What is the difference between Class 2 and SELV ?

Class 2 and SELV are two common classifications for electrical systems and their safety measures. While both classifications aim to ensure safety, they differ in their approach and objectives.

Class 2, also known as "Common Class 2," is a type of electrical classification that focuses on limiting power and voltage levels to prevent electrical hazards. This classification applies to low-power electronics and equipment with a maximum power output of up to 100 watts. To comply with Class 2 regulations, electrical systems must implement additional safety measures such as insulation barriers, protective separation, or reinforced insulation.

On the other hand, SELV (Safety Extra Low Voltage) is a type of electrical classification that specifically focuses on minimizing the risk of accidental human contact with live parts by maintaining extremely low voltage levels. SELV is defined by international standards as voltage levels below 60 volts DC or 25 volts AC, which is considered extra-low voltage.

The objective of SELV is to minimize the risks associated with accidental human contact with live parts, such as electrical fires or serious injuries. Unlike Class 2, SELV does not restrict power delivery but instead focuses on maintaining extremely low voltage levels.

To summarize, the key difference between Class 2 and SELV is their objectives and approach to safety. Class 2 aims to ensure protection against electrical hazards, while SELV focuses on minimizing the risk of human contact with live parts.

Understanding the difference between these two classifications is crucial for electrical design, equipment selection, and compliance with safety regulations. While both classifications are designed to ensure safety, they differ in their scope and objectives.

1. Introduction

Electrical safety is a critical aspect of electrical systems, and proper implementation of safety measures can prevent serious accidents and injuries. When it comes to electrical classification, two common classifications that are often used are "Class 2" and "SELV." In this article, we will explore the difference between these two classifications and their implications for electrical design, equipment selection, and safety.

2. Class 2: Defining Safety Limits for Electrical Equipment

Class 2 is a type of electrical classification that focuses on limiting power and voltage levels to prevent electrical hazards. This classification applies to low-power electronics and equipment with a maximum power output of up to 100 watts.

To comply with Class 2 regulations, electrical systems must implement additional safety measures such as insulation barriers, protective separation, or reinforced insulation. These measures help to ensure that electrical equipment is safe to use and does not pose a risk to electrical hazards.

3. SELV: Minimizing the Risk of Human Contact with Live Parts

SELV is a type of electrical classification that specifically focuses on minimizing the risk of accidental human contact with live parts by maintaining extremely low voltage levels. SELV is defined by international standards as voltage levels below 60 volts DC or 25 volts AC, which is considered extra-low voltage.

The objective of SELV is to minimize the risks associated with accidental human contact with live parts, such as electrical fires or serious injuries. Unlike Class 2, SELV does not restrict power delivery but instead focuses on maintaining extremely low voltage levels.

4. The Differences Between Class 2 and SELV

The key difference between Class 2 and SELV is their objectives and approach to safety. Class 2 focuses on ensuring protection against electrical hazards by restricting both power and voltage, while SELV emphasizes minimizing the risk of human contact with live parts by maintaining extremely low voltage levels.

In summary, understanding the difference between Class 2 and SELV is crucial for electrical design, equipment selection, and compliance with safety regulations. While both classifications are designed to ensure safety, they differ in their scope and objectives.

5. Conclusion

In conclusion, Class 2 and SELV are two common classifications for electrical systems and their safety measures. While both classifications aim to ensure safety, they differ in their approach and objectives.

Class 2 focuses on limiting power and voltage levels to prevent electrical hazards, while SELV emphasizes minimizing the risk of human contact with live parts by maintaining extremely low voltage levels. Understanding the difference between these two classifications is crucial for electrical design, equipment selection, and compliance with safety regulations.

By following international standards and implementing additional safety measures, electrical systems can be designed and used safely, minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries.