Gaffney-Kroese Supply Corp.

ANSIvs.IEC
ElectricalStandards

ByJimCampe
 Introduction
StandardDifferences

Basicdifferencesinthreeareas

Philosophy
Construction

PerformanceTesting
 TypesofEquipment

MediumVoltageSwitchgear

LowVoltageSwitchgear

LowVoltageMotorControlCenter
 StandardsReviewed

Equipment Type Applicable Standard

I.E.C. 56,298,694
ANSI C37 20.2
Medium Voltage
UL 1670
Switchgear B.S. 5311, 6581, 5253
D.I.N. 40050
I.E.C. 439-1
ANSI C37 20.1
Low Voltage
UL 891,1558
Switchgear B.S. BSEN60-439-1
D.I.N. 40050
I.E.C. 439-1
ANSI NEMA ICS 2-322
Low Voltage Motor
UL 845
Control Center B.S. BSEN60-439-1
NEC NFPA 70 430
I.E.C. 439-3
ANSI Federal WP 115C
Low Voltage
UL 67,50
Panelboards B.S. BSEN60-439-3
NEC NFPA 70
 EnclosureTypes
NEMAhas13types
NEMAstandardsarebasedonspecificapplications
IEC529has6x8groups
IECstandardsarebasedontestsinthreeareas:
Accidentalcontactwithliveparts
Interiorequipmentprotection
Significantingressofwater

InAdditionIEC439has4FormsofSeparation
Thestandarddefinesseparationbetweenfunctionalunitsinto
4Forms
eachFormhasdifferentsubformsorTypesdependingonthe
levelof
separationrequired.Totalof14FormsandTypesare
defined.
 EnclosureTypes
InAdditionIEC439has4FormsofSeparation
TheFormsaredefinedas:
Form1NoSeparation.
Form2Separationofbusbarsfromfunctionalunits.
Form2a,Form2Type1&Form2Type2definitions
exist.
Form3Separationofbusbarsforthefunctionalunitsand
separationofallfunctionalunits,butnottheirterminals
forexternalconductors,fromoneanother.Theterminals
forexternalconductorsneednotbeseparatedfromthe
busbars.
Form3a,Form3bType1&Form3Type2definitions
exist.
Form4Separationofbusbarsfromthefunctionalunits
andseparationofallfunctionalunitsfromoneanother,
includingtheterminalsforexternalconductorswhichare
anintegralpartofthefunctionalunit.
SEPARATION
According to the Standard, Separation can be claimed if one
of the following is met:

1. Protection is provided against contact with live parts in

adjacent units*.

2. The probability of initiation of arcing faults is limited.

3. Protection is provided against solid bodies from adjacent

unit*.

* The degree of protection shall be at least IP2X.

BEAMA (British Electrical Assemblies Manufacturers

Association) specify that their members must ensure that ALL
three of the above conditions are met.
Key
Form 1 - No Separation
Form 2
Busbars are separated from functional units.
Functional units are not separated from each other.
This basic definition is refined by the UK National Annex to
EN60439, BSEN60 439-1 (Form 2 and Form 2 Type 1 and
Form 2 Type 2 are defined)
Form 2
Terminals are not separated from the busbars, or each
other.
The actual means of separation is not defined in the
Standard.
 Form 2 Type 1
As Form 2, but busbar separation is achieved by insulated
coverings. (PVC sleeving, wrapping or coating).
Terminals are separated from the busbars, but not from
functional units or from each other.

Defined by BS EN 60439-1
 Form 2 Type 2
As Form 2, but busbar separation is achieved by rigid
metallic or non-metallic barriers or partitions.
Terminals are separated from the busbars, but not from
functional units or each other.

Defined by BS EN 60439-1
Form 3
Busbars are separated from functional units.
Functional units are separated from each other, and terminals.
This basic definition is refined by the UK National Annex to EN60439,
BSEN60 439-1 (Form 3a and Form 3b Type 1 and Form 3b Type 2 are
defined)
 Form 3a
As Form 3.
The actual means of separation is not defined in the
Standard.
Terminals are not separated from busbars or each other.

Defined by BS EN 60439-1
 Form 3b Type 1
As Form 3, busbar separation is achieved by insulated coverings,
(PVC sleeving, wrapping or coating).
Terminals are separated from busbars, but not from each other.

Defined by BS EN 60439-1
 Form 3b Type 2
As Form 3, but busbar separation is achieved by metallic or
non-metallic rigid barriers or partitions.
Terminals are separated from the busbars, but not from each
other.

Defined by BS EN 60439-1
Form 4
Busbars are separated from functional units.
Functional units are separated from terminals and each
other.
This basic definition is refined by the UK National Annex to
EN60439, BSEN60 439-1 (Form 4 Types 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7
are defined)
 Form 4 Type 1
As Form 4, busbar separation is achieved by insulated coverings,
(PVC sleeving, wrapping or coating).
Cables terminated in same compartment as functional unit, but
may be glanded elsewhere. e.g. in a common cabling chamber.

Defined by BS EN 60439-1
 Form 4 Type 2
As Form 4, but busbar separation is achieved by metallic or non-
metallic rigid barriers or partitions.
Cables terminated in same compartment as functional unit, but
may be glanded elsewhere. e.g. in a common cabling chamber.

Defined by BS EN 60439-1
 Form 4 Type 3
As Form 4, but busbar separation is achieved by metallic or
non-metallic rigid barriers or partitions.
Cables terminated in same compartment as functional unit,and
has its own integral glanding facility.

Defined by BS EN 60439-1
 Form 4 Type 4
As Form 4, but busbar separation is achieved by insulated
coverings, (PVC sleeving, wrapping or coating).
Cables terminated outside functional unit, and separated by
insulated coverings. May be glanded elsewhere.

Defined by BS EN 60439-1
 Form 4 Type 5
As Form 4, but busbar separation is achieved by metallic or
non-metallic rigid barriers or partitions.
Cables terminated outside functional unit, and separated by
insulated coverings. May be glanded elsewhere.

Defined by BS EN 60439-1
 Form 4 Type 6
As Form 4, but all separation is achieved by metallic or non
metallic rigid barriers or partitions.
Cables terminated outside functional unit, and separated by rigid
barriers or partitions. May be glanded elsewhere.

Defined by BS EN 60439-1
 Form 4 Type 7
As Form 4, but all separation is achieved by metallic non-metallic
rigid barriers or partitions.
Cables terminated outside functional unit, and separated by rigid
barriers or partitions with integral glanding facility.

Defined by BS EN 60439-1
 EnclosureTypesANSI
ApplicationSpecific
NEMA Type Nearest IEC Equivalent
NEMA 1-General Purpose. Protection of people IP2X*-Protected against solid objects greater than
from live parts. Protection against falling dirt. 12mm.

Test: 1/8" to 1/2" (3.175-12.7mm) rod entry test Test: Metallic test finger and 12mm sphere tests.
and rust resistance test.
No IEC rust resistance test.
NEMA 3-Dusttight, Raintight, and Sleet Resistant. IP54-Dust protected. Protected against splashing
water.
Test: Rain, dust, external, icing & rust resistance Test: Dust and oscillating sprinkler test.
tests.
No IEC rust resistance or icing test.
NEMA 3R-Rainproof and Steet Resistant. IP34- Protected against solid objects greater than
2.5mm. Protected against splashing water.
Test: Rod entry 1/8-1/4 (3.175-6.35mm), rain, Test: 2.5mm rod and oscillating sprinkler tests.
external icing, and rust resistance tests.
No IEC rust resistance or icing test.
NEMA 4-Watertight and Dusttight. IP65-Dusttight. Protected against water jets.
Test: Hosedown, rust resistance and external Test: Dust and spray nozzle test.
icing tests.
No rust resistance or external icing test.
 EnclosureTypesANSI
ApplicationSpecific(continue)

NEMA Type Nearest IEC Equivalent

NEMA 4X-Watertight, Dusttight and corrosion IPW65-Dusttight and protected against water jets.
resistance.
Test: Hosedown, corrosion resistance, and Test: Dust and spray nozzle tests.
external icing tests.
No corrosion resistance or external icing test.
NEMA 7- Hazardous Gas No IEC Equivalent.

NEMA 9- Hazardous Dust No IEC Equivalent.

NEMA 12- Dusttight and Driptight. IP61- Dusttight and Protected against dripping water.

Test: Drip, dust, and rust resistance tests.
NEMA 13- Oiltight and Dusttight.
Test: Oiltightness and rust resistance tests.
Test: Dust and rain simulator tests.
No IEC rust resistance test.
IP6X- Dusttight.
Test: Dust test.
No IEC oiltightness or rust resistance tests.
 EnclosureTypesIEC
IndicatedbyIPXX
(firstcharacter,contactwithliveparts)

First Characteristic Degree of Protection

Numeral Short Description Definition
A large surface fo the body, such as a hand (but no
1 Protected against solid objects greater than 50mm. protection against deliberate access). Solid objects
exceedign 50mm in diameter.
Fingers or similar objects not exceeding 80mm in length.
2 Protected against solid objects greater than 12mm.
Solid objects exceeding 12mm in diamter.

Tools, wires, ect., of diameter or thickness greater than

3 Protected against solid objects greater than 2.5mm.
2.5mm. Solid objects exceeding 2.5mm in diameter.

Wires or strips of thickness greater than 1.0mm. Solid

4 Protected against solid objects greater than 1.0mm.
5 Dust-protected.
objects exceeding 1.0mm in diameter.
Ingress of dust is not totally prevented but dust does not
enter in sufficient quantity to interfere with satisfactory
operation of the equipment.

6 Dust-tight. No ingress of dust.

 EnclosureTypesIEC
IndicatedbyIPXX
(secondcharacter,wateringress)
Second
Degree of Protection
Characteristic
Numeral Short Description Definition
Protected against dripping Dripping water (vertically falling drops) shall have no
1 water. harmful effect.
Protected against dripping Vertically dripping water shall have no harmful effect when
2 water when tilted up to 15 the enclosure is tilted at any angle up to 15 degrees from its
degrees. normal position.
Protected against spraying Water falling as a spray at an angle up to 60 degrees from the
3 water. vertical shall have no harmful effect.
Protected against splashing Water splashed against the enclosure from any direction shall
4 water. have no harmful effect.
Protected against water Water projected by a nozzle against the enclosure from any
5 jets. direction shall have no harmful effect.
Protected against heavy Water from heavy seas or water projected in powerful jets
6 seas. shall not enter the enclosure in harmful quantities.
Protected agaiinst the Ingress of water in a harmful quantity shall not be possible
7 effects of immersion. when the enclosure is immersed in water under defined
conditions of pressure and time.
Protected against The equipment is suitable for continuous submersion in
submersion. water under conditions which shall be specified by the
manufacturer. NOTE: Normally, this will mean that the
8 equipment is hermetically sealed. However with certain types
of equipment it can mean that water can enter; but only in
such a manner that it produces no harmful effects.
 EnclosureTypesIECvs.ANSI
NEMA
IP First Characteristic Numeral IP Second Characteristic Numeral MAX IP
Type
1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 DESIGNATIONS
Number
1 X X O O O O O O O O O O O IP2X
2 X X O O O O X X O O O O O IP22
3 X X X X X X X X X X X O O IP65
3R X X O O O O X X X X O O O IP24
3S X X X X X X X X X X X O O IP65
4 X X X X X X X X X X X X O IP66
4X X X X X X X X X X X X X O IP66
5 X X X X X X X X X X X O O IP65
6 X X X X X X X X X X X X X IP67
6P X X X X X X X X X X X X X IP67
11 X X X X X X X X X X O O O IP64
12 X X X X X X X X X X X O O IP65
12K X X X X X X X X X X X O O IP65
13 X X X X X X X X X X O O O IP64

"X" - indicates that the NEMA type enclosure is judged to comply with the requirements for the corresponding characteristic
numerals of IEC 529.

"O" - indicates that the NEMA type enclosure is judged not to satisfy the requirements corresponding to the characteristic
numerals of IEC 529. For example, Type 3 is judged to satisfy the requirements of IP11 to IP65 and Type 3R of IP11 to IP24.
 MotorControl

NEMAMotorStartersaredesignedfor
easeofselectionoverawiderangeof
applications.

IECMotorControlisdesignedaround
performancestandardsandisapplication
anddutyspecific.
 MotorControl

NEMAdeviceshaveahighlevelof
performanceforawiderangeof
applications.Typicallyproductshavea
largerreservecapacitythatisnot
requiredinmostsituations.

IECcontrollersareselectedbasedonthe
ratingsandperformanceexpectationsfor
differentapplicationsandduties.
 MotorControl
ANSIvs.IEC
Differencesworthconsideration
NEMA
Starter - combination of contactor and
overload on a sub-assembly.
Large metal back plates with
interchangeable contacts, coils and
overload heater packs.
Coils are encapsulated.
Large exposed terminals easy
installation.
IEC
Contactor and overload protection are
separate, overload typically direct
connects to contactor.
Smaller - DIN rail mounting, overload is a
fixed heater type. Class 10 overload
protection.
Coils tape wound or encapsulated
Smaller recessd terminals IP20 'finger
proof'.
 MotorControl
ANSIvs.IEC
Differencesworthconsideration
NEMA
Has class 10,20, 30 overloads
for better coordination.
Usually has 2.5 to 4 times the
life of its IEC equivalent.
Has 7 motor starer sizes based
on horsepower for ease of
selection.
Larger size-more rugged more
reserve capacity.
50 degrees C temperature rise
operates cooler.
Has higher short circuit
withstand capability due to
size. Larger overload can pass
more thru fault current with
IEC
Has class 10 overloads only.
IEC motors are designed for
class 10 protection.
Usually costs 10 to 15% less
than its ANSI equivalent.
Has motor application
categories AC-1 thru AC-8.
Must be sized for application
Smaller size-more compact
less reserve capacity.
70 degrees C temperature rise
operates hotter.
Is more susceptible to short
circuit damage due to design
can be protected with fast
current limiting fuses.
LowVoltageSwitchgear

ANSIstandardsaredesignand
constructionspecific
Metalcladormetalencloseddesigns
11gaugesteelforcircuitbreaker
compartments
Individualcircuitbreakercompartments
Specificwirelugandterminalrequirements
metalbarriersforallbussectionalizers
barriersmustbe14gaugesteelminimum
Controltransformersmustbefused
 LowVoltageSwitchgear

ULstandardsaremorespecific
Mainbussizingtablesmustbefollowed
Bussplicinghardwareisspecified
Allinteriorcomp.mustbeULapproved
AllwiringmustbeSIStype
Serviceentrancebarriersaredetailed
Bussupportsanddistancesaredetailed
Ventilationopeningsaredefined
Cableterminationrequirementsareprovided
 LowVoltageSwitchgear

IECstandardsaremore
performanceandtestingoriented
Listsdetailedandspecificperformanceteststhatall
electricalequipmentmustbesubjectedtoasTypeTests
andasRoutineTests.8TypeTestrequirementsforeach
typeandrating.
DefinesTotallyTypeTestedandPartiallyTypeTested
Assemblies.
Allowsforselftestingbutencouragesthirdpartytype
testingratherthatendorsinganapprovalagency.
Constructionorarrangementrequirementssubjectto
agreementbetweenmanufacturerandspecifierbut
definesFormsofSeparationrequirements.
 LowVoltageSwitchgear

IECstandardsaremore
performanceandtestingoriented
BecausethestandardisthesameforMotorControl
CentresandforDistributionSwitchgearand
Switchboards,theytendtolookalike.IEC439doesnot
differentiatebetweenSwitchgearandSwitchboardor
MCC.
 LowVoltageSwitchgear

Definition:

Essentially the IEC 439 specification is a general

specification which has national refinements in Europe
which are defined by the numbers EN60439. EN denotes
European Norm, eg the UK standard is BSEN60439-1.

There are also European Directives which are in addition

to the IEC standard, notably the CE Mark, confirming
compliance with The Low Voltage Directive and The EMC
Directive. It is technically illegal to sell any assembly in
Europe which does not have the CE Mark.
 LowVoltageSwitchgear
IEC 439 is a series of Standards:

IEC439-1: Low-voltage Switchgear and Controlgear

Assemblies.
IEC439-2: Particular requirements for Busbar trunking
systems (busway)
IEC439-3: Particular requirements for assemblies
intended to be installed where unskilled persons have
access to their use - Distribution boards
(Loadcentres/Panelboards)
IEC439-4: Particular requirements for assemblies for
construction sites.
 LowVoltageSwitchgear
IEC 439-1: Low-voltage Switchgear and
Controlgear Assemblies.
Low voltage control panels
Distribution Switchboards
Custom Control panels
Motor Control Centres
Panelboards
Switchgear

Are all collectively termed assemblies,

low-voltage = voltages up to 1000V a.c. or 1500V d.c.
 StandardsReviewed
IEC 439-1: Low-voltage Switchgear and
Controlgear Assemblies.

Panelboards
Custom Control
Distribution
Switchgear

Wall Mounted
Motor Control Custom Control Custom Control
Centres
 StandardsReviewed
IEC 439-1: Low-voltage Switchgear and
Controlgear Assemblies.

Plastic modular Plastic modular

custom panel outdoor custom panel
 StandardsReviewed
IEC 439-1: Low-voltage Switchgear and
Controlgear Assemblies.
IEC 439-1 allows for only two types of
assembly:
Totally Type Tested (TTA)
Partially Type Tested (PTTA)

Partially Type Tested can

can only be derived, by
calculation, from a Totally
Type Tested Assembly. Distribution Switchgear
 LowVoltageSwitchgear
IECvsANSI
General
ANSI IEC 439-1
One voltage class 600 V maximum. Switchgear and Controlgear
Assemblies <= 1000v
Electrical Clearances - 1 inch through Electrical clearances - based on
air and 2 inches over surface. Dielectric Tests
Dielectric Tests - 2200 VAC for 1 Dielectric Tests - Type Tests for 1
minute (UL - 1000 + 2 X voltage). minute, Routine Tests for 1 second.
(Vn x 2 + 1000).
Silver or tin bus bar plating required. No bus bar plating required.
Ground fault protection required on Ground fault protection systems are
all systems 240 VAC or less and on determined by user and are not a
all systems greater than 150 V less specific requirement.
than 601 V for services rated at 1000
A or greater.
LowVoltageSwitchgearIECvsANSI
ShortCircuitRatings

ANSI IEC
Short circuit rating of the switchboard is Individual devices have short circuit
equal to the lowest device rating in the ratings no specific requirements for
switchboard. overall rating. Manufacturer determines
rating of the assembly and tests
accordingly.
Allows for series ratings for protection of No series ratings tests specified. Devices
lesser rated devices downstream by specific must be rated for the full prospective
testing of each type device. rating.

Devices are rated for interrupting Electrical assemblies have a rated short
symmetrical faults only. time withstand current rating in
symmetrical amperes and a peak
Devices based on size are tested on a fixed withstand current rating in asymmetrical
average asymmetrical value. amperes with a full degree of asymmetry.
Typically 1 or 3 second rated withstand
I.e. power breakers X/R=6.5912
with a 2.1 times peak, e.g. 50 kA for 1
Molded case > 20 KA, X/R=4.899
second has a 105kA peak rating.
Molded case > 10 KA, X/R=3.1798
Molded case < 10 KA, X/R=1.7321
For a device to interrupt a fault with a higher No derating factors required. Device must
X/R ratio then a complex natural logarithmic be asymmetrically rated.
must be applied to derate the breaker
interrupting rating.
 LowVoltageSwitchgear
IECvsANSI
TemperatureRiseRequirements
ANSI
Main switchboard bus is limited to
a 65 deg. C rise over a 40 deg. C
ambient.
Circuit breakers are only allowed a
60 deg. C rise over a 40 deg. C
ambient
Terminals for 80% rated devices
are limited to 50 deg. C rise and
wire is rated at 75 deg. C.
Terminals for 100% rated devices
are limited to 60 deg. C rise and
wire is rated at 75 deg. C.
IEC
Main switchboard bus is limited to
a 70 deg. C rise over a 40 deg. C
ambient. See seperate comment.
Circuit breakers are only allowed a
80 deg. C rise over a 40 deg. C
ambient measured at the terminals.
Terminals for external connection
limited to 70 deg. C rise.
No tests required at 100% of
equipment rating.
 LowVoltageSwitchgear
IECvsANSI
TemperatureRiseRequirements
IEC439 does not have an overall temperature rise limit for the
assembly as a whole: Test ambient is 35 Degrees C.
Built in Components: Limited only by their own component standard
taking into account the fact that they are in an enclosure.
Terminals for External insulated conductors: 70 Deg. C
Busbars and Conductors: No limit. Only limited by the mechanical
strength of the conducting material, the possible heating effects on
adjacent equipment, permissible temperature of the support and
insulating material.
Manual operators: 15 Deg. C for metallic parts, 25 Deg. C for
insulated parts.
Accessible external covers: 30 Deg. C for metallic covers, 40 Deg. C
for insulated covers.
Temperature rise and therefore temperature limits are set for external
interfaces, cable terminals, covers and handles only. Differentiation is
also made for the type of material used.
 LowVoltageSwitchgear
IECvsANSI
ShortCircuitTests
ANSI IEC
Tests are performed at maximum Tests are performed at 110% of
rated voltage - 105.8% of nominal. operating voltage of the specific
assembly.
Test duty is fixed at 0.5 sec on, 15 Test duty for short time test is 1 sec
sec off, 0.5 sec on. The system X/R mi. Test duty for peak test is 0.1
must be 6.6 or greater. sec.
Test frequency must be within 20% Test frequency must be within 25%
of rated frequency. of rated frequency.
Test peak current must be 2.3 The test peak value is the
times the symmetrical rating and asymmetrical rating for the
verified by oscillogram. equipment and verified by
oscillogram.
Permanent deformation of busbars Only slight deformation of bus
is allowed as long as dielectric and systems is allowed.
performance tests are not
compromised.
 LowVoltageSwitchgear
IECvsANSI
ItemsSubjecttoAgreementbetweenManufacturer
As IEC 439 is a very general andUser
specification covering all manner of
assemblies, it does not, of itself, specify precisely the construction or
rating of the equipment. Therefore the User/Specifier MUST add
desired criteria to a project specification. These include but not limited
to:
Construction material and thickness (e.g. steel, plastic, stainless etc.)
Supply voltage, number of phases and frequency,
Current capacity of busbars including the Neutral (if busbars are fitted)
System fault rating and duration. (e.g. 50kA for 3 seconds)
Rated diversity factor (e.g. 1, 0.7, 0.8 etc)
Special service conditions (e.g. altitude if above 1000 m, ambient temp if
above 35 Degrees C., Relative Humidity)
Internal and External degree of protection (e.g. IP 54 external and IP 40
internal, degree of protection when withdrawable units removed)
Form of construction (e.g. Form 1,2,3,4 including types)
 LowVoltageSwitchgear
IECvsANSI
ItemsSubjecttoAgreementbetweenManufacturer
andUser
Accessibility for maintenance (e.g. Front only, Front/Rear)
Accessibility for cabling (e.g. Top or bottom, Front or Rear cable entry)
Conditions during erection, storage and transport
Coordination of protective devices.
Temperature rise requirements for equipment ratings above 3150 amps.
Site test requirements.
Ask for copy of the full set of Type Test Certificates covering all 8 Type Tests
required by the standard.
Ask for a Declaration of Conformity to the Low Voltage Directive when the
equipment is delivered.
 LowVoltageSwitchgear
IECvsANSI
TheEIGHTTypeTestsRequiredbyIEC439
The standard lays down a comprehensive package of performance
requirements. These come under 8 headings and ALL must be verified
by type test irrespective of whether an assembly is to offered as a TTA
or as a PTTA. These are typically one time tests done at the time of
design, the standard does not require follow-up testing unless there is a
substantial design change, neither does the standard require third party
certification.
1 Dielectric Properties - Clause 8.2.2
2 IP degree of protection - Clause 8.2.7
3 Temperature Rise limits - Clause 8.2.1
4 Mechanical Operations Tests - Clause 8.2.6
5 Clearance and Creepage distances - Clause 8.2.5
6 Effectiveness of the protective circuit - Clause 8.2.4
7 Short Circuit Withstand strenght of the protective circuit (earth bar) Clause
8.2.4.2
8 Short Circuit Withstand strength of the main circuits (busbars, neutral) Clause
8.2.3
 LowVoltageSwitchgear
IECvsANSI
RoutineTestsRequiredbyIEC439
Routine Tests are required to be performed on EVERY assembly, they are
carried out at the place of manufacture, the standard does not require
additional testing at the place of installation. Individual component
testing may be required as part of the assembly, however if the
component manufacturer routine tests components they do not need
further testing in the assembly.

1 Mechanical Inspection of the assembly - Clause 8.3.1

2 Dielectric Test - Clause 8.3.2
3 Checking of protective measures and of the electrical continuity of the
protective circuits - Clause 8.3..3

The test procedures are left to the manufacturer and records of the
test results usually form part of the CE Technical File under the
Declaration of conformance.
 MediumVoltageSwitchgear
IECvsANSI

ANSIstandardsaremore
constructionandapplication
oriented
IECstandardsaremore
performanceandtestingoriented
Ratedmaximumvoltage
Ratedinsulationlevels
Ratedcontinuouscurrent
Ratedshortcircuitcurrent
Compartmentalization
 MediumVoltageSwitchgearIECvsANSI
EnclosureConstruction
Construction ANSI IEC
Sheet steel minimum thickness
Metallic material required no
Enclosure Material 0.30 cm for all barriers 0.19 cm
minimum thickness specified.
for doors and covers.
Phosphalizing or equivalent
Finish before painting. One coat min. of None specified.
corrosion resistant paint.
Meet dielectric test per ANSI and
Not required but can be provided
withstand maximum rated voltage
Bus Insulation by agreement between supplier
for 1 min. between phase and
and user.
outside surface.

Metallic and grounded barriers Metallic and grounded barriers

must be between all primary
Barriers Partitions
sections of each circuit and
adjacent cubicles
Metallic or nonmetallic shutters
required between bus section and
Shutters
breaker compartment. Metallic
shutters must be grounded.
must be between all primary
sections of each circuit and
adjacent cubicles.
Metallic or nonmetallic shutters
required between bus section and
breaker compartment. Metallic
shutters must be grounded.
 MediumVoltageSwitchgear
IECvsANSI
Additionalitemsforconsideration
Item ANSI IEC
Potentioal Drawout type with fused Fixed type without primary fuses
Transformers primary are required. are allowed.
Must be SIS type min 14 AWG
No specific type required suject
subject to AC voltage withstand
Control Wiring to AC voltage withstand test of
test of 1500 VAC for one
2000 VAC for one minute.
minute.
Specifies solderless crimp type
Wiring Terminations lugs and minimum requirements No specific type required.
for terminal blocks.

Requires a minimum of 100 Requires a minimum of 50

Mechanical Test
operations. operations.
Control Voltage 240 VAC maximum. No requirements .
Must demonstrate to prove
Insulation Flame Test No requirements.
suitability.
 MediumVoltageSwitchgear
IECvsANSI
InsulationLevels
Rated Max Rated Low Frenquency Rated Impulse
Voltage Withstand Voltage withstand Voltage
KV, RMS KV, RMS KV, Peak
ANSI IEC ANSI IEC ANSI IEC
4.76 3.6 19 10 60 40
8.25 7.2 36 20 95 60
12.0 28 75
15.0 17.5 36 38 95 95
24.0 50 125
27 27 125
38 36.0 80 70 150 170
 MediumVoltageSwitchgear
IECvsANSI
ShortCircuitRatings
ANSI IEC
Ratings are based on constant Ratings are based on interrupting
MVA for a given voltage range i.e. capability independent of voltage
250, 500, 750, 1000, 15000 MVA. i.e. 6.3, 8, 10, 12.5, 16, 20, 25, 31.5,
40, 63, 80, 100 KA SYM.
The maximum withstand current is The peak withstand current is
the max. RMS value of total defined as a value of current equal
current momentarily during 10 to 2.5 times the short time
cycles. This includes the decaying withstand value and must be
dc component. reached during the short time test.

Short time withstand current is Short time withstand current is

defined for two second test defined for three second test
interval. interval.
 MediumVoltageCircuitBreakers
IECvsANSI

ShortCircuitRatings
Item ANSI IEC
Uses asymmetrical factor S where Uses a expon. curve e to the -t/0.043
% DC Component S=I rms/I sc rms Approx. equals a decay factor Approx. equals an X/R
or X/R Ratio 50% DC component or an X/R of at 50 Hz of 13.6 and an X/R of 15.8
16.5. for 60 Hz tests.

Short Circuit Considered as 2.7 *K* the short Considered as 2.5* the short circuit
Making Current circuit interrupting rating. interrupting rating.

Defined as max. voltage rating

divided by operating voltage used Not applicable. Current interrupting
Rated Voltage
to derate breaker interrupting not dependend on operating voltage
Range Factor = K
value at higher voltage levels. K=1.
Subject to limit K=1.19 thru 1.34.
 MediumVoltageCircuitBreakers
IECvsANSI
ShortCircuitRatings(continued)
Item ANSI IEC
Short Circuit Endurance Subjected to 800% *K*S*I Not required.

Max. Close and Latch Must withstand 2.7*K*I for 2 sec. 2 sec. withstand not required.

Rated Interuping Time Must be less than 5 cycles. No specific requirement.

Signle Phase Asymmetric Interuption One required. None required.

Single Phase Symmetric Interuption Four required at 1.15 *I One required at 1.0*I

Short Time Rating 3 seconds. 1 second.

Mechanical Endurance 10,000 operations. 2,000 operations.

 MediumVoltageSwitchgearIECvsANSI
Rated Short-Circuit
Rated Voltage Rated Continuous Current
Breaking Current
KV KA A, rms
ANSI IEC ANSI IEC ANSI IEC
4.76 3.6 6.1 1200
8.8 10.0 1200
16.0 630 1250
29.0 25.0 1200 1250 1600 2000 2500 3150
41.0 40.0 1200 1250 1600 2000 2500 3150

8.25 7.2 7.0 8.0 1200 2000

12.5 630 1250
16.0 630 1250 1600
25.0 630 1250 1600 2000 2500
33.0 31.5 1200 2000 630 1250 1600 2000 2500
40.0 1250 1600 2000 2500 3150

12 8.0
12.5 630 1250
16.0 630 1250 1600
20.0 630 1250 1600
25 630 1250 1600 2000 2500
31.5 1250 1600 2000 2500 3150
40.0 1250 1600 2000 2500 3150
50.0 1250 1600 2000 2500 3150

15.0 17.5 5.8 1200

9.8 8.0 1200 630 1250
12.5 630 1250
18 16.0 1200 2000 630 1250
19 20.0 1200 2000 630 1250
28 25.0 1200 2000 1250 1600 2000 2500 3150
37 40.0 1200 2000 3000 1250 1600 2000 2500 3150

24.0 8.0 630 1250

12.5 630 1250
16.0 630 1250
25.0 1250 1600 2000 2500 3150
40.0 1600 2000 2500 3150

38.0 36.0 8.0 630

12.5 630 1250
16.0 630 1250 1600
21.0 25.0 1200 2000 3000 1250 1600 2000 2500
40.0 40.0 1200 2000 3000 1600 2000 2500 3150
 MediumVoltageCircuitBreakers
IECvsANSI
ShortCircuitRatings(continued)
Item ANSI IEC
Close-open-15 sec.-close- Open-3 min.-close-open-3 min.-
Duty Cycle
open. close-open.

Reclosing Duty Open-close-open. Optional - not required.

Breaker Enclosure 11 gauge (3 MM) steel

No specific requirements.
Material required.

Transient Recovery
1.88* Max. voltage rating. 1.72* Max. voltage rating.
Voltage Crest Value

Transient Recovery
Not specified. Limit is required.
Voltage Rise Time

Full Wave Impulse Test

3 X 9 microsec. 2 X 15 microsec.
Method
 MediumVoltageSwitchgear
IECvsANSI
ImpulseTests
ANSI IEC
Thistestrequiresthree Thistestrequiresfifteen
positiveandthree impulsesofastandard
negativeimpulsesofa 1.2/50microsec.voltage
standard1.2/50microsec. wave.Oneflashoveris
voltagewave.Noflashover allowedduringtheseries.
isallowedduringthe Ifmorethanoneoccurs
seriesifthisoccursthe thenthecompleteseries
seriesmustberepeated. mustberepeated.
Thevoltagelevelrequired Thevoltagelevelrequired
foracrossisolating foracrossisolating
distancesis110%of distancesis115%of
standardimpulselevels. standardimpulselevels.
 MediumVoltageSwitchgear
IECvsANSI
TemperatureRiseTests
ANSI
Maximumtemperaturerise
allowedis65degreesCoveran
ambientof40degreesC.
Maximumtemperaturelimitfor
anysurfacessubjecttotouchis50
degreesC.
Temperaturerisetestdefinedas
singlestructureordevicewith
ambienttemperaturedetermined
byapprovedsensorsinairone
footawayfromstructurebeing
tested.
IEC
Maximumtemperaturerise
allowedis75degreesCoveran
ambientof40degreesC.
Maximumtemperaturelimitfor
anysurfacessubjecttotouchis70
degreesC.
Temperaturerisetestdefinedas
multiplestructuresordevices(if
intendedforuseassuch)mustbe
testedwithadjacentenergized
cubicleswithambienttemperature
determinedbyapprovedsensorsin
oilonemeterawayfromassembly
beingtested.
 Summary

ANSIstandardsaremoreconstruction
andapplicationoriented.
IECstandardsaremoreperformance
andtestingoriented.
Tryingtodecidewhichstandardtouseis
notaseasyasitmayseem.
Specifyingequipmentthatwillconform
toacombinationofthestandardsiseven
moredifficult,ifnotimpossible.
 Summary

Thestandardsaredifferent.Tryingto
proveoneisbetterthantheotherisan
exerciseinfutility.Bothcanbeproven
betterthantheother,itjustdependson
whichsideoftheargumentyouwantto
prove.

ItslikecomparingApplestoPears,they
arebothfruit,botharegoodforyou,but
theyarenotthesame,theylook,feeland
tastedifferentandgrowondifferent
 Summary

Factorstoconsider
Localcodesandstandards
Operatorpreviousexperience
Application&location
Bestsuitedforthesystemoveralldesign
Deviceratingcoordination
Performance&reliability
Design&manufacturingqualitysystem
Engineeringsupport
Wheretogetmoreinformation

ANSI C37 by IEEE

IEC Standards listed previously