Overview
IEC TS 62271-319:2024 is a technical specification for high-voltage switchgear and controlgear addressing alternating current circuit-breakers intended for controlled switching. It applies to AC circuit-breakers with intentional non-simultaneous pole operation (mechanical or electrical implementation) for indoor and outdoor installations on 50 Hz and 60 Hz systems having voltages above 1 000 V. This TS supplements IEC 62271‑100:2021 by specifying additional ratings, type tests and performance requirements unique to controlled switching devices.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Intentional non-simultaneous pole operation: Requirements for single‑pole operation, mechanically staggered poles and non‑simultaneity between making/breaking units (MBUs).
- Ratings: Additional rated values such as rated short‑circuit making current for intentional non‑simultaneous closing.
- Design and construction: Guidance on mechanical scatter, RDDS (rate of decrease of dielectric strength), auxiliary/control circuits and nameplate information.
- Type and routine tests: Detailed provisions for making and breaking tests, capacitive current making/breaking, controlled closing tests, chopping characteristics, and determination of RDDS.
- Test procedures and reports: Parameter definition summary test report, procedures to measure mechanical scatter and RDDS, plus environmental/operational impact tests (temperature, pressure, idle time, electrical wear).
- Guidance and selection: Informative guidance on selecting switchgear for service, voltage factors for system configurations, and commissioning/maintenance to maintain controlled‑switching accuracy.
- Safety and environment: Considerations for safe operation and environmental influence of the product.
Practical applications and users
Who uses IEC TS 62271-319:2024:
- Manufacturers of high‑voltage circuit‑breakers designing products for controlled switching.
- Test laboratories performing type and routine tests to verify controlled switching performance.
- Utilities and transmission operators specifying breakers for reduced switching transients and improved power quality.
- Consulting and design engineers, procurement teams, and standards/quality managers preparing tenders and technical specifications.
Typical applications:
- Controlled switching of capacitive loads (including back‑to‑back capacitor banks) and inductive load switching, where sequential pole operation reduces switching transients and overvoltages.
- Systems requiring precise closing/opening timing to limit inrush currents, avoid trapped charges, and improve service continuity in high‑voltage networks.
Related standards
- IEC 62271‑100:2021 - Fundamental requirements for AC circuit‑breakers (this TS is intended to be used in conjunction with IEC 62271‑100).
- Other IEC switchgear standards and normative references listed within the TS for complementary test and safety requirements.
Keywords: IEC TS 62271-319:2024, controlled switching, alternating current circuit-breakers, intentional non-simultaneous pole operation, high-voltage switchgear, RDDS, mechanical scatter, MBUs, capacitive switching, type tests.