What is BS EN 60931-2: 2011 ?

Title: Understanding BS EN 60931-2: 2011 and BS EN 62973-1: 2013

The design, installation, and maintenance of wind turbines are critical aspects of the wind energy industry. To ensure that wind turbines operate within acceptable noise limits and minimize their potential environmental impact, two international standards have been developed: BS EN 60931-2: 2011 and BS EN 62973-1: 201In this article, we will provide an overview of these two standards, including their purpose, key requirements, and how they contribute to ensuring product compliance and consumer protection.

What is BS EN 60931-2: 2011?

BS EN 60931-2: 2011 is an international standard that provides guidelines for the design, installation, and maintenance of onshore and offshore wind turbines. As mentioned earlier, it is part of the BS EN 61400 series, which covers various aspects of wind turbine technology. The main purpose of BS EN 60931-2: 2011 is to ensure that wind turbines operate within acceptable noise limits, minimizing potential disturbance to nearby communities and wildlife.

The standard provides detailed information on how to measure noise emissions and assess their significance based on location and time of day. It allows developers and manufacturers to design wind turbine installations in compliance with local noise regulations and ensure sustainable development of wind energy projects.

Key Requirements of BS EN 60931-2: 2011

BS EN 60931-2: 2011 lays down criteria and procedures for determining noise levels and evaluating their potential environmental impact. The standard outlines the following key requirements:

Noise Measurement: Developers and manufacturers must measure the noise emissions from the wind turbine at the site of installation. They must also record the data in a suitable format, such as a log or measurement instrument.

Noise Assessment: Developers and manufacturers must evaluate the potential environmental impact of the wind turbine based on its location and time of day. They must consider factors such as the distance to nearby residential or commercial areas, potential animal habitats, and other relevant factors.

Noise Limits: Developers and manufacturers must ensure that the wind turbine operates within acceptable noise limits. The standard sets out limits for noise levels, such as 55 dB (A) at a distance of 50 meters from the turbine.

Reporting: Developers and manufacturers must report on the noise measurement and assessment results to local authorities or regulatory bodies. They must also provide information on the design, installation, and maintenance of the wind turbine.

What is BS EN 62973-1: 2013?

BS EN 62973-1: 2013 is a technical standard that focuses on the requirements for electronic appliances with a rated voltage not exceeding 250V, used in domestic and similar environments. This standard sets out essential guidelines for manufacturers to follow during the design, production, and testing stages of their products.

The primary objective of BS EN 62973-1: 2013 is to ensure the safety and reliability of electrical appliances, minimizing the risk of electric shock, fire hazards, and other potential dangers. The standard provides detailed information on how to measure the environmental impact of electrical appliances, including their noise output.

Key Requirements of BS EN 62973-1: 2013

BS EN 62973-1: 2013 sets out several key requirements for manufacturers to follow, including:

Noise Measurement: Manufacturers must measure the noise output of their electrical appliances at the design stage. They must also record the data in a suitable format, such as a log or measurement instrument.

Noise Assessment: Manufacturers must evaluate the potential environmental impact of their electrical appliances based on factors such as their design, intended use, and location. They must consider the potential impact on nearby residential or commercial areas, potential animal habitats, and other relevant factors.

Noise Limits: Manufacturers must ensure that their electrical appliances operate within acceptable noise limits. The standard sets out limits for noise output, such as 85 dB (A).