What is BS EN 61373: 2018 ?

Title: What is BS EN 61373: 2018 and Its Relevance in the Modern Construction Industry

Introduction:

Building structures are designed to provide shelter and protection for people and property. The fire resistance of building elements is critical to ensure the safety and integrity of the building. The British Standard 476 Part 20 (BS476: Part 20) is a widely recognized standard that outlines the requirements for determining the fire resistance of various elements within buildings. However. the relevance of this standard in today's construction industry is worth exploring.

BS EN 60947-62 is a technical standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) to ensure the safety and performance of electrical equipment. This particular standard focuses on the requirements and tests for circuit-breakers. In this article. we will explore the purpose of BS EN 60947-62 and its relevance in the modern construction industry.

What is BS EN 60947-62?

BS EN 60947-62 is a technical standard that specifies the requirements for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear devices. It is part of a series of standards developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) to ensure the safety and performance of electrical equipment. This standard focuses on the requirements and tests for circuit-breakers.

The purpose of BS EN 60947-62 is to ensure the safe operation and performance of circuit-breakers. Circuit-breakers are crucial devices that protect electrical circuits from overload. short-circuit. and other faults that could lead to damage or fire. They are designed to interrupt the flow of current when necessary. preventing any potential harm to the electrical system or people around it.

Key Requirements and Tests:

BS EN 60947-62 outlines several key requirements and tests for circuit-breakers. These requirements and tests are designed to ensure the safety and performance of circuit-breakers in a wide range of applications. including industrial. commercial. and residential settings.

The standard outlines several key requirements for the design. manufacture. and testing of circuit-breakers. These requirements include:

1. Electrical Characteristics: The standard outlines the electrical characteristics that a circuit-breaker should have. such as its, , . 2. Electrical Safety: The standard requires circuit-breakers to have adequate electrical safety features. such as thermal protection. overcurrent protection. and grounding.

3. Performance: The standard specifies the tests that should be performed to verify that a circuit-breaker meets its requirements. including its thermal performance. short-circuit current. and voltage drop.

4. Environmental Stability: The standard requires circuit-breakers to be able to withstand the environmental conditions in which they will be used. including temperature. humidity. and vibration.

5. Maintenance and Repairs: The standard specifies the procedures that should be followed when maintaining or repairing circuit-breakers. including their testing and replacement.

Conclusion:

BS EN 60947-62 is an essential standard for ensuring the safety and performance of circuit-breakers in the construction industry. By following the guidelines and requirements outlined in this standard. manufacturers. installers. and users can design. manufacture. and use circuit-breakers that meet high safety and performance standards.

However. it is important to note that while BS EN 60947-62 plays a critical role in ensuring the safety of circuit-breakers. it is not a substitute for proper design. inspection. testing. and maintenance of the electrical system.