refers to IEC 607212-4 [39]. Normal indoor relative humidity conditions are defined in both standards as not to exceed an average daily value of 95% and an average monthly value of 90%. The IEC standard also defines values for water vapor pressure: 2.2 kPa maximum daily average and 1.8 kPa maximum monthly average. Both standards indicate that particularly dry or humid conditions can affect equipment dielectric performance, and allowances should be made for such environments. Both standards suggest a space conditioning or heating apparatus to minimize the effect of condensation or extreme humidity.
Altitude (IEC 62271-1, Sec. 2.2.1; IEEE C37.100.1, Sec. 2.2.1; and IEEE C37.20.20, Sec. 8.1.3)

or IEC 62271-2. The IEEE standard refers to IEEE 693 for severity level definitions and IEEE C37.81 for nuclear applications. The IEEE standard also mentions that the user must identify what the operational requirements are for seismic events, i.e., is the gear only required to operate properly after an event, class 1 per IEEE C37.20.2 [9, Sec. 8.1.4.6, p. 43], or during and after the event, class 2 [9, Sec. 8.1.4.6, p. 43]? The user should identify the operational requirement regardless of the equipment standard specified.
Other Service Condition Requirements

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Both sets of standards provide for altitude correction factors to be used to derate the dielectric capability of equipment when used at altitudes above 1,000 m that both define as normal. However, the formulas differ slightly, as the formula within IEC 62271-1 [21, Figure1, p. 15] assumes a starting point of 1,000 m and the formula in IEEE C37.100.1 [14, Sec. 2.2.3, p. 6] is applicable from sea level. The IEEE guidance in C37.20.2 extends the range to 6,000m above sea level; the IEC information in 62271-1 and C37.100.1 only extends up to 4,000 m above sea level. Both reference IEC 60071-2. IEEE C37.20.2 [9, Table 8, p.40] provides a table with dielectric correction factors and continuous current correction factors from 1,000 to 6,000 m. IEEE C37.20.3 only provides factors up to 3,000m for ME switchgear [10, Table 5, p. 29].
Pollution (IEC 62271-1, sec. 2.1.1, 2.1.2, and 2.2.2; IEEE C37.100.1, sec. 2.1.1, 2.1.2, and 2.2.1; and Annex C)

Wind is handled similarly within both standards, with 34 m/s (76 mi/h) [14, Sec. 2.1.2 f, p. 14] within IEC standards and 40 m/s (90 mi/h) [21, 2.1.2 f, p. 5] within IEEE standards considered normal. Higher wind speeds would be considered special, and no preferred ratings above 40m/s are proffered by either standard. Permissible ice coating for outdoor equipment is mentioned in both standards. Normal is defined as up to 20mm for the IEC standard. The IEEE standard defines three classes of ice coating: up to 1mm, up to 10 mm, and up to 20 mm, as class 1, 10, and 20, respectively. Exposure to damaging fumes and dust of various kinds requires proper coatings as well as heaters for the former and proper enclosure accommodations for the latter. Totally enclosed nonventilated enclosures may be required. The current ratings may be decreased by as much as 30%, depending on design. Forced ventilation with appropriate filters may be required in other cases. Within IEC standards, dust ingress control is provided by an IP5X degree of protection, where the 5 indicates dust protection as well as a 1-mm protection against access to hazardous parts [14, Table 7, p. 55].
Service Conditions Summary

Under the normal conditions for indoor equipment, the air is expected to be relatively free of pollutants. Within the IEEE standard, an annex providing guidance for classifying environments for relative pollution levels is provided. Table C1 within the annex identifies four levels of pollution and the associated minimum required creepage distances. The minimum level is considered normal for indoor gear, and level II is considered normal for outdoor gear. The IEC standard defines normal as none for indoor and level II as described in IEC 60815 [36, Sec.8.3, p. 17] for outdoor. Special conditions within the IEC standard are levels III and IV, as defined within IEC 60815. Both standards refer to IEC 60071-2:1996 for data on how to deal with pollution to achieve proper dielectric performance.
Vibration, Shock, TiltingSeismic (IEC 62271-1, Sec. 2.1.1, 2.1.2, and 2.2.4; I EEE C37.100.1, Sec. 2.1.1 and 2.2.4; and IEEE C37.20.2, Sec. 8.1.4.6)

Both standards define normal and special conditions very similarly, with minor differences. The main conclusion is that neither standard seems to offer significantly different capability, and both put the responsibility on the user to identify unusual conditions. Both standards also advise the user to provide conditions that are as close to normal as possible, especially with respect to temperature, humidity, and pollution. IEEE C37.20.2 [9, Sec. 8.1.4, p. 41] advises that the emphasis should be on eliminating such conditions, if at all possible. However, if these undesirable conditions cannot be eliminated, more frequent maintenance may be required.
Maximum Application Voltage for Equipment

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Both standards define normal conditions as relatively free of vibrations, shock, and tilting. Seismic activity is expected to be negligible. Special conditions are to be identified by the user. Where seismic activity is expected, both standards refer to other documents for definitions of severity level. The IEC standard refers to IEC 62271-300

The IEC standards list two voltage ranges: series I, which includes the traditional IEC voltage ratings, and series II, which adds voltages found in other markets such as North America. The IEEE standards have one list of preferred voltages described in C37.20.2 and C37.20.3. Both lists are shown in Table 2. When applying equipment, the rated voltage must be equal to or higher than the expected maximum system voltage, and attention must also be paid to insulation levels described later in this article. IEEE C37.100.1-2007 [14] includes a broader list of voltages ratings harmonized with the IEC 62271-1

kets; switching impulse (U s ), which applies to circuit breakers above 245 IEEE STANdArdS kV (i.e., not the MV CB used in MC equipment discussed in this article); are written by and power frequency (U d ). The voltage ratings can then be tested against IEEE working phase to ground (earth), phase to grOUPS phase, and across the switching device. Tests, in some cases, are also sponsored by applied across the isolating distances where devices are drawn into a test or various IEEE disconnect position. The preferred rated insulation voltages and associcommittees. ated maximum rated voltages are shown in Table 3. One difference between the relevant IEC and IEEE standards is that the IEC standards identify two levels of impulse withstand for each rated voltage. Basic Switchgear Ratings Ratings for equipment are generally covered by two sets of The higher withstand ratings generally exceed or match documents: 1) the common requirements, IEC 62271-1 the closest equal or lower IEEE-rated voltage, and the [21] and IEEE C37.100.1 [14], and 2) the switchgear-spe- lower IEC withstand levels generally are lower than those cific requirements, IEC 62271-200 and IEEE C37.20.2 for the next lower or equal IEEE-rated voltage. When [9]. IEEE covers arc-resistant (AR) switchgear testing in a specifying or accepting IEC equipment in lieu of IEEE separate document, IEEE C37.20.7 [13]. The IEEE guide equivalent equipment, the available withstand voltage for testing does define preferred AR ratings for current should be evaluated. Another difference is that the IEC and time: equal to short circuit withstand for current standards allow 3% tolerance around test parameters. The [13, Sec. 4.2, p. 5] and 0.5 s for time [13, Sec. 4.3, p. 6]. IEEE test procedures do not allow any parameters to be The IEEE guide states that 0.1 s is the minimum recom- below rated values during qualifying tests. For use at common voltages in North America, equivamended time, and more than 1 s is considered unnecessary. The various ratings specified within these standards are lent slightly higher rated voltage IEC gear may be applied. summarized in Table1. This article will only discuss rat- However, there are small differences in the dielectric test levels between the various ratings when using the higher of ings applicable for equipment rated at 52 kV and lower. the two choices available at these ratings in IEC equipment Rated Insulation Levels (Table 3). In North America, equipment selected for 2.3-kV Insulation levels refer to various measurements of dielectric applications is usually suitable for 4.16-kV applications and capability under a variety of test conditions. The test condi- is rated per the 4.76-kV IEEE requirements. These exceed tions include specific ranges of temperature, humidity, alti- the IEC 3.6-kV requirements but align well with the IEC tude, and air pressure that are similar across both sets of 7.2-kV-class requirements. At 6.9-kV, North American standards and fall within the normal equipment service con- users implement 8.25-kV- or 15-kV-class equipment, both ditions. It is important to realize that if service conditions of which exceed the dielectric ratings of equivalent 7.2-kV are not normal, the rated insulation levels may be affected. equipment. For applications at 1213.8 kV, IEEE offers Lack of maintenance, the build-up of dirt, cumulative effect 15-kV-class equipment, and IEC offers 17.5-kV-class equipof pollutants, cumulative effect of high temperatures, or ment. The dielectric ratings for both of these are very simitemperature cycling can affect insulation performance. lar. For applications at 21 kV, ANSI offers a 27-kV rating, Rated insulation levels are defined three ways: light- and IEC offers a 24-kV rating. The dielectric requirements ning impulse (U p ), often referred to as BIL in IEEE mar- are similar. At 27, kV ANSI offers a 27-kV class of equipment, but in IEC ratings, one needs to jump to 36-kV class equipment. At this rating, the TABLe 2. SWITCHGEAR VOLTAGE CLASSES. 36 kV-equipment designed with lower insulation levels would be IEC 3.6 7.2 12 17.5 24 36 52 comparable to the ANSI 27-kV Series class of equipment. For 34.5-kV I (kV) applications, the ANSI IEC 8.25 15 15.5 25.8 27 38 48.3 38-kV class and the IEC 36-kV Series class at higher insulation levels II (kV) are comparable. ratings. However, these voltages are described as the upper limit of the highest voltage of systems for which the switchgear is intended. This same IEEE standard suggests a list of voltage ratings to be used in future IEEE switchgear standards that is fully harmonized with IEC 62271-1 with respect to rated maximum voltage and rated insulation levels. There is one noticeable difference in the test requirements between the two sets of standards. IEEE C37.091999(R2007) includes single-phase tests at 58% V [8, Table1, p. 17]. The IEC standards do not include similar tests.
IEEE (kV) 4.76 8.25 15 27 38 Rated Power Frequency ( fr )

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From IEEE 62271-1, IEEE C37.20.2 & C37.20.3, IEC 62271-200 refers to 1 for these ratings.

IEC 62271-1 identifies possible frequencies as 16 2/3, 25,

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TABLE 3. EQUIPMENT VOLTAGE CLASSES AND ASSOCIATED DIELECTRIC RATINGS, INDOOR, S1 CBs. Power Frequency Withstand U d (kV) Common ANSI 4 IEC 5 10 19 7.2 8.25 12.47 kV, 13.8 kV 15 17.5 24 27 36 34.5 kV 38
a b

NA Application Voltages Column 1 2.3 kV 4.16 kV 6.9 kV

Rated Voltage V or U r (kV rms) ANSI 2 IEC (SI) 3 3.6 4.76

Impulse Withstand U p (kV Peak) Common ANSI 8 IEC 9 20 40 60 66 40 60 95 95 75 95 95 125 125 137.5 145 170 150 165 165 195 104.5 104.5 85 110 110 145 46 70 Isolating Gap ANSIa, b IEC 10 11 23 46

Isolating Gap ANSI 6

a, b

IEC 7 12

20.9 20 23 39.6 39.6 38 50 45 60 66 70 80 88

36 36

21 kV 21 kV, 27 kV

60

80

Test not required if equipment has grounded metal shutters.

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110% of common voltage withstand.

TABLe 4. R10 NUMBER SERIES USED TO DERIVE VARIOUS IEC CURRENT RATINGS. R10 Number Series, IEC 60060 101 1 1.25 1.6 2 2.5 3.15 4 5 6.3 8 10 12.5 16 20 25 31.5 40 50 63 80 102 100 125 160 200 250 315 400 500 630 800 103 1,000 1,250 1,600 2,000 2,500 3,150 4,000 5,000 6,300 8,000 104 10,000 12,500 16,000 20,000 25,000 31,500 40,000 50,000 63,000 80,000

Application at 50 Hz based on 60-Hz ratings, or the opposite, may imply changes in the device capabilities. For example, higher frequencies may negatively impact temperature rise, and lower frequencies my impact peak current related ratings. Whenever possible, the ratings used to evaluate application should be based on the actual application frequency or adjusted based on manufacturer recommendations. When converting from cycles to milliseconds, the appropriate period should be used. The relay timing may be in milliseconds or cycles; the manufacturer should be consulted if there is doubt on how to apply.
Rated Continuous Current (Normal)

Preferred ratings are in bold. Other rated current values such as short-circuit interrupting current are also from the R10 series, specifically the 104 columns.

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50, and 60 Hz. IEEE C37.100.1 identifies 50 and 60Hz as preferred. However, IEEE C37.20.2 and C37.20.3 base all ratings and test criteria on 60 Hz only.

The rated current and temperature rise are integrally related. The rated current is the current that conductors within the equipment are able to carry continuously without any parts of the equipment exceeding allowable temperature rise or allowable maximum temperature while the equipment is operated within normal service conditions. IEC 62271-1 uses the IEC 60059 R10 series of values. The values in this series are listed in Table 4. The first column is the R10 series, with each number approximately 2528% larger than the previous. The ratings are created by multiplying the R10 series by ten, raised to a whole

integer power. In the case of continuous current ratings, the exponent may be two or three. The preferred ratings for IEC and IEEE equipment and CBs are shown in Table 5. IEC standards allow any number in the R10 series to be used. Larger device ratings such as 4,000 A may be fan assisted (cooled). The allowed temperature rise is based on a normal service condition of 40 C ambient in both sets of standards. IEEE C37.100.1 and IEC 62271-1 are substantially harmonized and may be considered relatively equal when similar materials and equipment technology are compared. However, C37.20.2 limits temperature rise in bolted connections to 65 C above ambient [9, Table 3, p. 9] versus the 75 C that the harmonized Common Requirement standards allow. IEEE C37.20.3 has the same 65 C requirement. When a specific standard describes different requirements than the common requirements the identified requirements take precedence.
Rated Short-Time Withstand Current ( I k ), Rated Peak-Withstand Current ( I p ), Rated Interrupting Current ( I sc ), and Rated Close and Latch Current (Rated Short-Circuit Making Current in IEC Terms)

TABLE 5. PREFERRED CONTINUOUS CURRENT RATINGS FOR IEC AND IEEE CB. Equipment/ Device IEC Switchgear CBs ME switchgear IEEE MC switchgear CBs Rating in rms A, Normal Service Conditions Standard

630 1,250 1,600 2,000 3,150 4,000 62271-1-2007 630 1,250 1,600 2,000 3,150 4,000 62271-1-2007 600 1,200 1,200 1,200 2,000 C37.20.3-2001

2,000 3,000 4,000 C37.20.2-1999 2,000 3,000 4,000 C37.06-2009

TABLe 6. PREFERRED CURRENT RATINGS (S1 CB). Rated Closing and Rated ShortLatching A ( I p ), kA Circuit and Short-Time Cur- 60 Hz 50 Hz rent ( I k ) kA rms 2.6X 2.5X 31.5 40 82 104 130 164 104 52 65 82 79 100 125 158 100 50
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Rated Continuous Ur kV rms Current ( I r ) A rms 4.76 1,200, 2,000 1,200, 2,000

1,200, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000 50 1,200, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000 63 8.25 15 1,200, 2,000, 3,000 1,200, 2,000 1,200, 2,000 1,200, 2,000 40 20 25 31.5

63 79

The rated short-time withstand cur1,200, 2,000, 3,000 40 104 100 rent is the maximum rms current 1,200, 2,000, 3,000 50 130 125 that the equipment can carry for a specified period of time under pre1,200, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000 63 164 158 scribed normal conditions of use 27 1,200 16 42 40 and behavior. Within IEC standards, 1,200, 2,000, 3,000 25 65 63 the short time withstand currents may be selected from the R10 series 38 1,200 16 42 40 of numbers. 1,200, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000 25 65 63 For IEEE standards, preferred rat1,200, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000 31.5 82 79 ings may be seen in C37.06-2009 [7, Table 1, p. 4]. Rated short-circuit 1,200, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000 40 104 100 interrupting amperes and rated short-time current are the same in this table. The interrupting time for the CBs may be three or five 60-Hz cycles, as specified applications than is typical for low-voltage applications. by the manufacturer. The maximum permissible trip- The degree of dc offset is the same for IEC and IEEE ping time delay is 2s. Table 6 shows the preferred cur- standards, with the only difference being driven by the rent values for the associated IEEE preferred voltage and application frequency and longer dc time constants used continuous current ratings. Application at 50 versus 60 for special application with high X/R ratios. The stanHz changes the peak current that the CB experiences dard time constant (L/R) is 45 ms in both standards with during fault conditions. That difference is small and is the IEC standards identifying longer special constants of shown in Table 6. I p and rated close and latch current 60, 75, and 120 ms. are the same. The peak-withstand current for IEC and IEEE standards is essentially the same. Short circuit cur- Rated Duration of Short Circuit ( t k ) rents are made up of a symmetrical rms component and a The time that the switchgear or CB can carry a current dc component (dc offset) that is more substantial in MV equal to its rated short-time withstand current is called

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TABLe 7. CONTROL POWER PREFERENCES. Expected Supply Tolerance IEC and IEEE IEC Vdc IEEE and IEC Vdc 24 48 60 110 or 125 220 or 250 187 242 200280 140280 85% 20 41 51 94 110% 26 53 66 121 100140 70140 3856 IEEE Closing and Auxilliary Tripping 1428 2856 IEC Closing and Auxilliary Tripping 2026 4153 5166 94121 106138 187242 213275 1726 3453 4266 77121 88138 154242 175275

IEEE Note 1 Equipment having selfcontained dc control sources shall operate over the range of 85115% of nominal voltage and the table above shall not apply. IEEE Note 2C37.06, Table 18, p. 38 identifies slightly lower dc V for S2 outdoor CB (38>36 V, 10090 V, 200>180 V).

IEC Vac 380/220 230 400/230 415/240

IEEE and IEC Vac 120

IEC Tolerance Expected 102132 323/187418/242 196253 340/196440/253 353/204204/264

IEEE Tolerance Expected 104127

Auxilliary devices 208254 (1) 180Y/104220Y/127 208254 (1) (1) and functions shall operate up to the stated tolerances

240 480
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204264 408528 177/102229/132 204264 408528 408/235528/305 510/295660/382

208/120 240D 480D 480/277 600/347

Source: IEC 62271-1-2007 & C37.100.1-200.

(1) Per IEEE C37/20.2, Sec. 7.2.8, p. 33, >254 Vac and >280 Vdc control or instrument voltage is not allowed.

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the rated duration of short circuit in IEC and IEEE standards. The standard value for IEC standards is 1 s; for IEEE it is 2 s. However, the IEC standards allow other values to be used. The preferred values are 0.5, 2, and 3 s. IEC 62271-100 adds that self-tripping CBs need not specify a value for t k , provided that when connected in a circuit the CB shall be able to carry the prospective current for the maximum time the integral trip could take to operate. This is alsoaddressed in IEC 62271-1 Section 3.4.118, where a definition of self-tripping is provided as any CB that is tripped by current in the main circuit without the need for auxiliary power [22, p. 28]. This is similar within North American standards to the performance provided by a molded case CB with integral tripping or any CB with override protection. The CB provides its own protection and, hence, it does not need to specify a time limit to guide external relay application. Whenever

applying this type of CB, it is incumbent on the system designer to understand the self-imposed time limitation this type of CB may have and what the effect will be on expected coordination (discrimination). CBs with integral trip capabilities are available for North American markets as well, although the sensor locations may vary and may not be integral to the CB mechanism as they are in lowvoltage CBs.
Rated Supply Voltage ( U a ) and Rated Supply Frequency, for Secondary Devices

The rated values for frequency in both standards are dc: 50Hz and 60 Hz. The control power tolerances are generally 85110% for IEC devices, specified differently for tripping versus other for IEEE. Within IEEE S2, CBs have different ratings, and CBs with self-contained dc control also have different ratings. Table 7 provides a detailed list

of preferred voltages, expected supply tolerances, and expected operated range for auxiliary devices and functions. The different standards reflect common secondary control voltages used within the various markets as well as the different tolerance allowances. During the operation of a device, the control power voltage must remain within the expected tolerance. The differences are not significant, and as in any CB control system, it is imperative that control power be within tolerances and highly reliable to ensure that devices operate when called upon to do so, even under serious fault conditions [40].
Operating Sequence

SPeciAl cONdiTiONS within the IEC STANdArd Are levels III and IV, as defined within IEC 60815.

Description of Transient Recovery Voltage for Harmonization with IEC 62271-100 [22] and C37.06-2009 [7], which has greatly incorporated the IEC methodology, particularly for S1 CBs below 100 kV. The interested reader is encouraged to also read IEEE C37.011-2005 IEEE Application Guide for Transient Recovery Voltage for ac High-Voltage Circuit Breakers.

Operating sequence is similar in both standards, either defined as Open-t-Close-Open-t'-Close Open or Close-Open-t''-Close-Open. The IEC standards define t and t' as follows: t = 3 min for CB not intended for rapid auto reclosing  t = 300 ms for CB intended for rapid reclosing  t' = 3 min, alternatively 15 or 60 s for CB intended  for rapid reclosing t'' = 15 s for CB not intended for rapid reclosing.  IEEE uses the O-t-CO-t'-CO sequence for rapid auto reclosing and CO-t''-CO for CB not intended for rapid reclosing, with the following t values: t = 300 ms t' = 3 min t'' = 15 s. Most vacuum CBs in industry today meet the rapid reclosing requirements. However, these requirements are different from those imposed on reclosers.

Classes of CBs and Special Applications The IEC 62271-100 [22, Sec. 3 and 4, pp. 28, 29] standard specifically addresses several types of CBs above 1,000 V. IEEE standards have equivalent ratings for most of these. Table 8 is a summary of the various CB types and the main standard references. Transient Recovery Voltage Transient recovery voltage (TRV) is the voltage impressed across a switching elements contacts by the current interruption process interacting with the source and load circuit impedances and available power. This is a complex subject of significant importance for distribution CBs (S2-type CBs) and breakers in particularly stressful applications where out-of-phase conditions, significant capacitor switching, or overhead cable connections are required. Typical S1-type indoor CBs (Figure 1) used in industrial and commercial applications have less demanding needs. The IEEE WG has significantly aligned TRV standards with IEC requirements over the last decade, resulting in IEEE C37.04b-2008 [6], Amendment 2: To Change the

Maintenance Grounding Earthing Switches Versus Ground and Test Devices Maintenance grounding accommodations provided by IEC switchgear versus IEEE switchgear vary. IEEE switchgear typically relies on accessory devices called ground and test (G&T) devices defined in C37.20.6-2007 [12]. These devices may be inserted into a CB cubicle and used to effectively ground and short circuit either the main bus in the switchgear or the load side connections of a switchgear cubicle, i.e., the load circuit. The G&T devices may be manually or electrically operated. The electrically operated devices are rated with a close-and-latch capability and may or may not have an open or interruption capability. They must be applied so their close-and-latch capability matches or exceeds system requirements. If an interruption capability is required, the user must specify it. Manually operated devices do not carry a close-andlatch rating and must be operated on a system already known to be de-energized. Devices may be provided with three or six rear terminals. Devices with six terminals will have a way to select which three are grounded. The selection is made when the device is not installed in the gear. Shutters protecting the potentially energized front terminals shall be interlocked with the grounding terminal mechanism. The device must have position indication that is fully visible when installed in the switchgear [12, Sec. 6.2, p.5]. A power-operated G&T device shall have a colored position indication clearly stating if the device is closed-grounded, or open-ungrounded. A power-operated G&T may have a user selector switch, which can only be operated outside the equipment, to select which terminals are grounded. Devices that employ stored energy mechanisms for operation shall have a charged/ discharged status indication. G&T devices must have mechanical interlocks so they cannot be installed in higher-rated CB cubicles that exceed the G&T devices rating. The devices must also have interlocks that prevent them from being racked-in or rackedout in the closed position. Many G&T devices will include test ports for access to measure voltage. Test ports are not required by standard, but if provided, they must have barriers to prevent inadvertent access. User-defined interlocks to ensure that the G&T devices are operated under proper system topology conditions are normal but should be carefully specified. Part of the system design process is to identify the interlock sequence that is needed for proper system interlocking.

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TABLe 8. CB TYPE DESCRIPTIONS AND REFERENCES. IEC Definition S1 S2 62271100 2007 IEEE Definition Equivalent defined similarly in IEEE C37-06. Equivalent defined similarly in IEEE C37-06. C37.06 2009 Sec. 5, pp. 410 Sec. 6, pp. 1118

CB intended for cable system protec- Sec. tion, typical commercial and industrial 3.4.119 Sec. CB intended for line (overhead) pro3.4.120 tection, typical of utility applications and very large distribution systems. Also similarly referred to in IEEE C37.06-2009. CB with basic electrical endurance Sec. 3.4.112

E1

Standard CB as defined in C37.06. S2 CB at 15.5kV and higher have different requirements.

Sec. 9, pp. 35 and 36

E2 (1)

Sec 3. 4. CB with extended electrical endurance. Required for auto reclosing distri- 113 bution CB rated # 52 kV, optional for those not required to perform auto reclosing

Sec. 11, p. 40 Limited reclosing application discussed for indoor and outdoor CBs intended for external relaying control. Reclosers with dedicated integral controls intended for network applications defined in C37.60. IEEE C37.06-2009 defines S1 CB Table 4, as C0 (general purpose). pp. 810 and Table 8, IEEE defines an optional S1 CB pp. 1618 as C1 or C2 (formerly definite purpose). C1 and C2 CB have greater capacitive inrush capability, per Table 4 (<100 kV). Similarly for S2 CB, Table 8.

C1

CB with low probability of restrike during capacitive current breaking as demonstrated by specific type tests CB with very low probability of restrike during capacitive current breaking as demonstrated by specific type tests

Sec. 3.4.114 Sec. 3.4.115

C2

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M1

CB with normal mechanical endurSec. ance type tested for 2,000 operations 3.4.116

Sec. 9, pp. No similar classification. All 3537 C37.06 compliant CB must meet 2,000 operations with no maintenance. Standard classification. All C37.06 compliant CB must meet 10,000 operations with minimal maintenance. C37.100.1, Mentioned within C37.06 but not specifically defined by Sec. 4.8.2 7 a dedicated standard to be substantially different than standard C37.06 compliant devices except with respect to control power and trip control source (relaying).

M2

CB with extended mechanical endur- Sec. 3.4.117 ance type tested for 10,000 operations requiring only limited maintenance during operations Sec. 3.4.118

SelfCB that is tripped by a current in the tripping main circuit without the aid of any form of auxiliary power (commonly done with low-voltage CB)

Inductive switching Capacitor bypass switching

CB for switching of highly inductive loads CB for use as bypass switches for line series capacitors

62271-110 62271-109 and 60143-2

NotesIEC: (1) Number of operating sequences varies based on % short circuit current, earthing, and other factors. See Table IEC 62271-100, Sec. 6.112.2, pp. 163, 164.

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Design endurance tests are made per Section 7 of C37.20.6. For electrically operated G&T devices, tests are 500 insertions and removals from a cubicle and 500 open/ close operations including five operations each at maximum and minimum control voltage. Routine maintenance is allowed after 250 operations with no parts replacement. For manual devices, the tests include 500 insertions/removals from the cubicle and 250 operations with maintenance allowed at 125 operations. Within IEC standards, grounding (earthing, in IEC terms) switches are often fixed mounted in the equipment and may be provided on a per-circuit basis within each CB assembly. Though removable G&T devices are available for enclosed switchgear, they are not commonly used. IEC 62271-102-2003 [24], [25] is the standard for earthing devices. This standard covers a wide range of applications including high-voltage distribution line applications. IEC earthing devices are rated for 2,000 operations and have withstand ratings to match the CB capabilities. However, different close and latch ratings are possible, E0, E1, and E2, each rated at zero, two, or five times carrying capacity, respectively. The lowest rating, E0, is the most commonly offered by manufacturers. The CB-earthing switch combination must have interlocks to ensure that the grounding switch is never closed while the corresponding CB is closed. In the case of a separate permanently installed grounding switch, the interlocks must also be supplied and coordinated with the system source devices to ensure a live bus is never grounded and proper sequencing is observed. If there are multiple sources, electrical interlocks may be required to enforce proper sequencing. Switchgear Type: MC, ME, and Service Continuity IEEE standards divide indoor-type MV switchgear into two types, MC defined by IEEE C37.20.2 and ME switchgear defined by IEEE C37.20.3. IEC relies on the service continuity definitions provided in IEC 62271200-2011 [35, Sec. 8.103.3, pp. 5254]. Within the IEC definition, there are two major categories, LSC1 and LSC2, with LSC2 divided into three subcategories, LSC2, LSC2A, and LSC2B. None of the definitions limit the CB to a stationary or draw-out configuration. IEC definitions are as follows: LSC1: Not intended for maximum service continuity  during the opening of any accessible compartment and may require complete disconnection from sources before opening any compartment doors. LSC2 (family): Intended to allow maximum continuity  of service. Opening of accessible high-voltage compartments in a functional unit is possible while other functional units of the same section are energized. LSC2: Minimum requirement is that it is possi ble to open the connection compartment while keeping the bus bars live. There may or may not be other accessible high-voltage compartments. LSC2A: All accessible high-voltage compart ments, other than the main bus bar compartment, can be opened with the bus bars energized. L SC2B: In addition to the requirements of  LSC2A, the high-voltage connections (e.g.,

Switchgear Bus

CB Line-Side Earthing Switch

CB Contacts Interlock System to Ensure Main Bus Is Not Grounded

CB Load-Side Earthing Switch

Load-Side Cable Connections A simplified IEC CB symbol as may be used in MV indoor switchgear.

cables) to the functional unit being accessed may be kept energized. This implies that there also is a point of disconnection, as well as proper partitioning, between the accessed compartment and the high-voltage connections. Note that the definitions above do not specify drawout or stationary, nor the location and type of earthing switches. Figures 24 are from IEC 62271-200 [35, Sec. 8.103.3, p. 54] and show various possible CB, earthing switch, section barriers (compartmentalization), and isolation or drawout connections combinations under the standards definitions. These are not the only possible variations. Users may specify CBs without earthing switches and may rely on earthing trucks similar to those commonly used in ANSI applications or may use earthing switches for CB and feeder cable earthing and a separate truck for main bus earthing. It is interesting to note that the strictest IEC definition for compartmentalization and isolation of the various devices and sections may be achieved with or without a drawout element. When implementing a stationary CB with this degree of compartmentalization it is implied that the CB requires little maintenance when used as expected, is relatively easy to remove, or can be maintained in situ. The normal IEEE expectation of having CB elements easily removable for maintenance or replacement is not easily achieved without drawout elements. Earthing switches may have two or three positions. Switches used in series with CBs often have three positions, the third for isolation only. Earthing and isolation switches fulfill the role of the drawout function, shutter function and grounding function. In industrial applications, drawout equipment of the LSC2B type is most common.

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Isolating and Earthing Switch

Bus Bar Compartment

Bus Bar Compartment

Bus Bar Compartment

Isolating and Earthing Switch CB Bus Bar, CB and Cable Connections in 1 Compartment

Isolating and Earthing Switch

Isolating and Earthing Switch

CB Compartment Cable Connection Compartment (b)

Cable Connection and CB Compartment (a)

CB Compartment Cable Connection Compartment (b)

(a)

The LSC1 and basic LSC2 section layouts are described in IEC 62271-200, Section 8.103.3. (a) Figure 101-LSC1 Stationary CB without compartmentalization, grounding of switch and load capability. No compartment may be opened with bus energized. (b) Figure 102-LSC2Stationary CB with compartmentalization. This does not allow the CB compartment to be opened with energized bus, but the cable compartment may be opened.

The LSC2 with partial compartmentalization and LSC2A section layouts as described in IEC 62271-200, Section 8.103.3. (a) Figure 103-LSC2Stationary CB with partial compartmentalization. This does allow the CB/cable compartment to be opened with live bus. Typical of ring main units (RMU) designs. (b) Figure 104-LSC2AStationary CB with compartmentalization. This does allow the CB and cable compartment to be opened with energized bus.

Bus Bar Compartment

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Bus Bar Compartment Drawout Connection =

Isolating and Earthing Switch (1 of 2) CB Compartment

CB Compartment

Cable Connection Compartment (a)

Cable Connection Compartment (b)

LSC2B sections with stationary or with drawout CB, IEC 62271-200, Section 8.103.3. (a) Figure 105-LSC2BStationary CB with full compartmentalization. This does allow the CB and cable compartment to be opened with energized bus. (b) Figure 105-LSC2BDrawout CB with full compartmentalization. This does allow the CB and cable compartment to be opened with energized bus.

ers (PM) and shutters (if intended as earthed) shall be earthed so that no electric field is present in the un-energized open compartment. The market traditionally served by switchgear meeting IEEE standards has had two clearly differentiated products available. MC switchgear based around drawout vacuum CBs and ME switchgear based around fused switches. However, in the last decade, various products demonstrating an IEC influence have appeared in the market, most importantly, the use of stationary CBs within equipment meeting ME standards. IEEE C37.20.4 is for the switches used in the ME switchgear. C37.20.3 is in the process of revision today to address the use of fixed and drawout CBs. Future versions of ME switchgear will incorporate CBs installed and meeting this new revision to the standard. It would be reasonable to see significant influence from the corresponding IEC standards. This trend has the effect of bringing the equipment platforms closer to each other, which has benefits for the user as maintenance and system design practices can become more similar. The advantages for the manufacturers are that similar components, and eventually equipment, can be more easily designed and manufactured for both markets, providing design and manufacturing efficiencies that should result in lower costs for all. AR Ratings Arc resistance in switchgear is a subject with increased levels of attention in IEEE markets over the last ten years. The IEC standards have considered this subject for several decades. IEC 62271-200 [35, Sec. 8.104.1 8.104.6, pp. 5559] lays out the basic IEC requirements. In IEC standards, equipment that has been

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The IEC standard (62271-200) also defines partitions as PI (nonmetallic), [35, Sec 3.109.2, p. 11] or PM (metallic) [35, Sec. 3.109.1, p. 11]. Both types shall provide IP2X protection per IEC 62271-1 [21, Table 7, p. 55]. Conductors passing through the partitions shall be provided with suitable bushings or insulation. Metallic barri-

TABLe 9. LOCATION, CAUSES, AND EXAMPLES OF MEASURES TO DECREASE THE PROBABILITY OF INTERNAL ARC FAULTS. IEC 62271-200, SEC. 8.104.3, TABLE 102, P. 56. Location Where Internal Arc Faults Are Most Likely to Occur Connection compartments Possible Causes of Internal Arc Faults Inadequate design Faulty installation Insulation failure Disconnectors, switches, and earthing switches Bolted connections and contacts Maloperation

Examples of Possible Preventive Measures Selection of appropriate materials and use of adequate dimensions. Avoiding crossed cables. Worksmanship supervision. Proper torque. Worksmanship supervision. Dielectric testing/maintenance. Interlocks, delayed reopening. Independent manual operation. Sufficient device-making capacity. Personnel training. Use of corrosion-inhibiting coating and/or greases. Use of plating. Encapsulation where possible. Supplemental heating to prevent condensation. Checking of worksmanship by suitable means. Correct torque, adequate locking means. Worksmanship supervision.

Corrosion

Faulty assembly Rack-in/out due to damage or distortion of the plug-in contact and/or shutters Instrument transformers Ferro resonance Short circuit on lowvoltage side of VTs CBs All locations Insufficient maintenance Human error Aging

Suitable design of the circuit. Avoid short circuits by using covers, low-voltage fuses, and other means. Regular programmed maintenance as needed. Training. Limiting access via compartmentalization. Embedding energized parts in insulation. Training. Partial discharge testing.
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Pollution, moisture, Measures to ensure that specified service conditions ingress of dust, vermin, etc. are maintained. Use of gas-filled compartments. Overvoltage Surge protection and adequate insulation coordination. Dielectric tests on site.

tested to sustain an internal arcing fault is referred to as internal arc classified (IAC) and defined [35, Sec. 3.132, p. 14] as metal-enclosed switchgear and control gear for which prescribed criteria, for protection of persons, are met in the event of internal arc as demonstrated by type tests. Under general comments in Section 8.104.1, the IEC standard states: When selecting a metal-enclosed switchgear and control gear, the possibility of the occurrence of internal arc faults should be properly addressed, with the aim of providing an acceptable protection level for operators and, where applicable, for the general public. This protection is achieved by reducing the risk to a tolerable level. According to ISO/IEC Guide 51, risk is the combination of the probability of

occurrence of a harm and the severity of the harm. Therefore, the selection of adequate equipment, in relation to internal arc, should be governed by a procedure to achieve a level of tolerable risk. This procedure is based on the assumption that the user has a role to play in the risk reduction. The standard also states that the faults have been shown to occur more in some locations inside the switchgear than in others. A table of locations and probable causes is provided in the standard and summarized in Table 9. Furthermore, the IEC standard directly addresses supplementary protective measures such as rapid fault clearing based on fault detection via light,  pressure, heat, or differential protection application of fuses in combination with switching  devices to limit the let-through current and fault duration

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IEEE In dustry A p plication s M ag az in e Jan |F eb 2014 www.ieee.or g/ia s

closed-door drawout. The IEC standard also points out certain considerations the user should take into account. Not all switchgear and control gear will be IAC  classifiable. Not all switchgear and control gear is of withdraw able design. Not all switchgear and control gear is fitted with a  door that can be closed when in the service/connected position, the earthing position, or the test position. Although the above considerations are based on common IEC equipment practices, they can easily be identified with parallels viable regardless of the equipment standards such as the following. Not all equipment in an electrical room may be AR/  IAC, and hence a hazard may exist regardless if one piece of equipment is so rated. Not all equipment will require the same operating or  maintenance procedures, and some may require procedures that invalidate an AR/IAC rating. Not all circuits and devices that may require mainte nance or verification will be in compartments free from arc hazard, even in AR/IAC rated equipment. This should lead the user to consider the recommendations in the IEC standard and C37.20.7 for supplementary protection and other application considerations regardless of which standards the applied equipment meets.

ast elimination of the arc by diverting it to a metalflic short circuit crowbar by means of fast-sensing and fast-closing devices emote operation instead of operation in front of the rswitchgear and control gear p  ressure-relief device t  ransfer of the withdrawable part to or from the service position only when the front door is closed,

(I A) . Users must identify the need based on how the system on which the switchgear will be applied is grounded. Impedance and solidly grounded systems require 100% phase-to-earth arc resistance, and isolated neutral (floating) systems need 87%. It should be noted that the standard does not specify a particular current value nor a particular time period, although the current values must be taken from the R10 table previously described, and the suggested values for time are 0.1, 0.5, and 1 s. Where the manufacturer only states a single value of three-phase IAC rating the single-phase rating shall be 87%. In the case where the switchgear design is such that only single phase arcing fault can occur, only a single phase arc rating needs to be provided. Designation of the gear is based on the accessibility that it is intended for, the fault current it was tested with, the time it was tested for and the sides that passed the test. Sides are indicated by letters: F, front; R, rear; and L, lateral. Equipment certified for unrestricted accessibility, with a successful IAC test for all four sides at 12 kA, for 0.5 s would be designated IAC BFLR 12.5 kA, 0.5 s. The IEC standards do not have a specific designation for front only and front/sides/rear other than the individual listing of the qualified sides per test.
IEEE Guide for Testing Metal-Enclosed Switchgear Rated up to 38 kV for Internal Arcing Faults, IEEE C37.20.7-2007 [13]

IAC Classification, IEC 62271-200

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Classification under IEC and IEEE standards is intended for protection of personnel under normal operating conditions. It is not intended for protection of personnel under maintenance conditions nor for protecting service continuity [35, Sec. 8.104.6, p. 57]. IEEE C37.20.7 [13, Sec. 1.2.2, p. 2] describes a similar intention. The classifications may be described as follows: general: classification IAC  accessibility: A, B, or C per 62271-200, Section  4.101.2 and Annex AA.2.2 accessibility type A: restricted to authorized person nel only accessibility type B: unrestricted accessibility, includ ing that of the general public accessibility type C: restricted by installation out of  reach and above a general public area. The minimum approach distance to be stated by the manufacturer and the minimum installation height is the declared minimum approach distance plus 2 m. Arc-fault current is expressed in (kA) and arc test duration in seconds. Single-phase values ( I Ae ) may be used where construction prevents three-phase arcs as demonstrated during the internal arc test. Single-phase values may be 87 or 100% of the three-phase current

The defining IEEE document for arc resistance is IEEE C37.20.7-2007. As listed in the title to this section, it is a guide for testing, not a standard. Manufacturers may offer varying ratings. However the IEEE guide provides guidance on how to qualify those claims by test, not how to achieve them or what they must be. Section 1.2.3, Application of This Guide, includes some important points such as that the guide does not address all effects that constitute risk, such as release of toxic materials or excessive sound pressure. The guide also does not address the failure of components, especially liquid-filled components or other materials internal to components that may fail. Section 1.2.4 goes on further to state that it is not possible to test equipment for all possible conditions that can produce an internal arcing fault. An assembly proven by these tests cannot guarantee to withstand all internal arcing faults that may occur in service. The IEEE standard [35, Sec. 4, p. 5] identifies two types by accessibility: Type 1switchgear with AR designs or features at  the freely accessible front of the equipment only Type 2switchgear with AR designs or features at  the freely accessible exterior (front, back, and sides) of the equipment only. Passing the basic tests for either type of accessibility allows the switchgear to be labeled as Type 1A or Type 2A. Annex AA defines additional tests that allow a user to open a compartment door for compartments identified as low voltage control or instrumentation only. Successful passing of this second set of criteria allows the equipment to be labeled 1B or 2B. A third criterion is described in the annex for suffix C designation. Suffix C indicates that the

effect of an internal arc fault is confined Fully front-connected assemblies are only to the compartment where the more common in IEC equipment, IT IS IMPOrTANT fault originally occurs. Type C suffix although the standards do not directly implies that the equipment is fully promulgate that construction. Stationto realize that compartmentalized and that each comary CBs are more common in IEC partment is independently AR. A suffix equipment, but recent products introif service D (for type 1 only) is also described for duced in the North American market cONdiTiONS Are gear that, due to its location or other are bringing that practice to the tradiconsiderations, does not need to be AR tionally IEEE market. Changes not normal, on all sides but has been tested for the expected in C37.20.3 will further stansides that need the arc resistance. dardize that practice in North Amerthe rated The IEEE guide also includes an ica, bringing IEC and IEEE practices application section (Annex B) similar in closer together. iNSUlATiON content to what is found in IEC 62271Traditionally, North American 200. An important point is described in equipment relies heavily on doughnut levels may be B.2.2, p. 29 [35]. To properly apply current transformers (CTs) mounted affected. the switchgear, both the physical instalwithin the CB cubicles. This requires lation and the electrical protection the CBs to be drawn out to access the devices must be coordinated with the CTs and also requires the CB cell conratings of the arc-resistant switchgear. nections to allow sufficient space to This is true regardless if the gear is based on IEC or IEEE mount multiple CTs in one cubicle. Common IEC pracstandards. There is always a desire for the fastest possible tices have been to rely on bar CTs more often so as to get protection to minimize damage to the equipment and mini- enough power from the CTs iron to power electromagmize probability of a failure. Plus, it should be taken into netic protective relays. But modern electronic relays proaccount that the equipment is only rated for a specific vide lower burden and are facilitating common CT amount of time, and hence it is imperative that all protec- practices in both markets. tion fully clear the fault within that time. For the main secThe IEC practice of combining isolation switches with tion where the protection may be on the line side of a grounding switches in the CB section can take the place of transformer at a higher voltage, achieving sufficiently fast a drawout mechanism and a ground and test device. Comprotection without a sophisticated protection scheme may bined with a SF6 insulated tank, the combination can yield not be easy. Special attention should be paid to protection of very compact equipment that can be built for full-front the line side of the incoming compartment, where that pro- connectivity. These designs may be very attractive from the tection resides. size and even cost perspective. However, the user will need A difference in the AR tests is that the IEC uses 300 to determine if the complexity of having multiple devices mm and IEEE C37.20.7 requires 100 mm between the that form one integral assembly, which cannot be drawn cotton test panels and the equipment enclosure. The cot- out of the cubicle for fast replacement, is consistent with ton panels ascertain that excessive heat or hot materials do the reliability requirements of the system. North American not exit the enclosure. Also, the AR tests under IEEE are users are accustomed to the positive verification of separaperformed on a system that can deliver full phase-to- tion provided by a CB in the drawn out position or visible ground current, whereas the IEC tests are performed on an blade switch contacts viewable through an inspection winimpedance grounded system with limited ground fault dow in the switchgear. For an IEC-style fixed mounted CB, current available. the user will often need to rely on position indication provided by a common shaft or other mechanism that provides Conclusion feedback on the status of the CB, isolating switch, and Over the last decade, IEEE and IEC standards for MV and grounding switch assembly. The adoption of this type of switchgear have been significantly harmonized. The IEEE equipment may require changes in U.S. maintenance pracstandards currently being revised by the IEEE WGs will tices. But those practices have been in use for many years in further harmonize the standards. However, it is likely that markets where IEC equipment is routinely used. A more the standards will not achieve complete harmonization in substantial barrier to the adoption of IEC practices is the the near future. The complex physics and even more com- National Electrical Codes (NECs) requirement for visible plex testing of characteristics like TRV dictate that com- verification of isolation found in articles 225.1 and mon standards facilitate the generation of common 230.34(A) [15, pp. 7071 and pp. 7087, respectively]. science, knowledge, and testing. Harmonizing the stan- This requirement is fulfilled by MC equipments drawout dard simply recognizes that we all must deal with the CBs or ME, visible-blade knife-type switches. The comsame physics problems, test in the same laboratories, and mon IEC practice of using shaft position or other less posioften use the same components or subassemblies regardless tive indication of device position does not normally meet of what standard the product shall meet or what market the requirements in the NEC. Additional requirements in the final product targets. However, traditions and some NFPA 70E [38, Sec. 120.1(3)]. differences in the standards still create distinctly different A user today has more choices, with finer gradations equipment choices. Currently, one of the main areas of dif- between them. The responsibility for choosing the ferences is the ways that CBs are installed in equipment. optimum product for an application, in a particular

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region, still falls on the user, and it is the user that must become informed on the choices available. Regardless of the choice, many detailed decisions are still required to procure the optimum equipment solution regardless of the standard referenced. Acknowledgment The authors wish to thank Ted Olsen for his careful review and many valuable suggestions.
[1] B. Bridger, Jr., All amperes are not created equal: A comparison of current ratings of high-voltage circuit breakers rated according to ANSI and IEC standards, IEEE Trans. Ind. Applicat., vol. 29, no. 1, pp. 195 201, Jan./Feb. 1993. [2] B. Bridger, Jr., Comparison of ANSI/IEEE and IEC requirements for metal-clad switchgear, IEEE Trans. Ind. Applicat., vol. 33, no. 1, pp. 216225, Jan./Feb. 1997. [3] D. Dufournet, Transient recovery voltages for high voltage circuit breakers, presented at the IEEE Mega Projects Workshop, Calgary, AB, Canada, Oct. 2008. [4] L. van der Sluis, Transients in Power Systems. New York: Wiley, 2001. [5] IEEE Standard Rating Structure for AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers , IEEE Standard C37.04-1999, R2006. [6] IEEE Standard for Rating Structure for AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers Rated on a Symmetrical Current Basis Amendment 2: To Change the Description of Transient Recovery Voltage for Harmonization with IEC 62271-100, IEEE Standard C37.04b-2008. [7] IEEE Standard Rating for AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers Rated on a Symmetrical Current Basis-Preferred Ratings and Related Required Capabilities for Voltages Above 1,000 V, IEEE Standard C37.06-2009. [8] Standard for Testing Procedures for AC High-Voltage Circuit Breakers Rated on a Symmetrical Current Basis, IEEE Standard C37.09-1999, R2007. [9] IEEE Standard for Metal-Clad Switchgear, IEEE Standard C37.20.2-1999. [10] IEEE Standard for Metal-Enclosed Interrupter Switchgear, IEEE Standard C37.20.3-2001. [11] IEEE Standard for Indoor AC Switches (1 kV38 kV) for Use in MetalEnclosed Switchgear, IEEE Standard C37.20.4-2001. [12] IEEE Standard 4.76kV to 38kV Rated Ground and Test Devices, IEEE Standard C37.20.6-2007. [13] IEEE Guide for testing metal-enclosed switchgear rated up to 38 kV for internal arcing faults, IEEE Standard C37.20.7-2007. [14] IEEE Standard of Common Requirements for High Voltage Power Switchgear Rated Above 1000 V, IEEE Standard C37.100.1-2007. [15] National Electrical Code, NFPA Standard 70, 2011. [16] Conformance Test Procedures for Indoor Alternating Current High-Voltage Circuit Breakers Applied as Removable Elements in Metal-Enclosed Switchgear Assemblies, NEMA ANSI Standard C37.54-2002, R2010. [17] SwitchgearMetal-Clad Switchgear AssembliesConformance Test Procedures, NEMA ANSI Standard C37.55-1989, R2010. [18] SwitchgearMetal-Enclosed Interrupter Switchgear AssembliesConformance Testing, IEEE Standard C37.57-2003, R2010. [19] Indoor Medium Voltage Switches for Use in Metal-Enclosed Switchgear Conformance Test Procedures, IEEE ANSI Standard C37.58-2003. [20] High-Voltage Switchgear and ControlgearThe Use of Electronic and Associated Technologies in Auxiliary Equipment of Switchgear and Controlgear, IEC/TR Standard 62063, 1999. [21] High-Voltage Switchgear and ControlgearPart 1: Common Specifications, IEC Standard 62271-1, 2011. [22] High-Voltage Switchgear and ControlgearPart 100: Alternating Current Circuit-Breakers, IEC Standard 62271-100, 2008.

References

IEEE In dustry A p plication s M ag az in e Jan |F eb 2014 www.ieee.or g/ia s

[23] High-Voltage Switchgear and ControlgearPart 101: Synthetic Testing, IEC Standard 62271-101, 2010. [24] High-Voltage Switchgear and ControlgearPart 102: Alternating Current Disconnectors and Earthing Switches, IEC Standard 62271102, 2001. [25] Amendment 1High-Voltage Switchgear and ControlgearPart 102: Alternating Current Disconnectors and Earthing Switches, IEC Standard 62271-102-am1, 2011. [26] High-Voltage Switchgear and ControlgearPart 103: Switches for Rated Voltages Above 1 kV up to and Including 52 kV, IEC Standard 62271103, 2011. [27] High-Voltage Switchgear and ControlgearPart 104: Alternating Current Switches for Rated Voltages of 52 kV and Above, IEC Standard 62271-104, 2009. [28] High-Voltage Switchgear and ControlgearPart 105: Alternating Current Switch-Fuse Combinations, IEC Standard 62271-105, 2002. [29] High-Voltage Switchgear and ControlgearPart 106: Alternating Current Contactors, Contactor-Based Controllers and Motor-Starters, IEC Standard 62271-106, 2011. [30] High-voltage Switchgear and ControlgearPart 107: Alternating Current Fused Circuit-Switchers for Rated Voltages Above 1 Kv up to and Including 52 kV, IEC Standard 62271-107, 2005. [31] High-Voltage Switchgear and ControlgearPart 108: High-Voltage Alternating Current Disconnecting Circuit-Breakers for Rated Voltages of 72.5 kV and Above, IEC Standard 62271-108, 2005. [32] High-Voltage Switchgear and ControlgearPart 109: Alternating-Current Series Capacitor By-Pass Switches, IEC Standard 62271-109, 2008. [33] High-Voltage Switchgear and ControlgearPart 110: Inductive Load Switching, IEC Standard 62271-110, 2009. [34] High Voltage Switchgear and ControlgearPart 111: Overhead, PadMounted, Dry Vault, and Submersible Automatic Circuit Reclosers and Fault Interrupters For Alternating Current Systems up to 38 kV. IEC Standard 62271-111, 2005. [35] High-Voltage Switchgear and Control GearPart 200: AC MetalEnclosed Switchgear and Control Gear for Rated Voltages Above 1 kV and up to 52 kV, IEC Standard 62271-200, 2011. [36] Selection and Dimensioning of High-Voltage Insulators Intended for Use in Polluted ConditionsPart 1: Definitions, Information and General Principles, IEC Standard 60815-1, 2008. [37] Insulation Coordination Part 2: Application Guide, IEC Standard 60071-2, 1996. [38] Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace, NFPA Standard 70E, 2012. [39] Classification of Environmental ConditionsPart 2-4: Environmental Conditions Appearing in NatureSolar Radiation and Temperature, IEC Standard 60721-2-4, 2002. [40] G. H. Fox, Applying microprocessor-based protective relays in switchgear with AC control power, IEEE Trans. Ind. Applicat., vol. 41, no. 6, pp. 14361443, Nov.Dec. 2005.

Marcelo Valdes (marcelo.valdes@ge.com), Marty Trivette, and Steven Meiners are with GE Industrial Solutions in Plainville, Connecticut. Xuhui Ren is with GE Industrial Solutions in Shanghai, China. Shridhaval Sapre is with GE Industrial Solutions in Hyderabad, India. Valdes is a Senior Member of the IEEE. Trivette and Meiners are Members of the IEEE. This article first appeared as IEC & IEEE Medium Voltage Distribution Equipment Standards: A Review and Analysis at the 2012 IEEE IAS Petroleum and Chemical Industry Technical Conference.

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