IEC 60146-1-1:2024

Semiconductor converters - General requirements and line commutated converters - Part 1-1: Specification of basic requirements

IEC 60146-1-1:2024 specifies the requirements for the performance of all semiconductor power converters and semiconductor power switches using controllable and/or non-controllable electronic valve devices. It is primarily intended to specify the basic requirements for converters in general and the requirements applicable to line commutated converters for conversion of AC power to DC power or vice versa. Parts of this document are also applicable to other types of electronic power converter provided that they do not have their own product standards.
This fifth edition introduces four main changes:
a) re-edition of the whole standard according to the current directives;
b) deletion of safety-related descriptions considering coordination with IEC 62477 series;
c) changes of calculation methods of inductive voltage regulation;
d) changes considering coordination with IEC 61378 series.
The content of the corrigendum 1 (2025-03) has been included in this copy.

Convertisseurs à semiconducteurs - Exigences générales et convertisseurs commutés par le réseau - Partie 1-1: Spécification des exigences de base

L’IEC 60146-1-1:2024 spécifie les exigences relatives aux caractéristiques de fonctionnement de tous les convertisseurs de puissance à semiconducteurs, ainsi que des commutateurs de puissance à semiconducteurs utilisant des valves électroniques, commandables et/ou non commandables.
Le présent document est prévu en premier lieu pour spécifier les exigences de base applicables aux convertisseurs en général, ainsi que les exigences applicables aux convertisseurs commutés par le réseau, pour la conversion de puissance alternative en puissance continue ou vice versa. Certaines parties du présent document s’appliquent également à d’autres types de convertisseurs électroniques de puissance, sous réserve qu’il n’existe pas de normes de produit qui leur soient propres.
Cette cinquième édition introduit quatre modifications principales:
a) réédition de l’ensemble de la norme conformément aux directives en vigueur;
b) suppression des descriptions relatives à la sécurité, pour prendre en compte la coordination avec la série IEC 62477;
c) modifications des méthodes de calcul de la variation inductive de tension;
d) modifications pour prendre en compte la coordination avec la série IEC 61378.
Le contenu du corrigendum 1 (2025-03) a été pris en considération dans cet exemplaire.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 18-Mar-2024
• ICS: 29.045 - Semiconducting materials
• ICS: 29.200 - Rectifiers. Convertors. Stabilized power supply
• Technical Committee: TC 22 - Power electronic systems and equipment
• Drafting Committee: MT 3 - TC 22/MT 3
• Current Stage: PPUB - Publication issued
• Start Date: 19-Mar-2024
• Completion Date: 29-Mar-2024

Relations

• Corrected By: IEC 60146-1-1:2024/COR1:2025 - Corrigendum 1 - Semiconductor converters - General requirements and line commutated converters - Part 1-1: Specification of basic requirements
• Effective Date: 07-Mar-2025
• Revises: IEC 60146-1-1:2009 - Semiconductor converters - General requirements and line commutated converters - Part 1-1: Specification of basic requirements
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023

Overview

IEC 60146-1-1:2024 - "Semiconductor converters – General requirements and line commutated converters – Part 1‑1: Specification of basic requirements" defines performance and basic technical requirements for semiconductor power converters and semiconductor power switches that use controllable and/or non‑controllable electronic valve devices. The standard is primarily aimed at line‑commutated converters used for conversion between AC and DC power, and its clauses are also applicable to other converter types when no specific product standard exists. This fifth edition incorporates four main updates:

• Re‑edition to current IEC directive structure
• Removal of safety descriptions to coordinate with the IEC 62477 series
• Revised calculation methods for inductive voltage regulation
• Updates for coordination with the IEC 61378 series
  Corrigendum 1 (2025‑03) has been included in this edition.

Key topics and technical requirements

The standard addresses foundational topics needed for design, testing and specification of semiconductor converters:

• Terms and definitions for semiconductor devices, arms, commutation and ratings
• Service conditions and environmental tolerances (temperature, cooling codes, duty cycles)
• Operation and classification of semiconductor power equipment including commutation types and calculation factors
• Electrical connections and calculation factors: losses, efficiency, power factor, and voltage regulation methods (including updated inductive regulation calculations)
• Rated values and duty classes, selection guidance and marking requirements
• Test requirements: insulation, functional and routine tests, temperature rise, losses, EMC and audible noise
• Harmonics and EMC (Annex A) and measurement methods for non‑sinusoidal voltages/currents
• Protection and safety coordination (informative intro and normative references to safety standards in Annex C)

Applications and who uses it

IEC 60146-1-1:2024 is essential for organizations involved in the specification, design, manufacture, testing and procurement of power conversion equipment, including:

• Converter and power electronics manufacturers (rectifiers, converters for HVDC, large industrial DC supplies)
• Power system integrators and OEMs specifying AC↔DC conversion solutions
• Test laboratories and compliance engineers performing insulation, EMC and performance tests
• Utilities and industrial end‑users procuring line‑commutated converter stations and assemblies
• Standards and safety engineers coordinating product safety with IEC 62477 and transformer interfaces with IEC 61378

Related standards

• IEC 62477 series - safety requirements for power electronic converter systems (safety coordination referenced in this edition)
• IEC 61378 series - converters’ transformer interfaces and coordination (referenced for alignment)

Keywords: IEC 60146-1-1:2024, semiconductor converters, line commutated converters, power conversion, inductive voltage regulation, harmonics, EMC, insulation tests, duty classes.

Standards Content (Sample)

IEC 60146-1-1 ®
Edition 5.0 2024-03
COMMENTED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Semiconductor converters – General requirements and line commutated
converters –
Part 1-1: Specification of basic requirements
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IEC 60146-1-1 ®
Edition 5.0 2024-03
COMMENTED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Semiconductor converters – General requirements and line commutated
converters –
Part 1-1: Specification of basic requirements
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 29.200, 29.045 ISBN 978-2-8322-8575-6
– 2 – IEC 60146-1-1:2024 CMV © IEC 2024
CONTENTS
FOREWORD .5
INTRODUCTION .7
1 Scope and object .8
2 Normative references .8
3 Terms and definitions . 10
3.1 Semiconductor devices and combinations . 11
3.2 Arms and connections . 15
3.3 Controllability of converter arms and quadrants of operation (on DC side) . 17
3.4 Commutation, quenching and commutation circuitry . 19
3.5 Commutation characteristics . 22
3.6 Rated values . 24
3.7 Specific voltages, currents and factors . 27
3.8 Cooling . 30
3.9 Service conditions tolerances and electromagnetic compatibility . 31
3.10 Harmonic distortion . 33
3.11 Definitions related to insulation co-ordination. 38
3.12 Principal letter symbols and subscripts . 42
4 Operation of semiconductor power equipment and valve devices . 44
4.1 Classification . 44
4.1.1 Semiconductor converter . 44
4.1.2 Semiconductor valve devices . 45
4.2 Basic operation of semiconductor converters . 46
4.2.1 Commutation . 46
4.2.2 Basic calculation factors for line commutated converters . 49
4.2.3 Disturbances and fault conditions . 51
5 Service conditions . 53
5.1 Code of identification for cooling method . 53
5.2 Environmental conditions . 54
5.2.1 Ambient air circulation . 54
5.2.2 Normal service conditions – Temperatures . 54
5.2.3 Other normal service conditions . 54
5.2.4 Unusual service conditions . 55
5.3 Characteristics of the load . 55
5.4 Service condition tolerances . 56
5.4.1 Steady state and short time conditions . 56
5.4.2 Repetitive and non-repetitive transients . 59
6 Power conversion equipment and assemblies . 59
6.1 Electrical connections . 59
6.2 Calculation factors . 60
6.2.1 Essential variables . 60
6.2.2 Losses and efficiency . 66
6.2.3 Power factor . 67
6.2.4 Voltage regulation . 67
6.3 Electromagnetic compatibility . 69
6.3.1 Harmonics . 69
6.3.2 Other EMC aspects . 70

6.4 Rated values . 71
6.4.1 General . 71
6.4.2 Rated output voltage . 71
6.4.3 Rated current values . 72
6.5 Duty classes . 72
6.5.1 Principles . 72
6.5.2 Selection of duty class and rated current value . 73
6.5.3 Particular remarks for double converters . 75
6.6 Markings . 75
6.6.1 General . 75
6.6.2 Rating plate . 75
7 Tests for valve device assemblies and power conversion equipment . 76
7.1 General . 76
7.1.1 Methods of testing . 76
7.1.2 Kinds of tests . 77
7.1.3 Performance of tests . 77
7.2 Insulation tests . 78
7.2.1 General . 78
7.2.2 Routine insulation tests of power conversion equipment . 78
7.2.3 Additional tests . 82
7.3 Functional test . 83
7.3.1 Light load test and functional test . 83
7.3.2 Rated current test . 83
7.3.3 Over-current capability test . 83
7.3.4 Measurement of the inherent voltage regulation . 83
7.3.5 Measurement of ripple voltage and current . 84
7.3.6 Measurement of harmonic currents . 84
7.4 Losses, temperature and power factor . 84
7.4.1 Power loss determination for assemblies and equipment. 84
7.4.2 Temperature rise test . 85
7.4.3 Power factor measurements . 86
7.5 Auxiliaries Auxiliary device and control equipment . 86
7.5.1 Checking of auxiliary devices . 86
7.5.2 Checking the properties of the control equipment . 86
7.5.3 Checking the protective devices . 86
7.6 EMC tests . 87
7.7 Measurement of audible noise and additional tests . 87
7.8 Tolerances . 87
Annex A (normative) Harmonics and interhamonics . 89
A.1 Non-sinusoidal voltages and currents . 92
A.2 Two approaches for definitions related to harmonics . 92
Annex B (informative) Electrical environment – Short-circuit ratio . 93
B.1 Electrical environment specification . 93
B.2 Point of coupling of the converter . 94
B.2.1 Systems and installations . 94
B.2.2 Short-circuit ratio of the source in the installation . 95
B.2.3 Short-circuit ratio . 96
Annex C (normative) Protection against electric shock and energy hazards .

– 4 – IEC 60146-1-1:2024 CMV © IEC 2024
Annex C (informative) Introduction to safety standards for power conversion
equipment . 102
C.1 General . 102
C.2 Brief introduction to IEC 62477 series with reference to IEC 60146 series . 102
C.3 Purposes or intentions of IEC 60146 series and IEC 62477 series . 102
Bibliography . 103
List of comments . 112

Figure 1 – Types of commutation . 48
Figure 2 – Illustration of angles. 49
Figure 3 – Voltage regulation . 51
Figure 4 – AC voltage waveform . 59
Figure B.1 – PCC, IPC, installation current ratio and R . 96
SI
Figure B.2 – PCC, IPC, installation current ratio and R . 98
SC
Table 1 – List of major subscripts . 42
Table 2 – Symbols . 43
Table 3 – Performance criteria . 51
Table 4 – Cooling medium or heat transfer agent . 53
Table 5 – Method of circulation . 53
Table 6 – Limit of temperature of the cooling medium for indoor equipment . 54
Table 7 – Immunity levels to frequency and voltage amplitude for stiff AC voltage
connections . 57
Table 8 – Immunity levels to voltage unbalance for stiff AC voltage connections . 58
Table 9 – Immunity levels to voltage waveform for stiff AC voltage connections . 58
Table 10 – Connections and calculation factors . 63
Table 11 – Standard duty classes . 73
Table 12 – Examples of load cycles as guidance for selection of duty class . 74
Table 13 – Summary of tests . 77
Table 14 – AC or DC test voltages for equipment directly connected to low voltage
mains . 80
Table 15 – AC or DC test voltages for equipment directly connected to high voltage
mains . 81
Table 16 – Tolerances . 88
Table C.1 – Comparison on purposes or intentions between two standards . 102

INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
SEMICONDUCTOR CONVERTERS – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
AND LINE COMMUTATED CONVERTERS –

Part 1-1: Specification of basic requirements

FOREWORD
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This commented version (CMV) of the official standard IEC 60146-1-1:2024 edition 5.0
allows the user to identify the changes made to the previous IEC 60146-1-1:2009 edition
4.0. Furthermore, comments from IEC TC 22 experts are provided to explain the reasons
of the most relevant changes, or to clarify any part of the content.
A vertical bar appears in the margin wherever a change has been made. Additions are in
green text, deletions are in strikethrough red text. Experts' comments are identified by a
blue-background number. Mouse over a number to display a pop-up note with the
comment.
This publication contains the CMV and the official standard. The full list of comments is
available at the end of the CMV.

– 6 – IEC 60146-1-1:2024 CMV © IEC 2024
IEC 60146-1-1 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 22: Power electronic systems
and equipment. It is an International Standard.
This fifth edition cancels and replaces the fourth edition published in 2009. This fifth edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This fifth edition introduces four main changes:
a) re-edition of the whole standard according to the current directives;
b) deletion of safety-related descriptions considering coordination with IEC 62477 series;
c) changes of calculation methods of inductive voltage regulation;
d) changes considering coordination with IEC 61378 series.
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
Draft Report on voting
22/374/FDIS 22/378/RVD
Full information on the voting for its approval can be found in the report on voting indicated in
the above table.
The language used for the development of this International Standard is English.
This document was drafted in accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2, and developed in
accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and ISO/IEC Directives, IEC Supplement, available
at www.iec.ch/members_experts/refdocs. The main document types developed by IEC are
described in greater detail at www.iec.ch/publications.
A list of all parts of the IEC 60146 series, under the general title Semiconductor converters –
General requirements and line commutated converters, can be found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under webstore.iec.ch in the data related to the
specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn, or
• revised.
IMPORTANT – The "colour inside" logo on the cover page of this document indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct understanding
of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a colour printer.

INTRODUCTION
The main purposes of the IEC 60146-1 series are as follows.
IEC 60146-1-1, Specification of basic requirements:
• to establish basic terms and definitions;
• to specify service conditions which influence the basis of rating;
• to specify test requirements for electronic power converters and assemblies, standard
design (for special design, see IEC TR 60146-1-2);
• to specify basic performance requirements;
• to give application oriented requirements for semiconductor power converters.
IEC TR 60146-1-2, Application guidelines:
• to give additional information on test conditions and components (for example:
semiconductor valve devices), when required for their use in semiconductor power
converters, in addition to or as a modification on existing standards;
• to provide useful reference, calculation factors, formulae and diagrams pertaining to power
converter practice.
– 8 – IEC 60146-1-1:2024 CMV © IEC 2024
SEMICONDUCTOR CONVERTERS – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
AND LINE COMMUTATED CONVERTERS –

Part 1-1: Specification of basic requirements

1 Scope and object
This part of IEC 60146 specifies the requirements for the performance of all semiconductor
power converters and semiconductor power switches using controllable and/or non-controllable
electronic valve devices.
The electronic valve devices mainly comprise semiconductor devices, either not controllable
(i.e. rectifier diodes) or controllable (i.e. thyristors, triacs, turn-off thyristors and power
transistors). The controllable devices may can be reverse blocking or reverse conducting and
controlled by means of current, voltage or light. Non-bistable devices are assumed to be
operated in the switched mode.
This document is primarily intended to specify the basic requirements for converters in general
and the requirements applicable to line commutated converters for conversion of AC power to
DC power or vice versa. Parts of this document are also applicable to other types of electronic
power converter provided that they do not have their own product standards.
These specific equipment requirements are applicable to semiconductor power converters that
either implement power conversion or use commutation (for example semiconductor self-
commutated converters) or involve particular applications (for example semiconductor
converters for DC motor drives) or include a combination of said characteristics (for example
direct DC converters for electric rolling stock).
This document is applicable to all power converters not covered by a dedicated product
standard, or if special features are not covered by the dedicated product standard. Generally
dedicated product standards for power converters should refer to this document.
NOTE 1 This document is not intended to define EMC requirements. It covers all phenomena and therefore
introduces references to dedicated standards which are applicable according to their scope.
NOTE 2 A large part of this standard, particularly for power transformers, is covered in IEC 61378-1. For the
information on converter transformers, related to this document, see IEC 61378-1.
NOTE 3 All the terms listed in Clause 3 are not necessarily used in this document, however they are necessary to
establish a common understanding in the application of semiconductor converters. 1
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements 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 60050-101:1998, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Part 101: Mathematics
IEC 60050-551:1998, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) – Part 551: Power
electronics, available at www.electropedia.org
IEC 60050-551-20:2001, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) – Part 551-20: Power
electronics – Harmonic analysis, available at www.electropedia.org

IEC 60364-1, Low-voltage electrical installations – Part 1: Fundamental principles, assessment
of general characteristics, definitions
IEC 60529, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)
IEC 60664-1:20072020, Insulation coordination for equipment within low-voltage supply
systems – Part 1: Principles, requirements and tests
IEC 60700-1, Thyristor valves for high voltage direct current (HVDC) power transmission – Part
1: Electrical testing
IEC 61000 (all parts), Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
IEC 61000-2-2:2002, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 2-2: Environment –
Compatibility levels for low-frequency conducted disturbances and signalling in public low-
voltage power supply systems
IEC 61000-2-4:2002, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 2-4: Environment –
Compatibility levels in industrial plants for low-frequency conducted disturbances
IEC 61000-3-2:2018, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 3-2: Limits – Limits for
harmonic current emissions (equipment input current ≤16 A per phase)
IEC 61000-3-3, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 3-3: Limits – Limitation of voltage
changes, voltage fluctuations and flicker in public low-voltage supply systems for equipment
with rated current ≤ 16 A per phase and not subject to conditional connection
IEC 61000-3-11, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 3-11: Limits – Limitation of voltage
changes, voltage fluctuations and flicker in public low-voltage supply systems –Equipment with
rated current ≤ 75 A and subject to conditional connection
IEC 61000-3-12:20042011, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 3-12: Limits – Limits for
harmonic currents produced by equipment connected to public low-voltage systems with input
current > ≤16 A and ≤ 75 A per phase
IEC 61000-4-7:2002, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 4-7: Testing and
measurement techniques – General guide on harmonics and interharmonics measurements and
instrumentation, for power supply systems and equipment connected thereto
IEC 61000-6-1:2016, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-1: Generic standards –
Immunity standard for residential, commercial and light-industrial environments
IEC 61000-6-2:2016, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-2: Generic standards –
Immunity standard for industrial environments
IEC 61000-6-3, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-3: Generic standards – Emission
standard for residential, commercial and light-industrial environments
IEC 61000-6-4:2018, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-4: Generic standards –
Emission standard for industrial environments
IEC 61140, Protection against electric shock – Common aspects for installation and equipment
IEC 61180-1:1992, High-voltage test techniques for low voltage equipment – Part 1: Definitions,
test and procedure requirements

– 10 – IEC 60146-1-1:2024 CMV © IEC 2024
IEC 61204-3, Low-voltage power supplies, d.c. output – Part 3: Electromagnetic compatibility
(EMC)
IEC 61204-7, Low voltage power supplies, d.c. output – Part 7: Safety requirements
IEC 61378-1:2011, Converter transformers – Part 1: Transformers for industrial applications
IEC 61800-3, Adjustable speed electrical power drive systems – Part 3: EMC requirements and
specific test methods
IEC 61800-5-1, Adjustable speed electrical power drive systems – Part 5-1: Safety
requirements – Electrical, thermal and energy
IEC 61954, Power electronics for electrical transmission and distribution systems – Testing of
thyristor valves for static VAR compensators
IEC/PAS 61975, Guide to the specification and design evaluation of a.c. filters for HVDC systems
IEC 62040-1, Uninterruptible power systems (UPS) – Part 1: General and safety requirements
for UPS
IEC 62040-2, Uninterruptible power systems (UPS) – Part 2: Electromagnetic compatibility
(EMC) requirements
IEC 62103, Electronic equipment for use in power installations
IEC 62310-1, Static transfer systems (STS) – Part 1: General and safety requirements
IEC 62310-2, Static transfer systems (STS) – Part 2: Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
requirements
IEC 62477-1:2022, Safety requirements for power electronic converter systems and equipment
– Part 1: General
IEC 62477-2:2018, Safety requirements for power electronic converter systems and equipment
– Part 2: Power electronic converters from 1 000 V AC or 1 500 V DC up to 36 kV AC or
54 kV DC 2
NOTE Some other IEC publications are quoted for information in the Bibliography.
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 60050-551,
IEC 60050-551-20, IEC 60664-1 and the following apply.
In this standard, IEV definitions are used wherever possible, particularly those in IEC 60050
(551).
All the terms listed in this clause are not necessarily used in this International Standard,
however they are necessary to establish a common understanding in the application of
semiconductor converters.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp

• IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org
NOTE The policy adopted is as follows:
– when an existing IEC 60050 definition needs amplification or additional information, the title, the reference and
the additional text are given;
– explanations and figures are given in 4.2;
– terms used in connection with converter faults are defined in IEC TR 60146-1-2.
An alphabetical index is given in the Index of definitions.
NOTE For easier use of this index, a cross reference numbering is set up, noted [df n], in which n is the natural
integer following the alphabetical order of the definitions.
3.1 Semiconductor devices and combinations
3.1.1
semiconductor device
device, the essential electric characteristics of which are due to the flow of charge carriers
within one or more semiconductor materials
[IEV 151-13-63] [df 164]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-151:2001, 151-13-63]
3.1.2
electronic (power) switch
electronic switch
operative unit for electronic power switching comprising at least one controllable valve device
[IEV 551-13-01] [df 60] [df 123] [df 173]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-13-01]
3.1.3
semiconductor switch
electronic power switch with semiconductor valve devices
Note 1 to entry: Similar terms are used for electronic switches or power controllers with specific electronic valve
devices, for example thyristor controller, transistor switch.
[IEV 551-13-05] [df 165] [df 174]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-13-05]
3.1.4
non-controllable valve device
rectifier diode
reverse blocking valve device the current path of which conducts in its conducting direction
without any control signal being applied
[IEV 551-14-04] [df 45] [df 105] [df 149]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-14-04]
3.1.5
thyristor
bi-stable semiconductor device comprising three or more junctions which can be switched from
the off-state to the on-state or vice versa

– 12 – IEC 60146-1-1:2024 CMV © IEC 2024
Note 1 to entry: Devices having only three layers but having switching characteristics similar to those of four-layer
thyristors may also be called thyristors.
Note 2 to entry: The term "thyristor" is used as a generic term to cover the whole range of PNPN type devices. It
may be used by itself for any member of the thyristor family when such use does not result in ambiguity or
misunderstanding. In particular, the term "thyristor" is widely used for reverse blocking triode thyristor, formerly called
"silicon controlled rectifier".
[IEV 521-04-61] [df 178]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-521:2002, 521-04-61, modified – Note 2 to entry added]
3.1.6
reverse blocking triode thyristor
three-terminal thyristor which for negative anode voltage does not switch, but exhibits a reverse
blocking state
[IEV 521-04-63] [df 158] [df 179] [df 193]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-521:2002, 521-04-63]
3.1.7
reverse conducting triode thyristor
three-terminal thyristor which for negative anode voltage does not switch and conducts large
currents at voltages comparable in magnitude to the forward on-state voltage
[IEV 521-04-65] [df 159]
[SOURCE: IEC 6005-521:2002, 521-04-65]
3.1.8
bidirectional triode thyristor
triac
three-terminal thyristor having substantially the same switching behaviour in the first and third
quadrants of the current-voltage characteristic
[IEV 521-04-67, modified] [df 11] [df 188]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-521:2002, 521-04-67]
3.1.9
turn-off thyristor
GTO
thyristor which can be switched from the on-state to the off-state and vice versa by applying
control signals of appropriate polarity to the gate terminal
NOTE Also known as gate turn-off thyristor.
Note 1 to entry: The gate turn-off thyristor (GTO) and the integrated gate commutated thyristor (IGCT) are types of
turn-off thyristor.
[IEV 521-04-68] [df 79] [df 81] [df 195]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-521:2002, 521-04-68, modified – Note to entry added]
3.1.10
power transistor
transistor designed for switching from the on-state to the off-state and vice versa by applying
control signals of appropriate polarity to the base or gate terminal [df 124] [df 186]

Note 1 to entry: The structure of the device intrinsically provides the capability of amplification
(see IEC 60050-521:2002, 521-04-46).
Note 2 to entry: Different technologies of power transistors are used, such as bipolar transistors, insulated gate
bipolar transistors (IGBT), metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFET), etc.
3.1.11
valve device stack
single structure of one or more electronic valve devices with its (their) associated mounting(s)
and auxiliaries if any
[IEV 551-14-12] [df 171] [df 203]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-14-12]
3.1.12
valve device assembly
electrically and mechanically combined assembly of electronic valve devices or stacks,
complete with all its connections and auxiliaries in its own mechanical structure
Note 1 to entry: Similar terms are applied to stacks or assemblies comprising specific electronic valve devices, for
example diode stack (rectifier diodes only), thyristor assembly (thyristors only or in combination with rectifier diodes).
[IEV 551-14-13] [df 6] [df 201]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-14-13]
3.1.13
electronic valve device
indivisible electronic device for electronic power conversion or electronic power switching,
comprising a non-controllable or bistably controlled unidirectionally conducting current path
[IEV 551-14-02 ] [df 61] [df 199]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-14-02, modified – Notes to entry deleted]
3.1.14
semiconductor valve device
electronic valve device which is a semiconductor device
Note 1 to entry: Typical semiconductor valve devices are thyristors, rectifier diodes, bipolar transistors, metal-
oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFET) and insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBT).
Note 2 to entry: Two or more semiconductor valve devices may be integrated on a common semiconductor chip
(examples: a thyristor and a rectifier diode in a reverse conducting thyristor, a power switching field effect transistor
with its reverse diode) or packaged in a common case (semiconductor power module). These combinations are
considered as separate semiconductor valve devices.
[IEV 551-14-09] [df 166] [df 200]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-14-09, modified – Notes to entry added]
3.1.15
(electronic) (power) conversion
power conversion
conversion
change of one or more of the characteristics of an electric power system essentially without
appreciable loss of power by means of electronic valve devices
Note 1 to entry: Characteristics include, for example, voltage amplitude, number of phases and frequency, including
zero frequency.
– 14 – IEC 60146-1-1:2024 CMV © IEC 2024
[IEV 551-11-02] [df 32] [df 58] [df 116]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-11-02]
3.1.16
(electronic) (power) converter
power converter
converter
operative unit for electronic power conversion, comprising one or more electronic valve devices,
and auxiliaries if any
Note 1 to entry: Converter transformers and filters related to network interfacing in terms of electrical characteristics
are excluded from the converter itself. Such devices are part of the system aspect. Any device necessary to the
correct operation of the converter itself is included in the converter, for example filters for limitation of the du/dt
applied to the valve devices, surge arrestors, etc. Any auxiliary necessary to the correct operation of the converter
itself is included in the converter, for example fans or cooling system.
[IEV 551-12-01, modified] [df 36] [df 59] [df 119]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-12-01, modified, – Words "transformers and filters if
necessary" removed from the definition, note to entry replaced, and figure removed]
3.1.17
trigger equipment
gating equipment
equipment which provides suitable trigger pulses from a control signal for controllable valve
devices in a converter or power switch including timing or phase shifting circuits, pulse
generating circuits and usually power supply circuits [df 80] [df 191]
3.1.18
system control equipment
equipment associated with a power conversion equipment or system which performs automatic
adjustment of the converter output characteristics as a function of a controlled quantity (for
example motor speed, traction force, etc.) [df 26] [df 176]
Note 1 to entry: Examples of controlled quantity include motor speed and traction force.
3.1.19
semiconductor converter
electronic power converter with semiconductor valve devices
Note 1 to entry: Similar terms for converters in general or for specific kinds of converters or for converters with
other or specific valve devices, for example thyristor converter, transistor inverter.
[IEV 551-12-42] [df 37] [df 163]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-12-42, modified – Figure removed]
3.1.20
power conversion equipment
PCE
equipment including the electronic power converter and auxiliaries necessary for operation of
the converter itself, or even other parts dedicated to the application, and where these parts
cannot be physically separated without preventing the operation of the converter [df 33] [df 66]
[df 117]
3.1.21
power conversion system
system consisting of a power conversion equipment and associated components for the
application for example switchgear, reactors or transformers, dedicated filters, etc. [df 35] [df 118]
[df 175]
Note 1 to entry: Examples of associated components include switchgear, reactors or transformers and dedicated
filters.
3.2 Arms and connections
3.2.1
(valve) arm
arm
part of the circuit of an electronic power converter or switch bounded by any two AC or DC
terminals and including one or more simultaneously conducting electronic valve devices
connected together and other components if any
[IEV 551-15-01] [df 5] [df 198]
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-15-01]
3.2.2
principal arm
valve arm involved in the major transfer of power fr
...

IEC 60146-1-1 ®
Edition 5.0 2024-03
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Semiconductor converters – General requirements and line commutated
converters –
Part 1-1: Specification of basic requirements

Convertisseurs à semiconducteurs – Exigences générales et convertisseurs
commutés par le réseau –
Partie 1-1: Spécification des exigences de base
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IEC 60146-1-1 ®
Edition 5.0 2024-03
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Semiconductor converters – General requirements and line commutated

converters –
Part 1-1: Specification of basic requirements

Convertisseurs à semiconducteurs – Exigences générales et convertisseurs

commutés par le réseau –
Partie 1-1: Spécification des exigences de base

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 29.200, 29.045 ISBN 978-2-8322-8354-7

– 2 – IEC 60146-1-1:2024 © IEC 2024
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 5
INTRODUCTION . 7
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms and definitions . 9
3.1 Semiconductor devices and combinations . 9
3.2 Arms and connections . 13
3.3 Controllability of converter arms and quadrants of operation (on DC side) . 15
3.4 Commutation, quenching and commutation circuitry . 16
3.5 Commutation characteristics . 18
3.6 Rated values . 20
3.7 Specific voltages, currents and factors . 23
3.8 Cooling . 25
3.9 Service conditions tolerances and electromagnetic compatibility . 26
3.10 Harmonic distortion . 28
3.11 Definitions related to insulation co-ordination . 32
3.12 Principal letter symbols and subscripts . 35
4 Operation of semiconductor power equipment and valve devices . 38
4.1 Classification . 38
4.1.1 Semiconductor converter . 38
4.1.2 Semiconductor valve devices . 39
4.2 Basic operation of semiconductor converters . 39
4.2.1 Commutation . 39
4.2.2 Basic calculation factors for line commutated converters . 41
4.2.3 Disturbances and fault conditions . 43
5 Service conditions . 45
5.1 Code of identification for cooling method . 45
5.2 Environmental conditions . 45
5.2.1 Ambient air circulation . 45
5.2.2 Normal service conditions – Temperatures . 46
5.2.3 Other normal service conditions . 46
5.2.4 Unusual service conditions . 47
5.3 Characteristics of the load . 47
5.4 Service condition tolerances . 48
5.4.1 Steady state and short time conditions . 48
5.4.2 Repetitive and non-repetitive transients . 50
6 Power conversion equipment and assemblies . 51
6.1 Electrical connections . 51
6.2 Calculation factors . 51
6.2.1 Essential variables . 51
6.2.2 Losses and efficiency . 56
6.2.3 Power factor . 57
6.2.4 Voltage regulation . 57
6.3 Electromagnetic compatibility . 59
6.3.1 Harmonics . 59
6.3.2 Other EMC aspects . 60

6.4 Rated values . 60
6.4.1 General . 60
6.4.2 Rated output voltage . 60
6.4.3 Rated current values . 61
6.5 Duty classes . 62
6.5.1 Principles . 62
6.5.2 Selection of duty class and rated current value . 63
6.5.3 Particular remarks for double converters . 64
6.6 Markings . 64
6.6.1 General . 64
6.6.2 Rating plate . 65
7 Tests for valve device assemblies and power conversion equipment . 65
7.1 General . 65
7.1.1 Methods of testing . 65
7.1.2 Kinds of tests . 66
7.1.3 Performance of tests . 66
7.2 Insulation tests . 67
7.2.1 General . 67
7.2.2 Routine insulation tests of power conversion equipment . 68
7.2.3 Additional tests . 71
7.3 Functional test . 71
7.3.1 Light load test and functional test . 71
7.3.2 Rated current test . 72
7.3.3 Over-current capability test . 72
7.3.4 Measurement of the inherent voltage regulation . 72
7.3.5 Measurement of ripple voltage and current . 72
7.3.6 Measurement of harmonic currents . 72
7.4 Losses, temperature and power factor . 73
7.4.1 Power loss determination for assemblies and equipment . 73
7.4.2 Temperature rise test . 74
7.4.3 Power factor measurements . 74
7.5 Auxiliary device and control equipment . 74
7.5.1 Checking of auxiliary devices . 74
7.5.2 Checking the properties of the control equipment . 75
7.5.3 Checking the protective devices . 75
7.6 EMC tests . 75
7.7 Measurement of audible noise and additional tests . 76
7.8 Tolerances . 76
Annex A (normative) Harmonics and interhamonics . 78
A.1 Non-sinusoidal voltages and currents . 78
A.2 Two approaches for definitions related to harmonics . 78
Annex B (informative) Electrical environment – Short-circuit ratio . 79
B.1 Electrical environment specification . 79
B.2 Point of coupling of the converter . 80
B.2.1 Systems and installations . 80
B.2.2 Short-circuit ratio of the source in the installation . 81
B.2.3 Short-circuit ratio . 82
Annex C (informative) Introduction to safety standards for power conversion
equipment . 84

– 4 – IEC 60146-1-1:2024 © IEC 2024
C.1 General . 84
C.2 Brief introduction to IEC 62477 series with reference to IEC 60146 series . 84
C.3 Purposes or intentions of IEC 60146 series and IEC 62477 series . 84
Bibliography . 85

Figure 1 – Types of commutation . 40
Figure 2 – Illustration of angles . 41
Figure 3 – Voltage regulation . 43
Figure 4 – AC voltage waveform . 51
Figure B.1 – PCC, IPC, installation current ratio and R . 82
SI
Figure B.2 – PCC, IPC, installation current ratio and R . 83
SC
Table 1 – List of major subscripts . 36
Table 2 – Symbols . 36
Table 3 – Performance criteria . 43
Table 4 – Cooling medium or heat transfer agent . 45
Table 5 – Method of circulation . 45
Table 6 – Limit of temperature of the cooling medium for indoor equipment . 46
Table 7 – Immunity levels to frequency and voltage amplitude for stiff AC voltage
connections . 49
Table 8 – Immunity levels to voltage unbalance for stiff AC voltage connections . 49
Table 9 – Immunity levels to voltage waveform for stiff AC voltage connections . 50
Table 10 – Connections and calculation factors . 54
Table 11 – Standard duty classes . 62
Table 12 – Examples of load cycles as guidance for selection of duty class . 63
Table 13 – Summary of tests . 67
Table 14 – AC or DC test voltages for equipment directly connected to low voltage

mains . 70
Table 15 – AC or DC test voltages for equipment directly connected to high voltage
mains . 70
Table 16 – Tolerances . 77
Table C.1 – Comparison on purposes or intentions between two standards . 84

INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
SEMICONDUCTOR CONVERTERS – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
AND LINE COMMUTATED CONVERTERS –

Part 1-1: Specification of basic requirements

FOREWORD
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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) IEC draws attention to the possibility that the implementation of this document may involve the use of (a)
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the latest information, which may be obtained from the patent database available at https://patents.iec.ch. IEC
shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
IEC 60146-1-1 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 22: Power electronic systems
and equipment. It is an International Standard.
This fifth edition cancels and replaces the fourth edition published in 2009. This fifth edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This fifth edition introduces four main changes:
a) re-edition of the whole standard according to the current directives;
b) deletion of safety-related descriptions considering coordination with IEC 62477 series;
c) changes of calculation methods of inductive voltage regulation;
d) changes considering coordination with IEC 61378 series.

– 6 – IEC 60146-1-1:2024 © IEC 2024
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
Draft Report on voting
22/374/FDIS 22/378/RVD
Full information on the voting for its approval can be found in the report on voting indicated in
the above table.
The language used for the development of this International Standard is English.
This document was drafted in accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2, and developed in
accordance with ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 and ISO/IEC Directives, IEC Supplement, available
at www.iec.ch/members_experts/refdocs. The main document types developed by IEC are
described in greater detail at www.iec.ch/publications.
A list of all parts of the IEC 60146 series, under the general title Semiconductor converters –
General requirements and line commutated converters, can be found on the IEC website.
The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under webstore.iec.ch in the data related to the
specific document. At this date, the document will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn, or
• revised.
IMPORTANT – The "colour inside" logo on the cover page of this document indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct understanding
of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a colour printer.

INTRODUCTION
The main purposes of the IEC 60146-1 series are as follows.
IEC 60146-1-1, Specification of basic requirements:
• to establish basic terms and definitions;
• to specify service conditions which influence the basis of rating;
• to specify test requirements for electronic power converters and assemblies, standard
design (for special design, see IEC TR 60146-1-2);
• to specify basic performance requirements;
• to give application oriented requirements for semiconductor power converters.
IEC TR 60146-1-2, Application guidelines:
• to give additional information on test conditions and components (for example:
semiconductor valve devices), when required for their use in semiconductor power
converters, in addition to or as a modification on existing standards;
• to provide useful reference, calculation factors, formulae and diagrams pertaining to power
converter practice.
– 8 – IEC 60146-1-1:2024 © IEC 2024
SEMICONDUCTOR CONVERTERS – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
AND LINE COMMUTATED CONVERTERS –

Part 1-1: Specification of basic requirements

1 Scope
This part of IEC 60146 specifies the requirements for the performance of all semiconductor
power converters and semiconductor power switches using controllable and/or non-controllable
electronic valve devices.
The electronic valve devices mainly comprise semiconductor devices, either not controllable
(i.e. rectifier diodes) or controllable (i.e. thyristors, triacs, turn-off thyristors and power
transistors). The controllable devices can be reverse blocking or reverse conducting and
controlled by means of current, voltage or light. Non-bistable devices are assumed to be
operated in the switched mode.
This document is primarily intended to specify the basic requirements for converters in general
and the requirements applicable to line commutated converters for conversion of AC power to
DC power or vice versa. Parts of this document are also applicable to other types of electronic
power converter provided that they do not have their own product standards.
These specific equipment requirements are applicable to semiconductor power converters that
either implement power conversion or use commutation (for example semiconductor self-
commutated converters) or involve particular applications (for example semiconductor
converters for DC motor drives) or include a combination of said characteristics (for example
direct DC converters for electric rolling stock).
This document is applicable to all power converters not covered by a dedicated product
standard, or if special features are not covered by the dedicated product standard. Generally
dedicated product standards for power converters refer to this document.
NOTE 1 This document is not intended to define EMC requirements. It covers all phenomena and therefore
introduces references to dedicated standards which are applicable according to their scope.
NOTE 2 For the information on converter transformers, related to this document, see IEC 61378-1.
NOTE 3 All the terms listed in Clause 3 are not necessarily used in this document, however they are necessary to
establish a common understanding in the application of semiconductor converters.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements 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 60050-551:1998, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) – Part 551: Power
electronics, available at www.electropedia.org
IEC 60050-551-20:2001, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) – Part 551-20: Power
electronics – Harmonic analysis, available at www.electropedia.org
IEC 60664-1:2020, Insulation coordination for equipment within low-voltage supply systems –
Part 1: Principles, requirements and tests

IEC 61000-2-4:2002, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 2-4: Environment –
Compatibility levels in industrial plants for low-frequency conducted disturbances
IEC 61000-3-2:2018, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 3-2: Limits – Limits for
harmonic current emissions (equipment input current ≤16 A per phase)
IEC 61000-3-12:2011, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 3-12: Limits – Limits for
harmonic currents produced by equipment connected to public low-voltage systems with input
current ≤16 A and ≤ 75 A per phase
IEC 61000-4-7:2002, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 4-7: Testing and
measurement techniques – General guide on harmonics and interharmonics measurements and
instrumentation, for power supply systems and equipment connected thereto
IEC 61000-6-1:2016, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-1: Generic standards –
Immunity standard for residential, commercial and light-industrial environments
IEC 61000-6-2:2016, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-2: Generic standards –
Immunity standard for industrial environments
IEC 61000-6-4:2018, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-4: Generic standards –
Emission standard for industrial environments
IEC 61378-1:2011, Converter transformers – Part 1: Transformers for industrial applications
IEC 62477-1:2022, Safety requirements for power electronic converter systems and equipment
– Part 1: General
IEC 62477-2:2018, Safety requirements for power electronic converter systems and equipment
– Part 2: Power electronic converters from 1 000 V AC or 1 500 V DC up to 36 kV AC or
54 kV DC
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 60050-551,
IEC 60050-551-20, IEC 60664-1 and the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
• IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org
NOTE The policy adopted is as follows:
– when an existing IEC 60050 definition needs amplification or additional information, the title, the reference and
the additional text are given;
– explanations and figures are given in 4.2;
– terms used in connection with converter faults are defined in IEC TR 60146-1-2.
3.1 Semiconductor devices and combinations
3.1.1
semiconductor device
device, the essential electric characteristics of which are due to the flow of charge carriers
within one or more semiconductor materials
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-151:2001, 151-13-63]

– 10 – IEC 60146-1-1:2024 © IEC 2024
3.1.2
electronic power switch
electronic switch
operative unit for electronic power switching comprising at least one controllable valve device
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-13-01]
3.1.3
semiconductor switch
electronic power switch with semiconductor valve devices
Note 1 to entry: Similar terms are used for electronic switches or power controllers with specific electronic valve
devices, for example thyristor controller, transistor switch.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-13-05]
3.1.4
non-controllable valve device
rectifier diode
reverse blocking valve device the current path of which conducts in its conducting direction
without any control signal being applied
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-14-04]
3.1.5
thyristor
bi-stable semiconductor device comprising three or more junctions which can be switched from
the off-state to the on-state or vice versa
Note 1 to entry: Devices having only three layers but having switching characteristics similar to those of four-layer
thyristors may also be called thyristors.
Note 2 to entry: The term "thyristor" is used as a generic term to cover the whole range of PNPN type devices. It
may be used by itself for any member of the thyristor family when such use does not result in ambiguity or
misunderstanding. In particular, the term "thyristor" is widely used for reverse blocking triode thyristor, formerly called
"silicon controlled rectifier".
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-521:2002, 521-04-61, modified – Note 2 to entry added]
3.1.6
reverse blocking triode thyristor
three-terminal thyristor which for negative anode voltage does not switch, but exhibits a reverse
blocking state
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-521:2002, 521-04-63]
3.1.7
reverse conducting triode thyristor
three-terminal thyristor which for negative anode voltage does not switch and conducts large
currents at voltages comparable in magnitude to the forward on-state voltage
[SOURCE: IEC 6005-521:2002, 521-04-65]
3.1.8
bidirectional triode thyristor
triac
three-terminal thyristor having substantially the same switching behaviour in the first and third
quadrants of the current-voltage characteristic
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-521:2002, 521-04-67]

3.1.9
turn-off thyristor
thyristor which can be switched from the on-state to the off-state and vice versa by applying
control signals of appropriate polarity to the gate terminal
Note 1 to entry: The gate turn-off thyristor (GTO) and the integrated gate commutated thyristor (IGCT) are types of
turn-off thyristor.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-521:2002, 521-04-68, modified – Note to entry added]
3.1.10
power transistor
transistor designed for switching from the on-state to the off-state and vice versa by applying
control signals of appropriate polarity to the base or gate terminal
Note 1 to entry: The structure of the device intrinsically provides the capability of amplification
(see IEC 60050-521:2002, 521-04-46).
Note 2 to entry: Different technologies of power transistors are used, such as bipolar transistors, insulated gate
bipolar transistors (IGBT), metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFET), etc.
3.1.11
valve device stack
single structure of one or more electronic valve devices with its (their) associated mounting(s)
and auxiliaries if any
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-14-12]
3.1.12
valve device assembly
electrically and mechanically combined assembly of electronic valve devices or stacks,
complete with all its connections and auxiliaries in its own mechanical structure
Note 1 to entry: Similar terms are applied to stacks or assemblies comprising specific electronic valve devices, for
example diode stack (rectifier diodes only), thyristor assembly (thyristors only or in combination with rectifier diodes).
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-14-13]
3.1.13
electronic valve device
indivisible electronic device for electronic power conversion or electronic power switching,
comprising a non-controllable or bistably controlled unidirectionally conducting current path
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-14-02, modified – Notes to entry deleted]
3.1.14
semiconductor valve device
electronic valve device which is a semiconductor device
Note 1 to entry: Typical semiconductor valve devices are thyristors, rectifier diodes, bipolar transistors, metal-
oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFET) and insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBT).
Note 2 to entry: Two or more semiconductor valve devices may be integrated on a common semiconductor chip
(examples: a thyristor and a rectifier diode in a reverse conducting thyristor, a power switching field effect transistor
with its reverse diode) or packaged in a common case (semiconductor power module). These combinations are
considered as separate semiconductor valve devices.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-14-09, modified – Notes to entry added]

– 12 – IEC 60146-1-1:2024 © IEC 2024
3.1.15
electronic power conversion
power conversion
conversion
change of one or more of the characteristics of an electric power system essentially without
appreciable loss of power by means of electronic valve devices
Note 1 to entry: Characteristics include, for example, voltage amplitude, number of phases and frequency, including
zero frequency.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-11-02]
3.1.16
electronic power converter
power converter
converter
operative unit for electronic power conversion, comprising one or more electronic valve devices,
and auxiliaries if any
Note 1 to entry: Converter transformers and filters related to network interfacing in terms of electrical characteristics
are excluded from the converter itself. Such devices are part of the system aspect. Any device necessary to the
correct operation of the converter itself is included in the converter, for example filters for limitation of the du/dt
applied to the valve devices, surge arrestors, etc. Any auxiliary necessary to the correct operation of the converter
itself is included in the converter, for example fans or cooling system.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-12-01, modified, – Words "transformers and filters if
necessary" removed from the definition, note to entry replaced, and figure removed]
3.1.17
trigger equipment
gating equipment
equipment which provides suitable trigger pulses from a control signal for controllable valve
devices in a converter or power switch including timing or phase shifting circuits, pulse
generating circuits and usually power supply circuits
3.1.18
system control equipment
equipment associated with a power conversion equipment or system which performs automatic
adjustment of the converter output characteristics as a function of a controlled quantity
Note 1 to entry: Examples of controlled quantity include motor speed and traction force.
3.1.19
semiconductor converter
electronic power converter with semiconductor valve devices
Note 1 to entry: Similar terms for converters in general or for specific kinds of converters or for converters with
other or specific valve devices, for example thyristor converter, transistor inverter.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-12-42, modified – Figure removed]
3.1.20
power conversion equipment
PCE
equipment including the electronic power converter and auxiliaries necessary for operation of
the converter itself, or even other parts dedicated to the application, and where these parts
cannot be physically separated without preventing the operation of the converter

3.1.21
power conversion system
system consisting of a power conversion equipment and associated components for the
application
Note 1 to entry: Examples of associated components include switchgear, reactors or transformers and dedicated
filters.
3.2 Arms and connections
3.2.1
valve arm
arm
part of the circuit of an electronic power converter or switch bounded by any two AC or DC
terminals and including one or more simultaneously conducting electronic valve devices
connected together and other components if any
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-15-01]
3.2.2
principal arm
valve arm involved in the major transfer of power from one side of the converter or electronic
switch to the other
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-15-02, modified – Note removed]
3.2.3
auxiliary arm
valve arm other than a principal arm
Note 1 to entry: Sometimes an auxiliary arm temporarily fulfils more than one of the following functions: by-pass
arm, free-wheeling arm, turn-off arm or regenerative arm.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-15-05]
3.2.4
by-pass arm
auxiliary arm providing a conductive path which allows the current to circulate without an
interchange of power between source and load
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-15-06]
3.2.5
free-wheeling arm
by-pass arm containing only non-controllable valve devices
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-15-07]
3.2.6
turn-off arm
auxiliary arm which temporarily takes over the current directly from a conducting valve arm,
consisting of one or more latching valve devices which cannot be turned off by a control signal
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-15-08]
3.2.7
regenerative arm
valve arm which transfers a part of the power from the load side to the source side

– 14 – IEC 60146-1-1:2024 © IEC 2024
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-15-09]
3.2.8
converter connection
electrical arrangement of valve arms and other components essential for the function of the
main power circuit of a converter
Note 1 to entry: Common practice also uses the term "topology" of the converter with the same sense.
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-15-10, modified – Note to entry added]
3.2.9
basic converter connection
electrical arrangement of principal arms in a converter
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-15-11]
3.2.10
single-way connection
converter connection such that the current through each of the phase terminals
of the AC circuit is unidirectional
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-15-12]
3.2.11
double-way connection
converter connection such that the current through each of the phase terminals
of the AC circuit is bidirectional
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-15-13]
3.2.12
bridge connection
double-way connection of pairs of arms such that the centre terminals are the phase terminals
of the AC circuit, and that the outer terminals of like polarity are connected together and are
the DC terminals
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-551:1998, 551-15-1
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