What is UL 60947-3:2020?

UL 60947-3:2020 is a safety standard developed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) specifically for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies. It ensures the safety, reliability, and performance of such systems to protect people, property, and equipment.

Scope and Application

The scope of UL 60947-3:2020 covers low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies with nominal voltages up to 1000 volts AC or 1500 volts DC. These assemblies are used in electrical distribution systems, industrial installations, and similar applications.

UL 60947-3:2020 applies to both installed and work-in-progress assemblies, ensuring that these systems comply with established safety requirements and perform optimally.

Key Requirements and Tests

UL 60947-3:2020 sets out several key requirements and tests to guarantee the safety and reliability of switchgear and controlgear assemblies. These include:

Dielectric properties: Ensuring proper insulation between live parts and non-conductive elements to prevent electric shock hazards.

Thermal properties: Assessing the capability of the assembly to withstand excessive temperature rise without causing damage or posing a fire risk.

Resistance to abnormal operating conditions: Verifying the resilience of the system against short-circuits, overloads, and other abnormal conditions to ensure operational safety.

Mechanical properties: Testing the mechanical durability and integrity of the assembly, including its ability to withstand vibrations, impacts, and such forces.

Clearances and creepage distances: Checking the appropriate spacing between conductive parts to prevent arcing and reduce the potential for electrical accidents.

Benefits of Compliance

Compliance with UL 60947-3:2020 offers several benefits for manufacturers, suppliers, and end-users:

Enhanced safety: Ensuring that switchgear and controlgear assemblies meet stringent safety requirements reduces the risk of electrical accidents, protecting both people and property.

Reliability and performance: Testing and certification under this standard guarantees that the assemblies will perform as intended, minimizing downtime and ensuring operational efficiency.

Market access: Complying with recognized international standards, such as UL 60947-3:2020, enables easier market access, increasing opportunities for global trade and business expansion.

In conclusion, UL 60947-3:2020 is a vital safety standard that ensures the reliability, performance, and safety of low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies. Its comprehensive requirements and tests provide peace of mind for manufacturers, suppliers, and end-users alike, preventing electrical hazards and maximizing the efficiency of electrical distribution systems.