EN 61439-2, “Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies – Part 2: Power switchgear and controlgear assemblies”, gives the specific rules for main distribution boards, motor control centres and similar power assemblies. It is read together with EN 61439-1, which holds the general rules; conformity of a power assembly is declared to this part. LVD testing and CE marking of the panel rest on these two standards.
Let us take care of EN 61439-2 testing and the CE marking of your product together; CE Danışmanı (CE Consultant) manages the whole process.
EN 61439-2 at a glance
| Edition cited in the EU Official Journal | EN 61439-2:2011 |
|---|---|
| Official title | Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies – Part 2: Power switchgear and controlgear assemblies |
| Legislation supported | Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU |
| Type of standard | Product standard |
| Voltage limit | Power assemblies with a rated voltage not exceeding 1,000 V AC or 1,500 V DC |
Assemblies covered
The standard applies to power assemblies used in the generation, distribution and conversion of electrical energy and for the control of equipment that consumes it. They are mostly installed in industrial and commercial sites where only authorised persons have access. Typical examples:
- Main and sub-distribution boards
- Motor control centres (MCC)
- Power factor correction panels
- Generator and transfer panels
Distribution boards operated by ordinary persons fall under EN 61439-3, construction site assemblies under EN 61439-4 and busbar trunking systems under EN 61439-6. For control panels that are part of the electrical equipment of a machine, EN 60204-1 applies as well.
Main requirements of the standard
- Use of the general rules: Part 1 is the basis for construction, performance and verification; Part 2 adds to it and modifies it.
- Forms of internal separation: The degree of separation between busbars, functional units and terminals is classified from Form 1 to Form 4.
- Removable and withdrawable parts: The connected, test, isolated and removed positions and the interlocks for them are defined.
- Access and operation: Conditions for access by authorised persons during maintenance and extension are agreed between manufacturer and user.
- Temperature rise and rated currents: Rated currents of the assembly and its circuits are verified, taking the rated diversity factor into account.
- Short-circuit withstand strength: Main busbars, distribution busbars and the protective circuit must withstand the declared short-circuit current.
EN 61439-2 tests
Verification runs on two levels: design verification once for the design, and routine verification on every assembly produced. The main items for power assemblies are:
| Test or check | What is verified? |
|---|---|
| Temperature-rise verification | The assembly stays within the permitted temperature rise at rated current |
| Short-circuit withstand verification | Busbars, supports and the protective circuit withstand short-circuit stresses |
| Dielectric properties | The insulation withstands the power-frequency and impulse withstand voltages |
| Degree of protection | The declared IP code and, where needed, the IK code are achieved |
| Mechanical operation | Withdrawable parts and interlocks keep their function |
| Routine verification | On every assembly: clearances, protective circuit continuity, wiring, dielectric strength and function agree with the design |
Its place in CE marking
- Risk assessment: Hazards are identified and the applicable standards selected.
- Design: The assembly is designed to EN 61439-1 and EN 61439-2; the form of separation and the ratings are fixed.
- Verification tests: Design verification records are collected and routine verification is carried out on every assembly.
- Technical file: Diagrams, the parts list and the test report go into the technical file.
- Declaration of conformity: EN 61439-2 is listed among the standards applied and the CE marking is affixed.
Conformity with a harmonised standard gives presumption of conformity with the corresponding safety objectives of the Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU.
Standards applied together
- EN 61439-1: Low-voltage assemblies, general rules
- EN 60204-1: Electrical equipment of machines
- EN 60529: Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP code)
- EN 62262: Protection against mechanical impacts (IK code)
- EN 60947 series: Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear devices
- IEC TR 61641: Guide for testing enclosed assemblies under internal arc fault conditions
Frequently asked questions
How is the form of separation chosen?
It is agreed between user and manufacturer, based on the access safety wanted during maintenance and on continuity of service. A higher degree of separation makes the assembly larger and more costly.
Are the test reports of the system manufacturer enough?
The verified design of the original manufacturer can be used as long as its instructions are followed. If the design is changed, the panel builder becomes responsible for the related verification; routine verification always belongs to the panel builder.
Which edition applies?
The edition cited in the EU Official Journal under the Low Voltage Directive is EN 61439-2:2011. CENELEC has published a newer edition; for presumption of conformity the cited edition counts. Check the current citation before testing starts.
Other standards in this group
- EN 61010-1: Measurement Control and Laboratory Equipment
- EN 61439-1: Low-Voltage Switchgear Assemblies General Rules
- EN IEC 62040-1: Uninterruptible Power Systems
- EN IEC 61558-1: Transformers and Power Supply Units
