This part of IEC 62271 specifies requirements for prefabricated metal-enclosed switchgear
and controlgear for alternating current of rated voltages above 1 kV and up to and including
52 kV for indoor and outdoor installation, and for service frequencies up to and including
60 Hz. Enclosures may include fixed and removable components and may be filled with fluid
(liquid or gas) to provide insulation.
This standard defines several categories of metal enclosed switchgear and controlgear which
differ due to
– the consequences on network service continuity in case of maintenance on the switchgear
and controlgear;
– the need and convenience of maintenance of the equipment.
For metal-enclosed switchgear and controlgear containing gas-filled compartments, the
design pressure is limited to a maximum of 300 kPa (relative pressure).
Metal-enclosed switchgear and controlgear for special use, for example, in flammable
atmospheres, in mines or on board ships, may be subject to additional requirements.
Components contained in metal-enclosed switchgear and controlgear are to be designed and
tested in accordance with their various relevant standards. This standard supplements the
standards for the individual components regarding their installation in switchgear and
controlgear assemblies.
This standard does not preclude that other equipment may be included in the same enclosure.
In such a case, any possible influence of that equipment on the switchgear and controlgear is
to be taken into account.