IEC 61439 standard for electrical switchgear

The international IEC 61439 standard establishes new requirements for low-voltage electrical switchgear for power distribution and control, operating at up to 1,000 volts AC or 1,500 volts DC. This standard supersedes the previous IEC 60439-1 regulation. Its various parts specify general rules, power distribution switchgear, and specific requirements for site and public installation switchgear.

The standard clearly distinguishes the roles of the original manufacturer, responsible for design and type testing, and the assembler. The updated regulations emphasize that electrical switchgear is an integral component of an installation, with safety and functionality verified through comprehensive testing. Manufacturers must demonstrate compliance through calculation, adherence to design rules, or laboratory testing.

Key parts of the IEC 61439 standard include IEC 61439-1 (General rules) and IEC 61439-2 (Power switchgear assemblies). Other sections address specific applications such as site switchgear (IEC 61439-4) and public power distribution systems (IEC 61439-6). The standard mandates precision regarding material durability, ingress protection ratings, insulation distances, and protection against electric shock. Rittal provides solutions for electrical distribution installations and offers advisory services from project design through to commissioning, ensuring the implementation of compliant and safe electrical switchgear.