What is BS EN 60721-3-2:2018?

BS EN 60721-3-2:2018 is a technical standard that defines the classification of environmental conditions for electrical and electronic equipment. It provides guidelines for determining the suitable environmental conditions under which equipment can operate effectively and reliably.

Importance of BS EN 60721-3-2:2018

The proper classification of environmental conditions is crucial for ensuring the longevity and reliability of electrical and electronic equipment. BS EN 60721-3-2:2018 helps manufacturers, engineers, and end-users to understand and evaluate the environmental factors that can affect the performance and durability of equipment.

The standard takes into account various environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, dust, and vibrations. It classifies these conditions into different categories, allowing equipment designers to select components, materials, and designs that can withstand the specified conditions.

Understanding the Classification System

BS EN 60721-3-2:2018 provides a comprehensive set of criteria for classifying environmental conditions. The classification system consists of three main elements:

Environmental parameters: These include factors like temperature, humidity, altitude, and atmospheric pressure. For each parameter, the standard defines specific ranges and levels that should be considered during classification.

Classes: Equipment is classified into various classes based on the severity of the environmental conditions it can withstand. The classes range from Class 0 to Class 9, with Class 0 representing the mildest conditions and Class 9 the harshest.

Categories: Each class is further divided into multiple categories based on different environmental parameters. For example, Class 4 covers temperature-related categories ranging from -20°C to +85°C, while Class 5 includes humidity-related categories ranging from 5% to 95% relative humidity.

Application of BS EN 60721-3-2:2018

The classification system defined by BS EN 60721-3-2:2018 is utilized in various stages of equipment development and deployment:

Design: Equipment designers use the standard's classification to understand the environmental conditions their products need to withstand. This enables them to select appropriate components, materials, and designs to ensure reliability and performance.

Testing: The standard serves as a reference for testing laboratories to assess equipment performance under different environmental conditions. It allows manufacturers to validate their product claims and ensure compliance with industry standards.

Purchase decisions: End-users can refer to the classification system to compare the suitability of different equipment for their specific operating environments. This helps them make informed decisions when purchasing electrical and electronic equipment.

BS EN 60721-3-2:2018 provides a standardized and systematic approach to evaluating environmental conditions. By following this technical standard, stakeholders in the electrical and electronic industry can ensure that their equipment operates reliably and performs optimally, even under challenging conditions.