BS 

EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

BSI Standards Publication

High-voltage switchgear and controlgear

Part 102: Alternating current disconnectors and earthing switches

BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018 BRITISH STANDARD

National foreword
This British Standard is the UK implementation of
EN IEC 62271‑102:2018. It is identical to IEC 62271‑102:2018. It
supersedes BS EN 62271‑102:2002+A2:2013, which is withdrawn.
The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted to Technical
Committee PEL/17, High voltage switchgear, controlgear and assemblies.
A list of organizations represented on this committee can be obtained on
request to its secretary.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions
of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
© The British Standards Institution 2018
Published by BSI Standards Limited 2018
ISBN 978 0 580 87273 0
ICS 29.130.99; 29.120.40; 29.130.10
Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from
legal obligations.
This British Standard was published under the authority of the
Standards Policy and Strategy Committee on 31 August 2018.

Amendments/corrigenda issued since publication

Date Text affected
 BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

EUROPEAN STANDARD EN IEC 62271-102

NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM August 2018

ICS 29.130.10; 29.130.99 Supersedes EN 62271-102:2002

English Version

High-voltage switchgear and controlgear -

Part 102: Alternating current disconnectors and earthing
switches
(IEC 62271-102:2018)

Appareillage à haute tension - Hochspannungs-Schaltgeräte und -Schaltanlagen -

Partie 102: Sectionneurs et sectionneurs de terre à courant Teil 102: Wechselstrom-Trennschalter und -
alternatif Erdungsschalter
(IEC 62271-102:2018) (IEC 62271-102:2018)

This European Standard was approved by CENELEC on 2018-06-19. CENELEC members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC
Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.

Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC
Management Centre or to any CENELEC member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CENELEC member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the
same status as the official versions.

CENELEC members are the national electrotechnical committees of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic,
Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia,
Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden,
Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom.

European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization

Comité Européen de Normalisation Electrotechnique
Europäisches Komitee für Elektrotechnische Normung

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels

© 2018 CENELEC All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CENELEC Members.

Ref. No. EN IEC 62271-102:2018 E

BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018
EN IEC 62271-102:2018

European foreword

The text of document 17A/1173/FDIS, future edition 2 of IEC 62271-102, prepared by

SC 17A "Switching devices" of IEC/TC 17 "High-voltage switchgear and controlgear" was submitted to
the IEC-CENELEC parallel vote and approved by CENELEC as EN IEC 62271-102:2018.

The following dates are fixed:

• latest date by which the document has to be (dop) 2019-03-19

implemented at national level by
publication of an identical national
standard or by endorsement
• latest date by which the national (dow) 2021-06-19
standards conflicting with the
document have to be withdrawn

This document supersedes EN 62271-102:2002.

Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CENELEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.

Endorsement notice
The text of the International Standard IEC 62271-102:2018 was approved by CENELEC as a
European Standard without any modification.

In the official version, for Bibliography, the following notes have to be added for the standards indicated:

IEC 60507:2013 NOTE Harmonized as EN 60507:2014 (not modified).

IEC 60447:2004 NOTE Harmonized as EN 60447:2004 (not modified).
IEC 60060-1:2010 NOTE Harmonized as EN 60060-1:2010 (not modified).

2
 BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018
EN IEC 62271-102:2018

Annex ZA
(normative)

Normative references to international publications

with their corresponding European publications
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments)
applies.

NOTE 1 Where an International Publication has been modified by common modifications, indicated by (mod), the relevant
EN/HD applies.

NOTE 2 Up-to-date information on the latest versions of the European Standards listed in this annex is available here:
www.cenelec.eu.

Publication Year Title EN/HD Year

IEC 60050-151 - International Electrotechnical Vocabulary - - -

Part 151: Electrical and magnetic devices
IEC 60050-441 - International Electrotechnical Vocabulary - -
(IEV) - Chapter 441: Switchgear,
controlgear and fuses
IEC 60050-471 - International Electrotechnical Vocabulary - - -
Part 471: Insulators
IEC 60050-614 - International electrotechnical vocabulary - - -
Part 614: Generation, transmission and
distribution of electricity - Operation
IEC 60071-2 - Insulation co-ordination - EN IEC 60071-2 -
Part 2: Application guidelines
IEC 60137 - Insulated bushings for alternating voltages EN 60137 -
above 1000 V
IEC 60270 - High-voltage test techniques - Partial EN 60270 -
discharge measurements
IEC 60529 1989 Degrees of protection provided by EN 60529 1991
enclosures (IP Code) corr. May 1993
+A1 1999 +A1 2000
+A2 2013 +A2 2013
IEC 60865-1 - Short-circuit currents - Calculation of EN 60865-1 -
effects - Part 1: Definitions and calculation
methods
IEC 62262 2002 Degrees of protection provided by EN 62262 2002
enclosures for electrical equipment against
external mechanical impacts (IK code)
IEC 62271-1 2017 High-voltage switchgear and controlgear - EN 62271-1 2017
Part 1: Common specifications for
alternating current switchgear and
controlgear

3
BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018
EN IEC 62271-102:2018

Publication Year Title EN/HD Year

IEC 62271-100 2008 High-voltage switchgear and controlgear - EN 62271-100 2009

+A1 2012 Part 100: Alternating current circuit- +A1 2012
+A2 2017 breakers +A2 2017
IEC 62271-101 2012 High-voltage switchgear and controlgear - EN 62271-101 2013
+A1 2017 Part 101: Synthetic testing - -
IEC 62271-200 2011 High-voltage switchgear and controlgear - EN 62271-200 2012
Part 200: AC metal-enclosed switchgear
and controlgear for rated voltages
above 1 kV and up to and including 52 kV
IEC 62271-201 2014 High-voltage switchgear and controlgear - EN 62271-201 2014
Part 201: AC solid-insulation enclosed
switchgear and controlgear for rated
voltages above 1 kV and up to and
including 52 kV
IEC 62271-203 2011 High-voltage switchgear and controlgear - EN 62271-203 2012
Part 203: Gas-insulated metal-enclosed
switchgear for rated voltages above 52 kV
IEC/TR 62271-305 - High-voltage switchgear and controlgear - - -
Part 305: Capacitive current switching
capability of air-insulated disconnectors for
rated voltages above 52 kV
ISO 2768-1 - General tolerances - EN 22768-1 -
Part 1: Tolerances for linear and angular
dimensions without individual tolerance
indications

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 BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

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CONTENTS

FOREWORD ........................................................................................................................... 9
1 Scope ............................................................................................................................ 12
2 Normative references .................................................................................................... 12
3 Terms and definitions .................................................................................................... 13
3.1 General terms and definitions ............................................................................... 13
3.2 Assemblies of switchgear and controlgear ............................................................ 14
3.3 Parts of assemblies .............................................................................................. 14
3.4 Switching devices ................................................................................................. 14
3.5 Parts of switching devices ..................................................................................... 15
3.6 Operation .............................................................................................................. 18
3.7 Characteristic quantities ....................................................................................... 19
3.8 Index of definitions ................................................................................................ 24
4 Normal and special service conditions ........................................................................... 26
5 Ratings .......................................................................................................................... 26
5.1 General ................................................................................................................. 26
5.2 Rated voltage (U r ) ................................................................................................ 27
5.3 Rated insulation level (U d , U p , U s ) ....................................................................... 27
5.4 Rated frequency (f r ) .............................................................................................. 27
5.5 Rated continuous current (I r ) ................................................................................ 27
5.6 Rated short-time withstand current (I k ) ................................................................. 27
5.7 Rated peak withstand current (I p ) ......................................................................... 27
5.8 Rated duration of short-circuit (t k ) ......................................................................... 28
5.9 Rated supply voltage of auxiliary and control circuits (U a ) .................................... 28
5.10 Rated supply frequency of auxiliary circuits and control circuits ............................ 28
5.11 Rated pressure of compressed gas supply for controlled pressure systems .......... 28
5.11.101 Rated pressure of compressed gas supply for insulation and/or
switching ....................................................................................................... 28
5.11.102 Rated pressure of compressed gas supply for operation ................................ 28
5.101 Rated short-circuit making current (I ma ) ............................................................... 28
5.102 Classification of earthing switches for short-circuit making .................................... 28
5.103 Rated contact zone ............................................................................................... 29
5.104 Rated static mechanical terminal load ................................................................... 29
5.105 Classification of disconnectors for mechanical endurance ..................................... 30
5.106 Classification of earthing switches for mechanical endurance ............................... 31
5.107 Rated ice-coating .................................................................................................. 31
5.108 Rated values of disconnectors for bus-transfer current switching .......................... 31
5.108.1 Rated bus-transfer current ............................................................................. 31
5.108.2 Rated bus-transfer voltage............................................................................. 32
5.109 Classification and rated values of earthing switches for induced current
switching ............................................................................................................... 32
5.110 Classification and rated values of disconnectors for bus-charging current
switching ............................................................................................................... 33
6 Design and construction ................................................................................................ 34
6.1 Requirements for liquids in disconnectors and earthing switches .......................... 34
6.2 Requirements for gases in disconnectors and earthing switches ........................... 34
6.3 Earthing of disconnectors and earthing switches ................................................... 34
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6.4 Auxiliary and control equipment and circuits ......................................................... 35

6.5 Dependent power operation .................................................................................. 35
6.6 Stored energy operation ........................................................................................ 35
6.7 Independent unlatched operation (independent manual or power operation) ......... 35
6.8 Manually operated actuators ................................................................................. 35
6.9 Operation of releases ............................................................................................ 35
6.10 Pressure/level indication ....................................................................................... 35
6.11 Nameplates........................................................................................................... 35
6.12 Locking devices .................................................................................................... 38
6.13 Position indication ................................................................................................. 38
6.14 Degree of protection provided by enclosures ........................................................ 38
6.15 Creepage distances for outdoor insulators ............................................................ 38
6.16 Gas and vacuum tightness .................................................................................... 38
6.17 Tightness for liquid systems .................................................................................. 38
6.18 Fire hazard (flammability) ..................................................................................... 38
6.19 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) ..................................................................... 38
6.20 X-ray emission ...................................................................................................... 38
6.21 Corrosion .............................................................................................................. 38
6.22 Filling levels for insulation, switching and/or operation .......................................... 39
6.101Particular requirements for earthing switches ........................................................ 39
6.102Requirements in respect of the isolating distance of disconnectors ....................... 39
6.103Mechanical strength .............................................................................................. 39
6.104Operation of disconnectors and earthing switches – Position of the movable
contact system and its indicating and signalling devices ....................................... 40
6.104.1 Securing of position ....................................................................................... 40
6.104.2 Additional requirements for power-operated mechanisms .............................. 40
6.104.3 Indication and signalling of position ............................................................... 40
6.105 Maximum force required for manual (dependent or independent) operation ........... 41
6.105.1 General ......................................................................................................... 41
6.105.2 Operation requiring more than one revolution ................................................ 42
6.105.3 Operation requiring up to one revolution ........................................................ 42
6.106 Dimensional tolerances ......................................................................................... 42
6.107 Earthing switches with short-circuit making current capability ............................... 42
7 Type tests ..................................................................................................................... 42
7.1 General ................................................................................................................. 42
7.1.1 Basics ........................................................................................................... 42
7.1.2 Information for identification of test objects .................................................... 44
7.1.3 Information to be included in type test reports ............................................... 44
7.2 Dielectric tests ...................................................................................................... 44
7.2.1 General ......................................................................................................... 44
7.2.2 Ambient air conditions during tests ................................................................ 44
7.2.3 Wet test procedure ........................................................................................ 44
7.2.4 Arrangement of the equipment ....................................................................... 44
7.2.5 Criteria to pass the test ................................................................................. 45
7.2.6 Application of the test voltage and test conditions .......................................... 45
7.2.7 Tests of disconnectors and earthing switches of U r ≤ 245 kV ......................... 45
7.2.8 Test of disconnectors and earthing switches of U r > 245 kV .......................... 45
7.2.9 Artificial pollution tests for outdoor insulators ................................................. 45
7.2.10 Partial discharge tests ................................................................................... 46
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7.2.11 Dielectric tests on auxiliary and control circuits .............................................. 46

7.2.12 Voltage test as condition check ..................................................................... 46
7.3 Radio interference voltage (RIV) test .................................................................... 46
7.4 Resistance measurement ...................................................................................... 46
7.5 Continuous current tests ....................................................................................... 46
7.6 Short-time withstand current and peak withstand current tests .............................. 46
7.6.1 General ......................................................................................................... 46
7.6.2 Arrangement of the disconnectors and earthing switches and of the test
circuit ............................................................................................................ 46
7.6.3 Test current and duration ............................................................................... 52
7.6.4 Conditions of disconnectors and earthing switches after test ......................... 52
7.7 Verification of the protection ................................................................................. 53
7.8 Tightness tests ..................................................................................................... 53
7.9 Electromagnetic compatibility tests (EMC) ............................................................ 53
7.10 Additional tests on auxiliary and control circuits .................................................... 53
7.11 X-ray radiation test for vacuum interrupters........................................................... 53
7.101 Test to prove the short-circuit making performance of earthing switches ............... 54
7.101.1 General test conditions .................................................................................. 54
7.101.2 Arrangement of the earthing switch for tests .................................................. 54
7.101.3 Test frequency ............................................................................................... 54
7.101.4 Test voltage ................................................................................................... 54
7.101.5 Test short-circuit making current .................................................................... 55
7.101.6 Test circuits ................................................................................................... 55
7.101.7 Test procedures ............................................................................................. 55
7.101.8 Behaviour of earthing switches when making short-circuit currents ................ 56
7.101.9 Condition of earthing switch after short-circuit making tests ........................... 56
7.101.10 Invalid tests ................................................................................................... 57
7.101.11 Type test reports ........................................................................................... 57
7.102 Operating and mechanical endurance tests ........................................................... 58
7.102.1 General test conditions .................................................................................. 58
7.102.2 Contact zone test........................................................................................... 58
7.102.3 Mechanical endurance test ............................................................................ 61
7.102.4 Operation during the application of rated static mechanical terminal
loads ............................................................................................................. 63
7.102.5 Extended mechanical endurance tests ........................................................... 64
7.102.6 Testing of mechanical interlocking devices. ................................................... 65
7.103 Operation under severe ice conditions .................................................................. 65
7.103.1 General ......................................................................................................... 65
7.103.2 Test arrangement .......................................................................................... 65
7.103.3 Test procedure .............................................................................................. 66
7.104 Low- and high-temperature tests ........................................................................... 67
7.104.1 General ......................................................................................................... 67
7.104.2 Measurement of ambient air temperature ....................................................... 68
7.104.3 Low-temperature test ..................................................................................... 68
7.104.4 High-temperature test .................................................................................... 70
7.105 Tests to verify the proper functioning of the position-indicating device .................. 70
7.105.1 General ......................................................................................................... 70
7.105.2 Tests on the power kinematic chain and the position-indicating
kinematic chain .............................................................................................. 71
7.106 Bus-transfer current switching tests on disconnectors ........................................... 71
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7.106.1 General ......................................................................................................... 71

7.106.2 Making and breaking tests ............................................................................. 71
7.107 Induced current switching tests on earthing switches ............................................ 75
7.107.1 General ......................................................................................................... 75
7.107.2 Arrangement of the earthing switch for tests .................................................. 75
7.107.3 Earthing of test circuit and earthing switch ..................................................... 76
7.107.4 Test frequency ............................................................................................... 76
7.107.5 Test voltage ................................................................................................... 76
7.107.6 Test currents ................................................................................................. 76
7.107.7 Test circuits ................................................................................................... 76
7.108 Bus-charging current switching tests on disconnectors.......................................... 81
7.108.1 General ......................................................................................................... 81
7.108.2 Test duties ..................................................................................................... 82
7.108.3 Arrangement of the disconnector for tests ...................................................... 82
7.108.4 Test frequency ............................................................................................... 82
7.108.5 Test voltages for making and breaking tests .................................................. 83
7.108.6 Test circuits for making and breaking tests .................................................... 84
7.108.7 Performance of making and breaking tests .................................................... 86
7.108.8 Behaviour of the disconnector during making and breaking tests ................... 86
7.108.9 Condition after test ........................................................................................ 87
7.108.10 Type test reports ........................................................................................... 87
7.108.11 Requirements for U TVE measurements ......................................................... 88
8 Routine tests ................................................................................................................. 88
8.1 General ................................................................................................................. 88
8.2 Dielectric test on the main circuit .......................................................................... 88
8.3 Tests on auxiliary and control circuits ................................................................... 89
8.4 Measurement of the resistance of the main circuit ................................................. 89
8.5 Tightness test ....................................................................................................... 89
8.6 Design and visual checks ...................................................................................... 89
8.101 Mechanical operating tests ................................................................................... 89
8.102 Verification of earthing function ............................................................................. 90
9 Guide to the selection of disconnectors and earthing switches (informative) .................. 90
9.1 General ................................................................................................................. 90
9.2 Selection of rated values ....................................................................................... 91
9.2.101 General ......................................................................................................... 91
9.2.102 Selection of rated voltage and rated insulation level ...................................... 91
9.2.103 Selection of rated continuous current ............................................................. 91
9.2.104 Selection of rated contact zone ...................................................................... 91
9.2.105 Selection of rated static mechanical terminal load .......................................... 92
9.2.106 Selection of a bus-transfer current switching capability for
disconnectors of U r > 52 kV ........................................................................... 92
9.2.107 Selection of an induced-current switching capability for earthing
switches of U r > 52 kV ................................................................................... 92
9.2.108 Selection of rated short-time withstand current and of rated duration of
short-circuit ................................................................................................... 92
9.2.109 Selection of rated peak withstand current and of rated short-circuit
making current for earthing switches.............................................................. 93
9.2.110 Selection of short-circuit making capability for earthing switches ................... 93
9.3 Cable-interface considerations .............................................................................. 93
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9.4 Continuous or temporary overload due to changed service conditions ................... 93

9.5 Environmental aspects .......................................................................................... 93
9.5.101 Local environmental conditions ...................................................................... 93
10 Information to be given with enquiries, tenders and orders (informative) ........................ 94
10.1 General ................................................................................................................. 94
10.2 Information with enquiries and orders ................................................................... 94
10.3 Information with tenders ........................................................................................ 95
11 Transport, storage, installation, operating instructions, and maintenance ...................... 96
11.1 General ................................................................................................................. 96
11.2 Conditions during transport, storage and installation ............................................. 96
11.3 Installation ............................................................................................................ 96
11.4 Operation .............................................................................................................. 97
11.5 Maintenance ......................................................................................................... 97
12 Safety ............................................................................................................................ 97
12.1 General ................................................................................................................. 97
12.2 Precautions by manufacturers ............................................................................... 97
12.3 Precautions by users ............................................................................................ 97
13 Influence of the product on the environment .................................................................. 97
Annex A (informative) Test voltage for the most disadvantageous dielectric position of
an earthing switch during operation (minimum temporary clearance) .................................... 98
Annex B (informative) Current-switching capability required of disconnectors and
earthing switches .................................................................................................................. 99
B.1 Bus-transfer current switching capability of disconnectors ..................................... 99
B.2 Bus-charging current switching capability of disconnectors ................................... 99
B.3 Induced current-switching capability of earthing switches .................................... 100
Annex C (normative) Tolerances on test quantities for type tests ....................................... 101
Annex D (normative) Alternative test methods for short-circuit current making tests ........... 103
D.1 General ............................................................................................................... 103
D.2 Alternative methods ............................................................................................ 103
D.2.1 Synthetic test method with both rated voltage and rated short-circuit
current ......................................................................................................... 103
D.2.2 Test methods with reduced voltage .............................................................. 103
Annex E (informative) Extension of validity of type tests .................................................... 105
E.1 General ............................................................................................................... 105
E.2 Dielectric tests .................................................................................................... 105
E.3 Short-time withstand current tests ....................................................................... 105
E.4 Short-circuit making performance of earthing switches ........................................ 105
E.5 Operating and mechanical endurance tests ......................................................... 105
E.6 Bus-transfer current switching tests on disconnectors ......................................... 105
E.7 Induced current switching tests on earthing switches .......................................... 106
Bibliography ........................................................................................................................ 107

Figure 1 – Position indicating/signalling device(s) ................................................................. 40

Figure 2 – Three-phase test arrangement for disconnectors and earthing switches ............... 48
Figure 3 – Single-phase test arrangement for disconnectors with a horizontal isolating
distance and for earthing switches of U r > 52 kV, to be used with flexible or with rigid
conductors ............................................................................................................................ 49
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IEC 62271-102:2018 © IEC 2018 –7–

Figure 4 – Single-phase test arrangement for divided support disconnectors (earthing

switches) of U r > 52 kV with a vertical isolating distance, to be used with flexible
conductors ............................................................................................................................ 50
Figure 5 – Single-phase test arrangement for divided support disconnectors (earthing
switches) of U r > 52 kV with a vertical isolating distance, to be used with rigid
conductors ............................................................................................................................ 51
Figure 6 – Fixed contact parallel to support .......................................................................... 59
Figure 7 – Fixed contact perpendicular to support ................................................................. 60
Figure 8 – Example of the application of rated static mechanical terminal loads to a
(divided support) pantograph disconnector (or earthing switch) ............................................. 61
Figure 9 – Example of the application of rated static mechanical terminal loads to a
two-column disconnector ...................................................................................................... 62
Figure 10 – Test sequences for low and high temperature tests ............................................ 68
Figure 11 – Example of test circuit for bus-transfer current switching tests ........................... 73
Figure 12 – Test circuit for electromagnetically induced current switching tests .................... 77
Figure 13 – Test circuits for electrostatically induced current-switching tests ........................ 79
Figure 14 – Test circuit for test duty 1 ................................................................................... 83
Figure 15 – Typical voltage waveform (Including VFT and FT components) .......................... 85
Figure 16 – Test circuit for test duty 2 ................................................................................... 85
Figure 17 – Test circuit for test duty 3 ................................................................................... 86
Figure B.1 – Examples of resistor-fitted disconnectors ........................................................ 100

Table 1 – Classification of earthing switches for short-circuit making .................................... 28

Table 2 – Preferred contact zones for "fixed" contacts supported by flexible
conductors ............................................................................................................................ 29
Table 3 – Preferred contact zones for "fixed" contacts supported by rigid conductors ........... 29
Table 4 – Preferred static mechanical terminal loads ............................................................ 30
Table 5 – Classification of disconnectors for mechanical endurance ..................................... 31
Table 6 – Classification of earthing switches for mechanical endurance ................................ 31
Table 7 – Rated bus-transfer voltages of disconnectors ........................................................ 32
Table 8 – Classification of earthing switches for induced-current switching ........................... 32
Table 9 – Rated induced currents and voltages ..................................................................... 33
Table 10 – Classification of disconnectors for bus-charging switching ................................... 34
Table 11 – Standard rated bus-charging currents .................................................................. 34
Table 12 – Product information ............................................................................................. 36
Table 13 – List of type tests .................................................................................................. 43
Table 14 – Power frequency withstand voltages .................................................................... 45
Table 15 – Requirements on the instant of making ................................................................ 56
Table 16 – Invalid tests ......................................................................................................... 57
Table 17 – Standard values of recovery voltages for electromagnetically induced
current breaking tests ........................................................................................................... 78
Table 18 – Test circuit capacitances (C 1 values) for electrostatically induced current
switching tests ...................................................................................................................... 80
Table 19 – Test voltages for making and breaking tests ........................................................ 83
Table 20 – Number of tests ................................................................................................... 86
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Table 21 – Power frequency voltage tests ............................................................................. 89

Table B.1 – Average impedances .......................................................................................... 99
Table C.1 – Tolerances on test quantities for type tests ...................................................... 101
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INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION

____________

HIGH-VOLTAGE SWITCHGEAR AND CONTROLGEAR –

Part 102: Alternating current disconnectors and earthing switches

FOREWORD
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members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
other damage of any nature whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, or for costs (including legal fees) and
expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
Publications.
8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.

International Standard IEC 62271-102 has been prepared by subcommittee 17A: Switching
devices, of IEC technical committee 17: High-voltage switchgear and controlgear.

This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2001,
Amendment 1:2011 and Amendment 2:2013. This edition constitutes a technical revision.

This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:

a) new numbering according to IEC 17/1025/RQ to harmonize with ISO/IEC Directives,

Part 2, and IEEE Std. C37.100.1;
b) clause numbering has been aligned with IEC 62271-1:2017;
c) the Scope has been extended to cover all indoor and outdoor installations. Consideration
of switching devices having disconnecting and/or earthing switch functionalities, apart
from other functions, are also covered by this document;
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d) ratings have been moved from Annexes B, C and E to Clause 5; the order of the
subclauses now corresponds to the order of subclauses in Clause 7;
e) new rating values for bus-transfer current and bus-transfer voltage have been assigned;
f) new class of mechanical endurance for earthing switches has been added (M1);
g) subclause "Rated values of electrical endurance for earthing switches" is now called
"Classification of earthing switches for short-circuit making capability";
h) new subclause with ratings for ice-coating has been added;
i) new subclause with classification of bus-charging switching capability has been added;
j) new withstand requirements for interlocking devices have been added;
k) the way to comply with the requirements of the isolating distance of disconnectors has
been modified;
l) design and construction requirements for position-indicating devices have been modified,
aligning the requirements for position indication and signalling;
m) the value of the operating force has been changed;
n) the test procedures and validation criteria have been revised and modified where
necessary;
o) requirements for applied voltage during single-phase test on non-simultaneous closing
earthing switches have been changed;
p) non-verifiable requirements have been deleted;
q) a new subclause has been added for testing mechanical interlocking devices;
r) the high- and low-temperature test is mandatory if the temperature limits for the service
conditions of the apparatus (defined by the manufacturer) are above +40 °C or below
−5 °C, and a more detailed testing procedure is given;
s) the testing procedure to verify the proper functioning of the position-indicating device
allows a more practicable testing for every technology used;
t) a new Annex B has been added with title: "Current-switching capability required of
disconnectors and earthing switches";
u) a new Annex C has been added with title: "Tolerances on test quantities for type tests";
v) a new Annex E has been added with title: "Extension of validity of type tests".

This standard is to be read in conjunction with IEC 62271-1:2017, to which it refers and which
is applicable, unless otherwise specified. In order to simplify the indication of corresponding
requirements, the same numbering of clauses and subclauses, except annexes, is used as in
IEC 62271-1:2017. Additional subclauses are numbered from 101.

The text of this International Standard is based on the following documents:

FDIS Report on voting

17A/1173/FDIS 17A/1180/RVD

Full information on the voting for the approval of this International Standard can be found in
the report on voting indicated in the above table.

This document has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.

A list of all parts in the IEC 62271 series, published under the general title High-voltage
switchgear and controlgear, can be found on the IEC website.
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IEC 62271-102:2018 © IEC 2018 – 11 –

The committee has decided that the contents of this document will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC website under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to
the specific document. At this date, the document will be

• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.

IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct
understanding of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a
colour printer.
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HIGH-VOLTAGE SWITCHGEAR AND CONTROLGEAR –

Part 102: Alternating current disconnectors and earthing switches

1 Scope

This part of IEC 62271 applies to alternating current disconnectors and earthing switches,
designed for indoor and outdoor installations for nominal voltages above 1 000 V and for
service frequencies up to and including 60 Hz.

It also applies to the operating devices of these disconnectors and earthing switches and their
auxiliary equipment.

Additional requirements for disconnectors and earthing switches in enclosed switchgear and
controlgear are given in IEC 62271-200, IEC 62271-201 and IEC 62271-203.

NOTE Disconnectors in which the fuse forms an integral part are not covered by this standard.

This document is also applicable to switching devices having disconnecting and/or earthing
functionalities apart from other functions, such as high-speed earthing switch, circuit-breaker
and switch-disconnector.

2 Normative references

The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their
content constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition
cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including
any amendments) applies.

IEC 60050-151, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Part 151: Electrical and magnetic
devices

IEC 60050-441, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Chapter 441: Switchgear

controlgear and fuses

IEC 60050-471, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Part 471: Insulators

IEC 60050-614, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Part 614: Generation,

transmission and distribution of electricity – Operation

IEC 60071-2, Insulation co-ordination – Part 2: Application guide

IEC 60137, Insulating bushings for alternating voltages above 1 000 V

IEC 60270, High-voltage test techniques – Partial discharge measurements

IEC 60529:1989, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures (IP Code)

IEC 60529:1989/AMD1:1999
IEC 60529:1989/AMD2:2013

IEC 60865-1, Short-circuit currents – Calculation of effects – Part 1: Definitions and

calculation methods
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IEC 62271-102:2018 © IEC 2018 – 13 –

IEC 62262:2002, Degrees of protection provided by enclosures for electrical equipment

against external mechanical impacts (IK code)

IEC 62271-1:2017, High-voltage switchgear and controlgear – Part 1: Common specifications

for alternating current switchgear and controlgear

IEC 62271-100:2008, High-voltage switchgear and controlgear – Part 100: Alternating current
circuit-breakers
IEC 62271-100:2008/AMD1:2012
IEC 62271-100:2008/AMD2:2017

IEC 62271-101:2012, High-voltage switchgear and controlgear – Part 101: Synthetic testing
IEC 62271-101:2012/AMD1:2017

IEC 62271-200:2011, High-voltage switchgear and controlgear – Part 200: AC metal-enclosed

switchgear and controlgear for rated voltages above 1 kV and up to and including 52 kV

IEC 62271-201:2014, High-voltage switchgear and controlgear – Part 201: AC solid-insulation

enclosed switchgear and controlgear for rated voltages above 1 kV and up to and including
52 kV

IEC 62271-203:2011, High-voltage switchgear and controlgear – Part 203: Gas-insulated

metal-enclosed switchgear for rated voltages above 52 kV

IEC/TR 62271-305, High-voltage switchgear and controlgear – Part 305: Capacitive current
switching capability of air-insulated disconnectors for rated voltages above 52 kV

ISO 2768-1, General tolerances – Part 1: Tolerances for linear and angular dimensions
without individual tolerance indications

3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in IEC 60050-151,
IEC 60050-441, IEC 60050-471, IEC 60050-614, and IEC 62271-1 and the following apply.

ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following
addresses:

• IEC Electropedia: available at http://www.electropedia.org/

• ISO Online browsing platform: available at http://www.iso.org/obp

3.1 General terms and definitions

3.1.101
indoor switchgear and controlgear
switchgear and controlgear designed solely for installation within a building or other housing,
where the switchgear and controlgear is protected against wind, rain, snow, abnormal dirt
deposits, abnormal condensation, ice and hoar frost

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-11-04]

3.1.102
outdoor switchgear and controlgear
switchgear and controlgear suitable for installation in the open air, i.e. capable of withstanding
wind, rain, snow, dirt deposits, condensation, ice and hoar frost
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[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-11-05]

3.1.103
user
person or legal entity using the disconnectors or earthing switches

Note 1 to entry: This can include the purchaser (for example an electricity supplier), but it can also include the
contracting company, the staff responsible for erection of installation, the maintenance or operating staff or
anybody else temporarily or permanently responsible for the disconnector, earthing switch or electrical installation,
or even the operation of the switchgear.

3.2 Assemblies of switchgear and controlgear

3.2.1
test object
equipment needed to represent the specimen for a particular type test

[SOURCE: IEC 62271-1:2017, 3.2.1, modified – "switchgear and controlgear" replaced by

"specimen"]

3.3 Parts of assemblies

Subclause 3.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

3.4 Switching devices

3.4.101
disconnector
mechanical switching device which provides, in the open position, an isolating distance in
accordance with specified requirements

Note 1 to entry: A disconnector is capable of opening and closing a circuit when either negligible current is
broken or made, or when no significant change in the voltage across the terminals of each of the poles of the
disconnector occurs. It is also capable of carrying currents under normal circuit conditions and carrying for a
specified time currents under abnormal conditions such as those of short-circuit.

Note 2 to entry: "Negligible current" implies currents such as the capacitive currents of bushings, busbars,
connections, very short lengths of cable, currents of permanently connected grading impedances of
circuit-breakers and currents of voltage transformers and dividers (see also IEC/TR 62271-305). For U r ≤ 420 kV, a
current not exceeding 0,5 A is a negligible current for the purpose of this definition; for U r > 420 kV and currents
exceeding 0,5 A, the manufacturer should be consulted. "No significant change in voltage" refers to such
applications as the by-passing of induction voltage regulators or circuit-breakers and bus transfer.

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-14-05, modified – Note 2 to entry has been added]

3.4.102
divided support disconnector
divided support earthing switch
disconnector (or earthing switch) in which the fixed and moving contacts of each pole are not
supported by a common base or frame

Note 1 to entry: A typical example is the pantograph or semi-pantograph disconnector (or earthing switch).

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-14-06 and -07, modified – The term "earthing switch"
is completed with "divided support" and the term "disconnector" substituted by "earthing
switch" in Note 1 to entry when appropriate; Note 2 to entry deleted.]

3.4.103
centre-break disconnector
disconnector in which both contacts of each pole are movable and engage at a point
substantially midway between their supports

Note 1 to entry: This term applies to high-voltage disconnectors only.

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[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-14-08]

3.4.104
double-break disconnector
disconnector that opens a circuit at two points

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-14-09]

3.4.105
resistor-fitted disconnector
disconnector fitted with resistor in series or in parallel to the switching contacts in order to
mitigate the very fast transient overvoltage (VFTO) during both the opening and closing
operation in metal-enclosed gas-insulated switchgear

3.4.106
earthing switch
mechanical switching device for earthing parts of a circuit, capable of withstanding for a
specified time currents under abnormal conditions such as those of short-circuit, but not
required to carry current under normal conditions of the circuit

Note 1 to entry: An earthing switch may have a short-circuit making capacity.

Note 2 to entry: An earthing switch of U r > 52 kV may have a rating for switching and carrying induced currents.

Note 3 to entry: These devices may sometimes be operated against short-circuit. The different classes of earthing
switches are related to the number of short-circuit making operations.

Note 4 to entry: In some cases, earthing switches are used as fault-initiating devices.

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-14-11, modified – the Notes 2, 3 and 4 to entry have
been added]

3.4.107
combined function earthing switch
earthing switch having a common contact system for earthing and at least one of the following
functions:

– disconnecting;
– making and/or breaking of currents up to the short-circuit current.

3.4.108
switch-disconnector
switch which, in the open position, satisfies the isolating requirements specified for a
disconnector

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-14-12]

3.5 Parts of switching devices

3.5.101
pole of a switching device
portion of a switching device associated exclusively with one electrically separated conducting
path of its main circuit and excluding those portions which provide a means for mounting and
operating all poles together

Note 1 to entry: A switching device is called single-pole if it has only one pole. If it has more than one pole, it may
be called multipole (two-pole, three-pole, etc.) provided the poles are or can be coupled in such a manner as to
operate together.

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-15-01]

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3.5.102
main circuit
<of a switching device> all the conductive parts of a switching device included in the circuit
which it is designed to close or open

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-15-02]

3.5.103
contact
<of a mechanical switching device> conductive parts designed to establish circuit continuity
when they touch and which, due to their relative motion during an operation, open or close a
circuit or, in the case of hinged or sliding contacts, maintain circuit continuity

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-15-05]

3.5.104
main contact
contact included in the main circuit of a mechanical switching device, intended to carry, in the
closed position, the current of the main circuit

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-15-07]

3.5.105
control contact
contact included in a control circuit of a mechanical switching device and mechanically
operated by this device

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-15-09]

3.5.106
"a" contact
make contact
control or auxiliary contact that is closed when the main contacts of the mechanical switching
device are closed and open when they are open

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-15-12]

3.5.107
"b" contact
break contact
control or auxiliary contact that is open when the main contacts of a mechanical switching
device are closed and closed when they are open

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-15-13]

3.5.108
position-indicating device
part of a mechanical switching device that indicates whether it is in the open, closed, or where
appropriate, earthed position

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-15-25]

3.5.109
position-signalling device
part of a disconnector or earthing switch which uses auxiliary energy to indicate whether the
contacts of the main circuit are in the open or closed position
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3.5.110
terminal
conductive part of a device, electric circuit or electric network, provided for connecting that
device, electric circuit or electric network to one or more external conductors

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-151:2014, 151-12-12, modified – the note has been deleted.]

3.5.111
contact zone
<for divided support disconnectors and earthing switches> spatial region of positions the fixed
contact may take up for correct engagement with the moving contact

3.5.112
power kinematic chain
mechanical connecting system between the operating mechanism and the moving contacts,
both included

Note 1 to entry: Refer to Figure 1.

3.5.113
position-indicating kinematic chain
mechanical connecting system between the moving contacts and the position-indicating
device(s), both included

3.5.114
position-signalling kinematic chain
mechanical connecting system between the moving contacts and the position of the signalling
device(s)

3.5.115
connecting point
most upstream point (i.e. the closest to the source of energy) of the common part of the power
and position-indicating/signalling kinematic chains

3.5.116
strain limiting device
device that limits to a defined value the torque or force transmitted to the downstream side of
the device irrespective of the torque or force applied to the upstream side

3.5.117
torque (force) controlling system
system that monitors and controls the torque (force) transmitted to the downstream side of the
device in comparison with defined value

3.5.118
bushing
device that enables one or several conductors to pass through a partition such as a wall or a
tank, and insulate the conductors from it

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-471:2007, 471-02-01, modified – Notes 1 and 2 to entry deleted]

3.5.119
source of energy
origin of the energy released or of the force/torque applied to the power kinematic chain of a
switching device during an operation or at any stable position of it

Note 1 to entry: The origin of the energy or force/torque can be human, electrical, hydraulics, pneumatics and
mechanics i.e. springs, weights, etc. alone or in combination.
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3.6 Operation

3.6.101
operation
<of a mechanical switching device> transfer of the moving contact(s) from one position to an
adjacent position

Note 1 to entry: For a circuit-breaker, this may be a closing operation or an opening operation.

Note 2 to entry: If distinction is necessary, an operation in the electrical sense, e.g. make or break, is referred to
as a switching operation, and an operation in the mechanical sense, e.g. close or open, is referred to as a
mechanical operation.

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-16-01]

3.6.102
operating cycle
<of a mechanical switching device> succession of operations from one position to another
and back to the first position through all other positions, if any

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-16-02]

3.6.103
closing operation
<of a mechanical switching device> operation by which the device is brought from the open
position to the closed position

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-16-08]

3.6.104
opening operation
<of a mechanical switching device> operation by which the device is brought from the closed
position to the open position

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-16-09]

3.6.105
dependent manual operation
<of a mechanical switching device> operation solely by means of directly applied manual
energy, such that the speed and force of the operation are dependent upon the action of the
operator

Note 1 to entry: Dependent manual operation may be performed by a crank or by a swing lever (horizontal or
vertical).

Note 2 to entry: Switching devices with dependent manual operation have not any inherent switching capability.

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-16-13, modified – Notes 1 and 2 to entry have been
added]

3.6.106
dependent power operation
<of a mechanical switching device> operation by means of energy other than manual, where
the completion of the operation is dependent upon the continuity of the power supply (to
solenoids, electric or pneumatic motors, etc.)

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-16-14]

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3.6.107
stored energy operation
<of a mechanical switching device> operation by means of energy stored in the mechanism
itself prior to the completion of the operation and sufficient to complete it under predetermined
conditions

Note 1 to entry: This kind of operation may be subdivided according to:

1) the manner of storing the energy (spring, weight, etc.);
2) the origin of the energy (manual, electric, etc.);
3) the manner of releasing the energy (manual, electric, etc.).

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-16-15]

3.6.108
independent manual operation
<of a mechanical switching device> stored energy operation where the energy originates from
manual power, stored and released in one continuous operation, such that the speed and
force of the operation are independent of the action of the operator

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-16-16]

3.6.109
closed position
<of a mechanical switching device> position in which the predetermined continuity of the main
circuit of the device is secured

Note 1 to entry: Predetermined continuity means that the contacts are fully closed to carry the rated continuous
and the rated short-circuit currents, as applicable.

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-16-22, modified – Note to entry has been added]

3.6.110
open position
<of a mechanical switching device> position in which the predetermined clearance between
open contacts in the main circuit of the device is secured

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-16-23]

3.6.111
toggle point
point beyond which any further movement of the charging mechanism causes the stored
energy to be released

3.6.112
mechanical endurance
<of a disconnector or earthing switch> capability of a disconnector or earthing switch to
perform a defined number of operations without voltage on or current through the circuit under
specified operation conditions

3.7 Characteristic quantities

3.7.101
peak making current
<of an earthing switch> peak value of the first major loop of the current in a pole of the
earthing switch during the transient period following the initiation of current during a making
operation
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Note 1 to entry: Where, for a three-phase circuit, a single value of (peak) making current is referred to, this is,
unless otherwise stated, the highest value in any phase.

3.7.102
peak current
peak value of the first major loop of current during the transient period following initiation

3.7.103
short-time withstand current
current that a circuit or a switching device in the closed position can carry during a specified
short time under prescribed conditions of use and behaviour

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-17-17]

3.7.104
peak withstand current
value of peak current that a circuit or a switching device in the closed position can withstand
under prescribed conditions of use and behaviour

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-17-18]

3.7.105
insulation level
set of withstand voltages specified which characterize the dielectric strength of the insulation

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-614:2016, 614-03-23]

3.7.106
power frequency withstand voltage
RMS value of sinusoidal power frequency voltage that the insulation of the given equipment
can withstand during tests made under specified conditions and for a specified duration

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-614:2016, 614-03-22]

3.7.107
lightning impulse withstand voltage
peak value of the lightning impulse voltage which the insulation of the disconnector or
earthing switch withstands under specified test conditions

3.7.108
switching impulse withstand voltage
peak value of the switching impulse voltage which the insulation of the disconnector or
earthing switch withstands under specified test conditions

3.7.109
external insulation
distances in atmospheric air, and along the surfaces in contact with atmospheric air of solid
insulation of the equipment which are subject to dielectric stresses and to the effects of
atmospheric and other environmental conditions from the site

Note 1 to entry: Examples of environmental conditions are pollution, humidity, vermin, etc.

Note 2 to entry: External insulation is either weather-protected or non-weather-protected, designed to operate

inside or outside closed shelters, respectively.

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-614:2016, 614-03-02, modified – Note 2 to entry has been added]
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3.7.110
internal insulation
internal distances of the solid, liquid or gaseous insulation of equipment which are protected
from the effects of atmospheric and other external conditions

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-614:2016, 614-03-03]

3.7.111
self-restoring insulation
insulation which completely recovers its insulating properties within a short time after a
disruptive discharge

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-614:2016, 614-03-04]

3.7.112
non-self-restoring insulation
insulation which loses its insulating properties, or does not recover them completely, after a
disruptive discharge

Note 1 to entry: Definitions 3.7.111 and 3.7.112 apply only when the discharge is caused by the application of a
test voltage during a dielectric test. However, discharges occurring in service can cause a self-restoring insulation
to lose partially or completely its original insulating properties.

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-614:2016, 614-03-05, modified – Note to entry has been added]

3.7.113
parallel insulation
insulator arrangement with two insulators in parallel where the distance between the two
insulators might influence the dielectric strength

Note 1 to entry: With open terminal disconnectors and earthing switches, parallel insulation is used when a drive
insulator is situated next to a support insulator.

3.7.114
disruptive discharge
failure of insulation under electric stress, in which the discharge completely bridges the
insulation under test, reducing the voltage between electrodes to practically zero

Note 1 to entry: Non-sustained disruptive discharge in which the test object is momentarily bridged by a spark or
arc may occur. During these events the voltage across the test object is momentarily reduced to zero or to a very
small value. Depending on the characteristics of the test circuit and the test object, a recovery of dielectric strength
may occur and may even allow the test voltage to reach a higher value. Such an event should be interpreted as a
disruptive discharge unless otherwise specified by the relevant technical committee.

Note 2 to entry: A disruptive discharge in a solid dielectric produces permanent loss of dielectric strength; in a
liquid or gaseous dielectric the loss may be only temporary.

[SOURCE: IEC 60060-1:2010, 3.1.1]

3.7.115
clearance
distance between two conductive parts along a string stretched the shortest way between
these conductive parts

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-17-31]

3.7.116
clearance between poles
clearance between any conductive parts of adjacent poles
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[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-17-32]

3.7.117
clearance to earth
clearance between any conductive parts and any parts which are earthed or intended to be
earthed

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-17-33]

3.7.118
clearance between open contacts
total clearance between the contacts, or any conductive parts connected thereto, of a pole of
a mechanical switching device in the open position

Note 1 to entry: The total clearance is the sum of the clearances existing between the contacts.

[SOURCE: IEC 60050-441:2000, 441-17-34, modified – Note to entry has been added]

3.7.119
mechanical terminal load
external load acting on each terminal

Note 1 to entry: The external load is the result of the combined mechanical forces which may be applied to the
terminals of the switching device. Wind forces acting on the equipment itself are not included as they do not
contribute to the external load acting on terminals.

Note 2 to entry: A disconnector or earthing switch can be subjected to several mechanical forces different in
value, direction and point of action.

Note 3 to entry: The terminal loads as defined here do not usually apply to enclosed switchgear.

3.7.119.1
static mechanical terminal load
static mechanical terminal load at each terminal equivalent to the mechanical force to which
this terminal of the disconnector or earthing switch is subjected by the flexible or rigid
conductor connected to this terminal

Note 1 to entry: The static mechanical terminal load includes forces resulting from ice, wind and connected
conductors.

3.7.119.2
dynamic mechanical terminal load
combination of the static mechanical load and the electromagnetic forces under short-circuit
conditions

3.7.120
bus-transfer current switching
opening and closing of disconnectors under load when this load is not interrupted, but
transferred from one bus to a parallel bus

3.7.121
bus-transfer current
current that flows when a load is transferred from one bus system to another

3.7.122
bus-transfer voltage
power frequency voltage across the open disconnector after breaking or before making the
bus-transfer current
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3.7.123
induced current switching
making or breaking of inductive or capacitive currents by an earthing switch, whereupon the
currents are induced in an earthed or unearthed system by adjacent energized lines or cables

Note 1 to entry: When two or more transmission lines are mounted together, energy will be induced
electrostatically and/or electromagnetically from a live system into a de-energized system resulting in capacitive or
inductive currents flowing in this system, depending whether it is earthed at one or at both ends.

3.7.124
electromagnetically induced current
<on an earthing switch> inductive current that flows through an earthing switch when it
connects to and disconnects from earth one termination of a de-energized transmission line,
with the other termination earthed, and with an energized line carrying current in parallel with,
and in proximity to, the earthed line

Note 1 to entry: The inductive current in a de-energized line earthed at both terminations is dependent upon the
current in the energized line and the coupling factor to the energized line, as determined by the circuit
configuration.

3.7.125
electrostatically induced current
<on an earthing switch> capacitive current that flows through an earthing switch when it
connects to and disconnects from earth one termination of a de-energized transmission line,
with the other termination open, and with an energized line in parallel with, and in proximity
to, the earthed line

Note 1 to entry: The capacitive current in a de-energized line earthed at one termination is dependent upon the
voltage of the energized line, the coupling factor to the energized line as determined by the circuit configuration,
and the length of the earthed line between the earthed termination and the open termination.

3.7.126
bus-charging current switching
making or breaking of bus-charging currents by disconnectors

3.7.127
bus-charging current
capacitive current that flows when an isolated part of a busbar system is energised or de-
energised

3.7.128
transient voltage to earth
U TVE
voltage to earth which appears at the first prestrike during a closing operation of a
disconnector

3.7.129
filling pressure for insulation and/or switching
filling density for insulation and/or switching
pressure in Pascal (Pa) for insulation and/or for switching, referred to the standard
atmospheric air conditions of +20 °C and 101,3 kPa (or density), which may be expressed in
relative or absolute terms, to which the assembly is filled before being put into service, or
automatically replenished

[SOURCE: IEC 62271-1:2017, 3.6.5.1]

3.7.130
minimum functional pressure for insulation and/or switching
minimum functional density for insulation and/or switching
pressure (Pa) for insulation and/or for switching, referred to the standard atmospheric air
conditions of +20 °C and 101,3 kPa (or density), which may be expressed in relative or
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absolute terms, at which and above which rated characteristics of switchgear and controlgear
are maintained and at which a replenishment becomes necessary

[SOURCE: IEC 62271-1:2017, 3.6.5.5]

3.8 Index of definitions

A–B

"a" contact ................................................................................................................................ 3.5.106

"b" contact ................................................................................................................................ 3.5.107
Bus-charging current................................................................................................................. 3.7.127
Bus-charging current switching .................................................................................................. 3.7.126
Bushing .................................................................................................................................... 3.5.118
Bus-transfer current .................................................................................................................. 3.7.121
Bus-transfer current switching ................................................................................................... 3.7.120
Bus-transfer voltage .................................................................................................................. 3.7.122

Centre-break disconnector ........................................................................................................ 3.4.103

Clearance................................................................................................................................. 3.7.115
Clearance between open contacts ............................................................................................. 3.7.118
Clearance between poles .......................................................................................................... 3.7.116
Clearance to earth .................................................................................................................... 3.7.117
Closed position (of a mechanical switching device) .................................................................... 3.6.109
Closing operation (of a mechanical switching device) ................................................................. 3.6.103
Combined function earthing switch ............................................................................................ 3.4.107
Connecting point....................................................................................................................... 3.5.115
Contact (of a mechanical switching device) ................................................................................ 3.5.103
Contact zone (for divided support disconnectors and earthing switches) ...................................... 3.5.111
Control contact ......................................................................................................................... 3.5.105

Dependent manual operation (of a mechanical switching device) ................................................ 3.6.105

Dependent power operation (of a mechanical switching device) .................................................. 3.6.106
Disconnector ............................................................................................................................ 3.4.101
Disruptive discharge ................................................................................................................. 3.7.114
Divided support disconnector .................................................................................................... 3.4.102
Divided support earthing switch ................................................................................................. 3.4.102
Double-break disconnector ........................................................................................................ 3.4.104
Dynamic mechanical terminal load ............................................................................................. 3.7.119.2

Earthing switch ......................................................................................................................... 3.4.106

Electromagnetically induced current (on an earthing switch) ....................................................... 3.7.124
Electrostatically induced current (on an earthing switch) ............................................................. 3.7.125
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External insulation .................................................................................................................... 3.7.109

Independent manual operation (of a mechanical switching device) .............................................. 3.6.108

Indoor switchgear and controlgear ............................................................................................. 3.1.101
Induced current switching .......................................................................................................... 3.7.123
Insulation level ......................................................................................................................... 3.7.105
Internal insulation ..................................................................................................................... 3.7.110

L–N

Lightning impulse withstand voltage ........................................................................................... 3.7.107

Main circuit (of a switching device) ............................................................................................ 3.5.102
Main contact ............................................................................................................................. 3.5.104
Mechanical endurance of a disconnector or earthing switch ........................................................ 3.6.112
Mechanical terminal load ........................................................................................................... 3.7.119
Minimum functional density for insulation ................................................................................... 3.7.130
Minimum functional pressure for insulation ................................................................................. 3.7.130
Non-self-restoring insulation ...................................................................................................... 3.7.112

Open position (of a mechanical switching device) ....................................................................... 3.6.110

Opening operation (of a mechanical switching device) ................................................................ 3.6.104
Operation (of a mechanical switching device) ............................................................................. 3.6.101
Operating cycle (of a mechanical switching device) .................................................................... 3.6.102
Outdoor switchgear and controlgear .......................................................................................... 3.1.102

Parallel insulation ..................................................................................................................... 3.7.113

Peak current ............................................................................................................................. 3.7.102
Peak making current (of an earthing switch) ............................................................................... 3.7.101
Peak withstand current .............................................................................................................. 3.7.104
Pole of a switching device ......................................................................................................... 3.5.101
Position-indicating device .......................................................................................................... 3.5.108
Position-indicating kinematic chain ............................................................................................ 3.5.113
Position-signalling device .......................................................................................................... 3.5.109
Position-signalling kinematic chain ............................................................................................ 3.5.114
Power frequency withstand voltage ............................................................................................ 3.7.106
Power kinematic chain .............................................................................................................. 3.5.112
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R–U

Rated filling density for insulation .............................................................................................. 3.7.129

Rated filling pressure for insulation ............................................................................................ 3.7.129
Resistor-fitted disconnector ....................................................................................................... 3.4.105
Self-restoring insulation ............................................................................................................ 3.7.111
Short-time withstand current ...................................................................................................... 3.7.103
Source of energy ...................................................................................................................... 3.5.119
Static mechanical terminal load ................................................................................................. 3.7.119.1
Stored energy operation (of a mechanical switching device) ....................................................... 3.6.107
Strain limiting device ................................................................................................................. 3.5.116
Switch-disconnector .................................................................................................................. 3.4.108
Switching impulse withstand voltage .......................................................................................... 3.7.108
Terminal ................................................................................................................................... 3.5.110
Test object ............................................................................................................................... 3.2.1
Toggle point ............................................................................................................................. 3.6.111
Torque (force) controlling system .............................................................................................. 3.5.117
Transient voltage to earth ......................................................................................................... 3.7.128
User ......................................................................................................................................... 3.1.103

4 Normal and special service conditions

Clause 4 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

5 Ratings

5.1 General

Clause 5 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable for a disconnector or earthing switch, including

their operating devices and auxiliary equipment. The list of ratings is complemented with the
following items:

k) rated short-circuit making current (for earthing switches only);

l) rated contact zone;
m) rated static mechanical terminal load;
n) rated ice-coating;
o) rated values of the bus-transfer current switching capability (for disconnectors only);
p) rated values of the induced current switching capability (for earthing switches only);
q) rated values of the bus-charging current switching capability (for disconnectors only).

In addition to the rated values given above, the following classifications may be assigned:

r) short-circuit making class (for earthing switches only);

s) mechanical endurance class;
t) induced current switching class (for earthing switches only);
u) bus-charging current switching class (for disconnectors only).

Disconnectors or earthing switches being classified for more than one switching capability
may indicate their classification by combined class designations. For example, an earthing
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switch having short-circuit making capability class E1 and an induced current switching
capability class B may be classified as class B+E1.

Ratings for making and breaking capabilities cannot be assigned to disconnectors and
earthing switches with only manual dependent operation.

In the case of disconnectors and earthing switches with both dependent power and dependent
manual operation, any making and breaking capability is not valid for dependent manual
operation.

5.2 Rated voltage (U r )

Subclause 5.2 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

5.3 Rated insulation level (U d , U p , U s )

Subclause 5.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition:

For disconnectors rated above 52 kV and disconnectors having an isolating distance in

parallel to the base of the disconnector and having integrated earthing switches, the
insulation level between moving parts of the earthing switch and the opposite live parts,
during operation of the earthing switch, shall be at least the short-duration power frequency
withstand voltage for the smallest gap between them specified in 7.2.6.

If national safety regulations specify higher withstand values for earthing switches that have
manual operating mechanisms only, this has to be agreed upon between the user and the
manufacturer.

5.4 Rated frequency (f r )

Subclause 5.4 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

5.5 Rated continuous current (I r )

Subclause 5.5 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable. This subclause applies only to

disconnectors.

5.6 Rated short-time withstand current (I k )

Subclause 5.6 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition.

An earthing switch may be assigned a rating different from the rating of the related main
circuit (if applicable).

An earthing switch forming an integral part of a combined function earthing switch may be
assigned a rating different from the rating of its main circuit.

5.7 Rated peak withstand current (I p )

Subclause 5.7 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition.

An earthing switch may be assigned a rating different from the rating of the related main
circuit (if applicable).

An earthing switch forming an integral part of a combined function earthing switch may be
assigned a rating different from the rating of its main circuit.
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5.8 Rated duration of short-circuit (t k )

Subclause 5.8 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition:

An earthing switch may be assigned a rating different from the rating of the related main
circuit (if applicable).

An earthing switch forming an integral part of a combined function earthing switch may be
assigned a rating different from the rating of its main circuit.

5.9 Rated supply voltage of auxiliary and control circuits (U a )

Subclause 5.9 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

5.10 Rated supply frequency of auxiliary circuits and control circuits

Subclause 5.10 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

5.11 Rated pressure of compressed gas supply for controlled pressure systems

Subclause 5.11 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition:

5.11.101 Rated pressure of compressed gas supply for insulation and/or switching

The limits of pressure shall be given by the manufacturer.

5.11.102 Rated pressure of compressed gas supply for operation

External pneumatic or hydraulic supply:

Unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer, the limits of the operating pressure are 85 %
and 110 % of the rated pressure.

5.101 Rated short-circuit making current (I ma )

The rated short-circuit making current is applicable only to the earthing switches class E1 and
E2. This shall be equal to the rated peak withstand current.

Subclause 5.102 provides a classification of earthing switches for short-circuit making

capability.

5.102 Classification of earthing switches for short-circuit making

The short-circuit making capability of earthing switches to perform a defined number of short-
circuit making operations, without major maintenance, shall correspond to one of the classes
given in Table 1.

NOTE The increased number of making operations of Class E2 is typically related to voltages up to and including
52 kV depending on the operating conditions and the protection systems of such networks.

Table 1 – Classification of earthing switches for short-circuit making

Class Type of earthing switch

E0 Earthing switch with no short-circuit making capability
E1 Earthing switch with capability to perform two short-circuit making operations
E2 Earthing switch with capability to perform five short-circuit making operations
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5.103 Rated contact zone

In case of divided support disconnectors and divided support earthing switches the
manufacturer shall state the rated values of the contact zone (indicated by x r , y r and z r ).
Preferred values are given in Table 2 and Table 3. The rated values shall be specified by the
manufacturer. This refers also to a tolerable angular displacement of the fixed contact.

Table 2 – Preferred contact zones for "fixed" contacts

supported by flexible conductors

Rated voltage U r x y z1 z2
kV mm mm mm mm

72,5 – 100 300

100
123 – 145 350 200 300
170 400
245
250
300 450
200 500
362
300
420
500
550 600 400
800 250 650 450 550
1 100 – 1 200 300 700 500 600

x = total amplitude of longitudinal movement of the supporting conductor (temperature).

y = total horizontal deflection (perpendicular to supporting conductor) (wind).
z = vertical deflection (temperature and ice).

NOTE z 1 are values for short-span, z 2 are values for long-span of the flexible conductors to which the fixed
contacts are mounted.

Table 3 – Preferred contact zones for "fixed" contacts

supported by rigid conductors

Rated voltage U r x y z
kV mm mm mm

72,5 – 100 – 123 – 145 100 100 100

170 – 245 – 300 – 362 – 420 150 150 150
550 175 175 175
800 200 200 200
1 100 – 1 200 250 250 250

x = total amplitude of longitudinal movement of the supporting conductor (temperature).

y = total horizontal deflection (perpendicular to supporting conductor) (wind).
z = vertical deflection (ice).

5.104 Rated static mechanical terminal load

When disconnectors or earthing switches are intended to be directly connected to lines, i.e.
flexible or rigid conductors, the rated static mechanical terminal load of each terminal shall be
assigned, indicating the directions of application.
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The maximum static mechanical terminal load to which a terminal of a disconnector or

earthing switch is allowed to be subjected under the most disadvantageous conditions is the
rated static mechanical terminal load.

Preferred values of static mechanical terminal loads are given in Table 4 and are intended to
be used as a guide.

Table 4 – Preferred static mechanical terminal loads

Rated voltage U r Rated Two- and three-column Divided support disconnectors

continuous disconnectors or earthing or earthing switches
kV current I r switches Vertical
A Straight load Cross-load Straight load Cross-load Force
F a1 and F a2 F b1 and F b2 F a1 and F a2 F b1 and F b2 Fc a
N
In Figure 9 In Figure 8

N N N N

≤ 1 600 400 130 800 200

72,5 500
> 1 600 500 170 800 200
≤ 1 600 500 170 800 200
100 – 123 – 145
> 1 600 600 200 1 000 300
≤ 1 600 600 200 1 000 300 1 000
170
> 1 600 800 250 1 250 400
≤ 2 500 800 270 1 250 400
245
> 2 500 1 000 330 1 600 500
1 250
≤ 2 500 1 000 400 1 600 500
300 – 362
> 2 500 1 500 500 1 800 600
≤ 3 150 1 600 530 2 000 800 1 500
420
> 3 150 2 000 660 4 000 1 600
≤ 3 150 1 600 530 2 000 800
550 1 500
> 3 150 2 000 660 4 000 1 600
≤ 3 150 1 600 530 2 000 800
800 1 500
> 3 150 2 000 660 4 000 1 600
≤ 4 000 2 000 660 4 000 1 600
1 100 – 1 200 2 000
> 4 000 2 500 1 000 5 000 2 000
a F c simulates the downward forces caused by the weight of the connecting conductors. F c does not apply to
flexible conductors.

NOTE The static mechanical terminal load includes forces resulting from ice, wind and connected conductors.

5.105 Classification of disconnectors for mechanical endurance

The mechanical endurance of disconnectors shall correspond to one of the classes given in
Table 5. The performance is associated to a programme of maintenance defined by the
manufacturer.
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Table 5 – Classification of disconnectors for mechanical endurance

Class Number of operating cycles Mechanical endurance

M0 1 000 Normal
M1 2 000 Extended
M2 10 000 Extended

5.106 Classification of earthing switches for mechanical endurance

The mechanical endurance of earthing switches shall correspond to one of the classes given
in Table 6. The performance is associated to a programme of maintenance defined by the
manufacturer.

Table 6 – Classification of earthing switches for mechanical endurance

Class Number of operating cycles Mechanical endurance

M0 1 000 Normal
M1 2 000 Extended

5.107 Rated ice-coating

For disconnectors and earthing switches able to operate under ice-conditions a rated ice-
coating shall be assigned by the manufacturer.

Preferred ratings of ice-coating are: 1 mm, 10 mm and 20 mm.

5.108 Rated values of disconnectors for bus-transfer current switching

5.108.1 Rated bus-transfer current

The rated bus-transfer current of disconnectors used in both air-insulated and gas-insulated
installations is:

– for 52 kV < U r < 245 kV 80 % of the rated continuous current of the disconnector, but
limited to 1 600 A;
– for 245 kV ≤U r ≤ 550 kV 60 % of the rated continuous current of the disconnector, but
limited to 4 000 A;
– for U r > 550 kV 80 % of the rated continuous current of the disconnector, but limited to
4 000 A.

Rated bus-transfer currents greater than the values given above may be assigned by the
manufacturer.

NOTE 1 It is recognised that disconnectors of U r ≤ 52 kV can also have bus-transfer switching capability. In this
case, checking of the performance is subjected to an agreement between the user and the manufacturer.

NOTE 2 For more information refer to the following: for information about 60 % and 80 %, refer to CIGRE
TB 570 – 2014 [1] 1 and CIGRE SC A3 third report, presented in Paris (FR), 2016, and about 4 000 A refer to
CIGRE SC A3 and B3 colloquium in Nagoya (JP), paper no. 212, 2015.

___________
1 Numbers in square brackets refer to the Bibliography.
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5.108.2 Rated bus-transfer voltage

Rated bus-transfer voltages are given in Table 7. Different bus-transfer voltages than the
values given in Table 7 below may be assigned by the manufacturer.

Table 7 – Rated bus-transfer voltages of disconnectors

Rated Rated voltage U r Rated voltage U r

continuous
current I r
52 kV < U r 245 kV ≤ U r 52 kV < U r 245 kV ≤ U r
U r > 550 kV U r > 550 kV
A < 245 kV ≤ 550 kV < 245 kV ≤ 550 kV
Gas-insulated installations Air-insulated installations
V (RMS value) V (RMS value)

2 000 175 250

15 20
2 500 220 310

3 150 20 30 275 390

4 000 10 100 350 500

25
5 000 435
42
6 300 550 625
35
8 000 580

NOTE The values in the table are based on calculations of a bus-transfer current corresponding to the rated
continuous current of the disconnector taking into account typical loop lengths and impedances given in Annex B.

5.109 Classification and rated values of earthing switches for induced current
switching

Rated induced current and voltage shall be assigned to earthing switches of U r > 52 kV and
designed for making or breaking of inductive or capacitive induced currents (see 3.7.124 and
3.7.125), hence requiring an induced current switching capability.

For this application, a classification for induced current switching (class A or B) shall be
assigned to the earthing switch. This class depends upon the severity of the induced current
switching duty. The classification of earthing switches for induced current switching is given in
Table 8.

Table 8 – Classification of earthing switches for induced-current switching

Class Type of earthing switch

Earthing switch designed to be used in circuits having relatively short sections of line or low
A
coupling to adjacent energized circuits
Earthing switch designed to be used in circuits having relatively long sections of lines or high
B
coupling to adjacent energized circuits

The values of rated induced current and voltage for the two classes of earthing switches are
given in Table 9. These values represent the maximum switching capabilities for each rated
voltage.
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Table 9 – Rated induced currents and voltages

Rated Electromagnetic coupling Electrostatic coupling

voltage U r
Rated induced current Rated induced voltage Rated induced current Rated induced voltage
kV
A (RMS value) kV (RMS value) A (RMS value) kV (RMS value)
Class Class Class Class
A B A B A B A B

72,5
100 0,5
2 6
123 50 0,4 3
80 2
145
1
170 9
3
245 12
1,4
300 10 15
1,25 5
362 10 17
80 18
420 160 20
2
550 2 8 25
20 25
800 3 12 32
1 100
110 440 5 65 7,5 50 20 40
1 200

NOTE 1 In some situations (very long sections of the earthed line in proximity to an energized line; very high loading
on the energized line; energized line having a service voltage higher than the earthed line, etc.), the induced current
and voltage can be higher than the given values. For these situations, the rated values are subject to agreement
between manufacturer and user.

NOTE 2 The rated induced voltages correspond to line-to-earth values for both single-phase and three-phase tests
(see 7.107.5).

5.110 Classification and rated values of disconnectors for bus-charging current

switching

Disconnectors forming part of the gas-insulated switchgear and controlgear of U r ≥ 300 kV

shall be classified for bus-charging current switching performance. Tests for disconnectors of
U r < 300 kV are generally not necessary and are subject to agreement between the
manufacturer and the user. In any case, for 52 kV < U r < 300 kV, the test for classification of
BCS is not mandatory.

NOTE Bus-charging switching capability for air-insulated disconnectors is subject to agreement between the
manufacturer and the user, refer to IEC/TR 62271-305.

Four classes are distinguished depending upon application. See Table 10, where the
associated test duties are also indicated.
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Table 10 – Classification of disconnectors for bus-charging switching

Class Application Associated test

duties
(see 7.108.2)

BCS Switching of very short sections of busbar ducts of open circuits TD 1

BCS class + switching of parallel capacitors associated to circuit-breakers,

BCB TD 1 & TD 2
under 180° out-of-phase condition of open circuits

BCL BCS class + switching of long sections of busbar ducts of open circuits TD 1 & TD 3

BCT BCS class + BCB class + BCL class TD 1 , TD 2 & TD 3

The rated bus-charging current is associated only to disconnectors classified as BCL or BCT.
No rated bus-charging current can be assigned to TD 1 and TD 2 , as they depend on the
design, the physical construction of the installation, and rated voltage. The standard values
for this rating are given in Table 11. These values are only associated to the de-energizing of
long sections of busbar ducts in accordance with test duty 3 in 7.108.2. For more information,
refer to Annex B.

Table 11 – Standard rated bus-charging currents

Rated voltage U r
72,5 100 123 145 170 245 300 362 420 550 800 1 100 1 200
kV (RMS value)

Rated bus-charging
current 0,1 0,1 0,1 0,1 0,1 0,25 0,25 0,5 0,5 0,5 0,8 1,0 1,0
A (RMS value)

NOTE The values are normally not exceeded in practice. They apply to 50 Hz as well as to 60 Hz. In the case
of higher values in practice, other test values are considered by agreement between the manufacturer and the
user.

6 Design and construction

6.1 Requirements for liquids in disconnectors and earthing switches

Subclause 6.1 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

6.2 Requirements for gases in disconnectors and earthing switches

Subclause 6.2 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition.

NOTE In general, the term "gas" for insulation and/or switching in this document refers to SF 6 . However, the
principles expressed could be also used for other gases.

6.3 Earthing of disconnectors and earthing switches

Subclause 6.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following additions.

For disconnectors and earthing switches used in enclosed switchgear and controlgear
assemblies, 5.3 of IEC 62271-200:2011, IEC 62271-201:2014 or IEC 62271-203:2011 is
applicable (as it corresponds).

Metallic enclosures and operating mechanisms not mounted together with and not electrically
connected to the metallic frame of the disconnector or earthing switch, shall be provided with
an earthing terminal marked with the protective earth symbol.
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If, for testing purposes after installation (e.g. cable testing, contact resistance measurement),
a removable connection for earthing the main circuit through the earthing switch exists, it shall
be able to withstand the rated peak and short-time withstand current. The relevant insulation
level (DC and AC) of this external connection – when removed – shall be stated by the
manufacturer.

6.4 Auxiliary and control equipment and circuits

Subclause 6.4 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition.

Refer also to 6.104 of this document.

6.5 Dependent power operation

Subclause 6.5 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following additions.

In case of disconnectors and earthing switches with both dependent power and dependent
manual operation, the noncapability of making and breaking, when manually operated, shall
be clearly stated in the instruction manual and close to the point of manual operation.

Disconnectors and earthing switches having a pneumatic or hydraulic operating device shall
be capable of closing and opening when the supply pressure is between the minimum and the
maximum supply pressure specified (refer to 5.11.102).

See also 6.105 for maximum manual operating forces.

6.6 Stored energy operation

Subclause 6.6 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition.

See also subclause 6.105 for maximum manual operating (storing energy) forces.

6.7 Independent unlatched operation (independent manual or power operation)

Subclause 6.7 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition.

See also subclause 6.105 for maximum manual operating (storing energy) forces.

6.8 Manually operated actuators

Subclause 6.8 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

6.9 Operation of releases

Subclause 6.9 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

6.10 Pressure/level indication

Subclause 6.10 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

6.11 Nameplates

Subclause 6.11 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following additions:

• Disconnectors, earthing switches and their operating devices that are designed to be:
– used as stand alone or may be integrated as components for switchgear, shall be
provided with nameplates that contain information in accordance with Table 12;
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– integrated in a particular family of switchgear and controlgear shall integrate the

information on the nameplate(s) and/or in the manufacturer instruction manual of the
switchgear and controlgear, as indicated in Table 12.

Table 12 – Product information (1 of 2)

Information to be put on the nameplate Abbreviation Unit Disconnector Earthing Operating

switch a device

Manufacturer x x x

Manufacturer’s type designation x x x

Mechanical endurance class xb xb x

Short-circuit making capability class xb

Instruction book reference x x x

Year of manufacture x x x

Reference of this standard x x x

Serial number x x x

Rated voltage Ur kV x x

Rated frequency fr Hz x x

Rated lightning impulse withstand

Up kV x x
voltage
Rated switching impulse withstand
Us kV x x
voltage for U r ≥ 300 kV

Rated power-frequency withstand voltage Ud kV x x

Rated continuous current Ir A x

Rated short-time withstand current Ik kA x x

Rated duration of short-circuit tk s xc xc

Rated peak withstand current Ip kA x x

Rated short-circuit making current I ma kA xd

Insulating fluid and mass Mf kg xe xe

Minimum and maximum ambient air

°C xf xf xf
temperature
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Table 12 (2 of 2)

Information to be put either on the Abbreviation Unit Disconnector Earthing Operating

nameplate or in the instruction manual switch a device

Rated bus-charging current I bc A xg

Class of bus-charging current switching xg

Rated bus-transfer current I bt A xh

Rated bus-transfer voltage U bt V xh

i
Class of earthing switch (class A or B) xi

Rated induced current (electromagnetic) I im A xi

Rated induced voltage (electromagnetic) U im V xi

Rated induced current (electrostatic) I is A xi

Rated induced voltage (electrostatic) U is V xi

Value of the resistor R Ω xj

Rated filling pressure for operation P rm Pa x

Minimum functional pressure for operation p mm Pa x

Alarm pressure for operation P am Pa x

Rated filling pressure for insulation P re Pa x x

Minimum functional pressure for insulation p me Pa x x

Alarm pressure for insulation P ae Pa x x

Minimum functional pressure for switching p sw Pa x x

Rated supply voltage of auxiliary and Ua V xk

control circuits
Rated static mechanical terminal load F N x x

Mass (including liquid) M kg x x x

Rated ice-coating mm x x x

Rated contact zone x r , y r and z r mm xl xl

NOTE 1 The marking of values indicated by x is mandatory (if applicable).

NOTE 2 The word "rated" does not need to appear on the nameplate.
a One nameplate may be used for an earthing switch and disconnector assembled as a single unit.
b The class marking is mandatory if different from M0 or E0. It may be included into the type designation to avoid
additional space requirement.
c Mandatory if t different from 1 s.
d For earthing switches having short-circuit making capability.
e Chemical formula for gas or commercial name for liquid (if any of both) shall be indicated.
f Mandatory if different from −5 °C and/or +40 °C.
g For disconnectors forming a part of gas-insulated switchgear and controlgear of U r ≥ 300 kV.
h For disconnectors of U r > 52 kV having bus-transfer current switching capability.
i For earthing switches of U r > 52 kV having induced current switching capability.
j For resistor-fitted disconnectors.
k Rated supply voltages of auxiliary and control circuits may have separate values which have to be indicated.
Manufacturer shall also indicate if the supply is dc or ac source.
l For divided support disconnectors and/or divided support earthing switches of U r > 52 kV.
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6.12 Locking devices

Subclause 6.12 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition:

Disconnectors and earthing switches to be mechanically interlocked by blocking the operating

shaft or power kinematic chain of the disconnector or earthing switch, and not integrated in
switchgear and controlgear assemblies covered by the standards IEC 62271-200,
IEC 62271-201 or IEC 62271-203, shall be designed to withstand:

– during motor-operation, the strain produced by the motor starting torque at the maximum
motor supply voltage, or, if a strain limiting device is present, to its limiting value, and
– during manual-operation, 3 times the value of the corresponding maximum force given for
manual operation in 6.105 (without considering peak value) or, if a strain limiting device is
present, to 1,5 times its limiting value.

6.13 Position indication

Subclause 6.13 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition. Refer also to
6.104 of this document.

6.14 Degree of protection provided by enclosures

Subclause 6.14 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition for enclosures
containing auxiliary and control circuits:

The degree of protection provided by enclosures for outdoor installation shall be a minimum of
IP3XDW of IEC 60529:1989 + AMD1:1999 + AMD2:2013.

For indoor installations the degree of protection shall be not less than IP2X of
IEC 60529:2013.

6.15 Creepage distances for outdoor insulators

Subclause 6.15 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

6.16 Gas and vacuum tightness

Subclause 6.16 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

6.17 Tightness for liquid systems

Subclause 6.17 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

6.18 Fire hazard (flammability)

Subclause 6.18 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

6.19 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)

Subclause 6.19 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

6.20 X-ray emission

Subclause 6.20 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

6.21 Corrosion

Subclause 6.21 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

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6.22 Filling levels for insulation, switching and/or operation

Subclause 6.22 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition:

The pressure in Pa (or density) or liquid mass shall be assigned by the manufacturer referred
to atmospheric air conditions of 20 °C at which the gas- or liquid-filled switchgear is filled
before being put into service.

For operating devices having their own compressor or pump integral to them and with their
own supplying pressure tank, the limits of filling (operating) pressure shall be stated by the
manufacturer.

6.101 Particular requirements for earthing switches

Any material and any cross-section is allowed for connections between movable parts of an
earthing switch and its frame, provided that the connections are able to withstand the
electrical, mechanical and environmental stresses that occur in service.

6.102 Requirements in respect of the isolating distance of disconnectors

When the insulation across the isolating distance may be subjected to pollution in service,
care shall be taken to ensure the suitability of insulator design (e.g. creepage distance,
hydrophobicity, orientation of insulator). IEC/TS 60815 (all parts) [3] can be used for guidance
selecting the appropriate insulator design. The satisfactory performance of the insulation
across the isolating distance under polluted conditions should be verified with the appropriate
voltage withstand level corresponding to the isolating distance for which the disconnector is
intended.

The design has also to take into account the effects of contamination caused by wear and
arcing by-products. The effectiveness of the design to withstand these effects is verified by
the condition checks specified in Clause 7 after the relevant type tests.

NOTE 1 It is usual that the isolating gap of a disconnector is longer than the phase-to-ground insulating distance,
since IEC 62271-1:2017 specifies higher voltage withstand levels across the isolating distance than for the phase-
to-ground insulation. However, where a long creepage distance is required, the phase-to-ground insulation
distance can become longer than the isolating gap of the disconnector. For such cases the use of protective
devices such as surge arresters or rod gaps can be necessary.

NOTE 2 Test method for insulators can be found in IEC 60507 [2] and IEC/TS 60815 (all parts) [3]

6.103 Mechanical strength

The disconnector and earthing switch, including the insulators used, installed according to the
manufacturer's instructions shall be able to:

– open and close correctly the main contacts under its rated static mechanical terminal
loads;
– carry the rated continuous current (when applicable) under its rated static mechanical
terminal loads;
– withstand the dynamic forces on its terminals under short-circuit conditions.

The required cantilever strength of an insulator shall be calculated taking into consideration
the height of the terminal above the top of the insulator as well as additional forces acting on
the insulator (see 3.7.119 and 9.102.4).
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6.104 Operation of disconnectors and earthing switches – Position of the movable

contact system and its indicating and signalling devices

6.104.1 Securing of position

Disconnectors and earthing switches, including their operating mechanisms, shall be

designed in such a way that they cannot come out of their open or closed position by gravity,
wind pressure, vibrations, reasonable shocks or accidental touching of the connecting rods of
their operating system according to their service conditions as defined in Clause 4.

Disconnectors and earthing switches shall permit temporary mechanical locking in at least the
open position (for disconnectors) and closed position (for earthing switches) except for
disconnectors or earthing switches whose contacts are directly moved by a hook-stick.

6.104.2 Additional requirements for power-operated mechanisms

Power operated mechanisms shall also provide a manual operating facility. Connecting a
hand-operating device (for instance a hand crank) to the power-operated mechanism shall
ensure safe interruption of the control energy to the power-operated mechanism.

6.104.3 Indication and signalling of position

6.104.3.1 General requirements

Indication and signalling of the closed and open position shall not take place unless the
moving contacts have reached their closed or open position, respectively.

NOTE For the definition of "closed" and "open" see 3.6.109 and 3.6.110.

Figure 1 represents the different elements involved in indication and signalling of positions,
and some design conditions.

indicating device(s) signalling device(s)

Connecting point
Moving
contacts

(b)
Downstream

(b)
Upstream
(a)
Strain limiting device

Source of
energy

Power kinematic chain

Position indicating/signalling kinematic chain IEC

a) The strain limiting device (if any) can be an external device or an internal as part of the source of energy, e.g.
torque (force) controlling system.
b) Upstream is the direction towards the source of energy, downstream is the direction towards the contacts.

Figure 1 – Position indicating/signalling device(s)

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The strain limiting device (if any) may be placed at any point along the power kinematic chain
between the source of energy and the connecting point, but it shall not be along the position
indicating/signalling kinematic chain. See 6.104.3.2 and 6.104.3.3.

The position-indicating device(s) shall be fixed directly on a mechanical part of the power
kinematic chain or mechanically connected to it through a separate position indicating/
signalling kinematic chain. If the position indicator is not directly fixed on the mechanical part
of the power kinematic chain, then the position-indicating kinematic chain from the connecting
point shall be placed inside an enclosure providing a minimum degree of protection equivalent
to IP2XC of IEC 60529:1989 + AMD1:1999 + AMD2:2013, and with an impact level IK 07 of
IEC 62262:2002.

The position-signalling kinematic chain shall be placed inside an enclosure with the same
levels of protection as defined for the position-indicating kinematic chain.

6.104.3.2 Indication of position

It shall be possible to know the position of the disconnector or earthing switch. The indication
of the position of the disconnector or earthing switch is given if one of the following conditions
is fulfilled:

– at least the position of the moving contacts of each pole is visible for disconnectors in
open position and for earthing switches in closed position;
– both the open and closed positions of the moving contacts of each pole are indicated by a
reliable position-indicating device. A common position-indicating device may be used only
if all the poles of the disconnector or earthing switch are operated by a common operating
mechanism.
NOTE In some countries the design of the disconnector is such that the isolating distance is visible (Canada).

The kinematic chain between the moving contacts and the position-indicating device shall be
designed with sufficient mechanical strength to meet the requirements of the specified tests
(7.105). The operation of the position-indicating kinematic chain shall be positively driven.
The position-indicating device may be marked directly on a mechanical part of the power
kinematic chain by suitable means. The strain-limiting device, if any, shall not form part of the
position-indicating kinematic chain.

6.104.3.3 Signalling of position by auxiliary contacts

A common signal for all poles of a disconnector or earthing switch shall be given only if all
poles of the disconnector or earthing switch are in a position in accordance with 6.104.3.1.

A common position-signalling device is permitted to be used only if the disconnector or

earthing switch is three-pole operated by a common operating mechanism.

The kinematic chain between the moving contacts and the position-signalling device(s) shall
be designed with sufficient mechanical strength to meet the requirements of the mechanical
endurance tests. The position-signalling kinematic chain operation shall be positively driven.
The strain-limiting device, if any, shall not form part of the position-signalling kinematic chain.

6.105 Maximum force required for manual (dependent or independent) operation

6.105.1 General

The values given in 6.105.2 and 6.105.3 also apply to maintenance manual operation of
normally motor-operated disconnectors and earthing switches.

NOTE These values include ice-breaking, if applicable.

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6.105.2 Operation requiring more than one revolution

The maximum force needed to operate or store energy in a disconnector or earthing switch
with more than one revolution (hand crank for example) shall not exceed 80 N during 90 % of
the total required revolutions and never exceed 120 N.

6.105.3 Operation requiring up to one revolution

The force needed to operate or store energy in a disconnector or earthing switch requiring up
to one revolution (swing lever for example) should not exceed 250 N (refer to 6.6.4 of
IEC 62271-1:2017). A maximum value of 450 N is accepted during a rotation of 15° maximum.

6.106 Dimensional tolerances

For disconnectors and earthing switches installed and/or connected by the user, the relevant
mounting dimensions and the dimensions of high-voltage connections as well as the earthing
connections of disconnectors and earthing switches, the tolerances given in ISO 2768-1 shall
apply for linear and angular dimensions.

6.107 Earthing switches with short-circuit making current capability

Earthing switches assigned for short-circuit making current shall be capable of making at
rated and lower voltage, any current up to and including the rated short-circuit making current.
This requirement is considered to be satisfied if the earthing switch successfully demonstrates
its electrical endurance class.

7 Type tests

7.1 General

7.1.1 Basics

Sublause 7.1.1 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following additions.

Disconnectors and earthing switches shall be tested to verify their rated characteristics, under
the proper conditions of installation and use (e. g. they shall be tested as normally installed in
the gas-insulated or metal-enclosed switchgear and controlgear) with all associated
components, the arrangement of which may influence the performance, such as connections,
supports, provisions for venting, resistors etc.

Disconnector and earthing switches that are different in construction or mounting

arrangements as compared to the given examples in Clause 7 shall be tested in conditions
that are representative of the actual installation.

NOTE Associated components are likely to influence the performance. Mechanical forces due to the short-circuit
current, venting of arc-products, the possibility fo disruptive discharges, etc., could characterise this influence.It is
recognized that, in some cases, such influences may be quite negligible.

The same setting of the position-signalling device for closed and open positions shall be used
for the dielectric test and the short-time withstand current and peak withstand current tests.

The type tests for disconnector and earthing switch are listed in Table 13. For the type tests,
the tolerances on test quantities are given in Annex C.

Information regarding the extension of validity of type tests is given in Annex E (informative).
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Table 13 – List of type tests

Related device
Type test, dependent upon
Condition Subclauses
application, rating or design Earthing
Disconnector
switch
a
Dielectric tests x x 7.2
Measurement of the resistance of a
x 7.4.4
the main circuit
a
Continuous current tests x 7.5
Short-time withstand current and a
x x 7.6
peak withstand current tests
a
Mechanical endurance tests x x 7.102.3
Verification of the degree of Assigned IP- and/or
x x 7.7
protection IK-code
Radio interference voltage (RIV) test U r ≥ 245 kV x x 7.3
Controlled, sealed or
Tightness tests x x 7.8
closed pressure systems
Presence of electronic
EMC tests x x 7.9
components
Additional tests on auxiliary and Presence of auxiliary and
x x 7.10
control circuits control circuits
Presence of vacuum
X- ray radiation test x x 7.11
interrupters
Test to prove the short-circuit
making performance of earthing Class E1 or E2 x 7.101
switches
Contact zone test Divided support x x 7.102.2
Operation during application of rated Assigned mechanical
x x 7.102.4
static mechanical terminal load terminal load
Extended mechanical endurance
Class M1 or M2 x x 7.102.5
tests
Presence of interlock
Testing on mechanical interlocking blocking the operating
x x 7.102.6
devices shaft or power kinematic
chain
Operation under severe ice
10 mm and above x x 7.103
conditions
If maximum ambient
temperature > +40°C or
Low and high temperature tests x x 7.104
minimum ambient
temperature < -5°C
Tests to verify the proper functioning Presence of position-
x x 7.105
of the position-indicating device indicating device
Bus-transfer current
Bus-transfer current switching tests x 7.106
switching capability b
c
Induced current switching tests Class A or B x 7.107
Bus-charging current
Bus-charging current switching tests x 7.108
switching capability d, e
a Mandatory without condition for the related device.
b Applicable to disconnectors of U r > 52 kV.
c Applicable to earthing switches of U r > 52 kV.
d Applicable to disconnectors of U r > 52 kV forming part of gas-insulated switchgear. For U r < 300 kV, tests
are generally considered not necessary and are subject to agreement between user and manufacturer.
e Bus-charging switching capability for air-insulated disconnectors is subject to agreement between the
manufacturer and the user, refer to IEC/TR 62271-305.
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7.1.2 Information for identification of test objects

Subclause 7.1.2 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition:

At the beginning of the type tests, the mechanical operating characteristics and their
tolerances for the disconnector or earthing switch during opening and/or closing shall be
given by the manufacturer, e.g. time between events during operation and no-load travel
curves.

7.1.3 Information to be included in type test reports

Refer to 7.1.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017 with the following additions (where applicable):

When for testing purposes, the insulators are not provided by the manufacturer of the
disconnector or earthing switch, the most important features of insulators used during type
tests shall be included in the relevant test reports for comparison with those described in the
manufacturer’s documentation:

– rated cantilever strength;

– rated torsional strength of support insulators (and operating insulators, where applicable);
– height and number of elements;
– creepage length and shed-profile;
– deflection under load.

In the case of dielectric tests, information shall be included regarding the smallest gap at
which the indicating or signalling device can signal the position OPEN. For air-insulated
devices, the minimum size of the gap and the height above ground used for the test shall be
stated (see 7.2.4). Also the distance of the lowest part of insulation to ground shall be given.

7.2 Dielectric tests

7.2.1 General

Subclause 7.2.1 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.2.2 Ambient air conditions during tests

Subclause 7.2.2 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.2.3 Wet test procedure

Subclause 7.2.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.2.4 Arrangement of the equipment

Subclause 7.2.4 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition:

Dielectric tests on disconnectors or earthing switches when in the OPEN position shall be
carried out with the minimum isolating distance for the disconnector or gap for the earthing
switch at which the indicating or signalling device can signal the position OPEN or the
minimum isolating distance compatible with the locking arrangements specified in 6.104.1,
whichever is the smallest. This requirement does not apply to independent operated indoor
disconnectors and earthing switches.

Where the design requires an adjustment of the position indicator or the position-signalling
device, this shall be performed according to the instruction manual. No deviation of these
devices is acceptable for dielectric tests.
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7.2.5 Criteria to pass the test

Subclause 7.2.5 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.2.6 Application of the test voltage and test conditions

Subclause 7.2.6 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following additions.

Disconnectors of U r > 52 kV having an isolating distance in parallel to the base of the

disconnector and having integrated earthing switches, shall also be tested in open position, in
dry conditions only, with the power frequency test voltage given in Table 14 in the most
disadvantageous dielectric position of the earthing switch. If the minimum temporary
clearance is larger than the clearances given in IEC 60071-2, no test is required.

Table 14 – Power frequency withstand voltages

Rated voltage U r Test voltage

kV kV

72,5 94
100 130
123 160
145 188
170 221
245 283
300 346
362 418
420 484
550 635
800 924
1 100 1 270
1 200 1 386

NOTE See Annex A for rationale of the values given in Table 14.

For testing of earthing switches, the test voltage shall be applied with the earthing switch in
the open position (see Table 21):

– between adjacent insulated terminals with the bases earthed (e.g. A to B with F earthed);
– between all the insulated terminals connected together and the bases earthed (e.g. ABC
to F earthed).

7.2.7 Tests of disconnectors and earthing switches of U r ≤ 245 kV

Subclause 7.2.7 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.2.8 Test of disconnectors and earthing switches of U r > 245 kV

Subclause 7.2.8 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.2.9 Artificial pollution tests for outdoor insulators

Subclause 7.2.9 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition.

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NOTE The performance of parallel insulation can be affected under pollution and rain (additional pollution tests
could be necessary).

7.2.10 Partial discharge tests

Subclause 7.2.10 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition:

Partial discharge tests are not required to be performed on the complete disconnector or
earthing switch except when required by the assembly standards i.e. IEC 62271-200,
IEC 62271-201 and IEC 62271-203. However, in the case of disconnectors and earthing
switches using components for which a relevant IEC standard exists, including partial
discharge measurements (for example, bushings, see IEC 60137), evidence shall be provided
by the manufacturer showing that those components have passed the partial discharge tests
as laid down in the relevant IEC standard. For partial discharge measurement, see
IEC 60270.

NOTE 1 The measurement of partial discharge test is a suitable means of detecting certain defects in the
equipment under test and is a useful complement to the dielectric tests. Experience shows that partial discharges
can lead in particular arrangements to a degradation in the dielectric strength of the equipment, especially of solid
insulation.

NOTE 2 Other methods, for example UHF or acoustic methods, for measuring or detecting the partial discharge
other than the one considered in IEC 60270, can be employed by agreement.

7.2.11 Dielectric tests on auxiliary and control circuits

Subclause 7.2.11 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.2.12 Voltage test as condition check

Subclause 7.2.12 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.3 Radio interference voltage (RIV) test

Subclause 7.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.4 Resistance measurement

Subclause 7.4 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.5 Continuous current tests

Subclause 7.5 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.6 Short-time withstand current and peak withstand current tests

7.6.1 General

Subclause 7.6.1 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.6.2 Arrangement of the disconnectors and earthing switches and of the test circuit

Subclause 7.6.2 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following additions:

7.6.2.101 General test conditions

The disconnectors or earthing switches under test shall be installed with their own operating
mechanism as far as necessary to make the test representative.

Disconnectors having accessories to accommodate a bus-transfer current switching

capability, and earthing switches having accessories to accommodate induced current
switching capability, shall be tested with these devices mounted.
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Tests shall be carried out employing the least favourable position of the operating mechanism
and the main contacts. Consideration should be given to 6.104.3 and, where applicable, to
7.105.

Where the design requires an adjustment of the position indicator or the position-signalling
device, this shall be performed according to the instruction manual. No deviation of these
devices is acceptable for short-circuit tests.

If the design allows tolerances, these shall be declared by the manufacturer prior to the test.
The short-time withstand current and peak withstand current tests shall be performed with the
signalling device set at the maximum or minimum specified tolerance giving the least
favourable status of the main contacts indicated by the signalling device. This requirement
does not apply to independently operated indoor disconnectors and earthing switches.

NOTE The least favourable status of the main contacts is the first position at which during closing operation the
"CLOSED" signal appears.

Open type disconnectors and earthing switches shall be tested with one of the appropriate
test arrangements as specified in Figures 2, 3, 4 or 5. Where flexible conductors are used in
the test setup, the terminals of the disconnectors or earthing switches under test shall be
loaded with their longitudinal rated static mechanical terminal loads applied in the directions
indicated by the manufacturer.

The test arrangement shall also be representative of the least favourable conditions of
electromagnetic forces tending to open the disconnector or earthing switch. The tests on an
earthing switch integral to a disconnector shall be made with the same test connections as for
the disconnector test.

Single phase tests on disconnector or earthing switches having one common operating
mechanism for three poles shall be performed on a single pole farthest from the operating
mechanism.

Earthing switches not forming an integral part of a disconnector shall be tested in an

arrangement that fulfils the same requirements as for disconnectors.

Disconnectors and earthing switches integrated in enclosed switchgear shall be tested as part
of the switchgear assembly in accordance with IEC 62271-200, IEC 62271-201 or IEC 62271-
203.

For divided support disconnectors and earthing switches, the vertical position of the contact in
the contact zone shall be chosen to represent the most unfavourable condition with respect to
the mounting of the fixed contact to flexible conductors or a rigid conductor. In case of doubt
of the most unfavourable condition, the tests shall be performed in the highest and the lowest
position of the contact within the rated contact zone.

All tests should preferably be performed three-phase. If a single-phase test is performed, the
test should preferably be performed on two adjacent poles. If the test is performed on one
pole, the return conductor shall be at phase distance from the tested pole. The return
conductor shall be parallel to the main current path of the disconnector or earthing switch and
at the same elevation above the base, or the equivalent, for disconnectors and earthing
switches with vertical moving contact. The length of the return conductor shall be as given in
Figures 2 to 5, as appropriate.

7.6.2.102 Disconnectors and earthing switches of U r ≤ 52 kV

The test arrangement given in Figure 2 shall be used for open type disconnectors and
earthing switches of U r ≤ 52 kV. Hereby the distances L 2 and L 3 are as small as possible, but
not smaller than L 1 .
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L 4 = 3L 1 L2

L3
L1

IEC

Figure 2 – Three-phase test arrangement for disconnectors

and earthing switches

The represented disposition covers:

– unsupported distances equal or smaller than L 4 for rigid conductors;

– phase-distance equal or larger than L 1 .

If L 1 has a range the phase distance of the test setup shall be the shortest. L 4 shall be the
longest distance given by the manufacturer but not less than three times the shortest L 1 .

Avoid introduction of forces not representative of service conditions by the connections to the
supply.

7.6.2.103 Disconnectors and earthing switches of U r > 52 kV

The single-phase test arrangement given in Figure 3 shall be used for disconnectors with a
horizontal isolating distance and the relevant earthing switches; the test arrangement given in
Figure 4 and Figure 5 shall be used for divided support disconnectors with a vertical isolating
gap and the relevant earthing switches. Test results obtained on a disconnector or earthing
switch placed in a certain position (e.g. horizontal or vertical) are valid only for the position of
the disconnector or earthing switch during this test.

Three-phase test arrangements shall follow the same general pattern as the single-phase test
arrangements of Figure 3 to Figure 5.

The short-circuit path between poles of the earthing switch schematically represented in
Figure 3 shall reproduce during tests the installation conditions stated by the manufacturer. In
particular, the position and fixing method of the conductors used to connect the poles
between them and to the earth shall be considered.
BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

IEC 62271-102:2018 © IEC 2018 – 49 –

0,5 l 1

B
l2
A

l1
D

IEC

a) Test arrangement for disconnectors

l2

l1
D

Earthing switch
B

A IEC

b) Test arrangement for earthing switches

Key

A–B Short-circuit connection

C–D Input
l1 Minimum centre-to-centre distance between adjacent poles, as stated by the manufacturer
l2 = 2 × l1 For 52 kV < U r ≤ 550 kV
l 2 = 0,5 × l 1 For U r > 550 kV, with a minimum of 7 m

Figure 3 – Single-phase test arrangement for disconnectors with a horizontal

isolating distance and for earthing switches of U r > 52 kV, to be used
with flexible or with rigid conductors
 BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

– 50 – IEC 62271-102:2018 © IEC 2018

l3 ≥ 8 l2
l1
6 l1

l2
3,5 l 1

0,5 l 3

Short-circuit connection
or input terminals
choice optional

l1, l2 minimum centre-to-centre distance between

adjacent poles, as stated by the manufacturer
IEC

a) Test arrangement for disconnectors of 52 kV < U r ≤ 550 kV

l 3 = ≥ 20 m
l1
> 2 l1

l2

0,5 l 3
l1

Short-circuit connection
or input terminals
choice optional

l1, l2 min.10 m and max. centre-to-centre distance between

adjacent poles as stated by the manufacturer
IEC

b) Test arrangement for disconnectors of U r > 550 kV

Figure 4 – Single-phase test arrangement for divided support disconnectors

(earthing switches) of U r > 52 kV with a vertical isolating distance,
to be used with flexible conductors
BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

IEC 62271-102:2018 © IEC 2018 – 51 –

l3

l1
2,5 l 1
Short-circuit connection
or input terminals,
choice optional

0,5 l 3 l2

l1, l2 minimum centre-to-centre distance between

adjacent poles, as stated by the manufacturer IEC

For U r ≤ 145 kV l 3 ≥ 4l 1
For U r ≥ 170 kV l 3 = (20 ± 2) m
a) Test arrangement for disconnectors of 52 kV < U r ≤ 550 kV

l 3 = (20m ±2m)
l1
0,5 l 1

Short-circuit connection
or input terminals,
choice optional

0,5 l 3 l2

l1, l2 minimum centre-to-centre distance between

adjacent poles, as stated by the manufacturer
IEC

b) Test arrangement for disconnectors of U r > 550 kV

Figure 5 – Single-phase test arrangement for divided support disconnectors

(earthing switches) of U r > 52 kV with a vertical isolating distance,
to be used with rigid conductors
 BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

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Disconnectors and earthing switches to be connected in the substation to flexible or rigid

conductors, according to their documentation, shall be tested using flexible conductors with
their rated static mechanical terminal load (e.g. longitudinal direction F a1 or F a2 in Figure 8
and F a1 , and F a2 in Figure 9) in a test setup with the dimensions given in Figure 3 or Figure 4
respectively. Disconnectors and earthing switches, according to their documentation, to be
connected only to rigid conductors shall be tested with rigid conductors in a test arrangement
with the same dimensions and without intentional static mechanical terminal load except the
one given by the weight of rigid conductors. The dimensions and material of the conductors
used shall be stated in the test report.

After applying 50 % of the longitudinal rated static terminal load, the disconnector or earthing
switch may be adjusted, before the 100 % load is applied

All details referring to the test arrangement are mandatory, the details of the disconnector and
earthing switch shown are given as an example.

For standardization of tests when they are performed with flexible conductors, where the rated
currents of the equipment are larger than 1 250 A continuous current or 31,5 kA short-time
withstand current for a duration of 1 s, two flexible conductors shall be used having a centre
line distance of (70 ± 30) mm without spacers. Disconnectors and earthing switches of
U r ≥ 300 kV shall also be tested with these two flexible conductors.

Unless the tested disconnector or earthing switch is solidly fixed to the foundation, the spring
constant of the support structure has to be taken into consideration (IEC 60865-1).

The test report shall provide clear details of the mounting arrangements used for the tests or
record that the disconnector was solidly fixed to the foundations.

Avoid introduction of forces not representative of service conditions by the connections to the
supply, and static terminal loads larger than the rated static mechanical terminal loads of the
test object.

If, in the test setup, the short side of the low-level conductor cannot be supported, it may be
supported by the disconnector. This may result in a higher dynamic mechanical terminal load.

NOTE 1 In principle, Figure 3 can be used for testing earthing switches with an appropriate arrangement of the
earth conductor.

NOTE 2 In principle, Figure 4 can be used for testing integrated earthing switches with an appropriate
arrangement of the earth conductor.

7.6.3 Test current and duration

Subclause 7.6.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.6.4 Conditions of disconnectors and earthing switches after test

Subclause 7.6.4 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition.

The rated peak withstand current and the rated short-time withstand current, carried by a
disconnector or earthing switch in the closed position during the rated duration of short-circuit,
shall not cause:

– mechanical damage to any part of the disconnector or earthing switch;

– separation of the contacts.

After the test, a no-load operation shall be made with the rated value of power supply for
independent power-operated devices, with minimum value of power supply for dependent
power-operated devices, and for manually (dependent or independent) operated devices with
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IEC 62271-102:2018 © IEC 2018 – 53 –

a force no higher than the values given for manually operated devices in 6.105. The
disconnector or earthing switch shall open at the first attempt.

In the case of performing the short-circuit withstand test with a single-phase test on one pole
of a three-pole disconnector or earthing switch operated by a common driving mechanism or
shaft, exact details of the test procedure and the measured torque/force at the exit of the
driving mechanism during the no-load operation shall be reported in order to evaluate the test
result with reference to the capability of the mechanism to operate the three-pole apparatus
after a three phase short circuit occur. This test method may require the insertion of a
torque/force measurement device in the power kinematic chain for testing. The measured
torque/force in the power kinematic chain to open the pole under test of the disconnector or
earthing switch tested shall be not more than the value given by the driving mechanism when
blocking the exit of the driving mechanism divided by the number of poles of the switching
device under test.

After the no-load operation, for earthing switches, sound earth connection and sound
insulation shall be verified by the following:

– visual inspection shall be made (if possible). Significant contact erosion or significant
contact welding should not be observed. Light welding of contacts is permitted;
– when significant contact erosion is suspected or if visual inspection is not possible without
dismantling the contacts, sound earth connection shall be verified by checking the
electrical continuity according to 7.4.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017;
– in case of doubt of insulating properties or if visual inspection is not possible without
dismantling, 7.2.12 is applicable to verify the dielectric conditions across the isolating gap
and to earth.

After the no-load operation(s), for disconnectors:

– to verify the current carrying capacity main circuit resistance measurement shall be made
as close as possible to the contacts. The increase of resistance after the test shall not
exceed 20 % of the value measured before the test;
– when the contact resistance exceeds this value a test under rated continuous current (7.5)
shall demonstrate that the temperature rise in the contacts does not exceed the limits
given in Table 14 of IEC 62271-1:2017, by monitoring the temperature at the points as
close as possible to the contacts;
– visual inspection shall be made (if possible). In case of doubt of insulating properties or if
visual inspection is not possible without dismantling, 7.2.12 is applicable to verify the
dielectric conditions across the isolating gap and to earth.

7.7 Verification of the protection

Subclause 7.7 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.8 Tightness tests

Subclause 7.8 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.9 Electromagnetic compatibility tests (EMC)

Subclause 7.9 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.10 Additional tests on auxiliary and control circuits

Subclause 7.10 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

7.11 X-ray radiation test for vacuum interrupters

Subclause 7.11 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

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7.101 Test to prove the short-circuit making performance of earthing switches

7.101.1 General test conditions

Earthing switches, having a short-circuit making current capability, shall be subjected to two
(class E1) or five (class E2) making operations respectively, in a making test series in
accordance with the procedures of 7.101.7.

The following test methods are applicable for combined function earthing switches that have
short-circuit making capability in the other function:

– the short-circuit making tests shall first be performed on the other functions, in accordance
with the relevant standards, followed by the short-circuit making tests on the earthing
function, without intermediate maintenance;
– alternatively, the short-circuit making tests on the combined function earthing switch may
be performed on a new combined function earthing switch preceded by at least one short-
circuit making test on the other function followed by the short-circuit making tests on the
earthing function without intermediate maintenance. This test method verifies only the
short-circuit making capability of the earthing switch.

7.101.2 Arrangement of the earthing switch for tests

The earthing switch shall be tested under the representative conditions of installation and use,
concerning the connections, support, enclosure and dimensions, in accordance with 7.6.2.

Its operating device shall be operated in the manner prescribed and in particular, if it is
electrically, hydraulically or pneumatically operated, it shall be operated at the minimum
supply voltage or pressure.

For gas-filled earthing switches, the tests shall be performed at the minimum functional
pressure for insulation and/or switching.

For convenience of testing:

– the supply voltage to the coil for the closing operation may be increased to obtain a
consistent closing time, provided it does not increase the closing speed of the contacts;
– in order to obtain accurate closing times an electrically or pneumatically released latch
may be introduced at the toggle point.

Earthing switches with independent manual operation may be operated by an arrangement

provided for the purpose of making remote control possible.

NOTE For testing purposes, it can be necessary to measure the travel characteristics, for example by using a
travel recorder.

7.101.3 Test frequency

Earthing switches shall be tested at rated frequency, with a tolerance of ±10 %.

However, tests with a peak factor of 2,6 or above, at a supply frequency of 50 Hz or 60 Hz

cover the requirements of both frequencies.

7.101.4 Test voltage

The test voltage shall be as follows:

a) for three-phase tests, the average value of the applied voltage phase-to-phase shall not
be less than the rated voltage U r and shall not exceed this value by more than 10 %
without the consent of the manufacturer. The differences between the average value and
the applied voltages of each pole shall not exceed 5 %;
BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

IEC 62271-102:2018 © IEC 2018 – 55 –

b) for single-phase tests, the applied voltage shall not be less than the phase-to-earth value
U r /√3, and shall not exceed this value by more than 10 % without the consent of the
manufacturer, with the exceptions given below:
for single-phase tests on three-pole operated earthing switches which have a spread
between the first and second contact touch during closing exceeding half a cycle of the
rated frequency, the applied voltage phase-to-earth shall not be less than U r .

7.101.5 Test short-circuit making current

The short-circuit current during making test shall be expressed in terms of the peak current
and the symmetrical RMS current. The symmetrical RMS value of current in each phase at
0,2 s shall be at least 80 % of the rated short-time withstand current. The prospective peak
current shall be equal to the rated short-circuit making current (I ma ) with the tolerance of 0 %
and +5 %.

The duration of the short-circuit current shall be at least 0,2 s.

The earthing switch shall be tested under the two extreme cases specified as follows:

a) making at the peak of the voltage wave, (with a tolerance of −30 electrical degrees to +15
electrical degrees) leading to a symmetrical short-circuit current and the longest
pre-arcing time. For convenience of testing, alternative test methods may be followed. The
alternative test methods are given in Annex D;
b) making at the zero of the voltage wave, without pre-arcing, leading to a fully asymmetrical
short-circuit current. For convenience of testing, the test may be carried out at reduced
applied voltage to obtain the rated short-circuit making current (I ma ). It may happen that
the making operation does not occur exactly at the zero of the voltage wave. However, the
extreme case b) is considered met if the rated short-circuit making current has been
obtained.

7.101.6 Test circuits

Making tests shall be performed using the three-phase test circuit or the single-phase test
circuit.

Three-phase tests cover:

– the interaction between the different phases;

– the stresses on the operating mechanism (in the case of a common operating
mechanism).

Three-pole earthing switches shall be tested in a three-phase circuit in order to cover

applications in both effectively and non-effectively earthed neutral systems. For testing
purposes, the severity of making tests in circuits with unearthed neutral or solidly earthed
neutral are considered to be equivalent. However, single-phase testing of earthing switches of
U r > 52 kV is allowed in the following cases:

a) multi-enclosure type or open-air type earthing switches with separately stored closing
energy for each pole;
b) earthing switches operated pole-after-pole.

7.101.7 Test procedures

For class E1, the tests shall be performed with a sequence of two C operations with one
single no-load O in between, i.e. C – O (no-load) – C, unless the test laboratory needs more
no-load operations between the closing operations.

For class E2 earthing switches, the test sequence is 2C – x – 2C – y – 1C, where x and y
represent arbitrary number of no-load operations. The 2C operations consists of
 BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

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C – O (no-load) – C, unless the test laboratory needs more no-load operations between the
closing operations. There is no requirement on the time interval between the two closing
operations.

No maintenance is allowed during a test sequence.

For combined function earthing switches, the arbitrary number of no-load operations
represented by x and y in the test sequence for class E2 may be replaced by switching
operations.

Due to non-simultaneity of poles or different instants of initiation of pre-arcs in the different

poles, a peak making current, which is higher than the rated value, may occur in one pole.
This is particularly the case if, in one pole, the current begins to flow a few milliseconds later
than in the other two poles. If the earthing switch fails during such an event, this is considered
to be a failure of the earthing switch.

The requirements with regard to the instant of making as specified in Table 15 shall be
achieved during the tests.

Table 15 – Requirements on the instant of making

Class E1 Class E2

2 tests 5 tests
At least 1 test fulfilling the requirements of 7.101.5 a) At least 2 tests fulfilling the requirements of 7.101.5 a)
At least 1 test fulfilling the requirements of 7.101.5 b) At least 2 tests fulfilling the requirements of 7.101.5 b)

NOTE Normally the speed of closing of the contacts of the earthing switches with short-circuit making
capability is high enough that both maximum pre-arcing and maximum peak current can be reached within a
same test, however at different phases.

7.101.8 Behaviour of earthing switches when making short-circuit currents

The following applies during the making tests:

a) enclosed earthing switches having a rated short-circuit making current shall, when making
the short-circuit, not project flames, liquids, gases nor particles outside the enclosure;
b) from open type earthing switches, flame or metallic particles shall not be projected beyond
the boundaries specified by the manufacturer in the operating instructions.

7.101.9 Condition of earthing switch after short-circuit making tests

After performing the specified operations, mechanical parts, parts related to the electrical field
control (for example field electrodes of a GIS earthing switch) and insulators of the earthing
switch shall be practically in the same condition as before. The insulating properties shall not
be degraded. The short-circuit making performance and short-time current withstand
performance may be impaired.

NOTE The useful life of the earthing switch with regard to short-circuit making and short-time current withstand
capability is normally considered to be at the end, after the specified number of making operations necessitating
maintenance or replacement.

To verify this requirement, the earthing switch shall meet the following inspection conditions:

a) mechanical conditions: After each operation only light welding of contacts is permitted.
However, the earthing switch shall be able to open and close under the conditions given in
6.5 and 6.6, with the rated values for power operated devices or with 120 % of the values
given for manually operated devices in 6.105 using the normal operating handle;
BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

IEC 62271-102:2018 © IEC 2018 – 57 –

b) electrical continuity: Visual inspection after the no-load operation is usually sufficient for
checking the electrical continuity of the earthing switch. In case of doubt the electrical
continuity shall be measured according to 7.4.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017;
c) dielectric requirements: Visual inspection is usually sufficient for checking the above
requirement. In case of doubt, a voltage test as a condition check according to 7.2.12 is to
be performed. As an alternative, 6.2.11 of IEC 62271-100:2008 + AMD1:2012 +
AMD2:2017 may be used for U r > 72,5 kV. The minimum functional pressure of the gas for
insulation shall be used, if applicable. For earthing switches that are sealed for life, the
voltage test as a condition check is mandatory.

7.101.10 Invalid tests

In the case of an invalid test, it may become necessary to perform a greater number of
short-circuit making tests than required by this document. An invalid test is one where one or
more test parameters demanded by the document are not met. This includes, for example,
current, voltage and time factors as well as point-on-wave requirements (if specified) and the
additional features in synthetic testing.

The deviation from the document could make the test less or more severe. Four different
cases are considered in Table 16.

Table 16 – Invalid tests

Test conditions related to

Earthing switch passed Earthing switch failed
standard

More severe Test valid, result accepted Test to be repeated with correct
parameters
Modification of the design of the earthing
switch not required
Less severe Test to be repeated with correct Modification of the design of the earthing
parameters switch required, aiming for improvement
of the making capability
Modification of the design of the All tests to be repeated on the modified
earthing switch not required earthing switch

NOTE "More severe" is considered to be a test performed with voltage and/or current above the tolerances and
additionally for the alternative test methods a test with longer prearcing time.

In the case of less severe test conditions, the invalid part of the test-duty may be repeated
without reconditioning of the earthing switch. In those cases, the test report shall include
reference to the invalid test. However, in the case of a failure of the earthing switch during
such additional tests, or at the discretion of the manufacturer, the earthing switch may be
reconditioned and the complete test-duty repeated. If any record of an individual operation
cannot be produced for technical reasons, individual operations are not considered invalid,
provided that evidence can be given in another manner that the earthing switch did not fail
and the required testing values were fulfilled.

In the case of three-phase direct testing (single power source), even if the requirements in
7.101.5 a) and/or 7.101.5 b) are still not met during the repetition of the complete test duty,
the earthing switch is considered to have passed the test if the requirements specified in
7.101.8 and 7.101.9 are fulfilled.

7.101.11 Type test reports

The results of the type test shall be recorded in type-test reports containing sufficient data to
prove compliance with the rated short-circuit making current performance requirements.
Sufficient information should be included so that the essential parts of the earthing switch
tested can be identified. Refer to 7.1.2 of IEC 62271-1:2017.
 BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

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The test report shall contain the information about the test arrangements, test circuits and test
procedures.

General information concerning the supporting structure of the earthing switch should be
included. Information regarding the operating devices employed during the tests should,
where applicable, be recorded.

Typical oscillographic or similar records shall be provided so that the following can be
determined:

– the making current expressed as a peak value and the RMS value at 0,2 s;
– the applied voltages;
– instantaneous value of voltages at the moment of the making;
– pre-arcing time.

7.102 Operating and mechanical endurance tests

7.102.1 General test conditions

The test shall be made at the ambient air temperature of the test location. During the test, the
ambient temperatures shall be recorded and maximum and minimum values included in the
test report.

The supply voltage shall be measured at the terminals of the operating devices with full
current flowing. Auxiliary equipment forming part of the operating device shall be included.

For three-phase disconnectors and earthing switches operated by one mechanism, where the
application of terminal load is required, it shall be applied to all terminals simultaneously.

7.102.2 Contact zone test

This test shall be made in order to prove satisfactory operation of divided support
disconnectors or divided support earthing switches, in the various positions of the fixed
contact within the limits of the rated contact zone defined according to 5.103 and Figures 6
and/or 7. With the device in the open position, the fixed contact shall be placed in the
following positions:

a) at a height of h on the vertical axis of the assembly;

b) at a height of h – z r on the same axis;
c) at a height equal to h and displaced from the vertical axis horizontally by +y r /2;
d) at a height equal to h and displaced from the vertical axis horizontally by –y r /2;
e) positions a) to d) at a distance equal to +x r /2;
f) positions a) to d) at a distance equal to –x r /2,

where

h is the highest position (stated by the manufacturer) of the fixed contact above the
mounting plane;
x r is the total amplitude of movement of the fixed contact in the x-direction;
y r is the total amplitude of movement of the fixed contact in the y-direction;

the subscript, r, indicates the rated value assigned to the disconnector or earthing switch by
the manufacturer.

In each position, the device shall close and open correctly.

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x
y
z

IEC

Key

x Longitudinal to support (influence of temperature)

y Perpendicular to support (influence of wind)
z Vertical deflection (temperature and ice)

Figure 6 – Fixed contact parallel to support

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x
y
z

IEC

Key

x Longitudinal to support (influence of temperature)

y Perpendicular to support (influence of wind)
z Vertical deflection (temperature and ice)

Figure 7 – Fixed contact perpendicular to support

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F a2
F b1 Fc

F b2
F a1

IEC

NOTE Above the pantograph, the fixed contact is shown.

Figure 8 – Example of the application of rated static mechanical terminal loads

to a (divided support) pantograph disconnector (or earthing switch)

7.102.3 Mechanical endurance test

7.102.3.1 Test procedure

The tests defined in 7.102.3.1 and in 7.102.3.2 shall be performed on disconnectors and
earthing switches of class M0.

The mechanical endurance test shall consist of 1 000 operating cycles. For disconnectors or
earthing switches having a rated terminal load, 50 % of the rated static terminal load shall be
applied during the test in direction F a1 or F a2 (Figure 8 and Figure 9), without voltage on, or
current through, the main circuit. For disconnectors having two or three insulators and a
normally horizontal isolating gap, the 50 % rated static terminal load shall be applied at both
sides of the disconnector, but in opposite directions. For disconnectors and earthing switches
with one insulator (operating insulators not being taken into consideration), the terminal load
shall be applied to only one side of the disconnector or earthing switch. After applying 50 % of
the rated static terminal load, the disconnector or earthing switch may be adjusted before
performing the tests.
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F b1 Fc

F b1 F a2
Fc

F a1 F b2

F b2

IEC

Figure 9 – Example of the application of rated static mechanical

terminal loads to a two-column disconnector

The closed and open positions shall be attained during each operating cycle.

During the test, the operation of the control and auxiliary contacts and position-signalling
devices (if any) shall meet the requirements expressed in 6.104 and 6.4 of IEC 62271-1:2017.
The test is considered failed if any of the control and auxiliary contacts and position-signalling
devices do not operate at one of the close-open operating cycles.

The test shall be made on disconnectors and earthing switches equipped with their own
operating mechanisms. During the test, lubrication in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions is permitted, but no mechanical adjustment or other maintenance is allowed.

On a disconnector or earthing switch having a power-operated mechanism:

– 900 close-open operating cycles shall be made at the rated supply voltage and/or rated
pressure of compressed gas supply;
– 50 close-open operating cycles at the specified minimum supply voltage and/or minimum
pressure of compressed gas supply;
– 50 close-open operating cycles at the specified maximum supply voltage and/or maximum
pressure of compressed gas supply.

No specific time intervals between operating cycles or between closing and opening
operations are required. These tests shall be made, however, at a rate such that the
temperature rises of the energised electrical control components do not exceed the specified
values. For the same purpose, external cooling may be applied during the test.

For manually operated disconnectors and earthing switches, the handle may, for convenience
of testing, be replaced by an external power-operated device. In this case, it is not necessary
to vary the power parameters.

7.102.3.2 Verification of successful operation

For the evaluation of the operating characteristics, before and after the mechanical endurance
test programme, the following operations shall be performed without the static terminal load
applied:
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– five close-open operating cycles at the rated supply voltage and/or pressure (if any);
– five close-open operating cycles at the minimum supply voltage and/or pressure (if any);
– five close-open operating cycles at the maximum supply voltage and/or pressure (if any);
– five close-open manual operations if the switching device can be operated manually.

During these operating cycles, the operating characteristics, such as, if applicable, operating
times, power consumption, maximum forces for manual operation, shall be recorded.
Satisfactory operation of control and auxiliary contacts and position-indicating devices (if any)
shall be verified. It is not necessary to include all the oscillograms recorded in the type test
report.

The variation between the average values of each parameter, measured before and after the
mechanical endurance test, shall be within the tolerances specified by the manufacturer.

After the test, all parts, including contacts, shall be visually inspected to check their good
condition and they shall not show undue wear; see also 7.5.6.2, point 6, of IEC 62271-1:2017.
The main circuit resistance, i.e. on disconnectors, shall be measured before and after the
mechanical endurance test, as close as possible to the contacts. The resistance shall not
increase by more than 20 % from the value measured before the test. If this limit is exceeded,
a test under rated continuous current (7.5) shall demonstrate that the temperature rise in the
contacts does not exceed the limits given in Table 14 of IEC 62271-1:2017, by monitoring the
temperature at the points as close as possible to the contacts.

For earthing switches where contacts are visible, the fully closed and open positions during
operation after the mechanical endurance test shall be verified by visual inspection.

For earthing switches where contacts are not visible, the fully closed and open positions
during operation after the mechanical endurance test shall be verified by using the travel
records or other appropriate methods.

For gas-insulated disconnectors and earthing switches, a tightness test according to 7.8 shall
be performed before and after the mechanical endurance test.

For resistor-fitted disconnectors in metal-enclosed gas-insulated switchgear, the maximum

variation of the ohmic resistance of the complete resistor after the test shall not exceed 5 %
from the value measured before the test.

7.102.4 Operation during the application of rated static mechanical terminal loads

Twenty operating cycles with the rated power supply shall be made with the rated mechanical
static terminal loads applied at each terminal in the directions specified by the manufacturer.
When more than one load configuration is specified by the manufacturer, the 20 operating
cycles shall be repeated for each configuration. The three components of each terminal load
may be applied by a conductor pulling in the resultant direction and with the resultant force of
the three vectors.

NOTE Any possible combination of the resultant forces applied at the terminals corresponds to one load
configuration.

Examples of terminal loads applied at different types of disconnectors are shown in Figure 8
and Figure 9.

One example of possible configurations for a two columns disconnector is given here below:

– longitudinal (straight) load applied in direction F a1 at one terminal and F a2 at the opposite
terminal;
– transversal (cross) load applied in direction F b1 or F b2 , at both terminals in the same
direction;
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– vertical load applied in direction F c at both terminals (except for disconnectors specified to
be connected to flexible conductors).

For only manually operated disconnectors and earthing switches the number of operating
cycles is reduced to 10.

The loads shall be applied on both terminals at the same time.

The disconnector or earthing switch may be adjusted before the test and after having been
loaded with 50 % of the rated longitudinal or perpendicular mechanical terminal force.

During each operation, the disconnector or earthing switch shall close and open correctly.

For verification, before and after the complete sequence of operating cycles, 7.102.3.2 and
the appropriate comparators as required in 7.102.3.1 for mechanical endurance tests, are
applicable (i.e. without static mechanical terminal loads applied).

7.102.5 Extended mechanical endurance tests

The tests defined in this subclause shall be performed on disconnectors class M1 and M2 and
on earthing switches class M1.

In the case of disconnectors and earthing switches in GIS, the enclosure shall not be opened
during the test.

Tests shall be carried out as follows:

a) The extended mechanical endurance tests programme shall consist of a number of

close-open operations carried out in accordance with 7.102.1 and 7.102.3.1.
According to the class assigned, one of the following number of operating cycles shall be
performed:
– 2 000 (for class M1);
– 10 000 (for class M2).
After the first series of 1 000 operating cycles, some maintenance such as lubrication and
mechanical adjustment is allowed and shall be performed in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions, and its reference included in the test report. Change of parts
in the main circuit and in the kinematic chain is not permitted.
After each next series of 1 000 operating cycles, or at maintenance intervals (if of less
than 1 000 operating cycles), the operating characteristics shall be recorded and
evaluated (if power operated) at the rated pressure or voltage.
The programme of maintenance shall be defined by the manufacturer before the tests and
recorded in the test report.
b) Before and after the total test programme, verification of successful operation shall be
performed as required in 7.102.3.2.
c) In addition, after the total test programme, checks and tests shall be performed as follows:
– contact zone test (7.102.2), if applicable;
– verification of operation during application of rated static mechanical terminal loads
(7.102.4), if applicable;
– verification of satisfactory operation with the minimum duration of the operating signal
specified in the manufacturer’s documentation;
– verification of operation of the mechanical strain-limiting devices, if any.
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7.102.6 Testing of mechanical interlocking devices.

Disconnectors and earthing switches which are not covered by switchgear and controlgear
assembly standards (e.g. IEC 62271-200, IEC 62271-201 and IEC 62271-203) shall be tested
as follows, if mechanical interlocking devices are provided blocking the operating shaft or
power kinematic chain.

All interlocking devices shall be submitted to 5 attempts to perform close and/or open
operation for any interlocked position of disconnector and/or earthing switch, in order to prove
compliance with requirements in 6.12.

Before each attempt, the interlocking devices shall be set in the position intended to prevent
the operation of the switching device and then one attempt shall be made to operate the
interlocked switching device. Operating forces given in 6.12 shall be employed and no
adjustment shall be made to the switching devices or interlocking devices.

The tests are considered satisfactory if the interlocked switching devices and the interlocking
devices are in proper working order and if the forces required to operate the switching devices
are practically the same before and after the tests.

The operating forces are considered the same if the average value measured after the test is
within the maximum and minimum values measured before the test. At least three close/open
operations should be performed before the test to fix the minimum and maximum values for
acceptance of the close or open operation after the test.

7.103 Operation under severe ice conditions

7.103.1 General

The tests defined in this subclause shall be made only if the manufacturer claims the
suitability of disconnectors and earthing switches for operation under severe ice conditions
(i. e. 10 mm ice coating and above).

Disconnectors and earthing switches having accessories to accommodate a bus-transfer

current switching capability (disconnectors only) and a switching capability of induced
currents (earthing switches only) shall be tested with these devices mounted.

NOTE Formation of ice may produce difficulties in the operation of electric power systems. Under certain
atmospheric conditions, a deposit of ice can build up to a thickness that sometimes makes the operation of outdoor
switching equipment difficult.

7.103.2 Test arrangement

a) All parts of the disconnector or earthing switch to be tested shall be assembled, together
with their operating mechanism, in a room which can be cooled to a temperature
according to the requirements given in 7.103.3. The energizing of heating elements of the
control mechanism is permitted during the test. Supports, operating insulators and other
operating members may be shortened to reduce the height of the assembly to suit the test
facilities available, provided the angle of rotation of the parts affected and the bending of
thrust linkages remain unchanged.

In choosing the refrigeration capacity required, the heat content of the water with which
the apparatus under test is sprayed should be taken into account.
b) A single-pole of a three-pole apparatus may be tested if each pole has a separate
operating mechanism. In the case of a three-pole apparatus up to and including 52 kV
having one common operating mechanism for the three poles, the complete three-pole
device shall be tested. In the case of voltages above 52 kV and if the testing laboratory
cannot accommodate complete standard three-pole apparatus, modifications of mounting
structures, post insulators or spacing, wherever possible, in order to enable the three-pole
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test to be made are permitted. If the tests are not possible even in this configuration, tests
with a single-pole apparatus operated by the common mechanism are permitted. In this
last case, exact details of the test procedure and the measured torque shall be reported in
order to evaluate the test result with reference to the capability of the mechanism to
operate the three-pole apparatus. In all cases, it is not allowed to change the original
isolating distance for the disconnector or the gap for the earthing switch.
c) The disconnector or earthing switch shall be tested for operation from the open position
and the closed position separately.
d) Prior to the test, any trace of oil or grease on parts that do not need to be lubricated in
service shall be removed with an appropriate solvent. This is because thin films of oil or
grease prevent ice from adhering and greatly change the results of tests.
e) For measurement of ice thickness, a copper bar or tube 30 mm in diameter and 1 m in
length shall be mounted in a horizontal position in a place where it will receive the same
general rainfall as the apparatus under test.
f) The arrangement shall allow the entire apparatus to be sprayed with artificial rain falling
from above at various angles, from the vertical to 45°. The water used in the spray should
be cooled to a temperature between 0 °C and 3 °C and shall reach the test object in the
liquid state.

7.103.3 Test procedure

7.103.3.1 Checks before the formation of ice coating

Before testing, the disconnector/earthing switch shall be subjected to:

– 5 close-open operating cycles at the rated supply and/or pressure (if any);
– 5 close-open manual operations if the switching device can only be operated manually;
– the measurement of the resistance of the main circuit in accordance with 7.4.4.

During the operating cycles, operating characteristics such as, if applicable, operating times,
power consumption, maximum forces for manual operations, shall be recorded. Satisfactory
operation of control and auxiliary contacts, and position-indicating device (if any) shall be
verified. It is not necessary to include all the oscillograms recorded in the type test report.

7.103.3.2 Formation of ice coating

Nature produces ice coatings which may be divided into two general categories:

a) clear ice, generally resulting from rain falling through air somewhat below the freezing
point of water;
b) rime ice, characterized by a white appearance, formed for example from atmospheric
moisture condensing on cold surfaces.

For type tests a coating of solid clear ice of the required thickness shall be produced
according to the procedure described below.

a) Lower the room temperature down to 2 °C and start the spray of pre-cooled water.
Continue this spray for a minimum of 1 h while holding the room temperature between
0,5 °C and 3 °C.
b) Lower the room temperature down to the range between −7 °C and −3 °C while continuing
the water spray. The rate of temperature change is not critical and may be whatever is
obtainable with available refrigeration apparatus.
c) Hold the room temperature within −7 °C and −3 °C and continue to spray until the
specified thickness of ice can be measured on the top surface of the test bar. The amount
of water should be controlled to cause ice to build up at the rate of approximately 6 mm/h.
NOTE 1 If the specific thermal capacities per unit surface area of test bar and apparatus under test differ
considerably, even identical spraying conditions may produce very different ice coatings. These differences in
thickness may be minimized by short periods of spraying alternating with longer periods of cooling.
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NOTE 2 As a guide, it has been observed that between 20 l and 80 l per hour per m 2 of area sprayed is
required to cause ice to be deposited at a rate of approximately 6 mm/h.

d) Discontinue the spray and maintain the room temperature within –7 °C and –3 °C for a
+2
period of at least 4 h. This ensures that all parts of the disconnector/earthing switch and
0

the ice coating have reached a constant temperature.

7.103.3.3 Checks after the formation of ice coating

After the formation of ice coating, the satisfactory operation of the disconnector/earthing
switch shall be checked:

– if the disconnector or earthing switch is manually operated, the operation will be

considered as satisfactorily completed if the apparatus has been operated to its final
closed or open position applying normal operating forces (being permissible to remove the
ice from the insertion point of the handle);
– if the disconnector or earthing switch is electrically, pneumatically or hydraulically
operated, the operation will be considered as satisfactorily completed if the apparatus has
been operated on the first attempt up to its final closed or open position by the operating
device supplied at its rated voltage or pressure.

Immediately after the closing operation, the electrical continuity across the contacts shall be
checked.

When the disconnector/earthing switch is ice-free, it shall be subjected to the same checks of
7.103.3.1, with the room temperature restored to normal ambient temperature (above 10 °C).
The apparatus shall be considered to have passed the test if its mechanical and electrical
performance is not affected; this condition shall be considered as met if:

– the resistance measured before the formation of ice coating has not increased by more
than 20 %;
– the variation between the average values of each parameter, measured before the
formation of ice coating, is within the tolerances given by the manufacturer.

The complete ice coating procedure and subsequent checks shall be performed for each
position (i.e. closed/open) on each disconnector and/or earthing switch. Ice coating shall be
naturally removed between tests, for example by leaving the apparatus enough time at
adequate room temperature.

7.104 Low- and high-temperature tests

7.104.1 General

If the temperature limits for the service conditions of the apparatus (defined by the
manufacturer) are above +40 °C or below −5 °C, the following procedure shall be applied:

Single poles of three-pole apparatus may be tested individually if each pole has a separate
operating mechanism. In the case of three-pole apparatus of U r ≤ 52 kV having one common
operating mechanism for the three poles, the complete three-pole device shall be tested.

In the case of U r > 52 kV and if the testing laboratory cannot accommodate complete standard
three-pole apparatus, modifications of mounting structures, post insulators or spacing,
wherever possible, are permitted to enable tests on all three poles. If the tests are not
possible even in this configuration, tests with a single-pole apparatus operated by the
common mechanism are permitted. In this last case, exact details of the test procedure and
the measured torque shall be reported in order to evaluate the test result with reference to the
capability of the mechanism to operate the three-pole apparatus. In all cases, changing the
original isolating distance for the disconnector or the gap for the earthing switch is not
allowed.
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If heat sources are required, they shall be in operation.

No maintenance, replacement of parts, lubrication or readjustment of the apparatus is

permissible during the tests. For insulation pressure systems the tests shall be performed at
rated filling pressure for insulation and/or switching. The characteristics recorded shall be
within the tolerances specified by the manufacturer.

7.104.2 Measurement of ambient air temperature

The maximum temperature deviation over the height of the apparatus shall not exceed 5 K,
measured at a distance of 1 m from the apparatus.

7.104.3 Low-temperature test

The diagram of the test sequences and identification of the application points for the tests
specified are given in Figure 10 a).

Temperature
c j
a b

TA

TL

d e f g h i
Time
IEC

a) Low temperature test

Temperature
n t

TH

o p q r s

TA

l m u
Time
IEC

b) High temperature test

NOTE Letters a to u identify application points of tests specified in 7.104.3 and 7.104.4.

Figure 10 – Test sequences for low and high temperature tests

If the low-temperature test is performed immediately after the high-temperature test and using
the same sample, the low-temperature test can proceed after completion of item (t) of the
high-temperature test. In this case, items (a) and (b) are omitted.

a) The test object shall be adjusted in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
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b) Characteristics and settings of the test object shall be recorded in accordance with
7.102.3.2 and at an ambient air temperature of (20 ± 5) °C (T A ). The tightness test for
insulation pressure systems shall be performed according to 7.8.
c) With the disconnector in close position and/or the earthing switch in open position, the air
temperature shall be decreased to the appropriate, minimum ambient air temperature (T L ),
according to the service conditions defined by the manufacturer and in accordance with
Clause 2, at a rate of change of approximately 10 K per hour. The disconnector shall be
kept in close position and/or the earthing switch in open position for a minimum of 12 h
after the ambient air temperature stabilises at T L .
d) During the 12-h period with the disconnector in the closed position and/or the earthing
switch in the open position at temperature T L , a tightness test shall be performed on
insulation pressure systems. An increased leakage rate is acceptable, provided that it
returns to the original value when the apparatus is restored to the ambient air temperature
T A and is thermally stable. The increased temporary leakage rate should not exceed the
permissible temporary leakage rate of Table 15 of IEC 62271-1:2017. This tightness test
shall be integral and performed by the accumulation method with appropriate apparatus
for measurement of SF 6 concentration at the low temperature of the air in the testing
room. For uniform diffusion of the SF 6 leaked inside the control volume, the use of a mixer
or fan is highly recommended.
e) After 12 h at temperature T L , the disconnector shall be opened and closed and/or the
earthing switch shall be closed and opened three times at rated values of supply voltage
and operating pressure, if applicable. The operating characteristics shall be recorded.
f) The low-temperature behaviour of the apparatus shall be verified, if applicable, by
disconnecting the supply of all heating devices, including also the anti-condensation
heating elements, for a duration t x . At the end of the interval t x , an operating order, at
rated values of supply voltage and operating pressure, shall be given, if applicable.Then
the disconnector shall open and/or the earthing switch shall close. The operating
characteristics shall be recorded.
The value of t x up to which the apparatus is still operable without auxiliary power to the
heaters, is stated by the manufacturer (not less than 2 h). In the absence of such a
statement, the value is equal to 2 h.
g) The disconnector shall be left in open position and/or the earthing switch shall be left in
close position for minimum 4 h.
h) During the 4-h period with the disconnector in open position and/or the earthing switch in
closed position at temperature T L , a tightness test shall be performed according to 7.8 for
insulation pressure systems using a cumulative leakage method as indicated in item (d).
i) After 4 h at temperature T L , the disconnector shall be closed and/or the earthing switch
shall be opened three times at rated values of supply voltage and operating pressure, if
applicable. The operating characteristics shall be recorded.
j) After completing the three closing and the three opening operations, the air temperature
shall be increased to ambient air temperature T A at a rate of change of approximately 10 K
per hour.
k) After the apparatus has stabilised thermally at ambient air temperature T A , a recheck shall
be made of the apparatus settings, and the operating characteristics shall be recorded
and verified according to 7.102.3.2. A tightness test shall be made as in item b) for
comparison with the initial characteristics.

For combined function earthing switches including a disconnector function, the operation of
the disconnector and the operation of the earthing switch as described in items (e) and (i)
shall be spaced by 4 h or by t x + 4 h in case of heating devices are switched off. For
insulation pressure systems a tightness test shall be performed at least once when both
disconnector and earthing switch are in the open position.

After the complete low temperature test the pressure shall not be under the minimum
functional pressure.
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7.104.4 High-temperature test

The diagram of the test sequence and identification of the application points for the tests
specified are given in Figure 10 b).

If the high-temperature test is performed immediately after the low-temperature test and using
the same sample, the high-temperature test can proceed after completion of item (j) of the
low-temperature test. In this case, items (l) and (m) below are omitted.

l) The test object shall be adjusted in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
m) Characteristics and settings of the test object shall be recorded in accordance with
7.102.3.2 and at an ambient air temperature of (20 ± 5) °C (T A ). The tightness test for
insulation pressure systems shall be performed according to 7.8.
n) With the disconnector in closed position and/or the earthing switch in open position, the
air temperature shall be increased to the maximum ambient air temperature (T H ), declared
by the manufacturer, at a rate of change of approximately 10 K per hour. The disconnector
shall be kept in close position and/or the earthing switch in open position for 12 h after the
ambient air temperature stabilises at T H .
o) During the 12 h period with the disconnector in close position and/or the earthing switch in
open position at temperature T H , a tightness test shall be performed for insulation
pressure systems.
p) After 12 h at temperature T H , the disconnector shall be opened and/or the earthing switch
shall be closed three times at rated values of supply voltage and operating pressure, if
applicable. The operating characteristics shall be recorded.
q) The disconnector shall be left in open position and/or the earthing switch shall be left in
the closed position for 4 h.
r) During the 4-h period with the disconnector in the open position and/or the earthing switch
in the closed position at temperature T H , a tightness test shall be performed for insulation
pressure systems using a cumulative leakage method as indicated in item (d) of subclause
7.104.3.
s) After 4 h at temperature T H , the disconnector shall be closed and/or the earthing switch
shall be opened three times at rated values of supply voltage and operating pressure, if
applicable. The operating characteristics shall be recorded.
t) After completing the three closing and the three opening operations, the air temperature
shall be decreased to ambient air temperature T A at a rate of change of approximately
10 K per hour.
u) After the apparatus has stabilised thermally at ambient air temperature T A , a recheck shall
be made of the apparatus settings, operating characteristics and tightness as in items (l)
and (m) for comparison with the initial characteristics.

For combined function earthing switches including a disconnector function, the operation of
the disconnector and the operation of the earthing switch as described in items (p) and (s)
shall be spaced by 4 h. A tightness test shall be performed at least once when both
disconnector and earthing switch are in the open position.

After the complete high-temperature test the pressure shall not be under the minimum
functional pressure.

7.105 Tests to verify the proper functioning of the position-indicating device

7.105.1 General

These tests apply, when a position indicator according to 6.104.3.2 is used.

The equipment shall pass all the tests defined in 7.105.2, in order to verify both the sufficient
strength of the power kinematic chain and the reliability of the position-indicating kinematic
chain.
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One specimen may be used for each operation mode.

7.105.2 Tests on the power kinematic chain and the position-indicating kinematic
chain

The moving contact is locked in closed position for a disconnector and in open position for an
earthing switch.

In the case of a three phase disconnector or earthing switch operated by a common operating
device, only the moving contact of the pole located farthest from the point of transmission of
the energy from the power source along the power kinematic chain is locked.

The tests consist of three attempts performed on the switching device with its own complete
operating device equipped with a strain limiting device (if any) and/or with a torque (force)
controlling system (if any).

– For manual operation (for dependent and for independent), the normal operation handle
shall be used to perform the attempts. During the tests, double the normal forces shall be
employed, with a minimum of 200 N, but limited to a force of 750 N or to the operation of a
strain-limiting device or torque (force) controlling system. This force shall be applied
halfway along the length of the gripping part of the operating handle. Where the operating
handle or the operating device incorporates a feature which limits the operating torque
(force), the switching device shall be operated until the strain-limiting device operates,
provided that the operating handle with strain-limiting device is not interchangeable with
other handles.
– For power operation (for dependent and for independent), the maximum supply voltage or
pressure for operation (if power operated or if release operated) as defined in 5.9 and
5.11.102 shall be applied respectively during the attempts. In the case of the presence of
a strain-limiting device or torque (force) controlling system, the switching device shall be
operated until the strain-limiting device or torque (force) controlling system operates.

No adjustment or replacement shall be made along the position indicating chain between the
attempts. No break on the mechanical kinematic chain shall be produced during the test,
except for strain limiting devices designed to break, which will have to be replaced after they
break. The test is considered passed if after each attempt the three moving contacts remain in
the same position and the position-indicating device indicates correctly the position of the
moving contacts.

If the position-indicating device is marked directly on a mechanical part of the power

kinematic chain no additional test is required.

The enclosure providing protection to the position-indicating kinematic chain shall be tested
for its IP and IK (in accordance with 6.104.3.1). The blows shall be applied to the points of the
enclosure that are likely to be the weakest in relation to the protection of the indicating
kinematic chain.

7.106 Bus-transfer current switching tests on disconnectors

7.106.1 General

These tests shall be performed only on disconnectors with a rated bus-transfer current
switching capability.

7.106.2 Making and breaking tests

7.106.2.1 Arrangement of the disconnector for tests

The disconnector under test shall be completely mounted on its own support or on an
equivalent support. Its operating device shall be used in the manner prescribed and in
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particular, if it is power operated either electrically or pneumatically, it shall be operated at the

minimum supply voltage or minimum functional pressure for operation, respectively.

Before commencing making and breaking tests, no-load operations shall be made to establish
the mechanical operating characteristics of the disconnector such as speed of travel, closing
time and opening time.

For gas-insulated disconnectors, tests shall be performed at the minimum functional pressure
for switching.

Disconnectors having an independent manual operation may be operated by remote control,

using a power operating means such that operating speeds equivalent to those resulting from
manual operation are obtained.

Consideration shall be given to the effects of energization of both terminals of the

disconnector. When the physical arrangement of one side of the disconnector differs from that
of the other side, the supply side of the test circuit shall be connected to the side which
represents the most severe condition. In case of doubt, 50 % of the breaking and making tests
shall be carried out with the supply side of the test circuit connected to one side of the
disconnector and 50 % with the supply connected to the other side.

Only single-phase tests on one pole of a three-pole disconnector need to be performed

provided that the pole is not in a more favourable condition than the complete three-pole
disconnector with respect to:

– speed of make;
– speed of break;
– influence of adjacent phases.

Single-phase tests are adequate to demonstrate the making and breaking performance of a
disconnector, provided that it can be demonstrated that the arcing time and arc reach are
such that there is no possibility of involvement of an adjacent phase. If, on the basis of a
single-phase test, it is shown that the arc may reach an adjacent phase, then three-phase
tests shall be performed using the specific disconnector configuration.

7.106.2.2 Earthing of the test circuit and disconnector

The frame of the disconnector shall be earthed as well as the test circuit, see 7.106.2.6.

7.106.2.3 Test frequency

Disconnectors shall be tested at rated frequency, however disconnectors rated 50 Hz or

60 Hz may be tested with either of those two frequencies as they are considered to be
equivalent for this test. The tolerance on the test frequency shall be within the limits of ±10 %
in accordance with Table C.1.

7.106.2.4 Test voltage

+10
The test voltage U BT shall be set so as to yield the required rated bus-transfer voltage ( %)
0

and shall be measured during the test across the open disconnector terminals.

As noted in 7.106.2.1, only single-phase tests are normally required. If three-phase tests are
required, then the test voltage of each phase shall not differ from the average test voltage by
more than 10 %.

The power frequency recovery voltage shall be maintained for at least 0,3 s after interruption.
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7.106.2.5 Test current

+10
The test current shall be equal to the rated bus-transfer current ( %) as defined in 5.108.1.
0

The current to be interrupted shall be symmetrical. The contacts of the disconnector shall not
be separated until transient currents, due to the closing of the circuit, have subsided.

If three-phase tests are performed, the test current is the average of the current in all three
phases. The test current in each phase shall not differ from the average test current by more
than 10 %.

7.106.2.6 Test circuits

The test circuit as shown in Figure 11 shall have a power factor not exceeding 0,5. Two
examples of test circuit are shown in Figure 11.

If three-phase tests are required, the neutral of the supply circuit and the load-side circuit
shall be earthed.

Phase-to-earth insulation is not verified during the test when using the circuit given in
Figure 11. If insulation performance has to be verified, other test circuits providing the rated
phase-to-earth voltage are necessary.

I BT Z BT

Test
U BT
disconnector

IEC

Test circuit A

I BT Test disconnector

U BT Z BT

IEC

Test circuit B

Figure 11 – Example of test circuit for bus-transfer current switching tests

7.106.2.7 Test duty

One hundred make-break operating cycles shall be made.

NOTE These 100 operating cycles are not considered adequate to demonstrate electrical life but they do provide
an indication of contact erosion.
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The opening operation shall follow the closing operation with a time delay between the two
operations at least sufficient for any transient currents to subside. As well, the time between
operations shall be sufficient to cool down the disconnector if specified by the manufacturer
instructions.

The tests shall be performed without reconditioning of the disconnector during the test duty.

7.106.2.8 Behaviour of the disconnector during tests

The disconnector shall perform successfully without undue mechanical or electrical distress.

Outward emission of flame or metallic particles from the disconnector during operation is
permitted, if this does not impair its insulation level. Flame or metallic particles shall not be
projected beyond the boundaries specified by the manufacturer in the operating instructions.

7.106.2.9 Condition of disconnector after tests

The mechanical operating characteristics shall be within the tolerances given by the
manufacturer and the insulation of the disconnector shall be essentially in the same condition
as before the test.

It is recognized that mechanical wear and erosion due to arcing, as well as deposits on the
insulators caused by the decomposition of the arc extinguishing medium, will impair the
switching capability of the disconnector. However, the current-carrying capability and the
isolating properties of the disconnector shall not be impaired. The quality of the material used
for arc extinguishing, if any, may be impaired and its amount reduced below the normal level.

The isolating properties of a disconnector in the open position shall not be reduced below
what corresponds to normal wear and ageing, by deterioration of insulating parts.

No-load operation and visual inspection of the disconnector after tests are usually sufficient
for verification of the isolating properties and the current-carrying capability of the
disconnector. In case of doubt, it can be necessary to perform the appropriate tests as
mentioned below.

– If the isolating properties are doubted, a voltage test as condition check according to
7.2.12 is to be performed to verify the insulating properties. Alternative test methods given
in 6.2.11 of IEC 62271-100:2008 + AMD1:2012 + AMD2:2017 may be used for U r >
72,5 kV. The minimum functional pressure of the gas for insulation shall be used, if
applicable. For disconnectors that are sealed-for-life, the voltage test as a condition check
is mandatory;
– If the current-carrying capacity is doubted, main circuit resistance measurement may be
used where ever it is possible to measure the resistance close to the contacts. The
increase in main circuit resistance after test shall not exceed 20 %. If the contact
resistance exceeds this value, a test under rated continuous current (7.5) shall
demonstrate that the temperature rise in the contacts does not exceed the limits given in
Table 14 of IEC 62271-1:2017, by monitoring the temperature at the points as close as
possible to the main contacts.

For resistor-fitted disconnectors in metal-enclosed gas-insulated switchgear, the maximum

variation of the ohmic resistance of the complete resistor after the test shall not exceed 5 %
from the value measured before the test. A visual inspection of the resistor shall be made
after the type tests. No evidence of flashover across the resistor or any mechanical damage
shall be observed. It can be necessary to disassemble the disconnector for the visual
inspection.
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7.106.2.10 Type test reports

In addition to the requirements given in 7.1.2 and 7.1.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017 the type test
report shall contain the following information:

a) typical oscillographic or similar records of the tests performed (at least one oscillogram for
each 10 operations);
b) test circuit;
c) test currents;
d) test voltages;
e) power frequency recovery voltages;
f) prospective transient recovery voltages (TRV);
g) arcing times;
h) number of making and breaking operations;
i) condition of the contacts after test (see 7.106.2.9).

General information concerning the supporting structure of the disconnector should be

included. The operating time of the disconnector and the type of operating devices employed
during the tests shall be recorded.

7.107 Induced current switching tests on earthing switches

7.107.1 General

Type tests for earthing switches having a rated induced current switching capability shall
include:

– tests to prove the electromagnetically induced current making and breaking capability;
– tests to prove the electrostatically induced current making and breaking capability.

7.107.2 Arrangement of the earthing switch for tests

The earthing switch under test shall be completely mounted on its own support or on an
equivalent support. Its operating device shall be operated in the manner prescribed and, in
particular, if it is electrically or pneumatically operated, it shall be operated either at the
minimum supply voltage or supply pressure, respectively.

Before commencing making and breaking tests, no-load operations shall be made and details
of the operating characteristics of the earthing switch, such as speed of travel, closing time
and opening time, shall be recorded (see 7.102.3.2).

For gas-insulated earthing switches, tests shall be performed at the minimum functional gas
pressure (density) for switching.

Earthing switches having a manual operating device may be operated by remote control using
a power-operating means such that operating speeds equivalent to those resulting from
manual operation are obtained.

Only single-phase tests on one pole of a three-pole earthing switch need to be performed
provided that it is not in a more favourable condition than the complete three-pole earthing
switch with respect to:

– speed of closing;
– speed of opening;
– influence of adjacent poles or proximity of energized phases.
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Single-phase tests are adequate to demonstrate the making and breaking performance of an
earthing switch provided that it can be demonstrated that the arcing time and arc-reach are
such that there is no possibility that involvement of an adjacent energized phase can occur. If,
on the basis of a single-phase test, it is determined that the arc may reach an adjacent
energized phase, then three-phase tests shall be performed using the specific earthing switch
configuration.

7.107.3 Earthing of test circuit and earthing switch

The test circuit shall be earthed through the terminal of the earthing switch which is normally
connected to earth.

7.107.4 Test frequency

Earthing switches shall be tested at rated frequency, however earthing switches rated 50 Hz
or 60 Hz may be tested with any of those two frequencies as they are considered to be
equivalent for this test. The tolerance on the test frequency shall be within the limits of ±10 %
according Table C.1.

7.107.5 Test voltage

The test voltages shall be set so as to yield the voltage specified in Table 9 before making
and after breaking, and shall be measured across the earthing switch terminals during the
test.

As noted in 7.107.2, only single-phase tests are normally required. If three-phase tests are
required, then the test voltage of each phase shall not be different from the average test
voltage by more than 10 %.

The power frequency test voltage shall be maintained for at least 0,3 s after interruption.

7.107.6 Test currents

+10
The test currents shall be equal to the rated induced currents ( %). The current to be
0

interrupted shall be symmetrical. The contacts of the earthing switch shall not be separated
until transient currents due to closing of the circuit have subsided.

If three-pole making and breaking tests are performed, the test current shall be measured as
the average of the current in all three poles. The test current for each phase shall not be
different from the average test current by more than 10 %.

Before contact separation, the waveform of the test current for electrostatically induced
current breaking tests should be, as nearly as possible, sinusoidal (see IEC/TR 62271-305).
This condition is considered to be met if the ratio of the RMS value of the total current to the
RMS value of the fundamental component does not exceed 1,2. The test current shall not go
through zero more than once per half cycle of power frequency before contact separation.

7.107.7 Test circuits

7.107.7.1 General

For type tests, the transmission lines may be replaced by elements consisting of capacitors,
inductors and resistors.

If three-phase tests are required, the test circuit shall incorporate the same elements in each
phase as for the single-phase test circuit in order to yield the appropriate test voltages and
currents. The neutral of the supply circuit shall be earthed.
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As an alternative, other test circuits than those specified may be used provided they fulfil the
requirements for test currents, voltages and the transient recovery voltage parameters.

7.107.7.2 Test circuit for electromagnetically induced current making and breaking
tests

The single-phase test circuit (Figure 12) consists of a supply circuit yielding the appropriate
test voltage and test current such that the circuit power factor does not exceed 0,15. The
components R and C are selected to yield the appropriate transient recovery voltage
parameters. The damping resistance R may be connected in series or in parallel with the
capacitance C.

R
UL Earthing switch
R under test
C

IEC

Figure 12 – Test circuit for electromagnetically induced current switching tests

The values of supply voltage (U L ) and inductance (L) can be calculated from the values of
voltage and current given in Table 9, so as to produce the proper values of test current and
power frequency recovery voltage.

The prospective transient recovery voltage waveforms should have the form of a triangular
wave due to the surge impedance of the connected transmission lines. As an alternative,
transient recovery voltages having a (1 − cos) form may be used. Values of R and C may be
selected to yield the proper transient recovery voltage parameters specified in Table 17.
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Table 17 – Standard values of recovery voltages for electromagnetically

induced current breaking tests

Rated voltage Class A Class B

Ur
Power TRV peak Time to peak Power TRV peak Time to peak
kV frequency frequency
recovery recovery
voltage voltage
+10 +10 0 +10 +10 0
( %) ( %) ( %) ( %) ( %) ( %)
0 0 −10 0 0 −10
kV RMS kV µs kV RMS kV µs

72,5
100 0,5 1,1 100
123 300
2 4,5
145
1 2,3
170
200
245 330
1,4 3,2
300 850
362 10 23
1 000
420
2 4,5 325
550
20 45 2 000
800
1 100
5 11,3 750 65 145 2 400
1 200

NOTE 1 Recovery voltages are valid for single-phase or three-phase tests.

NOTE 2 The prospective TRV waveform may be of a triangular or (1 − cos) form (see 7.107.7.2). The time to
peak is valid for either waveform type.
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C1
L R

IR
C2 UR Earthing switch
UC
under test

IEC
Test circuit 1

C′ 1
L′ R

U′ C C′ 2 UR Earthing switch
under test

IEC

Test circuit 2

2
L = Z 02 × C1  C1 
L =' L ×  
 C1 + C2 

iR  C1  '
uc = u c' =   × u c , or u c = uR
ωC1  C1 + C 2 

u   C 
C2 = C1 ×  c − 1 C1' = C1 + C 2 C 2' = C 2 1 + 2 
 uR   C1 

where
Z0 is the surge impedance of the line:
– 425 Ω for 52 kV < U r ≤ 170 kV;
– 380 Ω for 245 kV ≤ U r ≤ 300 kV;
– 325 Ω for 362 kV ≤ U r ≤ 800 kV;
– 290 Ω for 1 100 kV ≤ U r ≤ 1 200 kV.

Key

i R is the rated induced current from Table 9

u R is the rated induced voltage from Table 9
C 1 is the test circuit capacitance given in Table 18

Figure 13 – Test circuits for electrostatically induced current-switching tests

7.107.7.3 Test circuits for electrostatically induced current switching tests

Either test circuit 1 or 2 in Figure 13 shall be selected as suitable for the test laboratory, since
they are equivalent, as long as the equations within the circuit parameters are satisfied.
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The power factor of the test circuit shall not exceed 0,15. The values of supply voltage (U C ),
inductance L and capacitance C 2 for test circuit 1 can be calculated from the given values of
C 1 in Table 18 and the rated current and voltage values in Table 9, by using the equations
noted in Figure 13. This will result in the appropriate values of test current and voltage as well
as the proper inrush current frequency and test-circuit surge impedance. Values for test circuit
2 can be calculated from the values derived for test circuit 1.

A resistance (R), not exceeding 10 % of the capacitive impedance [1 / ω (C 1 + C 2 ) = 1 / ω C 1 ′],

as seen from the earthing switch, may be inserted in the circuits as shown in Figure 13. The
value chosen, however, should not be greater than the surge impedance of the transmission
line considered (see Table 18), nor lead to an aperiodic damping of the inrush current when
closing the earthing switch.

Table 18 – Test circuit capacitances (C 1 values) for electrostatically

induced current switching tests

Rated voltage U r Test circuit capacitance

kV Class A Class B
µF µF

72,5 – 100 – 123 0,07

145 – 170 0,13 0,27
245
0,15
300 0,80
362 – 420 0,29 1,18
550 – 800 0,35 1,47
1 100 – 1 200 0,8 2,63

NOTE Values of C 1 can be calculated from the expression:

C 1 = (6D) / (πZ 0 )
where
D is the line length, in km;
Z 0 is the line surge impedance, in Ω.
Surge impedance assumed:
– 72,5 kV ≤ U r ≤ 170 kV: 425 Ω;
– 245 kV ≤ U r ≤ 300 kV: 380 Ω;
– 362 kV ≤ U r ≤ 800 kV: 325 Ω.
– 1 100 kV ≤ U r ≤ 1 200 kV: 290 Ω.

7.107.7.4 Test duties

Ten make-break operating cycles shall be made for each of the electrostatically and
electromagnetically induced current-switching tests.

NOTE Ten operating cycles are not considered adequate to demonstrate electrical life, but will provide an
indication of contact erosion.

The opening operation shall follow the closing operation with sufficient time delay between the
two operations for any transient currents to subside.

The tests shall be performed without reconditioning of the earthing switch during the test
programme.
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7.107.7.5 Behaviour of earthing switch during tests

The earthing switch shall perform successfully without undue mechanical or electrical
distress.

Outward emission of flame or metallic particles from the earthing switch during operation is
permitted, if this does not impair its insulation level. Flame or metallic particles shall not be
projected beyond the boundaries specified by the manufacturer in the operating instructions.

7.107.7.6 Condition of earthing switch after tests

The mechanical operating characteristics shall be within the tolerances given by the
manufacturer and the insulation of the earthing switch shall be essentially in the same
condition as before the test. The earthing switch shall be capable of carrying its rated peak
withstand current and its rated short-time withstand current.

Mechanical wear and erosion due to arcing, as well as deposits on the insulators caused by
the decomposition of the arc extinguishing medium, are acceptable.

Visual inspection and no-load operation of the earthing switch after tests are usually sufficient
for verification of the above requirements. In case of doubt, it may be necessary to perform
the appropriate tests as mentioned below.

If the isolating properties are doubted, a voltage test as condition check according to 7.2.12 is
to be performed to verify the isolating properties. As an alternative, 6.2.11 of
IEC 62271-100:2008 + AMD1:2012 + AMD2:2017 may be used for U r > 72,5 kV. The minimum
functional pressure of the gas for insulation shall be used, if applicable. For earthing switches
that are sealed for life, the voltage test as a condition check is mandatory.

7.107.7.7 Type test reports

In addition to the requirements given in 7.1.2 and 7.1.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017, the type test
report shall contain the following information:

a) typical oscillographic or similar records;

b) test circuits;
c) test currents;
d) test voltages;
e) power frequency recovery voltages;
f) prospective transient recovery voltages;
g) arcing times;
h) number of making and breaking operations;
i) condition of earthing switch after test.

General information concerning the supporting structure of the earthing switch should be
included. The operating time of the earthing switch and the type of operating devices
employed during the tests shall be recorded.

7.108 Bus-charging current switching tests on disconnectors

7.108.1 General

These tests shall be performed on disconnectors forming part of gas-insulated switchgear

classified for bus-charging current switching.
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NOTE The limit of 300 kV is derived from SF 6 -insulated switchgear experience. The dielectric performance of
disconnectors during bus-charging current switching and the performance against VFTO during the switching
depends on the insulating gas used. For more information, refer to CIGRE Technical Brochure No. 260, 2004 [7].

7.108.2 Test duties

Three test duties are defined:

– test duty 1: switching of a very short section of busbar duct, this test duty shall be
performed on disconnectors of U r ≥ 300 kV;
– test duty 2: switching of parallel capacitors of circuit-breakers under 180° out-of-
phase condition; this test duty is not mandatory;
– test duty 3: current-switching capability test; this test duty is not mandatory.
NOTE 1 Test duty 2 is a special type test for disconnectors placed close to circuit-breakers that are equipped with
parallel capacitors.

NOTE 2 Test duty 3 is a special type test to be carried out according to this specification by agreement between
the manufacturer and the user. It serves to demonstrate the current interruption capability of the disconnector when
de-energizing long busbars.Typical current values are given in Table 11.

7.108.3 Arrangement of the disconnector for tests

The operating device of the disconnector under test shall be operated in the manner specified
by the manufacturer and, in particular, if it is power operated, it shall be operated at the
specified minimum supply voltage and/or minimum supply pressure. The time delay between
operations shall be sufficient to cool down the disconnector if specified by the manufacturer
instructions.

Before commencing the making and breaking tests, no-load operations shall be made and
details of the operating characteristics of the disconnector such as closing time and opening
time shall be recorded (see 7.102.3.2).

Tests shall be performed at the minimum functional gas pressure (density) for switching of the
disconnector under test. Associated compartments shall be at their minimum functional gas
pressure (density) as well.

In most cases the design of the disconnector involves asymmetries (for example asymmetrical
shields, or moving contact/fixed contact differences, etc.). For these cases, the test
arrangement of the disconnector shall be such as to perform the test under the most severe
conditions. For test duty 1, the most severe test arrangement is considered to be that which
results in maximum pre-striking distance for the closing operation. For test duty 2 and test
duty 3, the test arrangement of the disconnector is considered to be of minor importance.

Only single-phase tests on one pole of a three-pole operated disconnector need to be

performed, provided that this does not mean a change of operating speed of more than
±15 %.

For disconnectors having three poles in one enclosure, a three-phase test arrangement is
required. One phase is connected to the testing circuit, and the two remaining poles not
involved in the switching process shall be grounded at both terminals.

7.108.4 Test frequency

Disconnectors shall be tested at rated frequency, however disconnectors rated 50 Hz or

60 Hz may be tested with any of those two frequencies as they are considered to be
equivalent for this test. The tolerance on the test frequency shall be within the limits of ±10 %
in accordance with Table C.1.
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7.108.5 Test voltages for making and breaking tests

During making and breaking tests, the power frequency voltage shall be applied and
maintained for at least 0,3 s before and after the switching operation. In the case of a DC pre-
charge voltage at the load side (test duty 1), the DC voltage shall be applied according to the
specified level for about 1 min before the close operation. The load side shall not be grounded
between the open and close operations. The test circuit should not contain elements that
cause a decay of the trapped charge.

With reference to Figures 14, 16 and 17, the test voltages at source side and load side of the
test arrangement shall be applied as given in Table 19.

The test voltages in Table 19 are valid for the disconnector in the open position.

NOTE In the case of test duty 3, the test voltage can be considerably higher when the disconnector is in the
closed position. This is caused by resonance phenomena, especially if the impedance of the supplying transformer
is high, which is normal for transformers used for dielectric AC voltage tests. This voltage will increase severity of
the test conditions. It will normally not be more than 10 %.

Table 19 – Test voltages for making and breaking tests

Test duty Test voltage

Source side U 1 Load side U 2

Pre-charge with negative DC voltage

1 1,1 x U r 3
−1,1 × U r × 2 3

AC voltage in phase opposition

2 1,1 x U r 3
1,1 × U r 3

3 Ur 3 _

NOTE The factor 1,1 has been chosen to take into account statistical effects which are inherent in this kind of
switching phenomena, and to restrict the number of test operations to those specified in Table 20. As test duty 3
should only indicate the switching capability of the disconnector, this increase of the test voltage is not
necessary.

d1 d2

DT DA

U1 C1 U2

IEC
Key
DT Disconnector under test
DA Auxiliary disconnector
Busbar lengths d 1 and d 2 are understood to be taken as the following distances:
d1: open contact of the disconnector under test (DT) to the bushing connection;
d2: open contact of the disconnector under test (DT) to the open contact of the auxiliary disconnector (DA).

Figure 14 – Test circuit for test duty 1

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7.108.6 Test circuits for making and breaking tests

7.108.6.1 Switching of a very short section of busbar duct, test duty 1

7.108.6.1.1 General

Figure 14 shows the test circuit for test duty 1. The load side shall be represented by a
section of busbar, d 2 3 m to 5 m in length. The connection to the supply side shall be realised
by another section of busbar, d 1 in length. In order to obtain representative very fast transient
(VFT) conditions, the ratio d 2 /d 1 , shall be in the range of 0,36 to 0,52. The source-side circuit
shall have an added lumped capacitance, C 1 . The value of C 1 shall be chosen so that the
peak value of the voltage to earth at the disconnector terminals is met as defined in
7.108.6.1.2.

Before starting a closing operation, the load side shall be charged by DC voltage according to
Table 18, and the DC voltage source disconnected by the auxiliary disconnector, DA.

7.108.6.1.2 Transient voltage values

The voltage transients at the disconnector location during a close operation are used to
characterize the behaviour of the test circuit and to ensure consistent overvoltage
characteristics under test conditions. Two distinct aspects of transient voltages are of
importance: these are the very fast transient (VFT) phenomena and the fast transient (FT)
phenomena. The VFT phenomena are determined by the circuit arrangement as described in
7.108.6.1.1. The circuit response for the fast transient phenomena shall be verified at least
once for the test arrangement by direct measurement (see 7.108.11) under the following
conditions:

– source-side test voltage: Ur 3 ;

– load-side voltage: 0 (no pre-charge).

For these conditions, the maximum peak value of the transient voltage to earth U TVE at the
first prestrike during a close operation shall be not less than 1,4 × U r 2 3 (for practical
purposes a variation of 5 % is considered acceptable) and the time to maximum peak shall be
less than 500 ns, (Figure 15).

For resistor-fitted disconnectors in metal-enclosed gas-insulated switchgear the resistor shall

be short-circuited or replaced by a solid conductor before the tests in order to verify the test
circuit conditions described above.
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1,5
U TVE
(p.u)
U r ×√2 / √3

0,5

0
0,5 1 1,5 2
Time (µs)
IEC

Figure 15 – Typical voltage waveform (Including VFT and FT components)

7.108.6.2 Out-of-phase switching, test duty 2

Figure 16 shows the test circuit for out-of-phase switching. The parallel capacitor CP of a
circuit-breaker may be represented by the actual circuit-breaker with its own capacitor or by
an adequate capacitance of equal or higher value than the capacitance used in service.

The shortest possible distance d 3 between capacitor CP and disconnector shall be

established. The lengths of the other test circuit parts are not specified, but they should be as
short as possible in order to minimize their influence on the capacitance of the test circuit.

The lumped capacitance C L (Figure 16) shall be of a value not less than 400 pF. The ratio
C 1 /C L shall be in the range of 4 to 6.

d3

DT
CP

U1 C1 CL U2

IEC

Key

DT Disconnector under test

CP Circuit-breaker parallel capacitor or equivalent capacitor

Figure 16 – Test circuit for test duty 2

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7.108.6.3 Current switching capability test, test duty 3

The test circuit shown in Figure 17 applies. For this type of switching, the specific lengths of
the busbar sections are of no significance. On the load side, a lumped capacitance C L should
be added in order to achieve the bus-charging current as given in Table 11 with a tolerance of
±10 %.

In order to reduce resonance effects, which can be caused due to a high source impedance,
connection of a lumped capacitance C 1 of any value is acceptable to the source side.

Further testing conditions that affect the transient recovery conditions are subject to
agreement between the manufacturer and the user.

DT

U1 C1 CL

IEC

Key
DT Disconnector under test

Figure 17 – Test circuit for test duty 3

7.108.7 Performance of making and breaking tests

During each test duty, the test series shall be performed without reconditioning the
disconnector. The number of tests is given in Table 20.

Table 20 – Number of tests

Test duty Number of make and break operations

a
Standard disconnector Fast-acting disconnector
b a, c
1 50 200
2 50 200
3 50 50
a Disconnectors having a contact speed in the range of 1 m/s or higher at the moment of contact separation.
b If the most severe disconnector arrangement cannot be determined clearly (with reference to 7.108.3), test
duty 1 shall be repeated with reversed disconnector terminals.
c Reduction of the number of tests down to 50 is acceptable if the test voltage is increased (to cover statistical
effects) to the following values:

– source side: U r × 1, 2 3 ;

– load side: (DC pre-charge): −U r × 1,2 2 3 .

7.108.8 Behaviour of the disconnector during making and breaking tests

The disconnector shall perform successfully without mechanical or electrical damage.

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Disruptive discharges from phase to earth or from phase to phase are not permitted.
Additionally, for resistor-fitted disconnectors in metal-enclosed gas-insulated switchgear
disruptive discharges are not permitted across the resistor.

NOTE It is essential that disruptive discharges to earth or between phases can be detected properly by adequate
measuring or detecting equipment.

7.108.9 Condition after test

The mechanical operating characteristics shall be within the tolerances given by the
manufacturer and the insulation of the disconnector shall be essentially in the same condition
as before the test.

Mechanical wear and erosion due to arcing, as well as deposits on the insulators caused by
the decomposition of the arc extinguishing medium, are acceptable. However, the current-
carrying capability and the isolating properties of the disconnector shall not be impaired. The
quality of the material used for arc extinguishing, if any, may be impaired and its amount
reduced below the normal level. There may be deposits on the insulators caused by the
decomposition of the arc extinguishing medium.

The isolating properties of a disconnector in the open position shall not be reduced below
what corresponds to normal wear and ageing, by deterioration of insulating parts.

No-load operation and visual inspection of the disconnector after tests are usually sufficient
for verification of the isolating properties and the current-carrying capability of the
disconnector. In case of doubt, it can be necessary to perform the appropriate tests as
mentioned below. For disconnectors that are sealed for life, it is mandatory to perform the
voltage test as a condition check.

If the isolating properties are doubted, a voltage test as condition check in accordance with
7.2.12 is to be performed to verify the insulating properties. Alternative test methods given in
6.2.11 of IEC 62271-100:2008 + AMD1:2012 + AMD2:2017 may be used for U r > 72,5 kV. The
minimum functional pressure of the gas for insulation shall be used, if applicable.

In case of doubt of current-carrying capacity, main circuit resistance measurement may be

used where ever it is possible to measure the resistance close to the contacts. The increase
in main circuit resistance after test shall not exceed 20 %. If the contact resistance exceeds
this value, a test under rated continuous current (7.5) shall demonstrate that the temperature
rise in the contacts does not exceed the limits given in Table 14 of IEC 62271-1:2017 by
monitoring the temperature at the points as close as possible to the main contacts.

For resistor-fitted disconnectors in metal-enclosed gas-insulated switchgear, the maximum

variation of the ohmic resistance of the complete resistor after the test shall not exceed 5 % of
the value measured before the test. A visual inspection of the resistor shall be made after the
type tests. No evidence of flashover across the resistor or any mechanical damage shall be
observed. It can be necessary to disassemble the disconnector for the visual inspection.

7.108.10 Type test reports

In addition to the requirements given in 7.1.2 and 7.1.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017, the type test
report shall contain the following information:

a) representative oscillographic record of one make and one break operation;

b) test circuit(s);
c) steady-state test current (only for test duty 3);
d) test voltage(s);
e) transient voltage characteristics;
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f) record of operating characteristics;

g) insulating-gas pressure during the tests;
h) number of make and break switching operations;
i) condition after test;
j) type of fault detection system;
k) supply voltage or pressure of mechanism operated.

7.108.11 Requirements for U TVE measurements

Requirements for the measurements:

– U TVE verification shall be carried out at least once during each performed test-duty.
Configurational changes such as different connecting lead length, equipment orientation,
etc., are considered as changes to the test circuit and will require additional
measurements;
– U TVE measurements shall be made within 1 m of the arcing contacts of the disconnector. If
this is not possible, U TVE verification may be done by computer calculation, provided that
other measurements (within the test section but outside the 1 m zone) are performed at
least once to check the validity of the calculation technique;
– care shall be taken to ensure that possible stray power frequency interference is taken
into account;
– U TVE measurement shall be made with sufficient bandwidth to properly record the VFT
component.

8 Routine tests

8.1 General

Clause 8 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following additions.

Addition to the list of routine tests:

f) mechanical operating tests in accordance with 8.101.

g) verification of earthing function in accordance with 8.102

Disconnectors and earthing switches integrated in enclosed switchgear shall be tested as part
of the switchgear assembly in accordance with IEC 62271-200, IEC 62271-201 or IEC 62271-
203.

8.2 Dielectric test on the main circuit

Subclause 8.2 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following additions and/or
deviations.

In case of disconnectors or earthing switches placed

– inside sealed pressure systems, the dielectric test may be performed at rated filling
pressure for insulation;
– inside controlled or closed pressure systems, the dielectric test shall be performed at
minimum functional pressure for insulation.

If the conditions indicated in the third paragraph of 8.2 of IEC 62271-1:2017 are not fulfilled,
the following applies:
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– for testing of disconnectors the test conditions shall be in accordance with Table 21. For
an explanation of the reference designations for connections, see Figure 2 of
IEC 62271-1:2017;

Table 21 – Power frequency voltage tests

Test condition no. Disconnector position Voltage applied to Earth connected to

1a Closed Aa BbCcF
2a Closed Bb AaCcF
3a Closed Cc AaBbF
4 Open ABC abcF
5 Open abc ABCF
6b Open ABC or abc Earthing switch
a If the insulation between poles is air at atmospheric pressure and if the dimensions are checked, test
conditions nos. 1, 2 and 3 may be combined, the test voltage being applied between all parts of the main
circuit connected together and the base.
b Earthing switch in the position resulting in the shortest gap between its moving parts and ABC or abc. The
test is applicable only to disconnectors with integrated earthing switch.

– for testing of earthing switches, the test voltage shall be applied with the earthing switch in
the open position:
1) between adjacent insulated terminals with the bases earthed (e.g. A to B with F
earthed);
2) between all the insulated terminals connected together and the bases earthed (e.g.
ABC to F earthed).

8.3 Tests on auxiliary and control circuits

Subclause 8.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

8.4 Measurement of the resistance of the main circuit

Subclause 8.4 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable only to disconnectors.

8.5 Tightness test

Subclause 8.5 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

8.6 Design and visual checks

Subclause 8.6 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

8.101 Mechanical operating tests

Operating tests are made to ensure that the disconnectors or earthing switches show the
specified operating behaviour within the specified supply voltage, if any, and supply pressure
limits, if any, of their operating mechanisms.

During these tests, which are performed without voltage on, or current flowing through the
main circuit, it shall be verified that:

– the disconnectors or earthing switches open and close correctly when their operating
mechanisms are energized;
– the interlocks work properly in any interlocked position;
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– the position-indicating and -signalling devices indicate correctly the open and closed
positions.

The disconnector or earthing switch shall be subjected to the following tests:

– at specified minimum supply voltage and/or pressure (if any): five operating cycles;
– at specified maximum supply voltage and/or pressure (if any): five operating cycles;
– if a disconnector or earthing switch can be operated manually: five manual operating
cycles.

During these operating cycles, the operating characteristics such as, if applicable, operating
times, power consumption, maximum forces for manual operation, shall be verified.
Satisfactory operation of control and auxiliary contacts, and position-indicating devices (if
any) shall be verified. The values of each parameter shall be within the tolerances specified
by the manufacturer.

During these tests no adjustment shall be made and the operation shall be faultless. The
closed and open position shall be reached with the specified indication and signalling during
each operating cycle.

After these tests, no parts of the disconnector or earthing switch shall be damaged.

For disconnectors and earthing switches of U r > 52 kV, the mechanical operating routine tests
may be performed on sub-assemblies.

Where mechanical routine tests are performed on separate components, they shall be
repeated at site on a complete assembled disconnector during the commissioning tests. The
same total number of operations as specified in 7.102.3.2 shall be performed.

8.102 Verification of earthing function

The earthing function shall be verified according to the manufacturer’s specification. However,
test of electrical continuity shall be performed. Some examples of other routine tests that can
be specified are as follows:

– contact resistance;
– contact pressure;
– visual inspection;
– dimension check;
– electrical continuity.

9 Guide to the selection of disconnectors and earthing switches (informative)

9.1 General

Clause 9.1 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following additions.

For the selection of disconnectors and earthing switches, the following conditions and
requirements at site should be considered:

– continuous current load and overload conditions;

– existing fault conditions;
– static and dynamic terminal loads resulting from the substation design;
– use of rigid or flexible conductors to be connected to the disconnector or earthing switch
or to which the separated contact is mounted;
– environmental conditions (climate, pollution, etc.);
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– altitude of the substation site;

– required operational performance (mechanical endurance);
– switching requirements (bus-transfer current switching by disconnectors, induced current
switching by earthing switches, short-circuit making capacity of earthing switches).
NOTE See Annex B for more information about current-switching capabilities of disconnectors and earthing
switches

When selecting a disconnector or earthing switch, due allowance should be made for the
likely future development of the system as a whole so that the disconnector or earthing switch
is suitable not merely for immediate requirements, but also for those of the future.

9.2 Selection of rated values

Clause 9.2 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following additions:

9.2.101 General

All rated characteristics and classes of a disconnector or earthing switch given in Clause 5
should be considered, as far as applicable, together with subclauses 9.2.102 to 9.2.110.

9.2.102 Selection of rated voltage and rated insulation level

The rated voltage of the disconnector or earthing switch should be chosen so as to be at least
equal to the highest voltage of the system at the point where the disconnector or earthing
switch is to be installed.

The rated voltage of a disconnector or earthing switch should be selected from the standard
values and their related insulation levels given in 5.2 and 5.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017.

For disconnectors and earthing switches installed at high altitudes, refer to 4.2.2 of
IEC 62271-1:2017.

9.2.103 Selection of rated continuous current

The rated continuous current of a disconnector should be selected from the standard values
given in 5.5 of IEC 62271-1:2017.

It should be noted that disconnectors have no standardized continuous overcurrent capability.

When selecting a disconnector, therefore, the rated continuous current should be such as to
make it suitable for any load current that may occur in service. Where intermittent
overcurrents are expected to be frequent and severe, the manufacturer should be consulted.

9.2.104 Selection of rated contact zone

For proper function of a divided support disconnector or earthing switch, the user should
ensure that the fixed contact stays within the limits given in Table 2 by considering the service
conditions when specifying the substation design and the cantilever strength of the insulators.

When selecting the rated contact zone, the user should verify that the rated contact zone
specified by the manufacturer is not exceeded in its specific application for the following
additional constraints, if applicable:

– a longitudinal deflection resulting from wind acting on other connected components that
are perpendicular to the bus work and from equipment movement;
– a perpendicular deflection resulting from forces from wind on other connected components
that are perpendicular to the bus work and from equipment movement;
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– a vertical deflection resulting from other vertical loads hung from the bus and from
operating loads imposed by the operation of other equipment connected to the bus.

9.2.105 Selection of rated static mechanical terminal load

The rated static mechanical terminal load should be selected based on the requirements of
5.104 and the definitions of 3.7.119. The most disadvantageous conditions should be
considered by the user when specifying the rated static terminal loads.

To calculate the required static terminal loads as well as the required strength of insulators,
the forces resulting from the conductors connected to the disconnector or earthing switch,
including the forces of wind and ice (if applicable) and minimum specified ambient air
temperature on these conductors should be considered.

9.2.106 Selection of a bus-transfer current switching capability for disconnectors

of U r > 52 kV

Although disconnectors are, by definition, only capable of opening and closing a circuit when
either negligible current is broken or made or when no significant change in the voltage
across the terminals of each of the poles of the disconnector occurs, disconnectors in some
applications are used for load transfer from one bus system to a parallel bus. Even if a bus
coupling is closed, the load transfer can be a more or less severe switching operation for the
disconnector, depending on the dimensions of the substation and the current to be
transferred.

If a bus-transfer current switching capability is required, the values of transfer current and
expected recovery voltage should be specified in the enquiry (see Clause 10).

9.2.107 Selection of an induced-current switching capability for earthing switches

of U r > 52 kV

An earthing switch is normally used for opening and closing a connection to earth from an
isolated section of an electrical installation or line.

In high-voltage networks, tower configurations are sometimes used with more than one
system being mounted on the same line tower. In such cases, induced currents have to be
switched when earthing or unearthing one of the lines whilst the other line is connected to the
system and can be carrying load current. The magnitude of the induced currents to be
switched by the earthing switch depends on the capacitive and inductive coupling factors
between the lines, and on the voltage, load and length of the parallel system.

Usually, higher voltage networks are characterised by longer loop distances and higher load
currents resulting in higher values of induced currents.

If a switching capability is required, the values given in Table 9 can be used for most of the
cases to be specified in the enquiry (see Clause 10).

9.2.108 Selection of rated short-time withstand current and of rated duration of

short-circuit

Subclauses 5.6 and 5.8 of IEC 62271-1:2017 are applicable.

The test arrangements represented in Figures 3, 4 and 5 are for type test purposes. It cannot
be excluded that electrical installation designs exist in which the disconnector or earthing
switch undergoes higher stresses.

NOTE For short-time currents it can be considered that the thermal stress is constant when I 2 t = constant.
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9.2.109 Selection of rated peak withstand current and of rated short-circuit

making current for earthing switches

The selected disconnector or earthing switch should have a rated peak withstand current not
less than the highest peak value of the fault current occurring in the actual system (by
considering the actual value of the time constant of the network).

Subclause 5.6 should be considered.

This applies also to the rated short-circuit making current of an earthing switch (where
applicable).

9.2.110 Selection of short-circuit making capability for earthing switches

The selection should be done according to the classification mentioned in subclause 5.102.
The selection of class E1 or E2 depends on operational procedures of the electrical network.
Usually, this ability is not requested for earthing switches forming part of air-insulated
switchgears of U r > 52 kV.

9.3 Cable-interface considerations

Clause 9.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

9.4 Continuous or temporary overload due to changed service conditions

Clause 9.4 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

9.5 Environmental aspects

Clause 9.5 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following additions:

9.5.101 Local environmental conditions

For the normal and special service conditions for disconnectors and earthing switches,
Clause 4 of IEC 62271-1:2017 applies.

For disconnectors and earthing switches, pollution conditions in certain areas both outdoors
and indoors are unfavourable on account of smoke, chemical fumes, salt-laden spray, etc.
Where such adverse conditions are known to exist, special consideration should be given to
the design and materials used with the disconnector or earthing switch. In these conditions,
care should be taken when considering the performance of parallel insulation. Pollution tests
could be necessary to be performed on the disconnector or the earthing switch.

For insulators normally exposed to the atmosphere, refer to 6.15 of IEC 62271-1:2017. The
performance of an insulator in polluted atmospheres also depends on the frequency with
which artificial washing or other pollution control methods are carried out or natural cleaning
occurs.

NOTE Insulator designs which have been proved by testing to fulfil the requirements of the user, can have a
nominal creepage distance smaller than that given by the product of the rated voltage and the minimum specific
creepage distance.

For open-terminal, indoor installations in coastal areas where salt deposit is a problem, it is
recommended, for U r > 52 kV, to use equipment with outdoor insulation as this is more readily
available than special indoor insulation. The use of GIS installations is also possible.

If a disconnector or earthing switch is to be located where the wind speed exceeds 34 m/s,
this should be stated in the enquiry.
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If a disconnector or earthing switch is to be located in a surrounding where an ice-coating with

a thickness exceeding 1 mm is expected, this should be stated in the enquiry, taking 7.103
into consideration.

10 Information to be given with enquiries, tenders and orders (informative)

10.1 General

Clause 10 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following additions/modifications.

For disconnectors and earthing switches used in gas-insulated and/or metal-enclosed

switchgear, Clause 9 of IEC 62271-200:2011 or IEC 62271-203:2011 is applicable.

10.2 Information with enquiries and orders

Subclause 10.2 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is replaced as follows.

When enquiring for or ordering a disconnector or an earthing switch, the following information,
where applicable, should be supplied by the enquirer:

a) particulars of system, i.e. nominal and highest voltages, frequency, number of phases and
details of neutral earthing;
b) service conditions, including minimum and maximum ambient air temperatures if different
from the normal values (refer to Clause 9), altitude if over 1 000 m, ice and any special
conditions likely to exist or arise, for example unusual exposure to steam or vapour,
moisture, fumes, explosive gases, excessive dust or salt air (see 9.5.101);
c) characteristics of the disconnector or earthing switch. The following information should be
given:
1) indoor or outdoor installation;
2) number of phases;
3) rated voltage;
4) rated frequency;
5) rated insulation level where a choice exists between different insulation levels
corresponding to a given rated voltage or, if other than standard, desired insulation
level (see Tables 1 to 4 of IEC 62271-1:2017);
6) rated continuous current (for disconnectors only);
7) rated short-time withstand current (I k );
8) rated duration of short-circuit (if different from 1 s);
9) rated peak withstand current (if different from 2,5 I k );
10) rated short-circuit making current, if any (for earthing switches only) (see 5.101);
11) rated static mechanical terminal loads, if applicable (see 5.104);
12) use of rigid or flexible conductors to be connected to the disconnector or earthing
switch or to which the separated contact is mounted, if applicable (see 5.104);
13) mounting conditions and HV connections, for example hanging arrangement of the
fixed contact of the disconnector and earthing switch; support structure to be
supplied with the equipment or not, if applicable;
14) requirements for insulators (if applicable) to be used with the disconnector and
earthing switch:
– class of pollution taken from IEC/TS 60815-1 [4];
– profile of the sheds (if applicable); taken from IEC/TS 60815 (all parts) [3];
– see item 11);
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15) required contact zone; if applicable;

16) operation under severe ice conditions, if applicable;
17) rated bus-transfer current switching (disconnectors only), if applicable;
18) rated induced current switching (earthing switches only), if applicable;
19) rated mechanical endurance class, if different from M0;
20) rated short-circuit making capability class, if different from E0 (earthing switches
only);
21) bus-charging current switching capability;
22) degree of protection for the enclosure and partitions (if any of both);
23) circuit diagrams;
d) characteristics of the operating mechanism and associated equipment, in particular:
1) method of operation, whether manual and/or power dependent;
2) for independent manual operation of earthing switches: the duration of a time delay;
3) the operating height above servicing level;
4) for power operation, the type of available supply energy (e.g. compressed air, or
electrical DC or AC) and its ratings (pressure, voltage, frequency);
5) number and type of auxiliary contacts to be available;
6) degree of protection if higher than that specified in 6.14;
7) interlocking requirements;
8) minimum duration of the operating signal;
9) maximum operating time for power operation;
e) requirements concerning the use of compressed gas and requirements for design and
tests of pressure vessels;
f) any routine tests or additional checks required to be witnessed by the user;
g) any other information concerning special conditions not included above that might
influence the tender or the order, such as, for example, special mounting or installation
conditions, the location of the external high-voltage connections or requirements for cable
testing;
h) request for type test documentation or any specific request about conformity assessment
material.

10.3 Information with tenders

Subclause 10.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is replaced as follows.

The information given by the manufacturer with tenders should cover the requirements
specified in 10.2 as applicable, and should state compliance with and deviations from the
enquiry details. The dimensions given in drawings of disconnectors and earthing switches are
subject to tolerances as standardized by ISO 2768-1 unless otherwise specified. National
requirements enforcing deviation from IEC 62271-1 should be stated in the tender documents.

The information given by the manufacturer with tenders should include, where applicable:

a) rated values and characteristics as enumerated in item c) of 10.2, and Clause 5;

b) constructional features, when applicable:
1) mass of complete disconnector or earthing switch;
2) overall dimensions in closed and open position (if different);
3) arrangement of the external connections;
4) facilities necessary for transport and mounting;
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5) mounting provisions;
6) accessible sides;
7) type of gas-pressure or liquid-pressure system (if any);
8) minimum clearances in air:
– between poles;
– to earth;
– for isolating distance (for disconnectors only);
9) for divided support disconnectors and earthing switches, the rated contact zone;
10) corrosion protection;
11) for disconnectors having a fixed contact requiring reaction forces when closing and
opening the contact, these forces and their direction shall be stated by the
manufacturer in the documentation;
12) where applicable, the dielectric losses (mW) of the insulation system of the external
grounding connection shall be given;
c) operating mechanism and associated equipment:
1) type of operating mechanism;
2) rated supply voltage and/or pressure of operating mechanism;
3) current required at rated supply voltage to operate the disconnector or earthing switch;
maximum current and maximum voltage at the terminals of the operating mechanism;
4) quantity of free gas required to operate the disconnector or earthing switch at the rated
supply pressure, as applicable;
5) number and type of available auxiliary contacts;
6) design of the device or description of means for securing the position;
7) design of indicating and signalling device;
8) operating times.

11 Transport, storage, installation, operating instructions, and maintenance

11.1 General

Subclause 11.1 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition:

For disconnectors and earthing switches used in gas-insulated and/or metal-enclosed

switchgear, Clause 10 of IEC 62271-200:2011 or of IEC 62271-203:2011 is applicable.

11.2 Conditions during transport, storage and installation

Subclause 11.2 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

11.3 Installation

Subclause 11.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition:

Disconnectors and earthing switches shall be packed, as far as it is practicable, as one unit.

Packages and crates containing more than one unit or more than one component (insulators,
drive rods, operating mechanisms and similar components) should be clearly identified and
accompanied by a list of content.
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11.4 Operation

Subclause 11.4 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

11.5 Maintenance

Subclause 11.5 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition:

For disconnectors and earthing switches with any switching capability, the number of
operations needs to be taken into account in order to estimate the maintenance intervals.

For maintenance purposes, the disconnector in gas-insulated switchgear shall be considered

to have its full isolating properties only if the gas pressure is not lower than its minimum
functional pressure (density).

12 Safety

12.1 General

Clause 12 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following additions:

NOTE The terms "skilled person" and "instructed person" are defined in IEV 826-09-01 and IEV 826-09-02,
respectively. The requirements for "skilled person" and "instructed person" can deviate depending on local safety
rules.

For actuating principles, refer to IEC 60447:2004 [5].

12.2 Precautions by manufacturers

Subclause 12.2 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

12.3 Precautions by users

Subclause 12.3 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

13 Influence of the product on the environment

Clause 13 of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable.

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Annex A
(informative)

Test voltage for the most disadvantageous dielectric position of an

earthing switch during operation (minimum temporary clearance)

For standardization of dielectric strength in the most disadvantageous dielectric position of an

earthing switch during operation, it has to be taken into consideration that:

– for 52 kV < U r ≤ 170 kV, different types of neutral systems exist;

– for U r > 170 kV, the solid earthing of the neutral is the typical one.

Therefore:

– for the lower voltage range (52 kV < U r ≤ 170 kV), even if different neutral systems exist, it
is reasonable to standardize only one test voltage, considering the most severe condition,
which is the one of unearthed neutral systems;
– for the higher voltage range (U r > 170 kV), only the solid earthing of the neutral is
considered for standardizing the test voltage.

Furthermore, for U r ≥ 300 kV the proportion of the power frequency withstand voltage to the
system voltage is reduced compared with the proportion of the test voltage to the system
voltage below 300 kV (in the higher range, switching impulse tests are standardized).

Because of the relatively low power-frequency withstand voltage for systems of 300 kV and
above, the disconnectors and earthing switches of U r = 245 kV have a singular position. On
the one hand, they belong to the range with solidly earthed systems; on the other hand, they
belong to the test voltage range below 300 kV. This makes it necessary, therefore, to consider
whether to relate the required dielectric strength to the standardized power frequency
withstand voltage (line-to-earth) or to the rated voltage.

A fixed relation to the line-to-earth withstand voltage would give too high a value for the lower
rated voltages and too low a value for the higher rated voltages.

Since the safety distances in substations are not related to the dielectric test voltages but to
the rated voltage, the dielectric strength for the minimum temporary clearance should also be
related to the rated voltage and the earthing condition of the network. Also the fact should be
considered that the test voltages might be changed once in a while, and this should not result
in a change of the test voltage for the minimum temporary clearance.

For standardization, the following values are therefore suggested:

a) for 52 kV < U r ≤ 170 kV: 1,3 × U r ;

b) for U r > 170 kV: 2 × U r 3.

For disconnectors with integrated earthing switches, the suggested test voltages with the
earthing switch in the most disadvantageous dielectric position are given in Table 14 after
taking into consideration the above-mentioned details. An impulse voltage test is not required
because of the very low probability of a lightning or switching impulse during the earthing
procedure.
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Annex B
(informative)

Current-switching capability required of

disconnectors and earthing switches

B.1 Bus-transfer current switching capability of disconnectors

For disconnectors used to transfer load currents from one bus system to another, a capability
to make and break bus-transfer currents is required. This requirement is applied to
disconnectors of U r > 52 kV.

The bus-transfer currents and voltages depend upon the magnitude of the load current and
upon the size of the loop between the location(s) of the bus coupling and the location of the
disconnector to be operated.

The values of the rated bus-transfer voltages in Table 7 are based on calculations of the bus-
transfer current corresponding to the rated continuous current of the disconnector taking into
account impedances as shown in Table B.1 and typical loop lengths as follows:

– loop length for gas-insulated installations: 65 m for 52 kV < U r < 245 kV and 130 m for
U r ≥ 245 kV;
– loop length for air-insulated installations: 200 m for 52 kV < U r < 245 kV and 400 m for
U r ≥ 245 kV.

Table B.1 – Average impedances

Rated voltage Average impedance

Ur
µΩ/m
kV
Gas-insulated installations Air-insulated installations

72,5
100
123
63 314
145
170
245 / 300
420 346
67
550 361
800 76 355
1 100 80 388

B.2 Bus-charging current switching capability of disconnectors

Energizing or de-energizing unloaded sections of busbar duct or parallel capacitors of circuit-

breakers is considered as capacitive switching. Very fast transient overvoltage (VFTO)
phenomena occur as an inherent part of capacitive switching with disconnectors in gas-
insulated metal-enclosed switchgear. Since the VFTO might cause disruptive discharges to
earth, correct design of the disconnector is required to avoid disruptive discharges to earth.
This requirement is normally applied to disconnectors of U r ≥ 300 kV.

For U r < 300 kV, the VFTO does not become so high compared with the specified lightning
impulse withstand voltage (LIWV) because the ratios between the LIWV and rated voltage are
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sufficiently high. Simultaneous switching of several disconnectors in the same circuit is not
advisable and thus not considered in this document.

As a special case for disconnectors used to de-energize long busbars or other energized
parts, for example short lengths of cables, a capability of current-switching is required. This
requirement can be applied not only to disconnectors of U r ≥ 300 kV but also of U r < 300 kV.

With U r ≥ 800 kV the maximum VFTO in GIS systems can reach the insulation level of
lightning impulse withstand voltage in certain cases. In such cases, resistor-fitted
disconnectors may be used to mitigate the VFTO. Three different types of resistor-fitted
disconnectors are given as examples in Figure B.1. The resistor can be positioned in parallel
or in series to the switching gap. In the arc-commutation method, the current is switched to
the parallel resistor during an opening operation by commutation of the arc from the main
contact to the resistor contact.

Typical resistors of values 200 Ω to 1 000 Ω are used. The overvoltage damping factor
depends on the ratio of the resistance of the resistor and the system impedance.

2 1 1

IEC IEC IEC

Arc-commutation Series-resistor Parallel-resistor

method method method
Key
1, 2 order of operation

Figure B.1 – Examples of resistor-fitted disconnectors

B.3 Induced current-switching capability of earthing switches

For earthing switches used to earth multiple configurations of overhead transmission lines, a
capability to make and break induced currents is required. This requirement is applied to
earthing switches of U r > 52 kV.

In the case of multiple configurations of overhead transmission lines, current can circulate in
de-energized and earthed lines as a result of capacitive and inductive coupling with adjacent
energized lines. Earthing switches applied to earth these lines shall therefore be capable of
assuring the following service conditions:

– making and breaking of a capacitive current when the earth connection is open at one
termination and earthing switching is performed at the other termination;
– making and breaking of an inductive current when the line is earthed at one termination
and earthing switching is performed at the other termination;
– carrying continuously the capacitive and inductive currents.
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Annex C
(normative)

Tolerances on test quantities for type tests

A tolerance is defined as the range of the test values specified in the document within which
the measured test value shall lie for a test to be valid.

Any deviation between the measured test value and the true test value caused by the
uncertainty of the measurement are not taken into account in this respect.

Table C.1 states tolerances on test quantities for type tests.

Table C.1 – Tolerances on test quantities for type tests (1 of 2)

Subclause Designation of the Test quantity Specified Test Reference

test test value tolerance

Test frequency fr ±10 % 7.101.3

Test voltage (average +10

Ur ( %) 7.101.4
phase to phase) 0

Any phase voltage /

1 ±5 % 7.101.4 a)
average (three-phase)

Short-circuit making
Test voltage (average, +10
7.101 tests of earthing U r /√3 ( %) 7.101.4 b)
single phase) 0
switches

Test voltage (average, +10

Ur ( %) 7.101.4 b)
three-phase) 0

Short-circuit current at
Ik ≥ 80 % 7.101.5
200 ms

Short-circuit making
+5
current (peak, I ma ( %) 7.101.5
prospective) 0

Test frequency fr ±10 % 7.106.2.3

+10
Test voltage U bt ( %) 7.106.2.4
0

Bus-transfer current +10

7.106 Test current I bt ( %) 7.106.2.5
switching 0

Any phase current /

1 ±10 % 7.106.2.5
average

Power factor of test

≤ 0,5 7.106.2.6
circuit
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Table C.1 (2 of 2)

Subclause Designation of the Test quantity Specified Test Reference

test test value tolerance

Test frequency fr ±10 % 7.107.4

+10
Test voltage U im, U is ( %) 7.107.5
0

Any phase voltage /

1 ±10 % 7.107.5
average

+10
Test current I im, I is ( %) 7.107.6
0
Induced current
7.107
switching
Any phase current /
1 ±10 % 7.107.6
average

Power factor of supply

≤ 0,15 7.107.7.2
circuit

TRV peak
+10
(electromagnetically ( %) 7.107.7.2
induced current) 0

Time to peak
0
(electromagnetically ( %) 7.107.7.2
induced current) −10

Test frequency fr ±10 % 7.108.4

Bus-charging
current switching
test
+10
7.108 Test voltage U1, U2 ( %) 7.108.5
0

Current switching
Bus-charging current ±10 % 7.108.5
capability test duty 3
BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

IEC 62271-102:2018 © IEC 2018 – 103 –

Annex D
(normative)

Alternative test methods for short-circuit current making tests

D.1 General

In this annex applying to 7.101.5 a), alternative test methods are given to obtain the
conditions corresponding to correct making current with correct pre-arcing time.

For the tests using alternative methods in which the required pre-arcing time is obtained, the
making angle can be extended to −40 electrical degrees and +15 electrical degrees with
reference to the voltage peak of the current source.

NOTE At −40 electrical degrees, the pre-arc energy is higher than within the limitation of −30 electrical and +15
electrical degrees.

For convenience of testing in a three-phase circuit it is allowed to have the maximum

pre-arcing time only in one phase, while at the other two phases the current is applied at
reduced voltage.

D.2 Alternative methods

D.2.1 Synthetic test method with both rated voltage and rated short-circuit current

The synthetic test methods as given in Clause 5 of IEC 62271-101:2012 may be applied.

The test circuit and specific requirements shall fulfil the requirement a) of 7.101.5.

D.2.2 Test methods with reduced voltage

D.2.2.1 General

To obtain comparable results between tests with rated voltage and alternative tests with
reduced voltages, the pre-arcing time obtained during the making test with reduced voltage
shall not be less than the pre-arcing time in the test with the rated voltage.

The test is split up in two parts:

– part 1: a test at rated voltage and reduced current to determine the pre-arcing time of the
earthing switch;
– part 2: a test at reduced voltage and rated short-circuit making current, with the required
pre-arcing time.

D.2.2.2 Part 1: determination of pre-arcing time

The pre-arcing time shall be determined by performing making tests at rated voltage and
reduced current. The arrangement of the earthing switch shall be as described in 7.101.2. The
current shall be low enough that the contact surface is not influenced by contact erosion. The
pre-arcing time shall be determined at each of these tests.

Ten making tests performed to evaluate the pre-arcing time shall result in a current initiation
instant corresponding to an angle of −15 electrical degrees to +15 electrical degrees on the
peak of the applied AC voltage wave-shape. The average value of these valid pre-arcing
times measured and the standard deviation ( σ ) shall be calculated to be applied in Part 2 (see
D.2.2.3).
 BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

– 104 – IEC 62271-102:2018 © IEC 2018

As an alternative, DC voltage may be used. The DC voltage shall correspond to the peak
value of the test voltage. The pre-arcing time can differ depending on the polarity of the
voltage at making. Therefore, 10 making tests shall be divided into 5 operations with positive
polarity and 5 operations with negative polarity. The longest average pre-arcing time out of
the two polarities and its standard deviation ( σ ) shall be calculated and applied in Part 2.

NOTE A travel transducer or an equivalent device can be used for the measurement of the pre-arcing time. In a
three-phase device, one phase can be used for evaluating the pre-arcing time and the other phases can be used to
measure the actual contact touch. A no-load operation with contact timing measurement on all three poles can be
used to compensate time spread between poles.

D.2.2.3 Part 2: short-circuit current making tests at reduced voltage

During making tests with rated short-circuit current at reduced voltage, the pre-arcing time
(see 7.101.5 a) shall be at least equal to the average of the pre-arcing time plus 2 σ
determined in the tests as described in Part 1 (see D.2.2.2).

The short-circuit current obtained during tests at reduced voltage shall be at least equal to the
rated short-circuit current.

In order to obtain the required pre-arcing time, the initiation of the current can be achieved by
the three methods listed below.

Method 1: A current source at reduced voltage and a voltage source of any wave form, high
enough to initiate the pre-arcing at the correct point on the wave.

Method 2: For gas-insulated earthing switches, both the gas pressure and the applied
voltage of the current source can be decreased such that the required pre-arcing
time is still obtained.

Instead of just decreasing the gas pressure, the test object may also be filled with an
alternative medium, such as air or nitrogen.

The speed at contact touch shall not change by more than 10 % due to the reduction of the
gas pressure or replacing the gas by an alternative medium.

NOTE 1 It can be useful to estimate the required voltage at reduced pressure by the same method as described in
Part 1 in order to obtain the correct pre-arcing time.

NOTE 2 In case that reduced pressure or alternative gas is used, the behaviour of the rupture disk cannot be
verified, since the transient pressure can be lower or higher than expected in service conditions when service gas
and rated filling pressure are used.

Method 3: A current source with reduced voltage and pre-arcing initiated by a fuse wire of
maximum 0,5 mm diameter. The fuse wire is required in the pole to be tested for
the short-circuit making current with the correct pre-arcing time.

NOTE 3 Some extra tests can be necessary to estimate the length of the fuse wire.
BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

IEC 62271-102:2018 © IEC 2018 – 105 –

Annex E
(informative)

Extension of validity of type tests

E.1 General

Annex J, except subclause J.2, of IEC 62271-1:2017 is applicable with the following addition:

Upon agreement between the manufacturer and the user, an individual type test does not
need to be repeated for change of construction detail if the manufacturer can demonstrate
that this change does not influence the result of that individual type test.

E.2 Dielectric tests

The rated voltage covers every voltage equal or less than the tested one.

E.3 Short-time withstand current tests

Test results obtained on a disconnector or earthing switch placed in a certain position

(e.g. horizontal or vertical) are valid for the position of the disconnector or earthing switch
during this test. However, in some cases, the position in which it is tested can validate other
positions depending on the design and construction of the disconnector or earthing switch.

E.4 Short-circuit making performance of earthing switches

The rated voltage covers every network voltage equal or less than the tested one. The rated
short-circuit making current covers every network short-circuit current equal or less than the
tested one.

E.5 Operating and mechanical endurance tests

The test carried out on a given disconnector or earthing switch with a specified rated voltage
and/or current covers lower rated voltage and/or current.

Interlocking devices of a given design may be used with other disconnectors and earthing
switches, without repeating the type test, if the manufacturer can show the evidence that they
work in the same way as they worked during the type test.

E.6 Bus-transfer current switching tests on disconnectors

Bus-transfer current switching elements of a given design may also be used within other
disconnectors, without repeating the type test, if the manufacturer can show evidence that the
bus-transfer current switching elements are operated by the other disconnector in the same
way as by the disconnector with which the type test has been performed.
 BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

– 106 – IEC 62271-102:2018 © IEC 2018

E.7 Induced current switching tests on earthing switches

Making and breaking elements of earthing switches having a rated induced current switching
capability of a given design may also be used within other earthing switches without repeating
the type test, if the manufacturer can show evidence that the making and breaking elements
are operated by the other earthing switch in the same way as by the earthing switch with
which the type test has been performed.
BS EN IEC 62271‑102:2018

IEC 62271-102:2018 © IEC 2018 – 107 –

Bibliography

[1] CIGRE TB 570:2014, Switching Phenomena for EHV and UHV Equipment

[2] IEC 60507:2013, Artificial pollution tests on high-voltage ceramic and glass insulators
to be used on a.c. systems

[3] IEC/TS 60815 (all parts), Selection and dimensioning of high-voltage insulators
intended for use in polluted conditions

[4] IEC/TS 60815-1:2008, Selection and dimensioning of high-voltage insulators intended

for use in polluted conditions – Part 1: Definitions, information and general principles

[5] IEC 60447:2004, Basic and safety principles for man-machine interface, marking and
identification – Actuating principles

[6] IEC 60060-1:2010, High-voltage test techniques – Part 1: General definitions and test
requirements

[7] CIGRE TB 260:2004, N2/SF6 mixtures for gas insulated systems

____________
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