What is UL 60947-1:2020?

UL 60947-1:2020, also known as the Standard for Safety of Low-Voltage Switchgear and Controlgear - Part 1: General Rules, is a technical standard developed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). It provides guidelines and requirements for the design, construction, and testing of low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies.

Understanding the Purpose of UL 60947-1:2020

The main purpose of UL 60947-1:2020 is to ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of electrical switching and control devices used in various industries including manufacturing, infrastructure, and automation. This standard sets the minimum requirements that manufacturers must comply with to obtain UL certification for their products.

UL 60947-1:2020 covers several aspects related to low-voltage switchgear and controlgear, such as electrical ratings, thermal withstand capabilities, mechanical strength, electrical and mechanical interlocking, temperature rise limits, and short-circuit withstand capabilities. The standard aims to protect people, property, and the environment against electrical hazards.

Key Requirements of UL 60947-1:2020

One of the key requirements set by UL 60947-1:2020 is the verification of temperature-rise limits of different components within the switchgear or controlgear assembly. This ensures that excessive heat generation is avoided, which can lead to performance issues or safety hazards.

The standard also emphasizes on proper marking and identification of equipment, including clear labeling of electrical terminals, circuit-breaker characteristics, and important warnings. This enables safe operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the devices.

Testing and Certification Process

Manufacturers seeking UL certification need to go through various testing processes to demonstrate compliance with UL 60947-1:2020. These tests include thermal (temperature-rise) tests, dielectric strength tests, mechanical endurance tests, and short-circuit withstand capability tests.

Once the products pass these tests, they can be marked with the UL logo, indicating that they have met all the necessary safety requirements outlined in the standard. This certification assures end-users that the devices have been thoroughly tested and are reliable for use in their applications.