IEC 60974-12:2022
(Main)Arc welding equipment - Part 12: Coupling devices for welding cables
Arc welding equipment - Part 12: Coupling devices for welding cables
IEC 60974-12:2022 is applicable to coupling devices for cables used in arc welding and allied processes, designed for connection and disconnection without using tools. This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2011. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
- updated Table 1 to include 100 % duty cycle;
- updated Annex A to provide more detail.
Matériel de soudage à l'arc - Partie 12: Dispositifs de connexion pour câbles de soudage
L'IEC 60974-12:2022 s'applique aux dispositifs de connexion pour câbles utilisés lors du soudage et des techniques connexes conçus pour assurer les opérations de connexion et de déconnexion sans emploi d'outils. Cette quatrième édition annule et remplace la troisième édition parue en 2011. Cette édition constitue une révision technique. Cette édition inclut les modifications techniques majeures suivantes par rapport à l'édition précédente:
- mise à jour du Tableau 1 pour inclure le facteur de marche de 100 %;
- mise à jour de l'Annexe A pour fournir plus de détails.
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IEC 60974-12 ®
Edition 4.0 2022-07
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
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inside
Arc welding equipment –
Part 12: Coupling devices for welding cables
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IEC 60974-12 ®
Edition 4.0 2022-07
REDLINE VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Arc welding equipment –
Part 12: Coupling devices for welding cables
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 25.160.30 ISBN 978-2-8322-3980-3
– 2 – IEC 60974-12:2022 RLV © IEC 2022
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms and definitions . 6
4 Environmental conditions . 7
5 Type Tests . 7
5.1 Test conditions . 7
5.2 Measuring instruments . 7
5.3 Test sequence . 7
6 Designation . 7
7 Protection against electric shock . 8
7.1 Voltage rating . 8
7.2 lnsulation resistance . 8
7.3 Dielectric strength . 9
7.3.1 General requirement . 9
7.3.2 Additional requirements for ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE or ARC STABILIZING
VOLTAGE rating . 9
7.4 Protection of live parts against unintentional contact . 9
8 Thermal rating . 10
8.1 Temperature rise . 10
8.2 Resistance to hot objects . 10
9 Mechanical requirements . 11
9.1 RETAINING MEANS . 11
9.2 Welding cable entry . 11
9.3 Penetration of the welding cable insulation . 11
9.4 Welding cable connection . 11
9.5 Crush strength . 12
9.6 Dimensions . 12
10 Marking . 12
11 Instructions for use . 13
Annex A (normative) Dimensions . 14
Bibliography . 17
Figure 1 – Device for testing the resistance to hot objects . 10
Figure A.1 – Male element . 14
Figure A.2 – Female element . 14
Figure A.3 – Type 1 locking pin maximum outline shape . 15
Figure A.4 – Type 2 locking pin maximum outline shape . 16
Figure A.5 – Type 3 locking pin maximum outline shape . 16
Table 1 – Relation between COUPLING DEVICE test current and welding cables' cross-
sectional area . 8
Table 2 – Voltage rating of COUPLING DEVICES . 8
Table 3 – Crush force . 12
Table A.1 – Dimensions for Figure A.1, Figure A.2, Figure A.3, Figure A.4, and
Figure A.5 . 15
– 4 – IEC 60974-12:2022 RLV © IEC 2022
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
ARC WELDING EQUIPMENT –
Part 12: Coupling devices for welding cables
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,
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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 60974-12:2011. 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 60974-12 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 26: Electric welding. It is an
International Standard.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2011. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) updated Table 1 to include 100 % duty cycle;
b) updated Annex A to provide more detail.
The text of this document is based on the following documents:
Draft Report on voting
26/734/FDIS 26/736/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.
In this document, the following print types are used:
– conformity statements: in italic type.
– terms used throughout this document which have been defined in Clause 3: SMALL ROMAN
CAPITALS.
A list of all parts of the IEC 60974 series can be found, under the general title Arc welding
equipment, 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
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contents. Users should therefore print this document using a colour printer.
– 6 – IEC 60974-12:2022 RLV © IEC 2022
ARC WELDING EQUIPMENT –
Part 12: Coupling devices for welding cables
1 Scope
This part of IEC 60974 is applicable to COUPLING DEVICES for cables used in arc welding and
allied processes, designed for connection and disconnection without using tools.
This part of IEC 60974 specifies safety and performance requirements of COUPLING DEVICES.
This part of IEC 60974 is not applicable to COUPLING DEVICES for underwater welding.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies.
For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60050-151, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) – Part 151: Electrical and
magnetic devices
IEC 60529, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)
IEC 60974-1:2021, Arc welding equipment – Part 1: Welding power sources
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 60050-151 and
IEC 60974-1, as well as the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological 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
COUPLING DEVICE
device connecting two welding cables together or connecting a welding cable to welding
equipment
3.2
RETAINING MEANS
mechanical arrangement that holds the COUPLING DEVICE in position and prevents an
unintentional withdrawal, when properly connected
3.3
ARC STRIKING and stabilizing VOLTAGE
voltage superimposed on the welding circuit to initiate or maintain ignite the arc
3.4
ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE
voltage superimposed on the arc voltage to maintain the arc
4 Environmental conditions
The COUPLING DEVICE shall be capable of operation when the following environmental conditions
prevail:
a) range of ambient air temperature:
– during operation: −10 °C to + 40 °C;
b) relative humidity of the air: up to 90 % at 20 °C.
The coupling device shall withstand storage and transport at an ambient air temperature
of –20 °C to + 55 °C without any damage to function and performance.
5 Type Tests
5.1 Test conditions
All type tests shall be carried out on the same new and completely assembled COUPLING DEVICE.
All type tests shall be carried out at an ambient air temperature between 10 °C and 40 °C.
The accuracy of measuring instruments shall be:
a) electrical measuring instruments: class 1 (± 1 % of full-scale reading), except for the
measurement of insulation resistance and dielectric strength where the accuracy of the
instruments is not specified, but shall be taken into account for the measurement;
b) temperature measuring devices: ± 2 K.
5.2 Measuring instruments
As specified in 5.2 of IEC 60974-1:2021.
5.3 Test sequence
The type tests given below shall be carried out in the following sequence:
a) general visual inspection;
b) temperature rise, see 8.1;
c) crush strength, see 9.5;
d) insulation resistance, see 7.2;
e) dielectric strength, see 7.3.
The other type tests in this document not mentioned above may can be carried out in any
convenient sequence.
6 Designation
COUPLING DEVICES shall be designated by the range of cross-sectional area of the welding cable
intended to be connected. The test current at an ambient air temperature of 40 °C is given in
Table 1 based on maximum cross-section area. The welding COUPLING DEVICE shall accept the
minimum cross-sectional area as given in Table 1. It is possible that a reduced minimum cross-
sectional area may be reduced specified to extend the COUPLING DEVICE fitting range.
– 8 – IEC 60974-12:2022 RLV © IEC 2022
NOTE Current capacity of welding cables is given in Table D.4 of EN 50565-1:2014. The 60 % duty cycle current
rating relates to 25 °C of this table.
Table 1 – Relation between COUPLING DEVICE test current
and welding cables' cross-sectional area
Range of cross-sectional area COUPLING DEVICE test current
at 60 % duty cycle
A
mm
1 to 6 80
up 6 to 10 125
10 to 16 150
16 to 25 200
25 to 35 250
35 to 50 300
50 to 70 400
70 to 95 500
95 to 120 600
NOTE Welding cables are rated based on cross-sectional area. Test current is
defined in order that COUPLING DEVICE withstands the rated current of the welding
cable.
Conformity shall be checked by measurement.
7 Protection against electric shock
7.1 Voltage rating
COUPLING DEVICES shall be rated in accordance with the process as given in Table 2 and the
ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE and or ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE if applicable.
Table 2 – Voltage rating of COUPLING DEVICES
Insulation Degree of
Process Voltage rating Dielectric strength
resistance protection in
accordance with
V peak MΩ V RMS
IEC 60529
All processes
except plasma 113 2,5 1 000 IP 3X
cutting
Plasma cutting 500 2,5 2 100 IP 3X
7.2 lnsulation resistance
The insulation resistance of a new COUPLING DEVICE shall, after the humidity treatment, be not
less than 2,5 MΩ.
Conformity shall be checked by the following test.
a) Humidity treatment
A humidity cabinet is maintained at a temperature t between 20 °C and 30 °C and a relative
humidity between 91 % and 95 %.
The COUPLING DEVICE without cables fitted is brought to a temperature between t and t + 4 K
and is then placed for 48 h in the humidity cabinet.
b) Insulation resistance measurement
Immediately after the humidity treatment, the COUPLING DEVICE is wiped clean and tightly
wrapped in a metal foil covering the external surface of the insulation.
The insulation resistance is measured by application of a DC voltage of 500 V between the
live parts and the metal foil, the reading being made after stabilization of the measurement.
7.3 Dielectric strength
7.3.1 General requirement
The insulation shall withstand an AC test voltage of 2 100 V RMS for plasma cutting or 1 000 V
RMS for all other processes without flashover or break down. Any discharges unaccompanied
by a voltage drop are disregarded.
Conformity shall be checked by the following test.
The COUPLING DEVICE is wiped clean and tightly wrapped in a metal foil covering the external
surface of the insulation.
The AC test voltage shall be of an approximate sine waveform with a peak value not exceeding
1,45 times the RMS value, having a frequency of 50 Hz or 60 Hz, applied for 1 min between the
live parts and the metal foil.
7.3.2 Additional requirements for ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE and or ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE
rating
For couplers for use with ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE and or ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE, the insulation
shall withstand the rated peak ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE and or ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE as rated
by the manufacturer. The insulation shall withstand a high frequency voltage of pulse width
0,2 µs to 8 µs, a repetition frequency of 50 Hz to 300 Hz and shall be 20 % higher than the
rated peak ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE and or ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE as determined by the
manufacturer.
Conformity shall be checked by the following test.
For couplers intended for use with ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE and or ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE, the
couplers shall be subjected to the high-frequency test voltage. The full value of the
high-frequency voltage is applied for 2 s between the electrode circuit, and
a) conductive surfaces;
b) other isolated circuits.
Flashover or breakdown shall not occur. Any discharges unaccompanied by a voltage drop
(corona) are disregarded.
Alternatively, for couplers intended for use with ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE and or ARC STABILIZING
VOLTAGE, an AC test voltage of approximately sine waveform at 50 Hz or 60 Hz may can be
used.
7.4 Protection of live parts against unintentional contact
Parts designed to carry welding current and likely to be live after disconnection shall be
recessed to a depth of at least 10 % of the internal diameter of the insulation with a minimum
depth of 2 mm with respect to the insulating body.
As a consequence, insulation has to shall be able to withstand normal service conditions so
that the protecting length is maintained during the life of the COUPLING DEVICE.
– 10 – IEC 60974-12:2022 RLV © IEC 2022
Conformity shall be checked by linear measurement and visual inspection.
8 Thermal rating
8.1 Temperature rise
The temperature rise caused by the current passing through a COUPLING DEVICE normally
coupled and fitted with an untinned copper welding cable of maximum cross-sectional area as
indicated in Table 1 shall not exceed 45 K at the hottest spot of the external surface.
Conformity shall be checked by the following test.
COUPLING DEVICE is normally coupled and fitted with at least 2 m long welding cables. The
The
COUPLING DEVICE is suspended by its welding cables from two wooden laths 1 m apart, hanging
between the two laths in the horizontal plane about 200 mm above the ground in a draught-free
area.
A continuous DC current equal to 75 % of the test current (equivalent to approximately 60 %
duty cycle) is passed through the COUPLING DEVICE until the rate of the temperature rise does
not exceed 2 K/h. During the total test time, the DC current shall be kept constant with a
tolerance of ± 2 %.
8.2 Resistance to hot objects
The insulation shall be capable of withstanding hot objects and the effects of a normal amount
of weld spatter without being ignited or becoming unsafe.
Conformity shall be checked with a device in accordance with Figure 1.
Dimensions in millimetres
Key
1 18/8 chrome-nickel steel rod
2 COUPLING DEVICE
θ test temperature
Figure 1 – Device for testing the resistance to hot objects
An electric current (of approximately 25 A) is passed through the 18/8 chrome-nickel steel rod
+5
until a steady-state temperature θ of 300 °C is reached. During the test, the temperature of
the heated rod shall be maintained. This temperature will be measured by a contact
thermometer or thermocouple.
The heated rod in a horizontal position is then applied for 2 min to the insulation at the weakest
point (for example, minimum insulation thickness and closest distance to live parts). The heated
rod shall not penetrate through the insulation and contact live parts.
An attempt is made to ignite any gases which may can be emitted in the region of the contact
point by means of an electric spark or small flame. If the gases are flammable, the burning shall
stop as soon as the heated rod is removed.
9 Mechanical requirements
9.1 RETAINING MEANS
A RETAINING MEANS shall be provided to prevent the unintentional separation of the COUPLING
DEVICE as a result of a longitudinal pull.
NOTE If possible, indicating marks, for example two lines opposite each other, should show by visual inspection
that the RETAINING MEANS has functioned.
Conformity shall be checked by manual operation and visual inspection.
9.2 Welding cable entry
The cable entry of a cable coupler shall be designed to prevent damage to the cable due to
flexing insulation causing exposed conductors.
Conformity shall be checked by bending the cable through an angle of 90°. Verify that there are
no exposed conductors by visual inspection.
9.3 Penetration of the welding cable insulation
The design of cable couplers shall be such that the insulation of the cables can enter to a depth
of at least twice the outer diameter of the welding cable with a minimum of 30 mm.
Conformity shall be checked by measurement with a welding cable of the maximum cross-
sectional area as specified by the manufacturer.
9.4 Welding cable connection
The design of the COUPLING DEVICE shall be such that welding cables with a cross-sectional area
within the range as specified by the manufacturer can be replaced. The connection shall
withstand the mechanical stress of the tensile test without separation.
Conformity shall be checked by visual inspection and by the following test.
A plug, a connector or a plug connector is fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions, with a welding cable of maximum cross-sectional area. The connection is subjected
to 10 pulls with a force of 40 N/mm of the cross-sectional area with a maximum of 2 000 N
applied to the welding cable. The force of each pull is gradually increased from zero to the
specified value in 1 s and maintained for 1 s.
After the test, the conductor shall not have been noticeably displaced by more than 2 mm.
This test shall be repeated with a welding cable having the minimum permissible cross-sectional
area as specified by the manufacturer.
If more than one method of cable fixing is provided, all methods shall be tested.
– 12 – IEC 60974-12:2022 RLV © IEC 2022
9.5 Crush strength
COUPLING DEVICES shall withstand the mechanical stress of the crush test without the insulation
being destroyed or the mechanical functioning being impaired.
Conformity shall be checked by the following test, manual operation and visual inspection.
A cable coupler connected and fitted, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, with
welding cables of maximum cross-sectional area is placed between the parallel plates of a
press, the axis of the cable coupler being at a right angle to the direction of the crush force.
The crush force is applied and gradually increased up can be slowly raised over a maximum
period of 10 s to the full value given in Table 3 . This crush force shall be maintained at the full
value for 10 s.
Table 3 – Crush force
Cross-sectional area of welding cable Crush force
N
mm
up to 25 1 200
25 to 50 1 500
above 50 2 000
This test shall be repeated with a welding cable of minimum cross-sectional area as specified
by the manufacturer.
9.6 Dimensions
COUPLING DEVICES shall be designed in accordance with dimensions given in Annex A.
10 Marking
The following information shall be legibly and indelibly marked on COUPLING DEVICES designed
to be attached to welding cables:
a) name of the manufacturer, distributor, importer or the registered trademark;
b) maximum permissible cross-sectional area of the welding cable;
c) minimum permissible cross-sectional area of the welding cable;
d) rated peak ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE and or ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE if applicable;
e) reference to this document, confirming that the COUPLING DEVICE complies with the
requirements.
For COUPLING DEVICES having a maximum permissible cross-sectional area less than or equal
to 16 mm , the dimensions of which are such that it is not possible to put on all the markings
clearly, item c) can be omitted and shown on the packing or in the literature.
COUPLING DEVICES designed to be mounted on a panel need shall not be marked.
Conformity shall be checked by reading the marking.
11 Instructions for use
Each COUPLING DEVICE shall be delivered with an instruction sheet which includes the following
information:
a) correct coupling and uncoupling of the COUPLING DEVICE;
b) correct connection of the welding cable;
c) choice of welding cable, type and size;
d) relation of permissible current and duty cycle.
Conformity shall be checked by reading the instructions.
– 14 – IEC 60974-12:2022 RLV © IEC 2022
Annex A
(normative)
Dimensions
COUPLING DEVICES in accordance with this document shall have the dimensions as specified in
Figure A.1, Figure A.2, Figure A.3, Figure A.4, Figure A.5 and in Table A.1.
NOTE The locking pin can be optionally cylindrical, conical or prismatic.
Figure A.1 – Male element
Figure A.2 – Female element
Dimensions and details not specified in Figure A.1 and Figure A.2 and Table A.1 are left to the
discretion of the manufacturer.
Table A.1 – Dimensions for Figure A.1, Figure A.2, Figure A.3,
Figure A.4, and Figure A.5
Dimension in millimetres or degrees
Dimension
Type 1 Type 2 Type 3
α 4 5 1°40'
r 0,4 0,4 0,4
+0,08 +0,08 +0,08
d 9 13 15
+0,02 +0,02 +0,02
R max. 5,6 8,7 10
N max. 16 27 30
M max. 26 40 45
H max. 11 10,5 15,5 15,47 17,5
G min. 6,5 7 7
F min. 2 2,5 6
+0,1 +0,1 +0,1
E + r
4, 65 10, 04 15
0 0 0
−0,01 −0,01 −0,01
D 9 13 15
−01, −01, −01,
C max. 4,5 5,2 6
C2 max. 3,6 4,4 -
B max. 4,5 5,2 6
L max. 12 20 26
The locking pin can by cylindrical, conical or prismatic and shall not violate the maximum
outlines specified in Figure A.3, Figure A.4, and Figure A.5.
NOTE The locking pin shape does not necessarily follow the max outline shape.
Figure A.3 – Type 1 locking pin maximum outline shape
– 16 – IEC 60974-12:2022 RLV © IEC 2022
Figure A.4 – Type 2 locking pin maximum outline shape
Figure A.5 – Type 3 locking pin maximum outline shape
Bibliography
IEC Guide 116, Guidelines for safety related risk assessment and risk reduction for low voltage
equipment
EN 50565-1:2014, Electric cables – Guide to use for cables with a rated voltage not exceeding
450/750 V (U0/U) – Part 1: General guidance
___________
IEC 60974-12 ®
Edition 4.0 2022-07
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Arc welding equipment –
Part 12: Coupling devices for welding cables
Matériel de soudage à l'arc –
Partie 12: Dispositifs de connexion pour câbles de soudage
– 2 – IEC 60974-12:2022 © IEC 2022
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms and definitions . 6
4 Environmental conditions . 7
5 Tests . 7
5.1 Test conditions . 7
5.2 Measuring instruments . 7
5.3 Test sequence . 7
6 Designation . 7
7 Protection against electric shock . 8
7.1 Voltage rating . 8
7.2 lnsulation resistance . 8
7.3 Dielectric strength . 9
7.3.1 General requirement . 9
7.3.2 Additional requirements for ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE or ARC STABILIZING
VOLTAGE rating . 9
7.4 Protection of live parts against unintentional contact . 9
8 Thermal rating . 10
8.1 Temperature rise . 10
8.2 Resistance to hot objects . 10
9 Mechanical requirements . 11
9.1 RETAINING MEANS . 11
9.2 Welding cable entry . 11
9.3 Penetration of the welding cable insulation . 11
9.4 Welding cable connection . 11
9.5 Crush strength . 11
9.6 Dimensions . 12
10 Marking . 12
11 Instructions for use . 13
Annex A (normative) Dimensions . 14
Bibliography . 17
Figure 1 – Device for testing the resistance to hot objects . 10
Figure A.1 – Male element . 14
Figure A.2 – Female element . 14
Figure A.3 – Type 1 locking pin maximum outline shape . 15
Figure A.4 – Type 2 locking pin maximum outline shape . 16
Figure A.5 – Type 3 locking pin maximum outline shape . 16
Table 1 – Relation between COUPLING DEVICE test current and welding cables' cross-
sectional area . 8
Table 2 – Voltage rating of COUPLING DEVICES . 8
Table 3 – Crush force . 12
Table A.1 – Dimensions for Figure A.1, Figure A.2, Figure A.3, Figure A.4, and
Figure A.5 . 15
– 4 – IEC 60974-12:2022 © IEC 2022
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
ARC WELDING EQUIPMENT –
Part 12: Coupling devices for welding cables
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
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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
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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
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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.
IEC 60974-12 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 26: Electric welding. It is an
International Standard.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2011. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) updated Table 1 to include 100 % duty cycle;
b) updated Annex A to provide more detail.
The text of this document is based on the following documents:
Draft Report on voting
26/734/FDIS 26/736/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.
In this document, the following print types are used:
– conformity statements: in italic type.
– terms used throughout this document which have been defined in Clause 3: SMALL ROMAN
CAPITALS.
A list of all parts of the IEC 60974 series can be found, under the general title Arc welding
equipment, 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 60974-12:2022 © IEC 2022
ARC WELDING EQUIPMENT –
Part 12: Coupling devices for welding cables
1 Scope
This part of IEC 60974 is applicable to COUPLING DEVICES for cables used in arc welding and
allied processes, designed for connection and disconnection without using tools.
This part of IEC 60974 specifies safety and performance requirements of COUPLING DEVICES.
This part of IEC 60974 is not applicable to COUPLING DEVICES for underwater welding.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies.
For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60050-151, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) – Part 151: Electrical and
magnetic devices
IEC 60529, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)
IEC 60974-1:2021, Arc welding equipment – Part 1: Welding power sources
...
IEC 60974-12 ®
Edition 4.0 2022-07
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Arc welding equipment –
Part 12: Coupling devices for welding cables
Matériel de soudage à l'arc –
Partie 12: Dispositifs de connexion pour câbles de soudage
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IEC 60974-12 ®
Edition 4.0 2022-07
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Arc welding equipment –
Part 12: Coupling devices for welding cables
Matériel de soudage à l'arc –
Partie 12: Dispositifs de connexion pour câbles de soudage
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 25.160.30 ISBN 978-2-8322-3971-1
– 2 – IEC 60974-12:2022 © IEC 2022
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 4
1 Scope . 6
2 Normative references . 6
3 Terms and definitions . 6
4 Environmental conditions . 7
5 Tests . 7
5.1 Test conditions . 7
5.2 Measuring instruments . 7
5.3 Test sequence . 7
6 Designation . 7
7 Protection against electric shock . 8
7.1 Voltage rating . 8
7.2 lnsulation resistance . 8
7.3 Dielectric strength . 9
7.3.1 General requirement . 9
7.3.2 Additional requirements for ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE or ARC STABILIZING
VOLTAGE rating . 9
7.4 Protection of live parts against unintentional contact . 9
8 Thermal rating . 10
8.1 Temperature rise . 10
8.2 Resistance to hot objects . 10
9 Mechanical requirements . 11
9.1 RETAINING MEANS . 11
9.2 Welding cable entry . 11
9.3 Penetration of the welding cable insulation . 11
9.4 Welding cable connection . 11
9.5 Crush strength . 11
9.6 Dimensions . 12
10 Marking . 12
11 Instructions for use . 13
Annex A (normative) Dimensions . 14
Bibliography . 17
Figure 1 – Device for testing the resistance to hot objects . 10
Figure A.1 – Male element . 14
Figure A.2 – Female element . 14
Figure A.3 – Type 1 locking pin maximum outline shape . 15
Figure A.4 – Type 2 locking pin maximum outline shape . 16
Figure A.5 – Type 3 locking pin maximum outline shape . 16
Table 1 – Relation between COUPLING DEVICE test current and welding cables' cross-
sectional area . 8
Table 2 – Voltage rating of COUPLING DEVICES . 8
Table 3 – Crush force . 12
Table A.1 – Dimensions for Figure A.1, Figure A.2, Figure A.3, Figure A.4, and
Figure A.5 . 15
– 4 – IEC 60974-12:2022 © IEC 2022
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
ARC WELDING EQUIPMENT –
Part 12: Coupling devices for welding cables
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 60974-12 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 26: Electric welding. It is an
International Standard.
This fourth edition cancels and replaces the third edition published in 2011. This edition
constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
a) updated Table 1 to include 100 % duty cycle;
b) updated Annex A to provide more detail.
The text of this document is based on the following documents:
Draft Report on voting
26/734/FDIS 26/736/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.
In this document, the following print types are used:
– conformity statements: in italic type.
– terms used throughout this document which have been defined in Clause 3: SMALL ROMAN
CAPITALS.
A list of all parts of the IEC 60974 series can be found, under the general title Arc welding
equipment, 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 60974-12:2022 © IEC 2022
ARC WELDING EQUIPMENT –
Part 12: Coupling devices for welding cables
1 Scope
This part of IEC 60974 is applicable to COUPLING DEVICES for cables used in arc welding and
allied processes, designed for connection and disconnection without using tools.
This part of IEC 60974 specifies safety and performance requirements of COUPLING DEVICES.
This part of IEC 60974 is not applicable to COUPLING DEVICES for underwater welding.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies.
For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60050-151, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary (IEV) – Part 151: Electrical and
magnetic devices
IEC 60529, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)
IEC 60974-1:2021, Arc welding equipment – Part 1: Welding power sources
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 60050-151 and
IEC 60974-1, as well as the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological 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
COUPLING DEVICE
device connecting two welding cables together or connecting a welding cable to welding
equipment
3.2
RETAINING MEANS
mechanical arrangement that holds the COUPLING DEVICE in position and prevents an
unintentional withdrawal, when properly connected
3.3
ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE
voltage superimposed on the welding circuit to ignite the arc
3.4
ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE
voltage superimposed on the arc voltage to maintain the arc
4 Environmental conditions
The COUPLING DEVICE shall be capable of operation when the following environmental conditions
prevail:
a) range of ambient air temperature:
– during operation: −10 °C to + 40 °C;
b) relative humidity of the air: up to 90 % at 20 °C.
5 Tests
5.1 Test conditions
All type tests shall be carried out on the same new and completely assembled COUPLING DEVICE.
All type tests shall be carried out at an ambient air temperature between 10 °C and 40 °C.
5.2 Measuring instruments
As specified in 5.2 of IEC 60974-1:2021.
5.3 Test sequence
The type tests given below shall be carried out in the following sequence:
a) general visual inspection;
b) temperature rise, see 8.1;
c) crush strength, see 9.5;
d) insulation resistance, see 7.2;
e) dielectric strength, see 7.3.
The other type tests in this document not mentioned above can be carried out in any convenient
sequence.
6 Designation
COUPLING DEVICES shall be designated by the range of cross-sectional area of the welding cable
intended to be connected. The test current is given in Table 1 based on maximum cross-section
area. The welding COUPLING DEVICE shall accept the minimum cross-sectional area as given in
Table 1. It is possible that a reduced minimum cross-sectional area be specified to extend the
COUPLING DEVICE fitting range.
NOTE Current capacity of welding cables is given in Table D.4 of EN 50565-1:2014. The 60 % duty cycle current
rating relates to 25 °C of this table.
– 8 – IEC 60974-12:2022 © IEC 2022
Table 1 – Relation between COUPLING DEVICE test current
and welding cables' cross-sectional area
Range of cross-sectional area COUPLING DEVICE test current
at 60 % duty cycle
A
mm
1 to 6 80
6 to 10 125
10 to 16 150
16 to 25 200
25 to 35 250
35 to 50 300
50 to 70 400
70 to 95 500
95 to 120 600
NOTE Test current is defined in order that COUPLING DEVICE withstands the rated
current of the welding cable.
Conformity shall be checked by measurement.
7 Protection against electric shock
7.1 Voltage rating
COUPLING DEVICES shall be rated in accordance with the process as given in Table 2 and the
ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE or ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE if applicable.
Table 2 – Voltage rating of COUPLING DEVICES
Process Voltage rating Insulation Dielectric strength Degree of
resistance protection in
accordance with
V peak MΩ V RMS
IEC 60529
All processes
except plasma 113 2,5 1 000 IP 3X
cutting
Plasma cutting 500 2,5 2 100 IP 3X
7.2 lnsulation resistance
The insulation resistance of a new COUPLING DEVICE shall, after the humidity treatment, be not
less than 2,5 MΩ.
Conformity shall be checked by the following test.
a) Humidity treatment
A humidity cabinet is maintained at a temperature t between 20 °C and 30 °C and a relative
humidity between 91 % and 95 %.
The COUPLING DEVICE without cables fitted is brought to a temperature between t and t + 4 K
and is then placed for 48 h in the humidity cabinet.
b) Insulation resistance measurement
Immediately after the humidity treatment, the COUPLING DEVICE is wiped clean and tightly
wrapped in a metal foil covering the external surface of the insulation.
The insulation resistance is measured by application of a DC voltage of 500 V between the
live parts and the metal foil, the reading being made after stabilization of the measurement.
7.3 Dielectric strength
7.3.1 General requirement
The insulation shall withstand an AC test voltage of 2 100 V RMS for plasma cutting or 1 000 V
RMS for all other processes without flashover or break down. Any discharges unaccompanied
by a voltage drop are disregarded.
Conformity shall be checked by the following test.
The COUPLING DEVICE is wiped clean and tightly wrapped in a metal foil covering the external
surface of the insulation.
The AC test voltage shall be of an approximate sine waveform with a peak value not exceeding
1,45 times the RMS value, having a frequency of 50 Hz or 60 Hz, applied for 1 min between the
live parts and the metal foil.
7.3.2 Additional requirements for ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE or ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE
rating
For couplers for use with ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE or ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE, the insulation shall
withstand the rated peak ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE or ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE as rated by the
manufacturer. The insulation shall withstand a high frequency voltage of pulse width 0,2 µs to
8 µs, a repetition frequency of 50 Hz to 300 Hz and shall be 20 % higher than the rated peak
ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE or ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE as determined by the manufacturer.
Conformity shall be checked by the following test.
For couplers intended for use with ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE or ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE, the
couplers shall be subjected to the high-frequency test voltage. The full value of the
high-frequency voltage is applied for 2 s between the electrode circuit, and
a) conductive surfaces;
b) other isolated circuits.
Flashover or breakdown shall not occur. Any discharges unaccompanied by a voltage drop
(corona) are disregarded.
Alternatively, for couplers intended for use with ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE or ARC STABILIZING
VOLTAGE, an AC test voltage of approximately sine waveform at 50 Hz or 60 Hz can be used.
7.4 Protection of live parts against unintentional contact
Parts designed to carry welding current and likely to be live after disconnection shall be
recessed to a depth of at least 10 % of the internal diameter of the insulation with a minimum
depth of 2 mm with respect to the insulating body.
As a consequence, insulation shall be able to withstand normal service conditions so that the
protecting length is maintained during the life of the COUPLING DEVICE.
Conformity shall be checked by linear measurement and visual inspection.
– 10 – IEC 60974-12:2022 © IEC 2022
8 Thermal rating
8.1 Temperature rise
The temperature rise caused by the current passing through a COUPLING DEVICE normally
coupled and fitted with an untinned copper welding cable of maximum cross-sectional area as
indicated in Table 1 shall not exceed 45 K at the hottest spot of the external surface.
Conformity shall be checked by the following test.
The COUPLING DEVICE is normally coupled and fitted with at least 2 m long welding cables. The
COUPLING DEVICE is suspended by its welding cables from two wooden laths 1 m apart, hanging
between the two laths in the horizontal plane about 200 mm above the ground in a draught-free
area.
A continuous DC current equal to 75 % of the test current (equivalent to approximately 60 %
duty cycle) is passed through the COUPLING DEVICE until the rate of the temperature rise does
not exceed 2 K/h. During the total test time, the DC current shall be kept constant with a
tolerance of ± 2 %.
8.2 Resistance to hot objects
The insulation shall be capable of withstanding hot objects and the effects of a normal amount
of weld spatter without being ignited or becoming unsafe.
Conformity shall be checked with a device in accordance with Figure 1.
Dimensions in millimetres
Key
1 18/8 chrome-nickel steel rod
2 COUPLING DEVICE
θ test temperature
Figure 1 – Device for testing the resistance to hot objects
An electric current (of approximately 25 A) is passed through the 18/8 chrome-nickel steel rod
+5
until a steady-state temperature θ of 300 °C is reached. During the test, the temperature of
the heated rod shall be maintained. This temperature will be measured by a contact
thermometer or thermocouple.
The heated rod in a horizontal position is then applied for 2 min to the insulation at the weakest
point (for example, minimum insulation thickness and closest distance to live parts). The heated
rod shall not penetrate through the insulation and contact live parts.
An attempt is made to ignite any gases which can be emitted in the region of the contact point
by means of an electric spark or small flame. If the gases are flammable, the burning shall stop
as soon as the heated rod is removed.
9 Mechanical requirements
9.1 RETAINING MEANS
A RETAINING MEANS shall be provided to prevent the unintentional separation of the COUPLING
DEVICE as a result of a longitudinal pull.
NOTE If possible, indicating marks, for example two lines opposite each other, show by visual inspection that the
RETAINING MEANS has functioned.
Conformity shall be checked by manual operation and visual inspection.
9.2 Welding cable entry
The cable entry of a cable coupler shall be designed to prevent damage to the cable insulation
causing exposed conductors.
Conformity shall be checked by bending the cable through an angle of 90°. Verify that there are
no exposed conductors by visual inspection.
9.3 Penetration of the welding cable insulation
The design of cable couplers shall be such that the insulation of the cables can enter to a depth
of at least twice the outer diameter of the welding cable with a minimum of 30 mm.
Conformity shall be checked by measurement with a welding cable of the maximum cross-
sectional area as specified by the manufacturer.
9.4 Welding cable connection
The design of the COUPLING DEVICE shall be such that welding cables with a cross-sectional area
within the range as specified by the manufacturer can be replaced. The connection shall
withstand the mechanical stress of the tensile test without separation.
Conformity shall be checked by visual inspection and by the following test.
A plug, a connector or a plug connector is fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions, with a welding cable of maximum cross-sectional area. The connection is subjected
to 10 pulls with a force of 40 N/mm of the cross-sectional area with a maximum of 2 000 N
applied to the welding cable. The force of each pull is gradually increased from zero to the
specified value in 1 s and maintained for 1 s.
After the test, the conductor shall not have been displaced by more than 2 mm.
This test shall be repeated with a welding cable having the minimum permissible cross-sectional
area as specified by the manufacturer.
If more than one method of cable fixing is provided, all methods shall be tested.
9.5 Crush strength
COUPLING DEVICES shall withstand the mechanical stress of the crush test without the insulation
being destroyed or the mechanical functioning being impaired.
– 12 – IEC 60974-12:2022 © IEC 2022
Conformity shall be checked by the following test, manual operation and visual inspection.
A cable coupler connected and fitted, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, with
welding cables of maximum cross-sectional area is placed between the parallel plates of a
press, the axis of the cable coupler being at a right angle to the direction of the crush force.
The crush force can be slowly raised over a maximum period of 10 s to the full value given in
Table 3 . This crush force shall be maintained at the full value for 10 s.
Table 3 – Crush force
Cross-sectional area of welding cable Crush force
N
mm
up to 25 1 200
25 to 50 1 500
above 50 2 000
This test shall be repeated with a welding cable of minimum cross-sectional area as specified
by the manufacturer.
9.6 Dimensions
COUPLING DEVICES shall be designed in accordance with dimensions given in Annex A.
10 Marking
The following information shall be legibly and indelibly marked on COUPLING DEVICES designed
to be attached to welding cables:
a) name of the manufacturer, distributor, importer or the registered trademark;
b) maximum permissible cross-sectional area of the welding cable;
c) minimum permissible cross-sectional area of the welding cable;
d) rated peak ARC STRIKING VOLTAGE or ARC STABILIZING VOLTAGE if applicable;
e) reference to this document, confirming that the COUPLING DEVICE complies with the
requirements.
For COUPLING DEVICES having a maximum permissible cross-sectional area less than or equal
to 16 mm , the dimensions of which are such that it is not possible to put on all the markings
clearly, item c) can be omitted and shown on the packing or in the literature.
COUPLING DEVICES designed to be mounted on a panel shall not be marked.
Conformity shall be checked by reading the marking.
11 Instructions for use
Each COUPLING DEVICE shall be delivered with an instruction sheet which includes the following
information:
a) correct coupling and uncoupling of the COUPLING DEVICE;
b) correct connection of the welding cable;
c) choice of welding cable, type and size;
d) relation of permissible current and duty cycle.
Conformity shall be checked by reading the instructions.
– 14 – IEC 60974-12:2022 © IEC 2022
Annex A
(normative)
Dimensions
COUPLING DEVICES in accordance with this document shall have the dimensions as specified in
Figure A.1, Figure A.2, Figure A.3, Figure A.4, Figure A.5 and in Table A.1.
Figure A.1 – Male element
Figure A.2 – Female element
Dimensions and details not specified in Figure A.1 and Figure A.2 and Table A.1 are left to the
discretion of the manufacturer.
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