IEC 60947
IEC 60947 is a series of standards set by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear. This standard specifies the design, construction, performance, and testing criteria for electrical control devices used in industrial applications. It covers the general characteristics of these devices which are critical for safety and reliability, and is widely accepted internationally.
IEC 60947 is divided into several sub-parts as follows:
IEC 60947-1: General Rules - Defines general requirements for all low-voltage switchgear and controlgear.
IEC 60947-2: Circuit Breakers - Specifications for circuit breakers used to protect electrical circuits.
IEC 60947-3: Switches, Disconnectors, Switch-disconnectors, and Fuse-combination units - Standards for switches and disconnectors used in electrical circuits.
IEC 60947-4-1: Contactors and Motor-starters - Standards for contactors and motor starters used to control electric motors.
IEC 60947-4-2: Electromechanical Contactors and Motor-starters - Standards for devices used to protect motors.
IEC 60947-4-3: AC Semiconductor Motor Controllers and Starters - Standards for semiconductor devices used to control AC motors.
IEC 60947-5-1: Control Circuit Devices and Switching Elements - Standards for control and signaling devices such as buttons and switches used in control circuits.
IEC 60947-5-2: Proximity Switches - Standards for proximity switches used to detect the presence of objects.
IEC 60947-5-3: Illuminated Actuators - Standards for illuminated buttons used in control panels.
IEC 60947-5-4: Position Switches - Standards for sensors used to detect physical displacement.
IEC 60947-5-5: Electrical Power Monitoring Devices - Standards for devices used to monitor energy consumption and power quality.
IEC 60947-5-6: DC Power System Controllers - Standards for controllers used in DC power systems.
IEC 60947-5-7: Emergency Stop Devices - Standards for emergency stop functions.
IEC 60947-5-8: Mechanical Interlock Devices - Standards for devices that mechanically interconnect.
IEC 60947-6-1: Transfer Switching Equipment - Standards for devices that enable switching between power sources.
IEC 60947-6-2: Distribution and Motor Control Centres - Standards for systems used for power distribution and motor control.
IEC 60947-7 Series: Connection Devices - Standards for various electrical connection devices.
IEC 60947-7-1: Terminal Blocks - For fixed electrical device connections.
IEC 60947-7-2: PCB Connection Devices - For connections on printed circuit boards.
IEC 60947-7-3: Other Connection Devices - General requirements for various connection devices.
IEC 60947-8: Control Devices for Load Control Using Semiconductor Devices - Standards for semiconductor devices used for load control.
This standard is used globally to ensure safety and performance in industrial automation systems and is a widely referenced resource by electrical engineers.