Iec 614391 And 2 Pdf May 2026

series is the definitive international standard for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies, having fully replaced the older IEC 60439 series as of November 2014. Key Parts and Their Roles IEC 61439-1 (General Rules):

This part provides the foundational definitions, service conditions, and verification requirements common to all types of assemblies. IEC 61439-2 (Power Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies):

This specific part outlines requirements for assemblies used to distribute and control energy for industrial, commercial, and similar applications. IEC Webstore Essential Reading and Resources (PDFs)

If you are looking for in-depth articles or practical workbooks, these manufacturer-provided guides are highly regarded in the industry: ABB Practice Workbook : A comprehensive Workbook on IEC 61439 in Practice iec 614391 and 2 pdf

that covers design, planning, and building in compliance with the standard. Legrand White Paper : Focuses specifically on IEC 61439-2 construction rules

, highlighting the responsibilities of the original manufacturer versus the assembly builder. Hager Guide : A detailed Guide to the New IEC 61439 Standard that explains the transition from the old 60439 series. Schneider Electric Blog : A useful overview of what the standards mean for equipment specifications , particularly the removal of the old TTA/PTTA categories. Major Changes to Note

The shift to 61439 introduced several "interesting" technical and philosophical shifts for electrical engineers: IEC 61439-1:2020 Step-by-Step: How to Apply IEC 61439-1 and -2


Step-by-Step: How to Apply IEC 61439-1 and -2 in a Project

Assuming you have the IEC 61439-1 and -2 PDF, here is a practical workflow:

  1. Define your assembly type: Is it a power switchboard (use Part 2 + Part 1) or a distribution board (use Part 3 + Part 1)?
  2. Gather user information (Clause 4 of Part 1): Rated current, short-circuit current at the point of installation (Ik), number of outgoing circuits, ambient temperature.
  3. Design the assembly: Select busbars, enclosure, and devices. Ensure clearances/creepage distances meet Annex B of Part 1.
  4. Perform design verification (Clause 9 of Part 1, with modifications from Part 2): This may involve:
    • Calculation of temperature rise (Annex C).
    • Short-circuit withstand calculation or reference tests.
    • Dielectric test on a design sample.
  5. Manufacture the assembly.
  6. Perform routine verification (Clause 9.2 of Part 1): For each panel, check wiring, IP protection, mechanical operation, and conduct a dielectric test (typically 2,500V for 1 second).
  7. Provide documentation: The manufacturer (panel builder) must provide a declaration of conformity and verification report referencing the specific clauses of IEC 61439-1 and -2 used.

Part 2: Power Switchgear and Controlgear Assemblies (IEC 61439-2)

IEC 61439-2 builds directly on Part 1. It adds specific requirements for power switchgear assemblies – the main distribution boards feeding motors, transformers, and large loads.

What makes Part 2 different?

  • Focus on high-current systems: Rated current often above 400 A, up to several kA.
  • Specific construction rules: Requirements for drawout units, removable circuit breakers, and main busbar systems.
  • Additional tests: Higher short-circuit ratings, mechanical endurance for drawout mechanisms, and stricter temperature rise limits for high-density layouts.
  • Coordination with protective devices: How the assembly interacts with fuses, MCCBs, and ACBs.

Simple rule: Use Part 1 + Part 2 for main switchboards, distribution panels in industrial plants, and motor control centers (MCCs). Use other parts (Part 3, Part 4, etc.) for specific applications like DBs for construction sites or public networks.

Key Technical Requirements of IEC 61439-2

While Part 1 provides the "constitution," Part 2 provides the "laws" specifically for power switchgear (typical applications: main distribution boards, motor control centers, industrial panels).

Overview

IEC 61439 is the international standard that defines requirements for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies (LV assemblies). It is split into a series of documents; the two core parts are: Define your assembly type: Is it a power

  • IEC 61439-1: General rules — scope, definitions, design verification, and testing requirements that apply across assembly types.
  • IEC 61439-2: Power switchgear and controlgear assemblies — specific requirements and verification procedures for power distribution assemblies.

This narrative examines the structure, intent, technical content, and practical implications of those parts, and how practitioners use the PDF documents of the standard for design, verification, and compliance.