IEC 62561-6:2023
(Main)Lightning protection system components (LPSC) - Part 6: Requirements for lightning strike counters (LSCs)
Lightning protection system components (LPSC) - Part 6: Requirements for lightning strike counters (LSCs)
IEC 62561-6:2023 specifies the requirements and tests for devices intended to count the number of lightning strikes based on the current flowing in a conductor. This conductor can be part of a lightning protection system (LPS) or connected to an SPD installation or other conductors, which are not intended to conduct a significant portion of lightning currents. This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2018. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
a) a new classification according to the internal circuit of LSCs has been added;
b) the tests flowchart in Annex C has been updated to reflect this new classification;
c) the applicability of previous tests has been added (Annex D).
Composants des systèmes de protection contre la foudre (CSPF) - Partie 6: Exigences pour les compteurs de coups de foudre (LSC)
L'IEC 62561-6:2023 spécifie les exigences et les essais applicables aux dispositifs destinés à compter le nombre de coups de foudre à partir du courant qui circule dans un conducteur. Ce conducteur peut faire partie d'un système de protection contre la foudre (SPF) ou être relié à une installation de parafoudre ou à d'autres conducteurs, qui ne sont pas destinés à conduire une partie significative des courants de foudre. Cette troisième édition annule et remplace la deuxième édition parue en 2018. Cette édition constitue une révision technique. Cette édition inclut les modifications techniques majeures suivantes par rapport à l'édition précédente:
a) ajout d'une nouvelle classification en fonction du circuit interne des LSC;
b) mise à jour du logigramme des essais de l'Annexe C pour refléter la nouvelle classification;
c) ajout de l'applicabilité d'essais précédents (Annexe D).
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IEC 62561-6 ®
Edition 3.0 2023-05
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
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Lightning protection system components (LPSC) –
Part 6: Requirements for lightning strike counters (LSCs)
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IEC 62561-6 ®
Edition 3.0 2023-05
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Lightning protection system components (LPSC) –
Part 6: Requirements for lightning strike counters (LSCs)
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 29.020, 91.120.40 ISBN 978-2-8322-7032-5
– 2 – IEC 62561-6:2023 RLV IEC 2023
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
INTRODUCTION . 2
1 Scope . 7
2 Normative references . 7
3 Terms and definitions . 8
4 Classification . 9
4.1 Type of LSC . 10
4.2 LSC Internal circuit . 10
4.3 LSC installation location . 10
5 Requirements . 9
5.1 General . 10
5.2 Documentation . 10
5.3 Marking . 11
5.3.1 Content of marking . 11
5.3.2 Durability and legibility . 11
5.4 Design . 11
6 Tests . 12
6.1 General test conditions . 12
6.1.1 General . 12
6.1.2 Impulse discharge current count for LSC Type I . 13
6.1.3 Nominal discharge current count for LSC Type II . 14
6.2 Documentation and installation instructions . 15
6.2.1 General conditions . 15
6.2.2 Acceptance criteria . 15
6.3 Marking test . 15
6.3.1 General test conditions . 15
6.3.2 Acceptance criteria . 15
6.4 Ultraviolet (UV) light resistance . 14
6.4.1 General test conditions . 15
6.4.2 Pass Acceptance criteria . 15
6.5 Resistance tests to corrosion (for metallic parts) . 16
6.5.1 General test conditions . 16
6.5.2 Acceptance criteria . 16
6.6 Mechanical tests Impact test . 16
6.6.1 General test conditions . 16
6.6.2 Pass Acceptance criteria . 18
6.7 Index of protection confirmation (IP Code) . 18
6.8 Electrical tests . 18
6.8.1 General test conditions . 18
6.8.2 Minimum discharge current counting test I . 18
imp min
6.8.3 Threshold current test . 19
6.8.4 Maximum impulse current counting test . 20
6.8.5 Performance verification test . 20
6.6.6 Multi pulse test .
7 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) . 21
7.1 Electromagnetic immunity . 21
7.2 Electromagnetic emission . 21
8 Structure and content of the test report . 21
8.1 General . 21
8.2 Report identification . 21
8.3 Specimen description . 22
8.4 Standards and references . 22
8.5 Test procedure . 22
8.6 Testing equipment description . 22
8.7 Measuring instruments description . 22
8.8 Results and parameters recorded . 22
8.9 Statement of pass/fail . 23
Annex A (normative) Resistance to UV light . 24
A.1 General . 24
A.2 Test . 24
A.3 First alternative test to Clause A.2 . 24
A.4 Second alternative test to Clause A.2 . 24
Annex B (normative) Conditioning/ageing Resistance to corrosion tests for LSCs . 25
B.1 General . 25
B.2 Salt mist test . 25
B.3 Humid sulphurous atmosphere test . 25
B.4 Ammonia atmosphere treatment. 25
Annex C (normative) Flowchart for testing LSCs . 26
Annex D (normative) Applicability of previous tests . 27
Bibliography . 28
Figure 1 – Pendulum hammer test apparatus .
Figure C.1 – Flowchart for testing of LSCs . 26
Table 1 – Preferred parameters for impulse discharge currents counted (I ) . 14
imp
Table 2 – Preferred parameters for nominal discharge currents counted (I ) . 14
n
Table D.1 – Differences in the requirements for LSCs complying with
IEC 62561-6:2011 or IEC 62561-6:2018 . 27
– 4 – IEC 62561-6:2023 RLV IEC 2023
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEM COMPONENTS (LPSC) –
Part 6: Requirements for lightning strike counters (LSCs)
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) 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.
This redline version of the official IEC Standard allows the user to identify the changes
made to the previous edition IEC 62561-6:2018. A vertical bar appears in the margin
wherever a change has been made. Additions are in green text, deletions are in
strikethrough red text.
IEC 62561-6 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 81: Lightning protection. It is an
International Standard.
This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2018. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) a new classification according to the internal circuit of LSCs has been added;
b) the tests flowchart in Annex C has been updated to reflect this new classification;
c) the applicability of previous tests has been added (Annex D).
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
81/723/FDIS 81/726/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/standardsdev/publications.
A list of all parts in the IEC 62561 series, published under the general title Lightning
protection system components (LPSC), 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,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
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.
– 6 – IEC 62561-6:2023 RLV IEC 2023
INTRODUCTION
This part of IEC 62561 deals with the requirements and tests for lightning protection system
components (LPSC) that may be used to determine the number of impulses or nominal
currents on specific conductors associated with a lightning protection system (LPS) designed
and implemented according to the IEC 62305 series.
LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEM COMPONENTS (LPSC) –
Part 6: Requirements for lightning strike counters (LSCs)
1 Scope
This part of IEC 62561 specifies the requirements and tests for devices intended to count the
number of lightning strikes based on the current flowing in a conductor. This conductor may
can be part of a lightning protection system (LPS) or connected to an SPD installation or other
conductors, which are not intended to conduct a significant portion of lightning currents.
LSCs may also be suitable for use in hazardous atmospheres and there are therefore extra
requirements necessary for the components to be installed in such conditions.
Extra requirements for the components can be necessary for LSCs intended for use in
hazardous atmospheres.
NOTE In CENELEC member countries, testing requirements of components for explosive atmospheres are
specified in CLC/TS 50703-2.
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 60068-2-52:19962017, Environmental testing – Part 2-52: Tests – Test Kb: Salt mist,
cyclic (sodium, chloride solution)
IEC 60068-2-75:19972014, Environmental testing – Part 2-75: Tests – Test Eh: Hammer tests
IEC 60529, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)
IEC 61000-6-2, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-2: Generic standards –
Immunity standard for industrial environments
IEC 61000-6-4, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-4: Generic standards –
Emission standard for industrial environments
ISO 4892-2:2013, Plastics – Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources – Part 2:
Xenon-arc lamps
ISO 4892-3:2016, Plastics – Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources – Part 3:
Fluorescent UV lamps
ISO 4892-4:2013, Plastics – Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources – Part 4:
Open-flame, carbon-arc lamps
ISO 22479:2019, Corrosion of metals and alloys – Sulphur dioxide test in a humid atmosphere
(fixed gas method)
ISO 6957:1988, Copper alloys – Ammonia test for stress corrosion resistance
– 8 – IEC 62561-6:2023 RLV IEC 2023
ISO 6988:1985, Metallic and other non-organic coatings – Sulphur dioxide test with general
condensation of moisture
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at http://www.iso.org/obp
3.1
LSC
lightning strike counter
device intended to count the number of lightning strikes based on current flowing in a
conductor
3.2
lightning strike counter Type I
LSC Type I
LSC classified by its design to count impulse discharge currents
3.3
lightning surge counter Type II
LSC Type II
LSC classified by its design to count nominal discharge currents
3.4
impulse discharge current
I
imp
crest value of an impulse current 10/350 through the LSC with specified charge transfer Q and
specified energy W/R in the specified time
3.5
minimum impulse discharge current counted
I
imp min
minimum peak crest value of the impulse counting discharge current that the LSC will count
3.6
maximum impulse discharge current counted
I
imp max
maximum peak crest value of the impulse counting discharge current that the LSC will count
and withstand
3.7
nominal discharge current counted
I
n
crest value of a surge current 8/20 through the LSC having a current wave shape of 8/20
3.8
minimum discharge current counted
I
n min
minimum peak crest value of the surge current that the LSC will count
3.9
maximum discharge current counted
I
n max
maximum peak crest value of the surge current that the LSC will count and withstand
3.10
IP code
degree of protection of enclosure
numerical classification according to IEC 60529, preceded by the symbol IP, applied to the
enclosure of electrical apparatus to provide:
– protection of persons against contact with, or approach to, live parts and against contact
with moving parts (other than smooth rotating shafts and the like) inside the enclosure,
– protection of the electrical apparatus against ingress of solid foreign objects, and
– protection of the electrical apparatus against harmful ingress of water where indicated by
the classification
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-426:20082020, 426-04-02, modified – In the term, "code" has been
added, in the definition, "according to IEC 60529" has been added, "equipment" has been
replaced with "electrical apparatus" and the Notes to entry have been deleted.]
3.11
point of strike
point where a lightning flash strikes the earth, or protruding structure
EXAMPLE: Structure, LPS, line, tree.
Note 1 to entry: A lightning flash may can have more than one point of strike.
3.12
strike
all strokes from a single lightning flash that attach to a point of strike on a structure
3.13
impulse current
transient current created by direct lightning strike into the LPS
3.14
surge
transient created by lightning electromagnetic pulse (LEMP) that appears either as an
overvoltage or as an overcurrent, or both
4 Classification
LSCs are classified by type:
• lightning strike counter (Type I) as defined in 3.2;
• lightning surge counter (Type II) as defined in 3.3.
LSCs are also classified by location:
• indoor LSCs are intended for use in enclosures and/or inside buildings or shelters;
• outdoor LSCs are intended for use without enclosures and outside of buildings or shelters.
The IP codes defined in IEC 60529 are particularly relevant to the intended location of an LSC
but may not be applicable to an LSC integral with an SPD.
– 10 – IEC 62561-6:2023 RLV IEC 2023
4.1 Type of LSC
LSCs are classified according to the discharge current count:
a) Type I to count impulse discharge current count as defined in 3.2;
a) Type II to count nominal discharge current count as defined in 3.3.
4.2 LSC Internal circuit
LSCs are classified according to their internal circuit:
a) LSCs without electronic circuit;
b) LSCs with electronic circuit.
4.3 LSC installation location
LSCs are classified according to their installation location:
a) indoor LSCs are intended for use in enclosures or inside buildings or shelters;
b) outdoor LSCs are intended for use without enclosures and outside of buildings or shelters;
c) LSCs intended for use in special environments as specified by the manufacturer.
The degree of protection of enclosure (IP code) defined in IEC 60529 is particularly relevant
to the intended location of an LSC but it is possible that they will not be applicable to an LSC
integral with an SPD.
NOTE LSCs installed in outdoor enclosures or shelters are suitable for indoor use.
5 Requirements
5.1 General
The LSC shall be designed in such a way that in normal use its performance is reliable and
without danger to persons and the surrounding.
LSCs shall be designed in such a manner that when they are installed in accordance with
manufacturer’s instructions, their performance shall be reliable, stable and safe to persons
and surrounding equipment.
NOTE The choice of a material depends on its ability to match the particular application’s requirements.
5.2 Documentation
The manufacturer or supplier of the LSC shall provide adequate information in their literature
to ensure that the installer can select and install the counter in a suitable and safe manner.
The ranges for operating temperature, humidity, altitude, IP code and the classifications
according to Clause 4 shall be declared by the manufacturer.
The following information shall also be provided (as applicable):
I ; I ; I ; I ; I ; I .
imp min imp max imp n n min n max
where
I is the minimum impulse discharge current counted;
imp min
I is the maximum impulse discharge current counted;
imp max
I is the impulse discharge current;
imp
I is the nominal discharge current;
n
I is the minimum discharge current counted;
n min
I is the maximum discharge current counted.
n max
Compliance is checked by inspection in accordance with 6.2.
5.3 Marking
5.3.1 Content of marking
All products complying with this document shall be marked at least with the following:
a) the name of the manufacturer or his trademark;
b) the reference of the type or the serial number;
c) the classification;
d) I ; I ; I ; I ; I ; I ;
imp min imp max imp n n min n max
e) the degree of protection (IP code);
f) conformity to this document.
If the device is small and sufficient space is not available for all the markings to appear, the
indications cited in a) and b) above shall at least be reproduced on the apparatus and still be
visible after installation. The indications cited in c), d), e) and f) can be given on the
packaging and/or in the installation data sheet (documentation) and/, or in the catalogue of
the manufacturer.
Compliance is checked in accordance with 6.3.1 a).
NOTE 1 Marking can be applied, for example, by moulding, pressing, engraving, printing adhesive labels, or water
slide transfers.
NOTE 2 Marking can be applied with water slide transfers for only components installed indoors.
5.3.2 Durability and legibility
The marking shall be durable and legible.
Compliance is checked by test in accordance with 6.3.1 b).
5.4 Design
The lightning strike counter shall be designed to carry out its function of counting the number
of lightning strikes causing a current to flow in a conductor.
These devices shall detect and record lightning strikes regardless of the polarity of the
current.
LSCs intended to be used outdoors shall be able to withstand environmental conditions
including temperature, dust and humidity. The minimum degree of protection is IP 43 obtained
by itself or in combination with a box in accordance with IEC 60529.
This test is necessary for LSCs designed to be installed outdoors or in specific environments.
Non-metallic LSC housings for outdoor application shall withstand ultraviolet (UV) effects.
– 12 – IEC 62561-6:2023 RLV IEC 2023
Compliance is checked in accordance with 6.4, 6.5, 6.6.
The manufacturer shall provide information regarding the range of environmental operating
conditions, such as temperature, altitude and humidity which the strike counter is designed to
operate within.
LSCs shall be capable of counting and withstanding specified currents without unacceptable
changes in their characteristics.
Compliance is checked in accordance with 6.7, 6.8.2, 6.8.3, 6.8.4 and 6.8.5.
The size of the characters in the display, if any, shall allow a normal reading, i.e. by normal or
corrected vision without magnification, of the number of lightning strikes recorded, when the
LSC is installed in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer.
Compliance is checked by visual inspection.
The fixing system of the LSC should not apply an unacceptable stress or damage to the
conductor.
The materials of the LSC shall be compatible with that of the lightning conductor, so that
corrosion due to galvanic coupling may be avoided.
Compliance is checked by visual inspection.
Their material shall be compatible with that of the conductor (galvanic coupling).
6 Tests
6.1 General test conditions
6.1.1 General
The tests in accordance with this document are type tests, performed in a sequence
according to Annex C. Unless otherwise specified, tests are carried out with the specimens
assembled and installed as in normal use according to the manufacturer’s or supplier’s
instructions.
All tests are carried out on new specimens.
Unless otherwise specified, three specimens are subjected to the tests and the requirements
are satisfied if all the tests are met. If only one of the specimens does not satisfy a test due to
an assembly or a manufacturing fault, that test and any preceding one which may could have
influenced the results of the test shall be repeated and also the tests which follow shall be
carried out in the required sequence on another full set of specimens, all of which shall
comply with the requirements.
NOTE 1 One set of three specimens can be used for more than one test, subject to agreement by the
manufacturer.
NOTE 2 The applicant can also submit an additional set of specimens which can be used should one specimen
fail. The testing laboratory will then, without further request, test the additional set of specimens and will reject the
set only if a further failure occurs. If the additional set of specimens is not submitted at the same time, the failure of
one specimen will entail rejection.
The LSC submitted for testing shall be identified by means of the following elements:
– marks and indications specified in 4.3;
– installation instructions with reference and date.
The LSC shall be mounted in accordance with the instructions specified by the manufacturer
in his installation instructions.
Unless otherwise specified, the tests are carried out at an ambient temperature ranging
between 5 °C and 35 °C and the ambient temperature shall not vary during the duration of the
test by more than 3 °C. The LSC shall be protected from excessive heating or excessive
external cooling.
See Annex C, Figure C.1 for a flowchart for testing LSCs.
For products already tested according to IEC 62561-6:2011 and IEC 62561-6:2018, the
applicability of previous tests according to Annex D, Table D.1 may be applied.
For new products, complete type tests and samples according to clauses specified in Annex A
and Annex B are required.
6.1.2 Impulse discharge current count for LSC Type I
The impulse discharge current passing through the device under test is defined by the crest
value I , the charge Q and the specific energy W/R. The impulse current shall show no
imp
polarity reversal and shall reach I within 50 μs.
imp
The transfer of the charge Q shall occur within 5 ms and the specific energy W/R shall be
dissipated within 5 ms.
The impulse duration shall not exceed 5 ms.
Table 1 gives values of Q (As) and W/R (kJ/Ω) for example values of I (kA).
imp
The relationships between I , Q and W/R are as follows:
imp
Q = I × a
imp
−4
where a = 5 × 10 s.
W/R = I × b
imp
−4
where b = 2,5 × 10 s.
– 14 – IEC 62561-6:2023 RLV IEC 2023
Table 1 – Preferred parameters for impulse discharge
currents counted (I )
imp
I (peakcrest value) Q W/R
imp
+20 +45
kA ± 10 %
As % kJ/Ω %
−10 −10
within 50 µs
within 5 ms within 5 ms
100 50 2 500
50 25 625
25 12,5 156
10 5 25
5 2,5 6,25
2 1 1
1 0,5 0,25
NOTE One of the possible test impulses which meet the above parameters is the
10/350 wave shape proposed in IEC 62305-1.
6.1.3 Nominal discharge current count for LSC Type II
The nominal discharge current passing through the device under test is defined by the crest
value I (see Table 2) and has the wave shape 8/20 according to IEC 62475.
n
Table 2 – Preferred parameters for nominal
discharge currents counted (I )
n
I (8/20), crest value
n
kA ±10 %
0,5
The tolerances on the current wave shape passing through the device under test are as
follows:
front time T ±20 %;
time to half value T ±20 %.
A small overshoot or oscillation is tolerated tolerable provided that the amplitude of any
oscillation is not more than 5 % of the crest value. Any polarity reversal after the current has
fallen to zero shall not be more than 30 % of the crest value.
NOTE The test impulse that meets the above parameters is the 8/20 wave shape proposed in IEC 62475.
NOTE For T and T , see IEC 62305-1:2010, Figure A.1.
1 2
6.2 Documentation and installation instructions
6.2.1 General conditions
The content of the installation instructions is checked as per its completeness by review.
6.2.2 Acceptance criteria
Documentation and installation instructions are deemed to be acceptable if they contain the
information given in 5.2.
6.3 Marking test
6.3.1 General test conditions
All three specimens used and complying with tests described in 6.2 shall be subjected to the
marking test:
Marking made by moulding, pressing or engraving is not subjected to this test.
The marking is checked by inspection and
a) as per its completeness by review, in accordance with 5.3.1 and
b) as per its durability and legibility by rubbing it by hand for 15 s with a piece of cloth
soaked with water and again for 15 s with a piece of cloth soaked with white spirit.
After the test, the marking shall be legible. Marking shall allow the identification of the LSC. It
should not be possible to easily remove the labels and for those to retract.
NOTE Marking made by moulding, pressing or engraving is not subjected to the test b).
6.3.2 Acceptance criteria
The specimen is deemed to have passed the test if:
a) the marking contains all the information given in 5.3.1;
b) after the test of 5.3.2, the marking remains fixed and legible.
6.4 Ultraviolet (UV) light resistance
6.4.1 General test conditions
This test is necessary for LSCs designed to be installed outdoors or in specific environments.
Non-metallic LSC housings for outdoor application shall withstand UV effects.
One set of three new specimens shall be assembled and mounted rigidly on an insulating
plate (e.g. brick, polytetrafluoroethylene [PTFE]) in accordance with the manufacturer’s
installation instructions.
Ensure that the surface of the mounting plate is suitable to resist UV radiation.
The specimens shall be subjected to an environmental test consisting of an UV light test as
specified in Annex A.
6.4.2 Pass Acceptance criteria
The specimens are deemed to have passed this part of the test if there are no signs of
disintegration and no cracks visible to normal or corrected vision.
– 16 – IEC 62561-6:2023 RLV IEC 2023
Ensure that the surface of the mounting plate is suitable to resist UV radiation.
6.5 Resistance tests to corrosion (for metallic parts)
6.5.1 General test conditions
This test is necessary for LSCs having metallic housings or parts designed to be installed
outdoors or in specific environments.
The specimens used and compliant with the test in 6.4 shall be subjected to corrosion tests as
per Annex B.
The specimens shall be subjected to an additional ammonia atmosphere treatment for those
made of copper alloy with a copper content less than 80 % as specified in Clause B.4.
The manufacturer or supplier shall provide proof of the copper content of any part of the
assembly made from a copper alloy.
This only applies to LSCs having housings with metallic parts. For LSCs with metal housings
three new samples are required.
6.5.2 Acceptance criteria
After the parts have been dried during 10 min in a drying oven at a temperature of
100 °C ± 5 °C, they shall not present any trace of rust on surfaces.
Traces of rust on the edges or a yellowish stain removed by rubbing are not taken into
account. White rust is not considered as corrosive deterioration.
6.6 Mechanical tests Impact test
6.6.1 General test conditions
All specimens complying with 6.4 or 6.5 shall be stressed three times by a mechanical test.
All specimens are subjected to a mechanical test by applying mechanical impacts.
The impacts are carried out on the LSC’s accessible parts which in use may can be
mechanically stressed accidentally.
The specimens are assembled under their normal operating conditions specified in the
manufacturer’s documentation.
The LSC is mounted on a pendulum hammer test apparatus according to
IEC 60068-2-75:19972014, Clause 4 as shown in Figure 1. The striking element material shall
be polyamide as per IEC 60068-2-75:19972014, Table 1 and its mass shall be 200 250 g as
per IEC 60068-2-75:19972014, Table 2, impact energy 0,35 J.
IEC
Key
1 pendulum
2 frame
3 height of fall
4 arrangement of specimens
5 mounting fixture
Figure 1 – Pendulum hammer test apparatus
The hammer shall fall from a height of 200 140 mm so that one impact on each side is
applied, as far as possible perpendicular to the length of the arrangement. The drop height is
the vertical distance between the position of the point of control, when the pendulum is
released, and the position of this point at the time of the impact.
The point of control as per IEC 60068-2-75:19972014 is located on the surface of the striking
part where the line passing by the point of intersection of the axes of the steel tube of the
pendulum and the part of striking, perpendicular to the plane crossing the two axes, comes
into contact with the surface.
The impacts are not applied to the display window or to the connectors.
NOTE In theory, the centre of gravity of the striking part will be the point of control but, in practice, as it is difficult
to determine the centre of gravity, the point of control has been chosen as described above.
– 18 – IEC 62561-6:2023 RLV IEC 2023
6.6.2 Pass Acceptance criteria
After the test, the LSC shall show no cracks or similar damage visible to normal or corrected
vision without magnification and shall not present damage which can potentially affect its later
use.
After the test, the LSC shall not have increased nor decreased the count value in the display
(especially for electromechanical LSCs).
6.7 Index of protection confirmation (IP Code)
IP code confirmation shall be performed in accordance with IEC 60529, on the used
specimens and in compliance with the test of 6.6.
The specimens shall be in compliance with IEC 60529 requirements.
6.8 Electrical tests
6.8.1 General test conditions
After the test of 6.7, each specimen shall be tested with the following electrical tests.
LSCs classified as Type I and Type II according to 5.2 4.1 shall be tested with their listed
impulse discharge currents and nominal discharge currents.
6.8.2 Minimum discharge current counting test I
imp min
6.8.2.1 LSC Type I
6.8.2.1.1 General test conditions
For an LSC Type I, an impulse discharge current 10/350 with a peak crest value equal to I
imp
is applied with positive and negative polarity.
min
6.8.2.1.2 Pass Acceptance criteria
The specimens have passed, if the counter of the LSC is incremented by two.
No visible damage shall occur during the tests. There shall be no opening or degradation of
the parts carrying the current or of the housing of the LSC.
6.8.2.2 LSC Type II
6.8.2.2.1 General test conditions
For an LSC Type II, a nominal discharge current 8/20 with a peak crest value equal to I is
n min
applied with positive and negative polarity.
6.8.2.2.2 Pass Acceptance criteria
The specimens have passed, if the counter of the LSC is incremented by two.
No visible damage shall occur during the tests. There shall be no opening or degradation of
the parts carrying the current or of the housing of the LSC.
6.8.2.3 LSC Type I and Type II
6.8.2.3.1 General test conditions
For an LSC classified as Type I and Type II, the corresponding impulse discharge currents
10/350 and the corresponding nominal discharge currents I 8/20 are applied with
I
imp min n min
positive and negative polarity.
6.8.2.3.2 Pass Acceptance criteria
LSCs classified as Type I and Type II specimens have passed the test, if the counter of LSCs
is incremented by four.
No visible damage shall occur during the tests. There shall be no opening or degradation of
the parts carrying the current or of the housing of the LSC.
6.8.3 Threshold current test
6.8.3.1 LSC Type I
6.8.3.1.1 General test conditions
For an LSC Type I, an impulse discharge current with a peak crest value equal to 0,5 I
imp min
10/350 is applied with positive polarity and with negative polarity.
6.8.3.1.2 Pass Acceptance criteria
The test is passed, if the counter of the LSC is not incremented.
No visible damage shall occur during the tests. There shall be no opening or degradation of
the parts carrying the current or of the housing of the LSC.
6.8.3.2 LSC Type II
6.8.3.2.1 General test conditions
For an LSC Type II, a nominal discharge current with a peak crest value equal to 0,5 I
n min
8/20 is applied with positive polarity and with negative polarity.
6.8.3.2.2 Pass Acceptance criteria
The test is passed, if the counter of the LSC is not incremented.
No visible damage shall occur during the tests. There shall be no opening or degradation of
the parts carrying the current or of the housing of the LSC.
6.8.3.3 LSC Type I and Type II
6.8.3.3.1 General test conditions
For an LSC classified as Type I and Type II, the corresponding impulse discharge current
0,5 I 10/350 and the corresponding nominal discharge current 0,5 I 8/20 are
imp min n min
applied with positive and negative polarity.
6.8.3.3.2 Pass Acceptance criteria
The test is passed, if the counter of the LSC is not incremented.
No
...
IEC 62561-6 ®
Edition 3.0 2023-05
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Lightning protection system components (LPSC) –
Part 6: Requirements for lightning strike counters (LSCs)
Composants des systèmes de protection contre la foudre (CSPF) –
Partie 6: Exigences pour les compteurs de coups de foudre (LSC)
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IEC 62561-6 ®
Edition 3.0 2023-05
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Lightning protection system components (LPSC) –
Part 6: Requirements for lightning strike counters (LSCs)
Composants des systèmes de protection contre la foudre (CSPF) –
Partie 6: Exigences pour les compteurs de coups de foudre (LSC)
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 29.020, 91.120.40 ISBN 978-2-8322-6861-2
– 2 – IEC 62561-6:2023 IEC 2023
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
INTRODUCTION . 6
1 Scope . 7
2 Normative references . 7
3 Terms and definitions . 8
4 Classification . 9
4.1 Type of LSC . 9
4.2 LSC Internal circuit . 9
4.3 LSC installation location . 9
5 Requirements . 10
5.1 General . 10
5.2 Documentation . 10
5.3 Marking . 10
5.3.1 Content of marking . 10
5.3.2 Durability and legibility . 11
5.4 Design . 11
6 Tests . 12
6.1 General test conditions . 12
6.1.1 General . 12
6.1.2 Impulse discharge current count for LSC Type I . 12
6.1.3 Nominal discharge current count for LSC Type II . 13
6.2 Documentation and installation instructions . 14
6.2.1 General conditions . 14
6.2.2 Acceptance criteria . 14
6.3 Marking test . 14
6.3.1 General test conditions . 14
6.3.2 Acceptance criteria . 14
6.4 Ultraviolet (UV) light resistance . 14
6.4.1 General test conditions . 14
6.4.2 Acceptance criteria . 14
6.5 Resistance tests to corrosion (for metallic parts) . 15
6.5.1 General test conditions . 15
6.5.2 Acceptance criteria . 15
6.6 Impact test . 15
6.6.1 General test conditions . 15
6.6.2 Acceptance criteria . 16
6.7 Index of protection confirmation (IP Code) . 16
6.8 Electrical tests . 16
6.8.1 General test conditions . 16
6.8.2 Minimum discharge current counting test . 16
6.8.3 Threshold current test . 17
6.8.4 Maximum impulse current counting test . 18
6.8.5 Performance verification test . 18
7 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) . 18
7.1 Electromagnetic immunity . 18
7.2 Electromagnetic emission . 19
8 Structure and content of the test report . 19
8.1 General . 19
8.2 Report identification . 19
8.3 Specimen description . 19
8.4 Standards and references . 20
8.5 Test procedure . 20
8.6 Testing equipment description . 20
8.7 Measuring instruments description . 20
8.8 Results and parameters recorded . 20
8.9 Statement of pass/fail . 20
Annex A (normative) Resistance to UV light . 21
A.1 General . 21
A.2 Test . 21
A.3 First alternative test to Clause A.2 . 21
A.4 Second alternative test to Clause A.2 . 21
Annex B (normative) Resistance to corrosion tests for LSCs . 22
B.1 General . 22
B.2 Salt mist test . 22
B.3 Humid sulphurous atmosphere test . 22
B.4 Ammonia atmosphere treatment. 22
Annex C (normative) Flowchart for testing LSCs . 23
Annex D (normative) Applicability of previous tests . 24
Bibliography . 25
Figure C.1 – Flowchart for testing of LSCs . 23
Table 1 – Preferred parameters for impulse discharge currents counted (I ) . 13
imp
Table 2 – Preferred parameters for nominal discharge currents counted (I ) . 13
n
Table D.1 – Differences in the requirements for LSCs complying with
IEC 62561-6:2011 or IEC 62561-6:2018 . 24
– 4 – IEC 62561-6:2023 IEC 2023
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEM COMPONENTS (LPSC) –
Part 6: Requirements for lightning strike counters (LSCs)
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,
Technical Reports, Publicly Available Specifications (PAS) and Guides (hereafter referred to as “IEC
Publication(s)”). Their preparation is entrusted to technical committees; any IEC National Committee interested
in the subject dealt with may participate in this preparatory work. International, governmental and non-
governmental organizations liaising with the IEC also participate in this preparation. IEC collaborates closely
with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
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 itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
assessment services and, in some areas, access to IEC marks of conformity. IEC is not responsible for any
services carried out by independent certification bodies.
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.
IEC 62561-6 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 81: Lightning protection. It is an
International Standard.
This third edition cancels and replaces the second edition published in 2018. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) a new classification according to the internal circuit of LSCs has been added;
b) the tests flowchart in Annex C has been updated to reflect this new classification;
c) the applicability of previous tests has been added (Annex D).
The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
81/723/FDIS 81/726/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/standardsdev/publications.
A list of all parts in the IEC 62561 series, published under the general title Lightning
protection system components (LPSC), 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,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
– 6 – IEC 62561-6:2023 IEC 2023
INTRODUCTION
This part of IEC 62561 deals with the requirements and tests for lightning protection system
components (LPSC) used to determine the number of impulses or nominal currents on
specific conductors associated with a lightning protection system (LPS) designed and
implemented according to the IEC 62305 series.
LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEM COMPONENTS (LPSC) –
Part 6: Requirements for lightning strike counters (LSCs)
1 Scope
This part of IEC 62561 specifies the requirements and tests for devices intended to count the
number of lightning strikes based on the current flowing in a conductor. This conductor can be
part of a lightning protection system (LPS) or connected to an SPD installation or other
conductors, which are not intended to conduct a significant portion of lightning currents.
Extra requirements for the components can be necessary for LSCs intended for use in
hazardous atmospheres.
NOTE In CENELEC member countries, testing requirements of components for explosive atmospheres are
specified in CLC/TS 50703-2.
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 60068-2-52:2017, Environmental testing – Part 2-52: Tests – Test Kb: Salt mist, cyclic
(sodium, chloride solution)
IEC 60068-2-75:2014, Environmental testing – Part 2-75: Tests – Test Eh: Hammer tests
IEC 60529, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)
IEC 61000-6-2, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-2: Generic standards –
Immunity standard for industrial environments
IEC 61000-6-4, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) – Part 6-4: Generic standards –
Emission standard for industrial environments
ISO 4892-2:2013, Plastics – Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources – Part 2:
Xenon-arc lamps
ISO 4892-3:2016, Plastics – Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources – Part 3:
Fluorescent UV lamps
ISO 4892-4:2013, Plastics – Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources – Part 4:
Open-flame, carbon-arc lamps
ISO 22479:2019, Corrosion of metals and alloys – Sulphur dioxide test in a humid atmosphere
(fixed gas method)
ISO 6957:1988, Copper alloys – Ammonia test for stress corrosion resistance
– 8 – IEC 62561-6:2023 IEC 2023
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:
• IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/
• ISO Online browsing platform: available at http://www.iso.org/obp
3.1
LSC
lightning strike counter
device intended to count the number of lightning strikes based on current flowing in a
conductor
3.2
lightning strike counter Type I
LSC Type I
LSC classified by its design to count impulse discharge currents
3.3
lightning surge counter Type II
LSC Type II
LSC classified by its design to count nominal discharge currents
3.4
impulse discharge current
I
imp
crest value of an impulse current 10/350 through the LSC with specified charge transfer Q and
specified energy W/R in the specified time
3.5
minimum impulse discharge current counted
I
imp min
minimum crest value of the impulse counting discharge current that the LSC will count
3.6
maximum impulse discharge current counted
I
imp max
maximum crest value of the impulse counting discharge current that the LSC will count and
withstand
3.7
nominal discharge current
I
n
crest value of a surge current 8/20 through the LSC
3.8
minimum discharge current counted
I
n min
minimum crest value of the surge current that the LSC will count
3.9
maximum discharge current counted
I
n max
maximum crest value of the surge current that the LSC will count and withstand
3.10
IP code
degree of protection of enclosure
numerical classification according to IEC 60529, preceded by the symbol IP, applied to the
enclosure of electrical apparatus to provide:
– protection of persons against contact with, or approach to, live parts and against contact
with moving parts (other than smooth rotating shafts and the like) inside the enclosure,
– protection of the electrical apparatus against ingress of solid foreign objects, and
– protection of the electrical apparatus against harmful ingress of water where indicated by
the classification
[SOURCE: IEC 60050-426:2020, 426-04-02, modified – In the term, "code" has been added,
in the definition, "according to IEC 60529" has been added, "equipment" has been replaced
with "electrical apparatus" and the Notes to entry have been deleted.]
3.11
point of strike
point where a lightning flash strikes the earth, or protruding structure
EXAMPLE: Structure, LPS, line, tree.
Note 1 to entry: A lightning flash can have more than one point of strike.
3.12
strike
all strokes from a single lightning flash that attach to a point of strike on a structure
3.13
impulse current
transient current created by direct lightning strike into the LPS
3.14
surge
transient created by lightning electromagnetic pulse (LEMP) that appears either as an
overvoltage or as an overcurrent, or both
4 Classification
4.1 Type of LSC
LSCs are classified according to the discharge current count:
a) Type I to count impulse discharge current count as defined in 3.2;
b) Type II to count nominal discharge current count as defined in 3.3.
4.2 LSC Internal circuit
LSCs are classified according to their internal circuit:
a) LSCs without electronic circuit;
b) LSCs with electronic circuit.
4.3 LSC installation location
LSCs are classified according to their installation location:
a) indoor LSCs are intended for use in enclosures or inside buildings or shelters;
b) outdoor LSCs are intended for use without enclosures and outside of buildings or shelters;
– 10 – IEC 62561-6:2023 IEC 2023
c) LSCs intended for use in special environments as specified by the manufacturer.
The degree of protection of enclosure (IP code) defined in IEC 60529 is particularly relevant
to the intended location of an LSC but it is possible that they will not be applicable to an LSC
integral with an SPD.
NOTE LSCs installed in outdoor enclosures or shelters are suitable for indoor use.
5 Requirements
5.1 General
LSCs shall be designed in such a manner that when they are installed in accordance with
manufacturer’s instructions, their performance shall be reliable, stable and safe to persons
and surrounding equipment.
NOTE The choice of a material depends on its ability to match the particular application’s requirements.
5.2 Documentation
The manufacturer or supplier of the LSC shall provide adequate information in their literature
to ensure that the installer can select and install the counter in a suitable and safe manner.
The ranges for operating temperature, humidity, altitude, IP code and the classifications
according to Clause 4 shall be declared by the manufacturer.
The following information shall also be provided (as applicable):
I ; I ; I ; I ; I ; I .
imp min imp max imp n n min n max
where
I is the minimum impulse discharge current counted;
imp min
I is the maximum impulse discharge current counted;
imp max
I is the impulse discharge current;
imp
I is the nominal discharge current;
n
I is the minimum discharge current counted;
n min
I is the maximum discharge current counted.
n max
Compliance is checked by inspection in accordance with 6.2.
5.3 Marking
5.3.1 Content of marking
All products complying with this document shall be marked at least with the following:
a) the name of the manufacturer or his trademark;
b) the reference of the type or the serial number;
c) the classification;
d) I ; I ; I ; I ;
imp min imp max n min n max
e) the degree of protection (IP code);
f) conformity to this document.
If the device is small and sufficient space is not available for all the markings to appear, the
indications cited in a) and b) above shall at least be reproduced on the apparatus and still be
visible after installation. The indications cited in c), d), e) and f) can be given on the
packaging or in the installation data sheet (documentation), or in the catalogue of the
manufacturer.
Compliance is checked in accordance with 6.3.1 a).
NOTE 1 Marking can be applied, for example, by moulding, pressing, engraving, printing adhesive labels.
NOTE 2 Marking can be applied with water slide transfers for only components installed indoors.
5.3.2 Durability and legibility
The marking shall be durable and legible.
Compliance is checked by test in accordance with 6.3.1 b).
5.4 Design
The lightning strike counter shall be designed to carry out its function of counting the number
of lightning strikes causing a current to flow in a conductor.
These devices shall detect and record lightning strikes regardless of the polarity of the
current.
LSCs intended to be used outdoors shall be able to withstand environmental conditions
including temperature, dust and humidity. The minimum degree of protection is IP 43 obtained
by itself or in combination with a box in accordance with IEC 60529.
This test is necessary for LSCs designed to be installed outdoors or in specific environments.
Non-metallic LSC housings for outdoor application shall withstand ultraviolet (UV) effects.
Compliance is checked in accordance with 6.4, 6.5, 6.6.
The manufacturer shall provide information regarding the range of environmental operating
conditions, such as temperature, altitude and humidity which the strike counter is designed to
operate within.
LSCs shall be capable of counting and withstanding specified currents without unacceptable
changes in their characteristics.
Compliance is checked in accordance with 6.7, 6.8.2, 6.8.3, 6.8.4 and 6.8.5.
The size of the characters in the display, if any, shall allow a normal reading, i.e. by normal or
corrected vision without magnification, of the number of lightning strikes recorded, when the
LSC is installed in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer.
Compliance is checked by visual inspection.
The fixing system of the LSC should not apply an unacceptable stress or damage to the
conductor.
The materials of the LSC shall be compatible with that of the lightning conductor, so that
corrosion due to galvanic coupling may be avoided.
– 12 – IEC 62561-6:2023 IEC 2023
Compliance is checked by visual inspection.
6 Tests
6.1 General test conditions
6.1.1 General
The tests in accordance with this document are type tests, performed in a sequence
according to Annex C. Unless otherwise specified, tests are carried out with the specimens
assembled and installed as in normal use according to the manufacturer’s or supplier’s
instructions.
All tests are carried out on new specimens.
Unless otherwise specified, three specimens are subjected to the tests and the requirements
are satisfied if all the tests are met. If only one of the specimens does not satisfy a test due to
an assembly or a manufacturing fault, that test and any preceding one which could have
influenced the results of the test shall be repeated and also the tests which follow shall be
carried out in the required sequence on another full set of specimens, all of which shall
comply with the requirements.
NOTE 1 One set of three specimens can be used for more than one test, subject to agreement by the
manufacturer.
NOTE 2 The applicant can also submit an additional set of specimens which can be used should one specimen
fail. The testing laboratory will then, without further request, test the additional set of specimens and will reject the
set only if a further failure occurs. If the additional set of specimens is not submitted at the same time, the failure of
one specimen will entail rejection.
Unless otherwise specified, the tests are carried out at an ambient temperature ranging
between 5 °C and 35 °C and the ambient temperature shall not vary during the duration of the
test by more than 3 °C. The LSC shall be protected from excessive heating or excessive
external cooling.
See Annex C, Figure C.1 for a flowchart for testing LSCs.
For products already tested according to IEC 62561-6:2011 and IEC 62561-6:2018, the
applicability of previous tests according to Annex D, Table D.1 may be applied.
For new products, complete type tests and samples according to clauses specified in Annex A
and Annex B are required.
6.1.2 Impulse discharge current count for LSC Type I
The impulse discharge current passing through the device under test is defined by the crest
value I , the charge Q and the specific energy W/R. The impulse current shall show no
imp
polarity reversal and shall reach I within 50 μs.
imp
The transfer of the charge Q shall occur within 5 ms and the specific energy W/R shall be
dissipated within 5 ms.
The impulse duration shall not exceed 5 ms.
Table 1 gives values of Q (As) and W/R (kJ/Ω) for example values of I (kA).
imp
The relationships between I , Q and W/R are as follows:
imp
Q = I × a
imp
−4
where a = 5 × 10 s.
W/R = I × b
imp
−4
where b = 2,5 × 10 s.
Table 1 – Preferred parameters for impulse discharge
currents counted (I )
imp
I (crest value) Q W/R
imp
+20 +45
kA ± 10 %
As % kJ/Ω %
−10 −10
within 50 µs
within 5 ms within 5 ms
100 50 2 500
50 25 625
25 12,5 156
10 5 25
5 2,5 6,25
2 1 1
1 0,5 0,25
NOTE One of the possible test impulses which meet the above parameters is the
10/350 wave shape proposed in IEC 62305-1.
6.1.3 Nominal discharge current count for LSC Type II
The nominal discharge current passing through the device under test is defined by the crest
value I (see Table 2) and has the wave shape 8/20 according to IEC 62475.
n
Table 2 – Preferred parameters for nominal
discharge currents counted (I )
n
I (8/20), crest value
n
kA ±10 %
0,5
– 14 – IEC 62561-6:2023 IEC 2023
The tolerances on the current wave shape passing through the device under test are as
follows:
front time T ±20 %;
time to half value T ±20 %.
A small overshoot or oscillation is tolerable provided that the amplitude of any oscillation is
not more than 5 % of the crest value. Any polarity reversal after the current has fallen to zero
shall not be more than 30 % of the crest value.
NOTE For T and T , see IEC 62305-1:2010, Figure A.1.
1 2
6.2 Documentation and installation instructions
6.2.1 General conditions
The content of the installation instructions is checked as per its completeness by review.
6.2.2 Acceptance criteria
Documentation and installation instructions are deemed to be acceptable if they contain the
information given in 5.2.
6.3 Marking test
6.3.1 General test conditions
All three specimens used and complying with tests described in 6.2 shall be subjected to the
marking test:
a) as per its completeness by review, in accordance with 5.3.1 and
b) as per its durability and legibility by rubbing it by hand for 15 s with a piece of cloth
soaked with water and again for 15 s with a piece of cloth soaked with white spirit.
NOTE Marking made by moulding, pressing or engraving is not subjected to the test b).
6.3.2 Acceptance criteria
The specimen is deemed to have passed the test if:
a) the marking contains all the information given in 5.3.1;
b) after the test of 5.3.2, the marking remains fixed and legible.
6.4 Ultraviolet (UV) light resistance
6.4.1 General test conditions
One set of three new specimens shall be assembled and mounted rigidly on an insulating
plate (e.g. brick, polytetrafluoroethylene [PTFE]) in accordance with the manufacturer’s
installation instructions.
Ensure that the surface of the mounting plate is suitable to resist UV radiation.
The specimens shall be subjected to an environmental test consisting of an UV light test as
specified in Annex A.
6.4.2 Acceptance criteria
The specimens are deemed to have passed this part of the test if there are no signs of
disintegration and no cracks visible to normal or corrected vision.
6.5 Resistance tests to corrosion (for metallic parts)
6.5.1 General test conditions
This test is necessary for LSCs having metallic housings or parts designed to be installed
outdoors or in specific environments.
The specimens used and compliant with the test in 6.4 shall be subjected to corrosion tests as
per Annex B.
This only applies to LSCs having housings with metallic parts. For LSCs with metal housings
three new samples are required.
6.5.2 Acceptance criteria
After the parts have been dried during 10 min in a drying oven at a temperature of
100 °C ± 5 °C, they shall not present any trace of rust on surfaces.
Traces of rust on the edges or a yellowish stain removed by rubbing are not taken into
account. White rust is not considered as corrosive deterioration.
6.6 Impact test
6.6.1 General test conditions
All specimens complying with 6.4 or 6.5 shall be stressed three times by a mechanical test.
All specimens are subjected to a mechanical test by applying mechanical impacts.
The impacts are carried out on the LSC’s accessible parts which in use can be mechanically
stressed accidentally.
The specimens are assembled under their normal operating conditions specified in the
manufacturer’s documentation.
The LSC is mounted on a pendulum hammer test apparatus according to
IEC 60068-2-75:2014, Clause 4. The striking element material shall be polyamide as per
IEC 60068-2-75:2014, Table 1 and its mass shall be 250 g as per IEC 60068-2-75:2014,
Table 2, impact energy 0,35 J.
The hammer shall fall from a height of 140 mm so that one impact on each side is applied, as
far as possible perpendicular to the length of the arrangement. The drop height is the vertical
distance between the position of the point of control, when the pendulum is released, and the
position of this point at the time of the impact.
The point of control as per IEC 60068-2-75:2014 is located on the surface of the striking part
where the line passing by the point of intersection of the axes of the steel tube of the
pendulum and the part of striking, perpendicular to the plane crossing the two axes, comes
into contact with the surface.
The impacts are not applied to the display window or to the connectors.
NOTE In theory, the centre of gravity of the striking part will be the point of control but, in practice, as it is difficult
to determine the centre of gravity, the point of control has been chosen as described above.
– 16 – IEC 62561-6:2023 IEC 2023
6.6.2 Acceptance criteria
After the test, the LSC shall show no cracks or similar damage visible to normal or corrected
vision without magnification and shall not present damage which can potentially affect its later
use.
After the test, the LSC shall not have increased nor decreased the count value in the display
(especially for electromechanical LSCs).
6.7 Index of protection confirmation (IP Code)
IP code confirmation shall be performed in accordance with IEC 60529, on the used
specimens and in compliance with the test of 6.6.
The specimens shall be in compliance with IEC 60529 requirements.
6.8 Electrical tests
6.8.1 General test conditions
After the test of 6.7, each specimen shall be tested with the following electrical tests.
LSCs classified as Type I and Type II according to 4.1 shall be tested with their listed impulse
discharge currents and nominal discharge currents.
6.8.2 Minimum discharge current counting test
6.8.2.1 LSC Type I
6.8.2.1.1 General test conditions
For an LSC Type I, an impulse discharge current 10/350 with a crest value equal to I is
imp min
applied with positive and negative polarity.
6.8.2.1.2 Acceptance criteria
The specimens have passed, if the counter of the LSC is incremented by two.
No visible damage shall occur during the tests. There shall be no opening or degradation of
the parts carrying the current or of the housing of the LSC.
6.8.2.2 LSC Type II
6.8.2.2.1 General test conditions
For an LSC Type II, a nominal discharge current 8/20 with a crest value equal to I is
n min
applied with positive and negative polarity.
6.8.2.2.2 Acceptance criteria
The specimens have passed, if the counter of the LSC is incremented by two.
No visible damage shall occur during the tests. There shall be no opening or degradation of
the parts carrying the current or of the housing of the LSC.
6.8.2.3 LSC Type I and Type II
6.8.2.3.1 General test conditions
For an LSC classified as Type I and Type II, the corresponding impulse discharge currents
10/350 and the corresponding nominal discharge currents I 8/20 are applied with
I
imp min n min
positive and negative polarity.
6.8.2.3.2 Acceptance criteria
LSCs classified as Type I and Type II specimens have passed the test, if the counter of LSCs
is incremented by four.
No visible damage shall occur during the tests. There shall be no opening or degradation of
the parts carrying the current or of the housing of the LSC.
6.8.3 Threshold current test
6.8.3.1 LSC Type I
6.8.3.1.1 General test conditions
For an LSC Type I, an impulse discharge current with a crest value equal to 0,5 I
imp min
10/350 is applied with positive polarity and with negative polarity.
6.8.3.1.2 Acceptance criteria
The test is passed, if the counter of the LSC is not incremented.
No visible damage shall occur during the tests. There shall be no opening or degradation of
the parts carrying the current or of the housing of the LSC.
6.8.3.2 LSC Type II
6.8.3.2.1 General test conditions
For an LSC Type II, a nominal discharge current with a crest value equal to 0,5 I 8/20 is
n min
applied with positive polarity and with negative polarity.
6.8.3.2.2 Acceptance criteria
The test is passed, if the counter of the LSC is not incremented.
No visible damage shall occur during the tests. There shall be no opening or degradation of
the parts carrying the current or of the housing of the LSC.
6.8.3.3 LSC Type I and Type II
6.8.3.3.1 General test conditions
For an LSC classified as Type I and Type II, the corresponding impulse discharge current
0,5 I 10/350 and the corresponding nominal discharge current 0,5 I 8/20 are
imp min n min
applied with positive and negative polarity.
6.8.3.3.2 Acceptance criteria
The test is passed, if the counter of the LSC is not incremented.
No visible damage shall occur during the tests. There shall be no opening or degradation of
the parts carrying the current or of the housing of the LSC.
– 18 – IEC 62561-6:2023 IEC 2023
6.8.4 Maximum impulse current counting test
6.8.4.1 LSC Type I
6.8.4.1.1 General test conditions
For an LSC Type I, three impulse discharge currents with a crest value equal to I
imp max
10/350 are applied with positive and negative polarity.
6.8.4.1.2 Acceptance criteria
The specimens have passed, if the counter of the LSC is incremented by six.
No visible damage shall occur during the tests. There shall be no opening or degradation of
the parts carrying the current or of the housing of the LSC.
6.8.4.2 LSC Type II
6.8.4.2.1 General test conditions
For an LSC Type II, three nominal discharge c
...
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