Overview
IEC 61587-6:2017 - Mechanical structures for electrical and electronic equipment - Tests for IEC 60917 and IEC 60297 series - Part 6: Security aspects for indoor cabinets - defines security aspects and security performance levels for indoor cabinets (19 in / IEC 60297 and modular IEC 60917 series). The standard clarifies how installation conditions (access security level) relate to required cabinet security, and it specifies required performances and test methods for mechanical security components such as handles, locks, keys and floor anchoring.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Access security levels: Links cabinet performance to the physical security context (typical levels AS0–AS3), helping specify an appropriate cabinet security class for office, data center or restricted-area installations.
- Security performance levels: Defines graded security performance requirements for cabinet mechanical components to meet intended access protection.
- Mechanical components covered:
- Handles and associated mechanical locks (lever, T‑bar, pull types)
- Keys and key security (durability and resistance characteristics)
- Multi‑point and latch plate mechanisms
- Cabinet floor anchoring for resistance to removal/tampering
- Test methods: Includes mechanical performance and test methods (e.g., static loading tests for push/pull and turn actions on handles/locks, endurance tests for keys and lock mechanisms, anchoring tests). Annex A provides normative test procedures for handle strength and operation.
- Scope boundaries: Focuses on hardware/physical security for indoor cabinets; vandalism-specific definitions are not included. The standard complements environmental and safety testing (see related parts of IEC 61587).
Applications
IEC 61587-6 is intended for:
- Designers and manufacturers of 19 in racks, cabinets and subracks who need to specify and validate mechanical security features.
- Test laboratories and QA teams performing type testing or conformity checks on cabinet security components.
- Data center operators, telecom providers, industrial control and transportation system integrators selecting cabinets for different access-protected environments.
- Procurement, facilities and asset managers who must match cabinet security to building access controls and operational risk levels.
Practical benefits include clearer selection of handles/locks and anchoring methods that meet the expected installation security, and repeatable test procedures for product verification.
Related standards
- IEC 60297 series - 19 in mechanical structure dimensions
- IEC 60917 series - Modular mechanical structures
- IEC 61587-1 - Environmental requirements and test setup for indoor cabinets
- IEC 61587-2 - Seismic tests for cabinets and racks
- IEC 60529 - Degrees of protection (IP Code)
Keywords: IEC 61587-6, indoor cabinets, security aspects, IEC 60917, IEC 60297, mechanical lock tests, handles, key security, cabinet floor anchoring, access security level.