IEC 61992-4:2006

Railway applications - Fixed installations - DC switchgear - Part 4: Outdoor d.c. disconnectors, switch-disconnectors and earthing switches

Specifies requirements for d.c. disconnectors, switch-disconnectors and earthing switches for use in outdoor fixed installations of traction systems.

Applications ferroviaires - Installations fixes - Appareillage à courant continu - Partie 4: Interrupteurs-sectionneurs, sectionneurs et sectionneurs de terre à courant continu, pour usage extérieur

Spécifie les exigences relatives aux sectionneurs à courant continu, interrupteurs-sectionneurs et interrupteurs de mise à la terre utilisés dans les installations fixes extérieures des systèmes de traction.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 06-Feb-2006
• ICS: 45.060.01 - Railway rolling stock in general
• Technical Committee: TC 9 - Electrical equipment and systems for railways
• Current Stage: PPUB - Publication issued
• Start Date: 07-Feb-2006
• Completion Date: 15-Apr-2006

Relations

• Amended By: IEC 61992-4:2006/AMD1:2015 - Amendment 1 - Railway applications - Fixed installations - DC switchgear - Part 4: Outdoor d.c. disconnectors, switch-disconnectors and earthing switches
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023

Overview

IEC 61992-4:2006 is an international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that addresses railway applications, specifically fixed installations of DC switchgear. Part 4 of the IEC 61992 series focuses on the requirements for outdoor d.c. disconnectors, switch-disconnectors, and earthing switches used in traction systems. The standard ensures safety, reliability, and interoperability of these critical components in railway fixed installations handling direct current systems.

The standard specifies design, construction, operational, and testing criteria to support efficient and safe operation under outdoor environmental conditions. It complements other parts of IEC 61992, which cover indoor installations, circuit breakers, and measurement devices related to DC traction systems.

Key Topics

• Scope of Application
  IEC 61992-4 covers outdoor DC switchgear equipment including:

  • DC disconnectors
  • Switch-disconnectors
  • Earthing switches

• Technical Requirements
  The document outlines:

  • Rated values and classes of use for different units
  • Construction details including materials, arcing contacts, clearances, creepage distances, and enclosures suitable for outdoor use
  • Operational requirements such as manual operation means, servo-control options, temperature rise limits, and corrosion protection

• Safety and Performance
  Strict electrical and mechanical endurance criteria are established, alongside dielectric strength and noise emission limits to ensure safe operation in challenging outdoor environments.

• Testing Procedures
  Detailed test sequences are defined to verify conformity with performance requirements. These include electrical endurance tests, operational tests, dielectric tests, and environmental resistance checks.

• Marking & Information
  The standard prescribes labeling and documentation standards that ensure traceability, correct identification, and appropriate application of each unit.

Applications

IEC 61992-4:2006 plays a crucial role in the railway traction industry by providing guidelines for outdoor fixed installations that carry direct current. Applications include:

• Railway Traction Systems
  Ensuring safe electrical disconnection and earthing for traction substations and trackside fixed installations critical for the operational integrity of electric railways.

• Outdoor Electrical Installations in Rail Networks
  Facilitating reliable isolation and earthing operations during maintenance or fault conditions to enhance safety for railway operators and maintenance personnel.

• Integration with DC Switchgear Assemblies
  The standard aligns with related DC switchgear products ensuring seamless interoperability in complex railway electrification systems.

Related Standards

IEC 61992-4 is part of a comprehensive series of standards addressing all aspects of DC switchgear in railway fixed installations:

• IEC 61992-1 – General requirements for DC switchgear in railway applications.
• IEC 61992-2 – Requirements for DC circuit breakers used in traction systems.
• IEC 61992-3 – Standards for indoor DC disconnectors, switch-disconnectors, and earthing switches.
• IEC 61992-5 – Surge arresters and low-voltage limiters for use in DC traction systems.
• IEC 61992-6 – DC switchgear assemblies designed for railway fixed installations.
• IEC 61992-7-x – Measurement, control, and protection devices for DC traction systems addressing various transducers and application guides.

Additionally, electromagnetic compatibility requirements for DC rail applications are covered in EN 50121-5, which is referenced as a complementary standard.

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Keywords: IEC 61992-4, DC switchgear, railway traction system, outdoor disconnectors, switch-disconnectors, earthing switches, fixed railway installations, DC traction, electrical safety, railway electrification standards, IEC railway standards.

Standards Content (Sample)

NORME CEI
INTERNATIONALE
IEC
61992-4
INTERNATIONAL
Première édition
STANDARD
First edition
2006-02
Applications ferroviaires –
Installations fixes –
Appareillage à courant continu –
Partie 4:
Interrupteurs-sectionneurs, sectionneurs et
sectionneurs de terre à courant continu,
pour usage extérieur
Railway applications –
Fixed installations –
DC switchgear –
Part 4:
Outdoor d.c. disconnectors, switch-disconnectors
and earthing switches
Numéro de référence
Reference number
CEI/IEC 61992-4:2006
Numérotation des publications Publication numbering
Depuis le 1er janvier 1997, les publications de la CEI As from 1 January 1997 all IEC publications are
sont numérotées à partir de 60000. Ainsi, la CEI 34-1 issued with a designation in the 60000 series. For
devient la CEI 60034-1. example, IEC 34-1 is now referred to as IEC 60034-1.
Editions consolidées Consolidated editions
Les versions consolidées de certaines publications de la The IEC is now publishing consolidated versions of its
CEI incorporant les amendements sont disponibles. Par publications. For example, edition numbers 1.0, 1.1
exemple, les numéros d’édition 1.0, 1.1 et 1.2 indiquent and 1.2 refer, respectively, to the base publication,
respectivement la publication de base, la publication de the base publication incorporating amendment 1 and
base incorporant l’amendement 1, et la publication de the base publication incorporating amendments 1
base incorporant les amendements 1 et 2. and 2.
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nibles dans le Catalogue des publications de la CEI available in the IEC Catalogue of publications
(voir ci-dessous) en plus des nouvelles éditions, (see below) in addition to new editions, amendments
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NORME CEI
INTERNATIONALE
IEC
61992-4
INTERNATIONAL
Première édition
STANDARD
First edition
2006-02
Applications ferroviaires –
Installations fixes –
Appareillage à courant continu –
Partie 4:
Interrupteurs-sectionneurs, sectionneurs et
sectionneurs de terre à courant continu,
pour usage extérieur
Railway applications –
Fixed installations –
DC switchgear –
Part 4:
Outdoor d.c. disconnectors, switch-disconnectors
and earthing switches
 IEC 2006 Droits de reproduction réservés  Copyright - all rights reserved
Aucune partie de cette publication ne peut être reproduite ni No part of this publication may be reproduced or utilized in any
utilisée sous quelque forme que ce soit et par aucun procédé, form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
électronique ou mécanique, y compris la photocopie et les photocopying and microfilm, without permission in writing from
microfilms, sans l'accord écrit de l'éditeur. the publisher.
International Electrotechnical Commission, 3, rue de Varembé, PO Box 131, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland
Telephone: [phone] Telefax: [phone] E-mail: [e-mail] Web: www.iec.ch
CODE PRIX
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PRICE CODE
Commission Electrotechnique Internationale
International Electrotechnical Commission
МеждународнаяЭлектротехническаяКомиссия
Pour prix, voir catalogue en vigueur
For price, see current catalogue

– 2 – 61992-4  CEI:2006
SOMMAIRE
AVANT-PROPOS .4

1 Domaine d'application.8
2 Références normatives .8
3 Termes et définitions.10
4 Exigences de fonctionnement en service.10
5 Caractéristiques de l'unité.10
5.1 Énumération des caractéristiques .10
5.2 Type d'unité.10
5.3 Valeurs assignées .10
5.4 Catégorie d'emploi.12
5.5 Circuits de commande .14
5.6 Contacts et circuits auxiliaires.16
6 Construction .16
6.1 Généralités.16
6.2 Matériaux .16
6.3 Contacts d'arc .16
6.4 Distances d'isolement et lignes de fuite.16
6.5 Connexions primaires .18
6.6 Emplacements des connexions primaires.18
6.7 Borne de terre .18
6.8 Manœuvre manuelle .18
6.9 Enveloppes de l'unité.18
6.10 Echauffements .18
6.11 Rigidité diélectrique .20
6.12 Endurance mécanique et électrique .20
6.13 Fonctionnement.20
6.14 Protection contre la corrosion .22
6.15 Emission de bruit.22
6.16 Refroidissement .22
6.17 Servocommande (le cas échéant) .22
6.18 Autres dispositifs .22
7 Informations et marquage .24
7.1 Informations .24
7.2 Marquage .24
8 Essais .26
8.1 Généralités.26
8.2 Essais applicables et séquence d'essai.26
8.3 Réalisations des essais .28

Annexe A (informative) Information nécessaire.38

Tableau 1 – Catégories d'unités .14
Tableau 2 – Liste des essais applicables et séquence .26
Tableau 3 – Grandeurs et dimensions recommandées des barres en cuivre.32

61992-4  IEC:2006 – 3 –
CONTENTS
FOREWORD.5

1 Scope.9
2 Normative references.9
3 Terms and definitions.11
4 Service requirements .11
5 Characteristics of the unit .11
5.1 Enumeration of the characteristics .11
5.2 Type of unit .11
5.3 Rated values .11
5.4 Class of use .13
5.5 Control circuits .15
5.6 Auxiliary contacts and circuits .17
6 Construction .17
6.1 General .17
6.2 Materials .17
6.3 Arcing contacts.17
6.4 Clearances and creepage distances.17
6.5 Primary connections .19
6.6 Location of the primary connections .19
6.7 Earthing terminal .19
6.8 Manual operation means.19
6.9 Unit enclosure .19
6.10 Temperature-rises .19
6.11 Dielectric strength.21
6.12 Electrical and mechanical endurance .21
6.13 Operation .21
6.14 Corrosion protection .23
6.15 Noise emission .23
6.16 Cooling.23
6.17 Servo-control (where applicable).23
6.18 Other facilities .23
7 Information and marking .25
7.1 Information .25
7.2 Marking .25
8 Tests .27
8.1 General .27
8.2 Applicable tests and test sequence .27
8.3 Performance of tests .29

Annex A (informative) Information required.39

Table 1 – Categories of units.15
Table 2 – List of applicable tests and sequence.27
Table 3 – Recommended quantities and dimensions of copper bars.33

– 4 – 61992-4  CEI:2006
COMMISSION ÉLECTROTECHNIQUE INTERNATIONALE
____________
APPLICATIONS FERROVIAIRES –
INSTALLATIONS FIXES –
APPAREILLAGE À COURANT CONTINU –

Partie 4: Interrupteurs-sectionneurs, sectionneurs et
sectionneurs de terre à courant continu, pour usage extérieur

AVANT-PROPOS
1) La CEI (Commission Electrotechnique Internationale) est une organisation mondiale de normalisation composée
de l'ensemble des comités électrotechniques nationaux (Comités nationaux de la CEI). La CEI a pour objet de
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responsable de ne pas avoir identifié de tels droits de propriété et de ne pas avoir signalé leur existence.
La Norme internationale CEI 61992-4 a été établie par le comité d’études 9 de la CEI: Matériels
et systèmes électriques ferroviaires.
Le texte de la présente norme est issu de l’EN 50123-4 ainsi que des documents suivants:
FDIS Rapport de vote
9/889/FDIS 9/911/RVD
Le rapport de vote indiqué dans le tableau ci-dessus donne toute information sur le vote ayant
abouti à l'approbation de la présente Norme.

61992-4  IEC:2006 – 5 –
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
RAILWAY APPLICATIONS –
FIXED INSTALLATIONS –
DC SWITCHGEAR –
Part 4: Outdoor d.c. disconnectors,
switch-disconnectors and earthing switches

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
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agreement between the two organizations.
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between any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in
the latter.
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equipment declared to be in conformity with an IEC Publication.
6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
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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.
International Standard IEC 61992-4 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 9: Electrical
equipment and systems for railways.
The text of this standard is based on EN 50123-4 and the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
9/889/FDIS 9/911/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.

– 6 – 61992-4  CEI:2006
Cette publication a été rédigée selon les Directives ISO/CEI, Partie 2.
La CEI 61992 comprend les parties suivantes, présentées sous le titre général Applications
ferroviaires – Installations fixes – Appareillage à courant continu:
Partie 1: Généralités
Partie 2: Disjoncteurs en courant continu
Partie 3: Interrupteurs-sectionneurs, sectionneurs et sectionneurs de terre à courant
continu, pour l'intérieur
Partie 4: Interrupteurs-sectionneurs, sectionneurs et sectionneurs de terre à courant
continu, pour usage extérieur
Partie 5: Parafoudres et limiteurs de tension pour usage spécifique dans les systèmes de
traction à courant continu
Partie 6: Ensembles d’appareillage à courant continu
Partie 7-1: Appareils de mesure, de contrôle et de protection pour usage spécifique dans les
systèmes de traction à courant continu – Guide d'application;
Partie 7-2: Appareils de mesure, de contrôle et de protection pour usage spécifique dans les
systèmes de traction à courant continu – Transducteurs de courant d’isolement et
autres appareils de mesure du courant
Partie 7-3: Appareils de mesure, de contrôle et de protection pour usage spécifique dans les
systèmes de traction à courant continu – Transducteurs de tension d’isolement et
autres appareils de mesure de la tension
Le comité a décidé que le contenu de cette publication ne sera pas modifié avant la date de
maintenance indiquée sur le site web de la CEI sous «http://webstore.iec.ch» dans les données
relatives à la publication recherchée. A cette date, la publication sera
• reconduite;
• supprimée;
• remplacée par une édition révisée, ou
• amendée.
61992-4  IEC:2006 – 7 –
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
IEC 61992 consists of the following parts, under the general title Railway applications – Fixed
installations – DC switchgear:
Part 1: General
Part 2: DC circuit breakers
Part 3: Indoor d.c. disconnectors, switch-disconnectors and earthing switches
Part 4: Outdoor d.c. disconnectors, switch-disconnectors and earthing switches
Part 5: Surge arresters and low-voltage limiters for specific use in d.c. systems
Part 6: DC switchgear assemblies
Part 7-1: Measurement, control and protection devices for specific use in d.c. traction
systems – Application guide
Part 7-2: Measurement, control and protection devices for specific use in d.c. traction
systems – Isolating current transducers and other current measuring devices
Part 7-3: Measurement, control and protection devices for specific use in d.c. traction
systems – Isolating voltage transducers and other voltage measuring devices
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until the
maintenance result date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data
related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed;
• withdrawn;
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
– 8 – 61992-4  CEI:2006
APPLICATIONS FERROVIAIRES –
INSTALLATIONS FIXES –
APPAREILLAGE À COURANT CONTINU –

Partie 4: Interrupteurs-sectionneurs, sectionneurs et
sectionneurs de terre à courant continu, pour usage extérieur

1 Domaine d'application
La présente partie de la CEI 61992 spécifie les exigences relatives aux sectionneurs à courant
continu, interrupteurs-sectionneurs et interrupteurs de mise à la terre utilisés dans les
installations fixes extérieures des systèmes de traction.
NOTE 1 L’EN 50121-5 spécifie les exigences relatives à la compatibilité électromagnétique (CEM).
NOTE 2 Dans la présente norme, le mot «unité» signifie «sectionneur et/ou interrupteur-sectionneur et/ou
sectionneur de terre» selon les définitions données en 3.1.5, 3.1.6 et 3.1.7 de la CEI 61992-1.
2 Références normatives
Les documents de référence suivants sont indispensables pour l'application du présent
document. Pour les références datées, seule l'édition citée s'applique. Pour les références non
datées, la dernière édition du document de référence s'applique (y compris les éventuels
amendements).
CEI 60529:1989, Degrés de protection procurés par les enveloppes (Code IP)
CEI 60694:1996, Spécifications communes aux normes de l’appareillage à haute tension
Amendement 1 (2000)
Amendement 2 (2001)
CEI 60850:2000, Applications ferroviaires – Tensions d'alimentation des réseaux de traction
CEI 60913, Lignes aériennes de traction électrique
CEI 61992-1:2006, Applications ferroviaires – Installations fixes – Appareillage à courant
continu – Partie 1: Généralités
CEI 61992-6:2006, Applications ferroviaires – Installations fixes – Appareillage à courant
continu – Partie 6: Ensembles d’appareillage à courant continu
CEI 62271-102, Appareillage à haute tension – Partie 102: Sectionneurs et sectionneurs de
terre à courant alternatif
EN 50124-1:2001, Applications ferroviaires – Coordination de l’isolement – Partie 1:
Prescriptions fondamentales – Distances d’isolement dans l’air et lignes de fuite pour tout
matériel électrique et électronique
EN 50125-2:2002, Applications ferroviaires – Conditions d'environnement pour le matériel –
Partie 2: Installations électriques fixes

61992-4  IEC:2006 – 9 –
RAILWAY APPLICATIONS –
FIXED INSTALLATIONS –
DC SWITCHGEAR –
Part 4: Outdoor d.c. disconnectors,
switch-disconnectors and earthing switches

1 Scope
This part of IEC 61992 specifies requirements for d.c. disconnectors, switch-disconnectors and
earthing switches for use in outdoor fixed installations of traction systems.
NOTE 1 EN 50121-5 specifies requirements for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC).
NOTE 2 In this standard the word "unit" means "switch-disconnector and/or disconnector and/or earthing switch"
as defined in 3.1.5, 3.1.6 and 3.1.7 of IEC 61992-1.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For
dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of
the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
IEC 60529:1989, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)
IEC 60694:1996, Common specifications for high-voltage switchgear and controlgear standards
Amendment 1 (2000)
Amendment 2 (2001)
IEC 60850:2000, Railway applications – Supply voltage of traction systems
IEC 60913, Electric traction overhead lines
IEC 61992-1:2006, Railway applications – Fixed installations – DC switchgear – Part 1:
General
IEC 61992-6:2006, Railway applications – Fixed installations – DC switchgear – Part 6:
DC switchgear assemblies
IEC 62271-102, High-voltage switchgear and controlgear – Part 102: Alternating current
disconnectors and earthing switches
EN 50124-1:2001, Railway applications – Insulation coordination – Part 1: Basic requirements
– Clearances and creepage distances for electrical and electronic equipment
EN 50125-2:2002, Railway applications – Environmental conditions for equipment – Part 2:
Fixed electrical installations

– 10 – 61992-4  CEI:2006
3 Termes et définitions
Pour les besoins du présent document, les termes et définitions donnés dans la CEI 61992-1
s'appliquent.
4 Exigences de fonctionnement en service
Les matériels couverts par cette norme sont, pour l’essentiel, destinés à des installations
extérieures.
Les exigences énoncées pour les matériels extérieurs dans l’EN 50125-2 ou en 2.1.2 de la
CEI 60694 peuvent êtres utilisées et la CEI 60913 peut être prise en compte. Dans cette norme
le degré de pollution PD 4A (voir l’EN 50124-1) est considéré comme une condition normale.
Dans le cas où les exigences de fonctionnement et la classe d'environnement diffèrent de
celles fixées dans les normes énumérées ci-dessus, elles nécessitent d'être spécifiées, ou
lorsqu'une classe d’environnement particulière est demandée, l'acheteur doit l'indiquer dans
l’appel d’offre. Le fournisseur doit confirmer que l'unité est appropriée aux exigences de
fonctionnement spécifiées.
5 Caractéristiques de l'unité
5.1 Énumération des caractéristiques
Les caractéristiques de l'unité, ses désignations et ses valeurs assignées (le cas échéant) sont
les suivantes:
– type d'appareil (5.2);
– valeurs assignées (5.3);
– catégorie d'emploi (5.4);
– circuits de commande (5.5).
5.2 Type d'unité
Une unité doit être définie par les particularités suivantes (selon les cas):
– si l'unité est un interrupteur-sectionneur, un sectionneur, un sectionneur de terre ou une
combinaison de ces types;
– nombre de pôles;
– nombre de positions (s'il y en a plus de deux);
– présence d'une enveloppe;
– degré de protection assuré par l'enveloppe éventuelle (voir la CEI 60529).
5.3 Valeurs assignées
5.3.1 Généralités
Les valeurs des caractéristiques assignées doivent être spécifiées par l'acheteur. Les valeurs
des tensions d'isolement nominales doivent être choisies parmi celles du Tableau 1 de la
CEI 61992-1; et il convient de prendre les valeurs du courant parmi les valeurs préférentielles
de 5.1.2 de la CEI 61992-1.
Ces valeurs doivent être confirmées par le fabricant, qui doit indiquer les valeurs assignées
pour le type d'unité proposée, et elles doivent être complétées par d'autres données.

61992-4  IEC:2006 – 11 –
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 61992-1 apply.
4 Service requirements
The equipment covered in this standard is mainly intended for outdoor installations.
The requirements given for outdoor equipment in EN 50125-2 or in 2.1.2 of IEC 60694 may be
used and IEC 60913 may be taken into account. In this standard, the pollution degree PD 4A
(see EN 50124-1) is considered as a normal condition.
Where service requirements and environmental class differ from those defined in the above
standards, require to be specified or a particular environmental class is required, the purchaser
shall state this fact in the tender specification. The supplier shall confirm that the unit is
suitable for the service requirements specified.
5 Characteristics of the unit
5.1 Enumeration of the characteristics
The characteristics of the unit and its assigned designations and values (where applicable) are
as follows:
– type of unit (5.2);
– rated values (5.3);
– class of use (5.4);
– control circuits (5.5).
5.2 Type of unit
A unit shall be defined by the following details (where applicable):
– whether the unit is a switch disconnector, disconnector, earthing switch or a combination of
these types;
– number of poles;
– number of positions (if there are more than two);
– provision of an enclosure;
– degree of protection provided by the enclosure, if any (see IEC 60529).
5.3 Rated values
5.3.1 General
The rated characteristic values shall be specified by the purchaser. Rated insulation voltage
values shall be selected from the values indicated in Table 1 of IEC 61992-1; current values
should have one of the preferred values in 5.1.2 of IEC 61992-1.
These values shall be confirmed by the manufacturer, who shall indicate the rated values for
the type of unit proposed, and shall be complemented with other data.

– 12 – 61992-4  CEI:2006
Toutes ces valeurs sont à stipuler selon 5.3.2 à 5.3.4, mais il n'est pas nécessaire de spécifier
toutes les valeurs assignées énumérées.
5.3.2 Tensions
Une unité est définie par les tensions ci-après.
Les tensions nominales et les tensions et limites du système doivent être prises dans la
CEI 60850. Les valeurs d’isolation doivent être prises dans le Tableau 1 de la CEI 61992-1:
– tension nominale U (voir 3.2.1.1 de la CEI 61992-1);
n
– tensions et limites du système (voir 3.2.1.2 de la CEI 61992-1);
– tension assignée U (voir 3.2.1.4 de la CEI 61992-1);
Ne
– tension d'isolement assignée U (cette valeur doit être égale ou supérieure à U (voir
Nm max)
3.2.1.3 de la CEI 61992-1);
– tension assignée de tenue aux chocs U (voir 3.2.1.7 de la CEI 61992-1);
Ni
– niveau de tenue de la tension à fréquence industrielle U (à sec et sous pluie) (voir 3.2.1.8
a
de la CEI 61992-1);
– tensions d'alimentation auxiliaire et de commande (voir 3.2.1.5 de la CEI 61992-1).
5.3.3 Courants
Une unité est définie par les courants ci-dessous.
Les valeurs des courants doivent être choisies en tenant compte de 5.1 de la CEI 61992-1:
– courant thermique conventionnel I , I (voir 3.2.3 et 3.2.4 de la CEI 61992-1);
th the
NOTE 1 Cette caractéristique assignée n'est pas demandée aux sectionneurs de terre.
– courant assigné de service I (voir 3.2.5 de la CEI 61992-1);
Ne
NOTE 2 Cette caractéristique assignée n'est pas demandée aux sectionneurs de terre.
– pouvoirs de coupure et de fermeture assignés (voir 3.2.18 et 3.2.22 de la CEI 61992-1):
• les interrupteurs-sectionneurs et les sectionneurs pour lesquels le fabricant déclare un
pouvoir de fermeture doivent être capables d'établir le courant présumé fixé à une
tension U égale à 1,2 × U ;
ne
• un pouvoir de coupure assigné exige que l'unité soit capable d'interrompre tout courant
d'une valeur inférieure ou égale à ce pouvoir de coupure assigné;
– courant assigné de courte durée admissible I (voir 3.2.7 de la CEI 61992-1);
Ncw
– capacité de surcharge: l'acheteur doit informer le fournisseur des exigences relatives aux
cycles de fonctionnement (voir la CEI 61992-1, 3.2.5, note 2).
5.4 Catégorie d'emploi
Les sectionneurs doivent se fermer et s'ouvrir sans charge, sauf déclaration contraire du
fabricant.
Les interrupteurs-sectionneurs doivent se fermer et s'ouvrir en charge, y compris avec des
charges fortement inductives.
Les deux systèmes doivent disposer de mécanismes à accrochage, soit électrique, soit
mécanique.
Les courants minimaux de coupure, de fermeture et de courte durée admissible des unités
doivent être au moins égaux aux valeurs du Tableau 1 pour la catégorie appropriée.

61992-4  IEC:2006 – 13 –
All these values shall be stipulated in accordance with 5.3.2 to 5.3.4, but it is not necessary to
specify all the listed rated values.
5.3.2 Voltages
A unit is defined by the following voltages.
The nominal voltages and the system voltages and limits shall be taken from IEC 60850. The
insulation values shall be taken from Table 1 of IEC 61992-1:
– nominal voltage U (see 3.2.1.1 of IEC 61992-1);
n
– system voltages and limits (see 3.2.1.2 of IEC 61992-1);
– rated voltage U (see 3.2.1.4 of IEC 61992-1);
Ne
– rated insulation voltage U (this value shall be equal to or higher than U ) (see 3.2.1.3
Nm max
of IEC 61992-1);
– rated impulse withstand voltage U (see 3.2.1.7 of IEC 61992-1);
Ni
– power-frequency voltage withstand level (dry and wet) U (see 3.2.1.8 of IEC 61992-1);
a
– auxiliary and control supply voltages (see 3.2.1.5 of IEC 61992-1).
5.3.3 Currents
A unit is defined by the following currents.
The current values shall be selected taking into account 5.1 of IEC 61992-1:
– conventional thermal current I , I (see 3.2.3 and 3.2.4 of IEC 61992-1);
th the
NOTE 1 Earthing switches are not required to be assigned this rating.
– rated service current I (see 3.2.5 of IEC 61992-1);
Ne
NOTE 2 Earthing switches are not required to be assigned this rating.
– rated breaking and making capacity (see 3.2.18 and 3.2.22 of IEC 61992-1):
• switch-disconnectors and those disconnectors for which the manufacturer declares a
making capacity, shall be able to make the stated prospective current at a voltage U
equal to 1,2 × U ;
Ne
• a rated breaking capacity requires the unit to be able to interrupt any current of a value
lower than or equal to this rated breaking capacity;
– rated short-time withstand current I (see 3.2.7 of IEC 61992-1);
Ncw
– overload capability: the purchaser shall inform the supplier of the load cycle requirements
(see 3.2.5, Note 2 of IEC 61992-1).
5.4 Class of use
Disconnectors shall close and open at no-load except if otherwise declared by the
manufacturer.
Switch-disconnectors shall close and open on-load, including highly inductive loads.
Both devices shall have either electrically latched or mechanically latched mechanisms.
The minimum breaking, making and short-time withstand currents of the units shall be at least
those given in Table 1 for the appropriate category.

– 14 – 61992-4  CEI:2006
Tableau 1 – Catégories d'unités
Pouvoirs
Courant de courte durée admissible
(avec t ≥ 0,01 s)
c
Catégorie
Fermeture Coupure Courant Durée
I 0 0 I / I 0,25 s
Ncw Ncwe
II 0 I I 0,25 s
Ne Ncw
III I I I 0,25 s
Ne Ne Ncw
IV 3 I 3 I I 0,25 s
Ne Ne Ncw
V I 0 I / I 0,25 s
Nss Ncw Ncwe
VI I 3 I I 0,25 s
Nss Ne Ncw
NOTE 1 Sauf spécifications contraire, I a les mêmes caractéristiques assignées que I ou que I pour les
Nss Ncw Ncwe
sectionneurs de terre.
NOTE 2 Une application-type des catégories ci-dessus est la suivante:
Catégorie I: Sectionneur et sectionneur de terre utilisés dans les emplacements où l'acheteur a pris toutes les
précautions pour empêcher une fermeture sur un courant de défaut.
Catégorie II: Interrupteur-sectionneur adapté à la coupure du courant de charge uniquement.
Catégorie III: Interrupteur-sectionneur en série avec la ligne d'alimentation, adapté à la fermeture et à la coupure
du courant assigné uniquement.
Catégorie IV: Interrupteur-sectionneur comme en III, mais adapté à la fermeture et à la coupure du courant de
démarrage du train.
Catégorie V: Sectionneur et sectionneur de terre utilisés dans les emplacements où il y a une possibilité de
fermeture involontaire sur un courant de défaut.
Catégorie VI: Interrupteur-sectionneur comme en IV mais adapté à la fermeture sur un courant de défaut.
NOTE 3 Pour la définition de t : voir 3.2.13 de la CEI 61992-1.
c
5.5 Circuits de commande
Les circuits de commande sont identifiés par les données suivantes:
– la tension des circuits de commande;
– le type de courant (continu ou alternatif);
– la fréquence, en cas de courant alternatif.
La tension de la source d'alimentation et sa fréquence sont les valeurs sur lesquelles sont
basées les performances, le comportement thermique et les caractéristiques d'isolement.
Sauf spécification contraire, la tension doit être conforme à 5.2 de la CEI 61992-1, et la tension
d'isolement assignée, à l’EN 50124-1.
La tension d'alimentation doit être comprise entre 85 % et 110 % de la tension spécifiée
conformément à 5.2 de la CEI 61992-1.
Lorsque la tension de commande est la même que dans le circuit principal, les mêmes
variations que celles du circuit principal s'appliquent.
Le fabricant doit indiquer les valeurs de l'intensité du courant prélevé par les circuits de
commande à la tension spécifiée. Si le courant dans les circuits de commande est intermittent,
la durée de circulation de celui-ci doit être indiquée.

61992-4  IEC:2006 – 15 –
Table 1 – Categories of units
Capacities (with t ≥0,01 s) Short-time withstand current
c
Category
Making Breaking Current Duration
I 0 0 I / I 0,25 s
ncw Ncwe
II 0 I I 0,25 s
Ne Ncw
III I I I 0,25 s
Ne Ne Ncw
IV 3 I 3 I I 0,25 s
Ne Ne Ncw
V I 0 I /I 0,25 s
Nss Ncw Ncwe
VI I 3 I I 0,25 s
Nss Ne Ncw
NOTE 1 Unless otherwise specified I has the same rating as I and I for earthing switches.
Nss Ncw Ncwe
NOTE 2 A typical application of the above categories is the following:
Category I: Disconnector and earthing switch used in locations where the purchaser has taken all precautions to
inhibit making on to a fault current.
C
...

IEC 61992-4 ®
Edition 1.1 2015-09
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Railway applications – Fixed installations – DC switchgear –
Part 4: Outdoor d.c. disconnectors, switch-disconnectors and earthing switches

Applications ferroviaires – Installations fixes – Appareillage à courant continu –
Partie 4: Interrupteurs-sectionneurs, sectionneurs et sectionneurs de terre à
courant continu, pour usage extérieur

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IEC 61992-4 ®
Edition 1.1 2015-09
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Railway applications – Fixed installations – DC switchgear –

Part 4: Outdoor d.c. disconnectors, switch-disconnectors and earthing switches

Applications ferroviaires – Installations fixes – Appareillage à courant continu –

Partie 4: Interrupteurs-sectionneurs, sectionneurs et sectionneurs de terre à

courant continu, pour usage extérieur

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 45.060 ISBN 978-2-8322-2946-0

IEC 61992-4 ®
Edition 1.1 2015-09
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
REDLINE VERSION
VERSION REDLINE
colour
inside
Railway applications – Fixed installations – DC switchgear –
Part 4: Outdoor d.c. disconnectors, switch-disconnectors and earthing switches

Applications ferroviaires – Installations fixes – Appareillage à courant continu –
Partie 4: Interrupteurs-sectionneurs, sectionneurs et sectionneurs de terre à
courant continu, pour usage extérieur

– 2 – IEC 61992-4:2006+AMD1:2015 CSV
 IEC 2015
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 3
1 Scope . 5
2 Normative references. 5
3 Terms and definitions . 5
4 Service requirements . 6
5 Characteristics of the unit . 6
5.1 Enumeration of the characteristics . 6
5.2 Type of unit . 6
5.3 Rated values . 6
5.4 Class of use . 7
5.5 Control circuits . 8
5.6 Auxiliary contacts and circuits . 8
6 Construction . 9
6.1 General . 9
6.2 Materials . 9
6.3 Arcing contacts . 9
6.4 Clearances and creepage distances . 9
6.5 Primary connections . 9
6.6 Location of the primary connections . 9
6.7 Earthing terminal . 10
6.8 Manual operation means . 10
6.9 Unit enclosure . 10
6.10 Temperature-rises . 10
6.11 Dielectric strength . 10
6.12 Electrical and mechanical endurance . 11
6.13 Operation . 11
6.14 Corrosion protection . 12
6.15 Noise emission . 12
6.16 Cooling . 12
6.17 Servo-control (where applicable) . 12
6.18 Other facilities . 12
7 Information and marking . 12
7.1 Information . 12
7.2 Marking . 13
8 Tests . 13
8.1 General . 13
8.2 Applicable tests and test sequence . 13
8.3 Performance of tests . 14
Annex A (informative) Information required . 20

Table 1 – Categories of units . 8
Table 2 – List of applicable tests and sequence . 14
Table 3 – Recommended quantities and dimensions of copper bars . 16

– 3 – IEC 61992-4:2006+AMD1:2015 CSV
 IEC 2015
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
RAILWAY APPLICATIONS –
FIXED INSTALLATIONS –
DC SWITCHGEAR –
Part 4: Outdoor d.c. disconnectors,
switch-disconnectors and earthing switches
FOREWORD
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This consolidated version of the official IEC Standard and its amendment has been prepared
for user convenience.
IEC 61992-4 edition 1.1 contains the first edition (2006-02) [documents 9/889/FDIS and 9/911/
RVD] and its amendment 1 (2015-09) [documents 9/2018/CDV and 9/2067/RVC].
In this Redline version, a vertical line in the margin shows where the technical content is
modified by amendment 1. Additions are in green text, deletions are in strikethrough red text. A
separate Final version with all changes accepted is available in this publication.

– 4 – IEC 61992-4:2006+AMD1:2015 CSV
 IEC 2015
International Standard IEC 61992-4 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 9: Electrical
equipment and systems for railways.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
IEC 61992 consists of the following parts, under the general title Railway applications – Fixed
installations – DC switchgear:
Part 1: General
Part 2: DC circuit breakers
Part 3: Indoor d.c. disconnectors, switch-disconnectors and earthing switches
Part 4: Outdoor d.c. disconnectors, switch-disconnectors and earthing switches
Part 5: Surge arresters and low-voltage limiters for specific use in d.c. systems
Part 6: DC switchgear assemblies
Part 7-1: Measurement, control and protection devices for specific use in d.c. traction
systems – Application guide
Part 7-2: Measurement, control and protection devices for specific use in d.c. traction
systems – Isolating current transducers and other current measuring devices
Part 7-3: Measurement, control and protection devices for specific use in d.c. traction
systems – Isolating voltage transducers and other voltage measuring devices
The committee has decided that the contents of the base publication and its amendment will
remain unchanged until the stability date indicated on the IEC web site under
"http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to the specific publication. At this date, the
publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication 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.

– 5 – IEC 61992-4:2006+AMD1:2015 CSV
 IEC 2015
RAILWAY APPLICATIONS –
FIXED INSTALLATIONS –
DC SWITCHGEAR –
Part 4: Outdoor d.c. disconnectors,
switch-disconnectors and earthing switches

1 Scope
This part of IEC 61992 specifies requirements for d.c. disconnectors, switch-disconnectors and
earthing switches for use in outdoor fixed installations of traction systems.
NOTE 1 EN 50121-5 specifies requirements for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC).
NOTE 2 In this standard the word "unit" means "switch-disconnector and/or disconnector and/or earthing switch"
as defined in 3.1.5, 3.1.6 and 3.1.7 of IEC 61992-1.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For
dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of
the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
IEC 60529:1989, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)
IEC 60694:1996, Common specifications for high-voltage switchgear and controlgear standards
Amendment 1 (2000)
Amendment 2 (2001)
IEC 60850:2000, Railway applications – Supply voltage of traction systems
IEC 60913, Electric traction overhead lines
IEC 61992-1:2006, Railway applications – Fixed installations – DC switchgear – Part 1:
General
IEC 61992-6:2006, Railway applications – Fixed installations – DC switchgear – Part 6:
DC switchgear assemblies
IEC 62271-102, High-voltage switchgear and controlgear – Part 102: Alternating current
disconnectors and earthing switches
EN 50124-1:2001, Railway applications – Insulation coordination – Part 1: Basic requirements
– Clearances and creepage distances for electrical and electronic equipment
EN 50125-2:2002, Railway applications – Environmental conditions for equipment – Part 2:
Fixed electrical installations
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 61992-1 apply.

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4 Service requirements
The equipment covered in this standard is mainly intended for outdoor installations.
The requirements given for outdoor equipment in EN 50125-2 or in 2.1.2 of IEC 60694 may be
used and IEC 60913 may be taken into account. In this standard, the pollution degree PD 4A
(see EN 50124-1) is considered as a normal condition.
Where service requirements and environmental class differ from those defined in the above
standards, require to be specified or a particular environmental class is required, the purchaser
shall state this fact in the tender specification. The supplier shall confirm that the unit is
suitable for the service requirements specified.
5 Characteristics of the unit
5.1 Enumeration of the characteristics
The characteristics of the unit and its assigned designations and values (where applicable) are
as follows:
– type of unit (5.2);
– rated values (5.3);
– class of use (5.4);
– control circuits (5.5).
5.2 Type of unit
A unit shall be defined by the following details (where applicable):
– whether the unit is a switch disconnector, disconnector, earthing switch or a combination of
these types;
– number of poles;
– number of positions (if there are more than two);
– provision of an enclosure;
– degree of protection provided by the enclosure, if any (see IEC 60529).
5.3 Rated values
5.3.1 General
The rated characteristic values shall be specified by the purchaser. Rated insulation voltage
values shall be selected from the values indicated in Table 1 of IEC 61992-1; current values
should have one of the preferred values in 5.1.2 of IEC 61992-1.
These values shall be confirmed by the manufacturer, who shall indicate the rated values for
the type of unit proposed, and shall be complemented with other data.
All these values shall be stipulated in accordance with 5.3.2 to 5.3.4, but it is not necessary to
specify all the listed rated values.
5.3.2 Voltages
A unit is defined by the following voltages.

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The nominal voltages and the system voltages and limits shall be taken from IEC 60850. The
insulation values shall be taken from Table 1 of IEC 61992-1:
– nominal voltage U (see 3.2.1.1 of IEC 61992-1);
n
– system voltages and limits (see 3.2.1.2 of IEC 61992-1);
– rated voltage U (see 3.2.1.4 of IEC 61992-1);
Ne
– rated insulation voltage U (this value shall be equal to or higher than U ) (see 3.2.1.3
Nm max
of IEC 61992-1);
– rated impulse withstand voltage U (see 3.2.1.7 of IEC 61992-1);
Ni
– power-frequency voltage withstand level (dry and wet) U (see 3.2.1.8 of IEC 61992-1);
a
– auxiliary and control supply voltages (see 3.2.1.5 of IEC 61992-1).
5.3.3 Currents
A unit is defined by the following currents.
The current values shall be selected taking into account 5.1 of IEC 61992-1:
– conventional thermal current I , I (see 3.2.3 and 3.2.4 of IEC 61992-1);
th the
NOTE 1 Earthing switches are not required to be assigned this rating.
– rated service current I (see 3.2.5 of IEC 61992-1);
Ne
NOTE 2 Earthing switches are not required to be assigned this rating.
– rated breaking and making capacity (see 3.2.18 and 3.2.22 of IEC 61992-1):
• switch-disconnectors and those disconnectors for which the manufacturer declares a
making capacity, shall be able to make the stated prospective current at a voltage U
equal to 1,2 × U ;
Ne
• a rated breaking capacity requires the unit to be able to interrupt any current of a value
lower than or equal to this rated breaking capacity;
– rated short-time withstand current I (see 3.2.7 of IEC 61992-1);
Ncw
– overload capability: the purchaser shall inform the supplier of the load cycle requirements
(see 3.2.5, Note 2 of IEC 61992-1).
5.4 Class of use
Disconnectors shall close and open at no-load except if otherwise declared by the
manufacturer.
Switch-disconnectors shall close and open on-load, including highly inductive loads.
Both devices shall have either electrically latched or mechanically latched mechanisms.
The minimum breaking, making and short-time withstand currents of the units shall be at least
those given in Table 1 for the appropriate category.

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Table 1 – Categories of units
Capacities (with t ≥0,01 s) Short-time withstand current
c
Category
Making Breaking Current Duration
I 0 0 I / I 0,25 s
ncw Ncwe
II 0 I I 0,25 s
Ne Ncw
III I I I 0,25 s
Ne Ne Ncw
IV 3 I 3 I I 0,25 s
Ne Ne Ncw
V I 0 I /I 0,25 s
Nss Ncw Ncwe
VI I 3 I I 0,25 s
Nss Ne Ncw
NOTE 1 Unless otherwise specified I has the same rating as I and I for earthing switches.
Nss Ncw Ncwe
NOTE 2 A typical application of the above categories is the following:
Category I: Disconnector and earthing switch used in locations where the purchaser has taken all precautions to
inhibit making on to a fault current.
Category II: Switch disconnector required for breaking load current only.
Category III: Switch-disconnector in series with the feeder, required for making and breaking the rated current
only.
Category IV: Switch-disconnector as in III, but required for making and breaking the train starting current.
Category V: Disconnector and earthing switch used in locations where the possibility exists of an inadvertent
make on to a fault current.
Category VI: Switch-disconnector as in IV, but required for making onto a fault current.
NOTE 3 For definition of t , see 3.2.13 of IEC 61992-1.
c
5.5 Control circuits
The control circuits are identified by the following:
– the voltage of the control circuits;
– the kind of current (d.c. or a.c.);
– the frequency, in the case of a.c.
The voltage of the supply source and its frequency are the values on which the performance,
the thermal behaviour and the insulation characteristics are based.
Unless otherwise required, the voltage shall be in accordance with 5.2 of IEC 61992-1 and the
rated insulation voltage shall be in accordance with EN 50124-1.
The supply voltage shall remain within 85 % and 110 % of the voltage in accordance with 5.2 of
IEC 61992-1.
When the control voltage is the same as in the main circuit, the same variations as in the main
circuit apply.
The manufacturer shall indicate the value(s) of the current drawn by the control circuits at the
specified voltage(s). In the case of control circuits which draw current intermittently, the
duration of the current flow shall be given.
5.6 Auxiliary contacts and circuits
Auxiliary circuits are mainly defined by the number of contacts provided, their rating (thermal
current and voltage) and by their characteristics (NO or NC or commutation). Unless otherwise
required, the voltage shall be in accordance with 5.2 of IEC 61992-1 and the rated insulation
voltage shall be in accordance with EN 50124-1.

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The purchaser shall specify the minimum number of auxiliary contacts required.
The auxiliary wiring connected to a circuit at 1 000 V a.c. or 1 500 V d.c. or above shall be
physically separated from those connected to a circuit at a voltage below these limits.
For other characteristics of the auxiliary circuits, the requirements of 5.5 apply.
6 Construction
6.1 General
All apparatus and connections for the safe and satisfactory operation, control and protection of
the equipment concerned, shall be provided whether or not specifically mentioned. The
equipment shall be earthed, insulated, screened or enclosed as may be appropriate to ensure
the protection of the equipment and safety of those concerned in its operation and
maintenance.
Control and auxiliary circuits and contacts shall comply with the requirements of 5.2 of
IEC 61992-1.
6.2 Materials
No materials containing asbestos shall be used in the construction of the switchgear.
NOTE Special attention should be paid to the ability of the material used to resist moisture and fire: materials
used should be of the self-extinguishing type, so that the risk of propagation of fire is minimised (see Annex B of
IEC 61992-1).
6.3 Arcing contacts
Arcing contacts, if any, which are liable to be consumed during arc interruption shall be easy to
replace.
6.4 Clearances and creepage distances
Clearances and creepage distances shall be not lower than those indicated in IEC 61992-1,
Table 1 and Annex D respectively.
NOTE Clearances and creepage distances may be increased to take into account the presence of foreign
substances after the number of operations, in normal and short-circuit conditions, occurring during the normal life-
span between cleaning procedures.
Where applicable, ribs shall be provided in order to break the continuity of conducting deposit
which occurs during operation.
The clearance between open contacts shall be not less than indicated in Clause A.2 by
reference to Table 1, of IEC 61992-1, clearance B. In case of units with double break, the sum
of the two isolating distances in series shall exceed the minimum value required by 25 %.
6.5 Primary connections
The units shall be equipped with fixed or removable (bolted) connections.
6.6 Location of the primary connections
Their position shall be agreed between purchaser and supplier, unless covered by an IEC
standard.
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6.7 Earthing terminal
The frames, the structure and the fixed parts of the metallic enclosures, if any, shall be
connected to each other and to a suitable earthing terminal, placed in an accessible position, in
order to allow earthing.
NOTE This condition may be fulfilled by normal constructional elements ensuring adequate electrical continuity.
The earthing terminal shall be suitably protected against corrosion. The standard earth symbol
shall be adequately and permanently marked.
for 0,25 s.
The earthing terminal shall be capable of carrying the rated earth fault current I
Ncwe
6.8 Manual operation means
All units shall be provided with a manual closing handle for service, emergency and/or
maintenance use as indicated in 6.13.1.
6.9 Unit enclosure
Unit enclosure, when specified by the purchaser or provided by the manufacturer, shall
conform with the requirements of IEC 61992-6 (indoor assemblies). In addition, the enclosure
shall have a degree of protection appropriate to outdoor conditions in accordance with
IEC 60529.
6.10 Temperature-rises
6.10.1 Limits
For switch-disconnectors and disconnectors the temperature-rise shall be 30 K less than the
values given in Clause 6 of IEC 61992-1.
NOTE The reduction is due to the combined effect of the solar radiation and of the increase of oxidation in open
air.
An allowance of 10 K is applicable to those contacts which have successfully completed the
test given in 8.3.5.
6.10.2 Main circuit
The main circuit of a unit, including all electrically connected parts, shall be able to carry its
rated currents I I or I . It shall also comply with the load cycle which may be specified by
Ne, th the
the purchaser (see 3.2.5 of IEC 61992-1).
6.10.3 Control circuit
The control circuit, as well as the control devices, used for the opening and closing operations
of a unit shall not exceed the rated temperature-rises, during their operation.
6.10.4 Auxiliary circuits
The auxiliary circuits, as well as the auxiliary devices, shall withstand their conventional
thermal current (for switching devices) or their rated service current (for other equipment),
without exceeding the rated temperature-rises.
6.11 Dielectric strength
Dielectric strength shall conform to the values given in Table 1 of IEC 61992-1, taking into
account that power frequency withstand values are also for wet conditions.

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6.12 Electrical and mechanical endurance
The unit shall be capable of carrying out the following number of operations when tested in
accordance with 7.3.2 and 7.3.3 of IEC 61992-1:
a) for checking of mechanical endurance, without current in the main circuit, the following
operating cycles shall be performed:
1) dependent manually operated units only: 100;
2) independent power operated units: 1 000;
b) for checking of electrical endurance, with the rated service current I (or if agreed with I
Ne th
or I ) in the main circuit, the following operating cycles shall be performed (see 8.3.5):
the
1) switch-disconnectors: 50 minimum;
The test shall consist of carrying out the above number of operating cycles in groups of
no less than 10 CO operations at no greater than 180 s intervals. For current ratings
higher than 4 000 A, the group number may be reduced subject to agreement between
purchaser and supplier.
c) for checking of correct operation under ice conditions, the unit after having been placed,
closed, in a chamber to reach the conditions given in 8.3.7, shall be iced up and then
opened; then the unit shall be iced up again and then closed.
The class of ice coating required shall be specified by the purchaser according to 2.1.2 of
IEC 60694 from one of the following:
1 mm for class 1;
10 mm for class 10;
20 mm for class 20.
6.13 Operation
6.13.1 Opening and closing operations
The following operation types exist:
a) manually dependent operated units;
b) power-operated units with no manual back-up;
c) manually non-dependent units;
d) power-operated units with non-dependent manual back-up;
e) power-operated units with dependent manual back-up.
The units given in items b), c) and d) may be either disconnectors or switch-disconnectors.
The units given in items a) and e) are disconnectors only.
The units given in items a) and c) shall be provided with a service handle. The units given in d)
shall have an emergency handle. All units shall be equipped with facilities for manual closing
during maintenance procedures.
The purchaser shall specify the operation type required.
For power-operated units, the operation shall operate correctly for any voltage value as
indicated in 5.5.
Earthing-switches shall not employ mechanism of types a) and e).

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6.13.2 Padlock
If a padlock system is provided for locking in one or several positions, preventing any
unauthorised operation, this unit shall be designed to receive padlocks, the number and the
characteristics of which are indicated by the purchaser.
6.14 Corrosion protection
Steelworks and other materials of the equipment shall be treated in accordance with an
approved type of corrosion protection.
Purchasers may have their own specification, in which case the supplier shall either comply or
offer an equivalent specification.
6.15 Noise emission
Noise emission from all equipment shall be minimised. The level of the noise emission during
breaking in normal operation at rated service current I shall be given by the supplier, if
Ne
required by the purchaser.
6.16 Cooling
Unless otherwise agreed between purchaser and supplier, all equipment is expected to be
naturally cooled.
6.17 Servo-control (where applicable)
The servo-control shall be mounted either on the unit or on a structure on which the unit is also
mounted. This structure shall be earthed.
6.18 Other facilities
The units shall have the following facilities:
a) a latching device either electrical, magnetic or mechanical;
b) a mechanical indicator coupled to the moving contact or equivalent means to indicate the
"closed" and the "open” position of the unit. Symbols "I" and "O" or "ON" and "OFF" should
be used to indicate the closed and open positions respectively; this indicator is not
compulsory when the isolating distance or gap on the unit is visible with the unit in the
installation conditions;
c) means for earthing the unit structure through an earthing terminal (see 6.7).
Units may have an operation counter.
In addition to the number of auxiliary switch contacts required for normal operating circuits of
the unit, the manufacturer shall provide an additional two contacts for remote control and
monitoring circuits. The number and type of contacts in addition to these shall be subject to
agreement between the purchaser and the supplier.
7 Information and marking
7.1 Information
Both parties shall exchange any necessary information in order to ensure that the unit is
suitable for the intended duty. This information is given in general in Clause 5 and with regard
to particular features or alternative choices for the contents in Clause 6. A summary of this
information is provided in Annex A.

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7.2 Marking
Each unit shall be indelibly marked.
The following indications shall be placed on the unit itself or on one or more rating plates
attached to the unit:
a) name of the manufacturer or trademark;
b) the reference to this part of IEC 61992 corresponding to any other standard with which the
manufacturer declares compliance;
c) class and category (see 5.4);
d) serial number designation;
e) year of manufacture;
f) rated voltage(s) U ;
Ne
g) auxiliary and control supply voltages;
h) rated service/thermal current, I , I or I ;
Ne th the
i) rated breaking current, if applicable;
j) rated making current, if applicable;
k) rated short-time withstand current I ;
Ncw
l) weight of the complete unit and of each separately removable part;
m) input and output terminals, unless they can be connected either way;
n) earth terminal, if applicable, by the symbol;
o) compliance to service requirements differing from those indicated as normal (see Clause 4
of IEC 61992-1) (on a separate label if convenient).
All necessary labelling shall also be provided as necessary for the purposes of safety,
identification, instruction and information. Lifting attachments shall be marked.
The serial number and designation shall be visible after installation of the unit. The other
markings shall be visible at least before installation.
8 Tests
8.1 General
General requirements concerning tests are shown in Clause 7 of IEC 61992-1.
Unless otherwise indicated, the tests shall be performed at the rated service values: current,
voltage, frequency (if applicable), air pressure (if applicable). This applies to all complete units
(main, control and auxiliary) and in accordance with the values indicated in Clause 5.
The test variables shall be within the tolerances indicated in Table 6 of IEC 61992-1.
8.2 Applicable tests and test sequence
The applicable tests are summarized in Table 2 and the tests shall be performed in the order
given in Table 2 for each sequence group. Nevertheless, each test sequence shall be carried
out on a new or maintained unit.

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Table 2 – List of applicable tests and sequence
Kind
Group Test description Subclause reference
D, ES SD
General operating characteristics
Verification of conformity to the manufacturing drawings T – R T – R 8.3.1.1
Measurement of the resistance T – R T – R 8.3.1.2
Mechanical operation T – R T – R 8.3.2
Dielectric test  8.3.3
Impulse withstand voltage T – I T – I 8.3.3.2
1 Power-frequency voltage (dry) R R 8.3.3.3
Power-frequency voltage (wet) T T 8.3.3.3
a
Temperature-rise T T 8.3.4
Electrical endurance  – T 8.3.5
Mechanical endurance T T 8.3.6
Operation in ice conditions T T 8.3.7
a a
Verification of degree of protection of unit housing T T IEC 60529
Overcurrent behaviour
b
Verification of the rated making and breaking capacities T T 8.3.8
Verification of the behaviour under short-time withstand T T 8.3.9
current
3 Verification of the sturdiness of the manual control T T 8.3.10
device and reliability of the position indicator
a
If applicable.
b
If declared by the manufacturer.
NOTE T = Type test
R = Routine test
I = Investigation test
ES = Earthing Switch
D = Disconnector
SD = Switch-Disconnector
8.3 Performance of tests
8.3.1 Verification of the conformity to the manufacturing drawings and to
characteristics of the unit
8.3.1.1 Verification of the conformity to the manufacturing drawings
The unit to be tested shall comply in all essential details with the drawings of the type which
they represent.
8.3.1.2 Measurement of the resistance of the main circuit
Resistance measurements of the main circuit shall be made with the unit at ambient
temperature.
The tests shall be carried out according the requirements of 6.4.1 of IEC 60694.
NOTE This measurement is also required both before and after each test in 8.3.5, 8.3.8 and 8.3.9.

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8.3.1.3 Measurement of the resistance of the coils (if any) at ambient temperature
Measurements shall be taken at ambient temperature and shall be corrected to a measurement
for a temperature of 35 °C.
8.3.2 Mechanical operation test
This test is carried out at the laboratory ambient temperature in accordance with 7.3.1 of
IEC 61992-1.
NOTE This test is intended to prove the correct operation of the unit and that the unit complies with the operating
conditions stipulated.
Electrically-powered control devices, if any, shall be checked for correct operation within the
maximum and minimum voltage limits specified.
The opening and closing times (when indicated) shall be verified.
This test is repeated, when required and as type test, for abnormal operating conditions
(see 7.3.1 of IEC 61992-1).
If the switching device and its manual or motor operated drive are supplied as separate units
(e.g. for pole mounted switches), the mechanical operation routine test of the whole assembly
may be performed at site.
8.3.3 Dielectric tests
8.3.3.1 General
Dielectric tests shall be in accordance with 7.5 of IEC 61992-1, with the following qualifications.
Dielectric tests shall be carried out on a new unit, mounted as in service conditions. Where the
supporting structure of the unit is made of insulating material, suitable metallic pieces shall be
inserted on the fixing point simulating the installation conditions.
8.3.3.2 Impulse withstand voltage test
This test is a type test only for units having values of U greater than 2 500 V and is an
Nm
investigation test in all other cases.
The tests shall be performed in accordance with the requirements of 7.5.1 of IEC 61992-1 both
in the open and closed positions.
8.3.3.3 Power-frequency voltage withstand test
These tests are type tests in wet conditions and routine tests in dry conditions (see 7.5.2 of
IEC 61992-1).
8.3.3.3.1 Main circuit
This test shall be carried out in accordance with 7.5.2 of IEC 61992-1 both in the open and
closed positions.
8.3.3.3.2 Control and auxiliary circuits
The test voltage is applied for 60 s in the following conditions:
a) between all the interconnected auxiliary and control circuits, which are not normally
connected to the main circuit, and the unit metallic frame;

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b) if an auxiliary circuit is intended to be physically segregated or fully isolated from the
remaining auxiliary circuits, then the test is between this circuit and the remainder;
c) all equipment having previously satisfac
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