This part of IEC 62271 is applicable to three-phase, alternating current switches and switchdisconnectors
for their switching function, having making and breaking current ratings, for
indoor and outdoor installations, for rated voltages above 1 kV up to and including 52 kV and
for rated frequencies from 162/3 Hz up to and including 60 Hz. This standard is also applicable
to single-pole switches used on three phase systems.
This standard is also applicable to the operating devices of these switches and to their
auxiliary equipment.
Switch-disconnectors are also covered by IEC 62271-102 for their disconnecting function.
Devices that require a dependent manual operation are not covered by this standard.
General principles and provisions of this standard may also be applicable to single pole
switches intended for application in single-phase systems. The requirements for dielectric
tests and making and breaking tests should be in accordance with the requirements of the
specific application.
This standard establishes requirements for general, limited and special purpose switches
used in distribution systems.
It is assumed that opening and closing operations are performed according to the
manufacturer's instructions. A making operation may immediately follow a breaking operation
but a breaking operation should not immediately follow a making operation since the current
to be broken may then exceed the rated breaking current of the switch.