What is UL 60947-1:2020?

UL 60947-1:2020 is a technical standard established by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies. This standard sets out the general requirements for these electrical devices, ensuring their safety, reliability, and performance. It applies to both products intended for industrial use and those for household and similar purposes.

Scope and Objectives

The scope of UL 60947-1:2020 is vast and covers various aspects of switchgear and controlgear assemblies. The standard primarily focuses on ensuring protection against electric shock, fire hazards, mechanical hazards, and other potential risks. It establishes specific criteria for design, construction, and testing of these electrical devices to ensure their safe operation and compatibility with different environments.

Main Requirements

UL 60947-1:2020 outlines several key requirements that manufacturers must comply with when producing switchgear and controlgear assemblies. These requirements include:

Circuit Protection: The standard provides guidelines for selecting appropriate circuit breakers, fuses, or other protective devices to safeguard against short circuits, overload conditions, and other electrical faults.

Clear Markings: Switchgear and controlgear assemblies must be clearly labeled with important information such as rated voltage, current, short-circuit ratings, and other relevant data to ensure proper installation and operation.

Electrical Clearance and Creepage Distances: The distance between conductive parts and live parts, as well as the distance along the surface of an insulating material, must be designed and tested in accordance with the specified requirements to prevent electrical breakdown.

Mechanical Strength: The devices must be able to withstand mechanical stresses such as vibration, shock, and transportation without compromising their performance or safety.

Temperature Rise: Switchgear and controlgear assemblies should not exceed specified temperature limits during normal operation to avoid detrimental effects on their components and surrounding environment.

Certification and Compliance

Manufacturers must undergo testing and assessment from accredited laboratories to ensure their switchgear and controlgear assemblies meet the requirements of UL 60947-1:2020. Once certified, they can display the UL mark on their products, indicating compliance with the standard's safety and performance criteria.

UL 60947-1:2020 plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and reliability of low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies. Its comprehensive requirements help protect both users and electrical systems from potential hazards, making it an essential reference for manufacturers, installers, and end-users in the industry.