EN 60947-7-3:2009

Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear - Part 7-3: Ancillary equipment - Safety requirements for fuse terminal blocks

IEC 60947-7-3:2009 applies to fuse terminal blocks with screw-type or screwless-type clamping units for the connection of rigid (solid or stranded) or flexible copper conductors for the reception of cartridge fuse-links in accordance with IEC 60127-2, intended primarily for industrial or similar use in circuits not exceeding 1 000 V a.c., up to 1 000 Hz or 1 500 V d.c., and having a maximum short-circuit breaking capacity of 1 500 A. They are intended for installation in electrical equipment with enclosures which surround the fuse terminal blocks to such an extent that they are accessible only with the aid of a tool. For certain applications, for example in control circuits, the fuse terminal blocks may be designed exclusively for short-circuit protection. The object of this standard is to specify safety requirements and test methods for the mechanical, electrical and thermal characteristics of fuse terminal blocks, to ensure the compatibility between terminal blocks and standardized fuse-links. This standard may be used as a guide for - fuse terminal blocks requiring the fixing of special devices to the conductors, for example quick connect terminations or wrapped connections, etc.; - fuse terminal blocks providing direct contact to the conductors by means of edges or points penetrating the insulation, for example insulation displacement connections, etc. Where applicable in this standard, the term 'clamping unit' has been used instead of the term 'terminal'. This is taken into account in case of reference to IEC 60947-1. The main technical modifications of this standard since this previous publication are listed below: - requirements regarding clearances and creepage distances replaced by reference to Annex H of IEC 60947-1; - requirements for the test of the mechanical strength of the clamping units improved in 8.3.3.1; - requirements for tightening torques for the tests improved and referenced to Table 4 of IEC 60947-1; - requirements for the resistance and the dimensions of dummy fuse-links specified in 8.5.2.5. This publication shall be read in conjunction with IEC 60947-1:2007 and IEC 60947-7-1:2009.

Niederspannungsschaltgeräte - Teil 7-3: Hilfseinrichtungen - Sicherheitsanforderungen für Sicherungs-Reihenklemmen

Appareillage à basse tension - Partie 7-3: Matériels accessoires - Exigences de sécurité pour les blocs de jonction à fusible

La CEI 60947-7-3:2009 s'applique aux blocs de jonction à fusible avec des organes de serrage du type à vis ou du type sans vis, prévus pour le raccordement de conducteurs en cuivre rigides (à âme massive ou à âme câblée) ou souples conçus pour recevoir des éléments de remplacement à cartouche selon la CEI 60127-2, destinés principalement à des usages industriels ou usages similaires et à être insérés dans des circuits dont la tension assignée ne dépasse pas 1 000 V en courant alternatif jusqu'à 1 000 Hz ou 1 500 V en courant continu et ayant un pouvoir de coupure maximal de 1 500 A. Ils sont destinés à être installés dans des équipements électriques sous enveloppes qui enferment les blocs de jonction à fusible de manière à ce qu'ils ne soient accessibles qu'à l'aide d'un outil. Pour certaines applications, par exemple dans des circuits de commande, les blocs de jonction à fusible peuvent être conçus exclusivement pour la protection contre les courts-circuits. La présente norme a pour objet de spécifier les exigences de sécurité et les méthodes d'essai pour les caractéristiques mécaniques, électriques et thermiques des blocs de jonction à fusible, pour assurer la compatibilité entre les blocs de jonctions et les éléments de remplacement normalisés. La présente norme peut servir de guide pour - les blocs de jonction à fusible nécessitant la fixation de pièces spéciales sur les conducteurs, par exemple les connexions rapides ou les connexions enroulées, etc.; - les blocs de jonction à fusible assurant un contact direct avec les conducteurs au moyen de lames ou de pointes pénétrant à travers l'enveloppe isolante, par exemple les connexions par déplacement d'isolant, etc. Dans la présente norme, le terme 'organe de serrage' a été utilisé, s'il y a lieu, à la place du terme 'borne'. Cela est pris en compte en cas de référence à la CEI 60947-1. Les modifications techniques majeures de la présente norme depuis la précédente publication sont listées ci-dessous: - les exigences concernant les distances d'isolement et les lignes de fuite ont été remplacées par la référence à l'Annexe H de la CEI 60947-1; - en 8.3.3.1, les exigences pour l'essai de tenue mécanique des organes de serrage ont été améliorées; - les exigences concernant les couples de serrage pour les essais ont été améliorées et référencées au Tableau 4 de la CEI 60947-1; - les exigences pour la tenue et les dimensions des éléments de remplacement conventionnels ont été spécifiées en 8.5.2.5. Cette publication doit être lue conjointement avec la CEI 60947-1:2007 et la CEI 60947-7-1:2009.

Nizkonapetostne stikalne in krmilne naprave - 7-21. del: Pomožna oprema - Varnostne zahteve za priključne bloke z varovalkami (IEC 60947-7-3:2009)

Ta del IEC 60947 velja za priključne bloke z varovalkami z vijačnimi ali nevijačnimi pritrdilnimi enotami za povezavo togih (trdnih ali sukanih) ali gibkih bakrenih vodnikov za sprejem patronskih taljivih vložkov v skladu z IEC 60127-2, ki so namenjeni predvsem industrijski ali podobni uporabi v tokokrogih, ki ne presegajo 1000 V izmeničnega toka, do 1000 Hz, ali 1500 V enosmernega toka, in imajo maksimalno zmogljivost prekinitve kratkega stika 1500 A. Namenjeni so vgradnji v električno opremo z ograjenimi prostori, ki obdajajo priključne bloke z varovalkami do te mere, da so dostopni le s pomočjo orodja. Pri določenih uporabah, na primer v nadzornih tokokrogih, so lahko priključni bloki z varovalkami zasnovani izključno za zaščito pred kratkim stikom. Predmet tega standarda je opredeliti varnostne zahteve in preskusne metode za mehanske, električne in toplotne lastnosti priključnih blokov z varovalkami, da se zagotovi skladnost med priključnimi bloki z varovalkami in standardiziranimi taljivimi vložki. Ta standard se lahko uporabi kot vodilo za: – priključne bloke z varovalkami, ki zahtevajo pritrditev posebnih naprav na vodnike, na primer končnikov za hitro spajanje ali ovitih spojev itd.; - priključne bloke z varovalkami, ki zagotavljajo neposreden stik z vodniki s pomočjo robov ali točk, ki predirajo izolacijo, na primer spojke za spajanje brez snemanja izolacije, itd. V tem standardu se namesto izraza »terminal« uporablja izraz »pritrdilna enota«. To se upošteva pri sklicevanju na IEC 60947-1.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 26-Nov-2009
• Withdrawal Date: 31-Aug-2012
• ICS: 29.120.99 - Other electrical accessories
• ICS: 29.130.20 - Low voltage switchgear and controlgear
• Technical Committee: CLC/TC 121A - Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear
• Drafting Committee: IEC/SC 121A - Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear
• Parallel Committee: IEC/SC 17B - IEC_SC_17B
• Current Stage: 6060 - Document made available - Publishing
• Start Date: 27-Nov-2009
• Completion Date: 27-Nov-2009
• Directive: 2006/95/EC - Directive 2006/95/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 December 2006 on the harmonisation of the laws of Member States relating to electrical equipment designed for use within certain voltage limits (codified version)
• Directive: 2014/35/EU - Directive 2014/35/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 February 2014 on the harmonisation of the laws of the Member States relating to the making available on the market of electrical equipment designed for use within certain voltage limits
• Directive: 2014/53/EU - Directive 2014/53/EU of The European Parliament and of the Council of 16 April 2014 on the harmonisation of the laws of the Member States relating to the making available on the market of radio equipment and repealing Directive 1999/5/EC
• Ref Project: SIST EN 60947-7-3:2010 - Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear - Part 7-3: Ancillary equipment - Safety requirements for fuse terminal blocks (IEC 60947-7-3:2009)

Relations

• Replaces: EN 60947-7-3:2002 - Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear - Part 7-3: Ancillary equipment - Safety requirements for fuse terminal blocks
• Effective Date: 29-Jan-2023

Overview

EN 60947-7-3:2009 (equivalent to IEC 60947-7-3:2009) defines safety requirements and test methods for fuse terminal blocks used in low-voltage switchgear and controlgear. The standard covers fuse terminal blocks with screw-type or screwless clamping units for rigid or flexible copper conductors and for the reception of cartridge fuse‑links in accordance with IEC 60127-2. It applies primarily to industrial and similar applications in circuits up to 1 000 V a.c. (≤ 1 000 Hz) or 1 500 V d.c., with a maximum short‑circuit breaking capacity of 1 500 A. These devices are intended for installation inside enclosures so they are accessible only with a tool.

Key topics and requirements

• Scope & construction: Defines permitted conductor types, clamping unit types, fuse‑link compatibility and intended accessibility (tool access only).
• Mechanical requirements: Tests for clamping unit strength, attachment to support, mechanical actuation and durability of screw and screwless designs.
• Electrical requirements: Dielectric tests, contact resistance verification and EMC considerations to ensure reliable operation under rated voltages and currents.
• Thermal requirements: Temperature‑rise tests, rated power dissipation (P) values for overload+short‑circuit and exclusive short‑circuit protection, and ageing/thermal endurance assessments.
• Compatibility: Ensures mechanical and dimensional compatibility with standardized cartridge fuse‑links (IEC 60127-2) and specifies dummy fuse‑link dimensions and resistance for testing.
• Safety clearances: Clearances and creepage distances requirements are referenced to Annex H of IEC/EN 60947‑1.
• Test methods & documentation: Specifies order of tests, gauges, needle‑flame (fire) testing and marking/packaging information for traceability.
• Notable updates in 2009 edition: References for clearances/creepage moved to IEC 60947‑1 Annex H; improved mechanical strength and tightening torque test requirements; specified dummy fuse‑link properties.

Applications and who uses it

• Manufacturers of fuse terminal blocks, fuse carriers and accessory terminal blocks use this standard to design and validate products for industrial switchgear and control panels.
• Test laboratories apply the specified mechanical, electrical and thermal test methods for conformity and type testing.
• Panel builders, control engineers and specifiers rely on the standard to select compliant fuse terminal blocks for motor control, distribution, and protection circuits.
• Compliance and procurement teams use EN 60947‑7‑3:2009 as a reference for CE marking, product specifications and safety documentation.

Related standards

• EN/IEC 60947‑1: General rules for low‑voltage switchgear and controlgear (clearances, creepage, general tests)
• EN/IEC 60947‑7‑1: Terminal blocks for copper conductors
• IEC/EN 60127‑2: Cartridge fuse‑links (compatibility)
• Additional referenced standards: IEC 60216‑1 (thermal endurance), IEC 60695‑11‑5 (needle‑flame test)

Keywords: EN 60947-7-3:2009, IEC 60947-7-3, fuse terminal blocks, low-voltage switchgear, safety requirements, cartridge fuse-links, terminal blocks testing.

Standards Content (Sample)

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-februar-2010
1DGRPHãþD
SIST EN 60947-7-3:2003
1L]NRQDSHWRVWQHVWLNDOQHLQNUPLOQHQDSUDYHGHO3RPRåQDRSUHPD
9DUQRVWQH]DKWHYH]DSULNOMXþQHEORNH]YDURYDONDPL,(&
Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear - Part 7-3: Ancillary equipment - Safety
requirements for fuse terminal blocks (IEC 60947-7-3:2009)
Niederspannungsschaltgeräte - Teil 7-3: Hilfseinrichtungen - Sicherheitsanforderungen
für Sicherungs-Reihenklemmen (IEC 60947-7-3:2009)
Appareillage à basse tension - Partie 7-3: Matériels accessoires - Prescriptions de
sécurité pour les blocs de jonction à fusible (CEI 60947-7-3:2009)
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 60947-7-3:2009
ICS:
29.120.20 Spojni elementi Connecting devices
29.130.20 Nizkonapetostne stikalne in Low voltage switchgear and
krmilne naprave controlgear
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

EUROPEAN STANDARD
EN 60947-7-3
NORME EUROPÉENNE
November 2009
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
ICS 29.120.99; 29.130.20 Supersedes EN 60947-7-3:2002

English version
Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear -
Part 7-3: Ancillary equipment -
Safety requirements for fuse terminal blocks
(IEC 60947-7-3:2009)
Appareillage à basse tension -  Niederspannungsschaltgeräte -
Partie 7-3: Matériels accessoires - Teil 7-3: Hilfseinrichtungen -
Exigences de sécurité pour les blocs Sicherheitsanforderungen
de jonction à fusible für Sicherungs-Reihenklemmen
(CEI 60947-7-3:2009) (IEC 60947-7-3:2009)

This European Standard was approved by CENELEC on 2009-09-01. CENELEC members are bound to comply
with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard
the status of a national standard without any alteration.

Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on
application to the Central Secretariat or to any CENELEC member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other
language made by translation under the responsibility of a CENELEC member into its own language and notified
to the Central Secretariat has the same status as the official versions.

CENELEC members are the national electrotechnical committees of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, the
Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia,
Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain,
Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

CENELEC
European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization
Comité Européen de Normalisation Electrotechnique
Europäisches Komitee für Elektrotechnische Normung

Central Secretariat: Avenue Marnix 17, B - 1000 Brussels

© 2009 CENELEC - All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CENELEC members.
Ref. No. EN 60947-7-3:2009 E
Foreword
The text of document 17B/1657/FDIS, future edition 2 of IEC 60947-7-3, prepared by SC 17B,
Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear, of IEC TC 17, Switchgear and controlgear, was submitted to the
IEC-CENELEC parallel vote and was approved by CENELEC as EN 60947-7-3 on 2009-09-10.
This European Standard supersedes EN 60947-7-3:2002.
The main technical modifications of EN 60947-7-3:2009 since EN 60947-7-3:2002 are listed below:
– requirements regarding clearances and creepage distances replaced by reference to Annex H of
EN 60947-1;
– requirements for the test of the mechanical strength of the clamping units improved in 8.3.3.1;
– requirements for tightening torques for the tests improved and referenced to Table 4 of EN 60947-1;
– requirements for the resistance and the dimensions of dummy fuse-links specified in 8.5.2.5.
This standard shall be read in conjunction with EN 60947-1 and EN 60947-7-1. The provisions of the
general rules dealt with in EN 60947-1 and the requirements for terminal blocks of EN 60947-7-1 are
applicable to this standard, where specifically called for. Clauses and subclauses, tables, figures and
annexes thus applicable are identified by reference to EN 60947-1 or EN 60947-7-1, e.g. 1.2 of
EN 60947-1, Table 4 of EN 60947-7-1 or Annex A of EN 60947-1.
The following dates were fixed:
– latest date by which the EN has to be implemented
at national level by publication of an identical
national standard or by endorsement (dop) 2010-06-01
– latest date by which the national standards conflicting
with the EN have to be withdrawn (dow) 2012-09-01
Annex ZA has been added by CENELEC.
__________
Endorsement notice
The text of the International Standard IEC 60947-7-3:2009 was approved by CENELEC as a European
Standard without any modification.
In the official version, for Bibliography, the following notes have to be added for the standards indicated:
IEC 60127-6 NOTE  Harmonized as EN 60127-6:1994 + A1:1996 + A2:2003 (not modified).
+ A1
+ A2
IEC 60715 NOTE  Harmonized as EN 60715:2001 (not modified).
+ A1
IEC 61180-1 NOTE  Harmonized as EN 61180-1:1994 (not modified).
IEC 61180-2 NOTE  Harmonized as EN 61180-2:1994 (not modified).
__________
- 3 - EN 60947-7-3:2009
Annex ZA
(normative)
Normative references to international publications
with their corresponding European publications

The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.

NOTE  When an international publication has been modified by common modifications, indicated by (mod), the relevant EN/HD
applies.
Publication Year Title EN/HD Year

IEC 60127-1 2006 Miniature fuses - EN 60127-1 2006
Part 1: Definitions for miniature fuses and
general requirements for miniature fuse-links

IEC 60127-2 2003 Miniature fuses - EN 60127-2 2003
A1 2003 Part 2: Cartridge fuse-links A1 2003

IEC 60216-1 2001 Electrical insulating materials - Properties of EN 60216-1 2001
thermal endurance -
Part 1: Ageing procedures and evaluation of
test results
IEC 60695-11-5 2004 Fire hazard testing - EN 60695-11-5 2005
Part 11-5: Test flames - Needle-flame test
method - Apparatus, confirmatory test
arrangement and guidance
IEC 60947-1 2007 Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear - EN 60947-1 2007
Part 1: General rules
1)
IEC 60947-7-1 - Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear - EN 60947-7-1 2009
Part 7-1: Ancillary equipment - Terminal
blocks for copper conductors
ISO 3 1973 Preferred numbers - Series of preferred - -
numbers
ISO 4046-4 2002 Paper, board, pulps and related terms - - -
Vocabulary -
Part 4: Paper and board grades and
converted products
1)
Undated reference.
IEC 60947-7-3 ®
Edition 2.0 2009-04
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear –
Part 7-3: Ancillary equipment – Safety requirements for fuse terminal blocks

Appareillage à basse tension –
Partie 7-3: Matériels accessoires – Exigences de sécurité pour les blocs de
jonction à fusible
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
PRICE CODE
INTERNATIONALE
W
CODE PRIX
ICS 29.120.99; 29.130.20 ISBN 2-8318-1038-7
– 2 – 60947-7-3 © IEC:2009
CONTENTS
FOREWORD.4
INTRODUCTION.6
1 General .7
1.1 Scope.7
1.2 Normative references .7
2 Definitions .8
3 Classification.9
4 Characteristics .9
4.1 Fuse-links .9
4.2 Rated power dissipation value.9
4.2.1 Overload and short-circuit protection (P ).9
V
4.2.2 Exclusive short-circuit protection (P ).9
VK
4.3 Rated and limiting values .9
4.3.1 Rated voltages .9
4.3.2 Void.9
4.3.3 Standard cross-sections .9
4.3.4 Rated cross-section.9
4.3.5 Rated connecting capacity.9
4.3.6 Working voltage.10
5 Product information .10
5.1 Marking .10
5.2 Additional information.10
5.3 Marking on the packing unit.10
6 Normal service, mounting and transport conditions. 11
6.1.1 Ambient temperature .11
7 Constructional and performance requirements. 11
7.1 Constructional requirements.11
7.1.1 Clamping units .11
7.1.2 Mounting .11
7.1.3 Clearances and creepage distances .11
7.1.4 Terminal identification and marking . 12
7.1.5 Void.12
7.1.6 Rated cross-section and rated connecting capacity .12
7.1.7 Void.12
7.1.8 Actuating conditions .12
7.2 Performance requirements .12
7.2.1 Mechanical requirements during actuation.12
7.2.2 Electrical requirements .12
7.2.3 Thermal requirements.13
7.3 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) .13
8 Tests .13
8.1 Kinds of test .13
8.2 General .13
8.3 Verification of mechanical characteristics . 13
8.3.1 General .13
8.3.2 Attachment of the fuse terminal block on its support.14

60947-7-3 © IEC:2009 – 3 –
8.3.3 Mechanical properties of clamping units of a fuse terminal block . 14
8.3.4 Compatibility between fuse terminal blocks and the fuse-link. 14
8.3.5 Mechanical strength of the connection between the terminal block
base and the fuse-carrier.15
8.4 Verification of electrical characteristics. 15
8.4.1 General .15
8.4.2 Void.16
8.4.3 Dielectric tests.16
8.4.4 Contact resistance.17
8.4.5 Temperature rise of clamping units.18
8.4.6 Void.18
8.4.7 Ageing test (for screwless-type fuse terminal blocks only) . 18
8.5 Verification of thermal characteristics .19
8.5.1 General .19
8.5.2 Rated power dissipation .20
8.5.3 Durability.24
8.5.4 Needle flame test .24
8.6 Verification of EMC characteristics . 26
Annex A (normative) Gauges .27
Annex B (informative) Power dissipation values P and P .28
V VK
Annex C (normative) Order of tests and number of specimens. 36
Bibliography.37

Figure 1 − Test arrangement for the verification of the contact resistance. 17
Figure 2 − Test arrangement for separate arrangement . 20
Figure 3 − Test arrangement for compound arrangement . 21
Figure 4 − Test arrangement for compound arrangement of short-circuit protection . 22
Figure 5 − Test arrangement for the needle flame test .25
Figure 6 − Point of test flame contact (view from the layer placed below the fuse
terminal block) . 25
Figure A.1 – Outline of the gauges.27
Figure B.1 – Derating curve in the case of exclusive short-circuit protection for a
separate arrangement.30
Figure B.2 – Derating curve in the case of exclusive short-circuit protection for a
compound arrangement .31
Figure B.3 – Derating curve in the case of overload and short-circuit protection for a
separate arrangement.33
Figure B.4 – Derating curve in the case of overload and short-circuit protection for a
compound arrangement .34

Table 1 − Test forces .14
Table 2 − Dummy fuse-links.23
Table A.1 − Dimensions and materials for gauges for fuse-links according
to IEC 60127-2 .27
Table B.1 – Results of derating curves in the case of exclusive short-circuit protection. 32
Table B.2 – Results of derating curves in case of overload and short-circuit protection.35
Table C.1 – Order of tests and number of specimens. 36

– 4 – 60947-7-3 © IEC:2009
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
LOW-VOLTAGE SWITCHGEAR AND CONTROLGEAR –

Part 7-3: Ancillary equipment –
Safety requirements for fuse terminal blocks

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
this end and in addition to other activities, IEC publishes International Standards, Technical Specifications,
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agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
misinterpretation by any end user.
4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence
between any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in
the latter.
5) IEC provides no marking procedure to indicate its approval and cannot be rendered responsible for any
equipment declared to be in conformity with an IEC Publication.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 60947-7-3 has been prepared by subcommittee 17B: Low-voltage
switchgear and controlgear, of IEC technical committee 17: Switchgear and controlgear.
This second edition of IEC 60947-7-3 cancels and replaces the first edition, published in 2002,
and constitutes a technical revision.
The main technical modifications of this standard since this previous publication are listed
below:
– requirements regarding clearances and creepage distances replaced by reference to
Annex H of IEC 60947-1;
– requirements for the test of the mechanical strength of the clamping units improved in
8.3.3.1;
– requirements for tightening torques for the tests improved and referenced to Table 4 of
IEC 60947-1;
60947-7-3 © IEC:2009 – 5 –
– requirements for the resistance and the dimensions of dummy fuse-links specified in
8.5.2.5.
This standard shall be read in conjunction with IEC 60947-1 and IEC 60947-7-1. The
provisions of the general rules dealt with in IEC 60947-1 and the requirements for terminal
blocks of IEC 60947-7-1 are applicable to this standard, where specifically called for. Clauses
and subclauses, tables, figures and annexes thus applicable are identified by reference to
IEC 60947-1 or IEC 60947-7-1, e.g. 1.2 of IEC 60947-1, Table 4 of IEC 60947-7-1 or Annex A
of IEC 60947-1.
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
17B/1657/FDIS 17B/1671/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
A list of all the parts in the IEC 60947 series, under the general title Low-voltage switchgear
and controlgear, can be found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until
the maintenance result date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the
data related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
– 6 – 60947-7-3 © IEC:2009
INTRODUCTION
The standard for fuse terminal blocks covers not only the terminal block requirements but also
takes into account the specifications of the cartridge fuse-links according to IEC 60127-1 and
IEC 60127-2. A connection between these two standards is made by adding (adapting) the
fundamental specifications of cartridge fuse-links (rated current, rated voltage, maximum
voltage drop and maximum sustained power dissipation for cartridge fuse-links with the
dimension of 5 mm × 20 mm or 6,3 mm × 32 mm with their different response characteristics)
to the IEC 60947-7-1 requirements for terminal blocks. By this means, it is possible to judge
the quality of the product “fuse terminal blocks”.
An important fact when using such cartridge fuse-links with fuse terminal blocks is that fuses
heat up much less under rated load than they would do under overload conditions. The rated
load is the result of rated current and maximum voltage drop. But there is a considerably
increased power dissipation under overload conditions, equalling the maximum sustained
power dissipation loss according to IEC 60127-2.
In industrial applications, single fuse terminal blocks are used within an arrangement of
terminal blocks or many of them forming an arrangement on their own. This means that the
same current and fuse-link will result in different heat emissions. Furthermore, it should be
taken into account that apart from the general full range fuse (for overload and short-circuit
protection), some fuse terminal blocks are exclusively used for short-circuit protection
according to IEC 60364-4-43, e.g. in control circuits, where no overloads occur (i.e. safety
coils, indicator lights or similar equipment).
Consequently there are four different types of application that need to be described in the
catalogue or indicated on the fuse terminal block. For more information, see Annex B.

60947-7-3 © IEC:2009 – 7 –
LOW-VOLTAGE SWITCHGEAR AND CONTROLGEAR –

Part 7-3: Ancillary equipment –
Safety requirements for fuse terminal blocks

1 General
1.1 Scope
This part of IEC 60947 applies to fuse terminal blocks with screw-type or screwless-type
clamping units for the connection of rigid (solid or stranded) or flexible copper conductors for
the reception of cartridge fuse-links in accordance with IEC 60127-2, intended primarily for
industrial or similar use in circuits not exceeding 1 000 V a.c., up to 1 000 Hz or 1 500 V d.c.,
and having a maximum short-circuit breaking capacity of 1 500 A.
They are intended for installation in electrical equipment with enclosures which surround the
fuse terminal blocks to such an extent that they are accessible only with the aid of a tool.
For certain applications, for example in control circuits, the fuse terminal blocks may be
designed exclusively for short-circuit protection.
NOTE This standard may be used as a guide for fuse terminal blocks for the reception of special cartridge fuse-
links which do not meet the requirements of IEC 60127-2.
The object of this standard is to specify safety requirements and test methods for the
mechanical, electrical and thermal characteristics of fuse terminal blocks, to ensure the
compatibility between terminal blocks and standardized fuse-links.
This standard may be used as a guide for
− fuse terminal blocks requiring the fixing of special devices to the conductors, for example
quick connect terminations or wrapped connections, etc.;
− fuse terminal blocks providing direct contact to the conductors by means of edges or points
penetrating the insulation, for example insulation displacement connections, etc.
Where applicable in this standard, the term “clamping unit” has been used instead of the term
“terminal”. This is taken into account in case of reference to IEC 60947-1.
1.2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document.
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition
of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
IEC 60127-1:2006, Miniature fuses – Part 1: Definitions for miniature fuses and general
requirements for miniature fuse-links
IEC 60127-2:2003, Miniature fuses – Part 2: Cartridge fuse-links
Amendment 1 (2003)
IEC 60216-1:2001, Electrical insulating materials – Properties of thermal endurance – Part 1:
Ageing procedures and evaluation of test results
IEC 60695-11-5:2004, Fire hazard testing – Part 11-5: Test flames – Needle flame test method
– Apparatus, confirmatory test arrangement and guidance

– 8 – 60947-7-3 © IEC:2009
IEC 60947-1:2007, Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear – Part 1: General rules
IEC 60947-7-1, Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear – Part 7-1: Ancillary equipment –
Terminal blocks for copper conductors
ISO 3:1973, Preferred numbers – Series of preferred numbers
ISO 4046-4:2002, Paper, board, pulp and related terms – Vocabulary– Part 4: Paper and
board grades and coverted products
2 Definitions
For the purposes of this document, definitions given in IEC 60947-7-1, together with the
following definitions, apply.
2.1
fuse terminal block
terminal block base with a fuse-carrier
2.2
terminal block base
insulating part of a fuse terminal block carrying the clamping units and contacts, intended to
be fixed to a support
2.3
fuse-carrier
movable part of a fuse terminal block designed to carry the cartridge fuse-link and enable
its exchange
NOTE The fuse-carrier can be mechanically coupled with the terminal block base.
2.4
maximum power dissipation of the cartridge fuse-link
2.4.1 in the case of an overload of P , equal to the maximum sustained power dissipation as
V1
given in IEC 60127-2
2.4.2 in the case of a nominal load of P , equal to the power dissipation value calculated
V2
from the nominal values, i.e. the maximum voltage drop and the rated current in accordance
with IEC 60127-2
2.5
separate arrangement of a fuse terminal block
arrangement of a single fuse terminal block between adjacent terminal blocks (without
additional function) (see Figure 2)
NOTE Mounting of fuse terminal blocks side by side with a spacing that securely prevents any mutual thermal
influence is also considered as a separate arrangement.
2.6
compound arrangement of fuse terminal blocks
arrangement of two or several fuse terminal blocks side by side or the arrangement of a single
fuse terminal block between adjacent terminal blocks with additional function (see Figure 3)
NOTE Additional functions within the meaning of this standard include all components which may thermally
influence the function of the fuse terminal block due to their own power dissipation.

60947-7-3 © IEC:2009 – 9 –
2.7
rated power dissipation value of a fuse terminal block
maximum permissible value with which the fuse terminal block can be continuously loaded by
the cartridge fuse-link under specified conditions
3 Classification
Fuse terminal blocks are classified as follows:
a) fuse terminal block with separate fuse-carrier, e.g. screw type or plug-in type;
b) fuse terminal block with mechanically coupled fuse-carrier, e.g. hinged type.
4 Characteristics
4.1 Fuse-links
The fuse links shall be in accordance with IEC 60127-2.
4.2 Rated power dissipation value
4.2.1 Overload and short-circuit protection (P )
V
The rated value of power dissipation for overload and short-circuit protection (P ) is the
V
maximum permissible power dissipation value of a fuse terminal block under overload and
short-circuit conditions related to an ambient temperature of 23 °C.
4.2.2 Exclusive short-circuit protection (P )
VK
The rated value of power dissipation for exclusive short-circuit protection (P ) is the
VK
maximum permissible power dissipation value of a fuse terminal block, which can accept a
fuse-link with an equal or lower sustained power dissipation used under exclusive short-circuit
conditions and related to an ambient temperature of 23 °C (see Annex B).
NOTE “Maximum sustained power dissipation” of a fuse link is given in IEC 60127-1.
4.3 Rated and limiting values
4.3.1 Rated voltages
Subclause 4.3.1 of IEC 60947-7-1 applies.
4.3.2 Void
4.3.3 Standard cross-sections
Subclause 4.3.3 of IEC 60947-7-1 applies.
4.3.4 Rated cross-section
Subclause 4.3.4 of IEC 60947-7-1 applies.
4.3.5 Rated connecting capacity
Subclause 4.3.5 of IEC 60947-7-1 applies with the following addition.
The conductor cross-section specified for the temperature-rise test according to 8.4.5 shall be
included in the range of the rated connecting capacity.

– 10 – 60947-7-3 © IEC:2009
4.3.6 Working voltage
See 2.5.52 of IEC 60947-1.
5 Product information
5.1 Marking
A fuse terminal block shall be marked in a durable and legible manner with the following:
a) the name of the manufacturer or a trade mark, by which the manufacturer can be readily
identified;
b) a type reference permitting its identification in order to obtain relevant information from the
manufacturer or his catalogue;
c) energy flow direction, if required to ensure protection against electric shock, according
to 7.1.8, e.g. line-load marking or ➜.
5.2 Additional information
The following information shall be stated by the manufacturer, if applicable, e.g in the
manufacturer’s data sheet or catalogue or on the packing unit:
a) IEC 60947-7-3, if the manufacturer claims compliance with this standard;
b) the rated cross-section;
c) the rated connecting capacity, if different from Table 2 of IEC 60947-7-1, including the
number of conductors simultaneously connectable;
d) the rated insulation voltage (U) of the terminal block base and the fuse-carrier, if
i
applicable;
e) the working voltage or working voltage range, primarily determined by the fuse-link or
by additional components, e.g. illuminated indicators;
f) rated impulse withstand voltage (U );
imp
NOTE This value may be marked on the fuse terminal block only if the rated insulation voltage (U ) or the
i
working voltage is also marked on the fuse terminal block, e.g. 250 V/4 kV.
g) rated value of the power dissipation for overload and short-circuit protection (P ) and rated
V
current of the fuse-link as declared by the manufacturer
− in case of separate arrangement,
− in case of compound arrangement;
h) rated value of the power dissipation for exclusive short-circuit protection (P ) and rated
VK
current of the fuse-link as declared by the manufacturer
− in case of separate arrangement,
− in case of compound arrangement;
i) operating conditions, if different from Clause 6;
j) size of the fuse-link.
5.3 Marking on the packing unit
a) “No overload protection” in case of fuse terminal blocks which are designed exclusively for
short-circuit protection.
b) “No overload protection in compound arrangement” in case of fuse terminal blocks which
are designed for overload only in separate arrangement and short-circuit protection in
compound arrangement.
60947-7-3 © IEC:2009 – 11 –
The breaking capacity of the fuse-link(s) shall be selected according to expected short-circuit
level at the point of installation.
NOTE A warning may be written on the package and the literature to notify that the breaking capacity of the fuse-
link(s) according to IEC 60127-2 shall be selected according to expected short-circuit level at the point of
installation.
6 Normal service, mounting and transport conditions
Clause 6 of IEC 60947-1 applies with the following addition.
6.1.1 Ambient temperature
The rated value of the power dissipation refers to an ambient temperature of 23 °C.
In those cases where the ambient temperature differs from 23 °C, this fact shall be taken into
account with respect to the function. See derating curves in Annex B.
7 Constructional and performance requirements
7.1 Constructional requirements
7.1.1 Clamping units
Subclause 7.1.1 of IEC 60947-7-1 applies.
7.1.2 Mounting
Fuse terminal blocks shall be provided with means that allow them to be securely attached to
a rail or a mounting surface.
Tests shall be made in accordance with 8.3.2.
NOTE Information on mounting rails can be found in IEC 60715.
7.1.3 Clearances and creepage distances
Subclause 7.1.3 of IEC 60947-7-1 applies with the following additions.
Clearances and creepage distances shall be designed for overvoltage category III and
pollution degree 3.
Clearances and creepage distances shall be checked where the fuse terminal block is
assembled for normal use, e.g. fuse-carrier and gauge no. 3 or no. 6 is inserted in the terminal
block base in accordance with Table A.1.
The following aspects shall be considered:
a) functional insulation:
− insulation between live parts with different potential;
− insulation between live parts of adjacent fuse terminal blocks of same series and size;
b) basic insulation:
− insulation between live parts and the fixing support.
Compliance is checked by measurement. Subclause 8.3.3.4 of IEC 60947-1 applies.

– 12 – 60947-7-3 © IEC:2009
7.1.4 Terminal identification and marking
Subclause 7.1.4 of IEC 60947-7-1 applies.
7.1.5 Void
7.1.6 Rated cross-section and rated connecting capacity
Subclause 7.1.6 of IEC 60947-7-1 applies.
7.1.7 Void
7.1.8 Actuating conditions
The fuse terminal block shall be so designed that live parts are not accessible when it is
assembled, installed and operated under normal use.
The safety from finger touch of live parts of the fuse-carrier shall be ensured during
replacement of the fuse-link, unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer. The safety from
finger touch shall be maintained until the fuse-carrier and the fuse-link are de-energized.
7.2 Performance requirements
7.2.1 Mechanical requirements during actuation
Fuse terminal blocks shall have an adequate mechanical strength so as to withstand the
stresses which occur during operation.
Compliance shall be checked in accordance with 8.3.4 and 8.3.5.
7.2.2 Electrical requirements
7.2.2.1 Dielectric strength
The dielectric strength shall be adequate.
Verification shall be made by an impulse voltage test and a power-frequency withstand test on
the fuse terminal block assembled by means of gauges as in normal use, in accordance
with 8.4.3.
7.2.2.2 Contact resistance
The test shall be carried out in accordance with 8.4.4. If not otherwise specified, the mean
value of the contact resistance shall not exceed 10 mΩ. The value of an individual
measurement shall not exceed 15 mΩ.
7.2.2.3 Temperature rise of clamping units
The temperature rise of the clamping units shall not exceed 45 K.
Compliance shall be checked in accordance with 8.4.5.
7.2.2.4 Electrical performance after ageing (for screwless-type fuse terminal blocks
only)
Fuse terminal blocks shall be capable of withstanding the ageing test comprising 192
temperature cycles in accordance with 8.4.7.

60947-7-3 © IEC:2009 – 13 –
7.2.3 Thermal requirements
7.2.3.1 Rated value of power dissipation
A fuse terminal block shall be so designed that it can use a fuse-link with rated current and
maximum sustained power dissipation, according to IEC 60127-1, lower or equal to the rated
power dissipation value of the fuse terminal block and at an ambient temperature of 23 °C (see
Annex B).
In this way, the temperature of 85 °C on the surface of the actuating elements of the fuse-
carrier and the relative temperature index (RTI) of the insulating material as stated by the
manufacturer in accordance with IEC 60216-1 shall not be exceeded.
Compliance shall be checked in accordance with 8.5.2.
For fuse terminal blocks which are exclusively designed for short-circuit protection, the tests in
accordance with 8.5.2.2 do not apply.
Generally, the maximum permanent allowed temperature can be defined with a RTI value
according to IEC 60216-1, based on 20 000 h taking into account the electrical property.
7.2.3.2 Durability
Fuse terminal blocks shall be sufficiently resistant to thermal stresses which can occur under
normal use.
Compliance shall be checked in accordance with 8.5.3.
7.2.3.3 Resistance to abnormal heat and fire
The insulation materials of fuse terminal blocks shall not be adversely affected by abnormal
heat and fire.
Compliance shall be checked by the needle flame test, according to IEC 60695-11-5, as
specified in 8.5.4.
7.3 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
Subclause 7.3 of IEC 60947-7-1 applies.
8 Tests
8.1 Kinds of test
Subclause 8.1 of IEC 60947-7-1 applies.
8.2 General
Subclause 8.2 of IEC 60947-7-1 applies with the following modification.
The tests shall be carried out in the order as given in Annex C.
8.3 Verification of mechanical characteristics
8.3.1 General
The verification of mechanical characteristics includes the following tests:

– 14 – 60947-7-3 © IEC:2009
− attachment of the fuse terminal block on its support (8.3.2);
− mechanical strength of the clamping units of a fuse terminal block (8.3.3);
− compatibility between fuse terminal blocks and fuse-link (8.3.4);
− mechanical strength of the connection between the terminal block base and the fuse-
carrier (8.3.5).
8.3.2 Attachment of the fuse terminal block on its support
Subclause 8.3.2 of IEC 60947-7-1 applies.
8.3.3 Mechanical properties of clamping units of a fuse terminal block
8.3.3.1 Testing of mechanical strength of the clamping units
Subclauses 8.2.4.1 and 8.2.4.2 of IEC 60947-1 apply with the following addition.
The test shall be made on two clamping units at the centre terminal blocks out of five fuse
terminal blocks mounted as in normal use on the appropriate support according to the
manufacturer's instructions.
Rigid conductors of the rated cross-section shall be connected and disconnected five times.
8.3.3.2 Testing for damage to and accidental loosening of conductors
of a fuse terminal block (flexion test)
Subclause 8.3.3.2 of IEC 60947-7-1 applies.
8.3.3.3 Pull-out test
Subclause 8.3.3.3 of IEC 60947-7-1 applies.
8.3.3.4 Verification of rated cross-section and rated connecting capacity
Subclause 8.3.3.4 of IEC 60947-7-1 applies.
8.3.4 Compatibility between fuse terminal blocks and the fuse-link
The maximum gauge no. 1 or no. 4, in accordance with Table A.1, shall be inserted and
withdrawn 10 times from the fuse-carrier.
Following each insertion of the gauge, the fuse-carrier shall be fitted to the terminal block base
as in normal operation. In the case of fuse terminal blocks with screw-type fuse-carrier, the
fuse-carriers shall be fitted with a torque of two-thirds of the value specified in Table 1.
Table 1 − Test forces
Diameter (d) of fuse carrier
Torque Axial pulling force
Nm N
Up to and including 16 mm 0,4 25
Over 16 mm, up to and including 25 mm 0,6 50

∅d
60947-7-3 © IEC:2009 – 15 –
No visible damage or loosening of parts shall be observed. The minimum gauge no. 2 or no. 5,
according to Table A.1, shall be prevented from falling out of the fuse-carrier in the most
unfavourable position.
The minimum gauge no. 2 or no. 5 shall then be inserted into the fuse terminal block and the
contact resistance be measured according to 8.4.4 (see Figure 1).
The mean value of the contact resistance shall not exceed 10 mΩ. The value of an individual
measurement shall not exceed 15 mΩ.
8.3.5 Mechanical strength of the connection between the terminal block base
and the fuse-carrier
8.3.5.1 Torque test on screw-type fuse-carriers
The fuse-ca
...