Collection Technique .........................................................................

C a hie r t e c hnique n 150

Development of LV circuit breakers

to standard IEC 947-2

E. Blanc
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n 150
Development of LV circuit
breakers to standard IEC 947-2

Etienne BLANC

Having graduated as an IEG Engineer in 1968, he joined Merlin Gerin

in 1970.
For three years he was in charge of LV technical literature in the
Communication Department, which he left to join the Research,
Development and Quality Department where he was engaged in
network research (dynamic stability, protection, discrimination,
harmonic currents and security...).
He moved to the Industrial Circuit breaker Department in 1983 where
he now works as a Product Manager.
 Development of LV circuit breakers to
standard IEC 947-2

Development of the need for safety and of technologies is responsible for a

marked recovery of industrial circuit breaker standard requirements (circuit
breakers whose implementation is reserved for electricians).
Today, conformity with standard IEC 947-2, published in 1989 and
reviewed and completed in 1995, can be considered as an « all-risks
insurance » guaranteeing a circuit breaker’s fitness for use.
Quite remarkably all countries, except Japan, have approved this standard.
Japan’s approval should be given in the near future.
This « Cahier Technique » presents the advantages of this standard over
the former IEC 157-1, and describes the numerous tests to be satisfied by
these breaking devices. These tests are highly representative of the
constraints actually encountered in electrical installations.

Contents
1. Introduction 1.1 Publication IEC 947-2 p. 5
1.2 Stages of its application p. 6
1.3 The main new features p. 6
2. The circuit breaker, a multi-function 2.1 Performances and new tests to ensure better protection p. 7
safety device against overcurrents
2.2 Dielectric strength for «insulation co-ordination» p. 10
2.3 Taking introduction of electronics into account in p. 11
industrial circuit breakers
2.4 Disconnection and residual current protection: two extra p. 13
functions now recognised
3. A test standard based on reality 3.1 Sequence tests p. 14
3.2 Very wide sampling of circuit breakers tested p. 16
4. Practical consequences for the 4.1 Fundamental selection criteria for circuit breakers are p. 17
installation designer unchanged
4.2 Use of « service breaking capacity » Ics p. 17
4.3 Tow devices in one: the circuit breaker-disconnector p. 18
4.4 « All risks insurance »: conformity with IEC 947-2 p. 18
Appendix 1: main differences between IEC 157-1 and IEC 947-2 p. 20
Appendix 2: definitions and symbols according to IEC 947-2 p. 21
Appendix 3: probable Isc calculation examples p. 22
Appendix 4: standard IEC 898 for domestic circuit breakers p. 24
1 Introduction

As with all electrical devices, industrial Low Voltage Electrotechnical Commission) publications which
circuit breakers are designed, manufactured and have a reference purpose.
verified according to rules collected in the stan- Consequently the standards covering LV industrial
dards known as « product standards » (see fig. 1 ). circuit breakers are today, in Europe as in a large
Each country has its own standards (UTE for number of other countries, based on the IEC 947-2
France, BS for the UK, VDE for Germany, etc...), standard which, in 1989, replaced the 1973
often derived from IEC (International standard IEC 157-1 (see fig. 2 ).

In the electrotechnical field there are two different types of standards which the various participants have to consider:
1. « product » standards
These standards exist for each component in an electrical installation. That a product conforms to its standard is, for the user, an
assurance of quality and reliability.
2. « installation » standards
These bring together the various rules concerning the design, construction and use of an electrical installation to ensure:
correct supply to loads (voltage, frequency, continuity of service, ...);
safety of persons and equipment;
... and maintenance of these requirements throughout the life of the installation.
The IEC 364 and, in France the NF C 15-100, belong to this category.
In practice
Below is shown around the diagram of an electrical installation, first the components of this installation concerned by product standards
and, second, the parameters defined or considered by installation standards.
Examples of components concerned by product Main parameters defined or considered by
standards: G G installation standards:
power sources;
earthing system;
current-carrying capacity;
short-circuit current;
main distribution board (enclosure and
insulation fault current;
switchgear);
temperature;
type and method of installation of cables;
cables; maximum permissible voltage drop;
special risks (fire, vibration, explosion),
secondary distribution board (enclosure and discrimination;
switchgear); limits on use;
cables;
etc.
loads. M

fig. 1: Product and installation standards.

CSA
IEC
IEC
UL JIS

IEC
IEC
IEC
IEC

UL

IEC IEC
IEC

fig. 2: Map showing the influence of the various standard bodies.

1.1 Publication IEC 947-2
An extra step towards an international IEC 947-1: General rules, 2nd edition
standard (published in September 1996),
The desire for a still wider international IEC 947-2: Circuit breakers (2nd edition)
recognition of IEC recommendations, as well as (published in December 1995)
the technical and technological progress IEC 947-3: Switches,disconnectors, switch-
achieved since 1973 by manufacturers, have disconnectors, and fuse-combinations (formerly
prompted IEC sub-commitee 17B to work on a IEC 408) (published in 1990),
revision of publication 157-1. IEC 947-4-1: Contactors and motor starters
The work of these international experts (formerly IEC 158-1 and IEC 292) (published in
(including three engineers from Schneider) May 1996),
resulted in the publication in 1989 of the first IEC 947-4-2: Semi-Conductor power controllers
edition of standard IEC 947-2. and starters for ac motors (published in 1995),
After a vote of approval, this gained considerable IEC 947-5-1: Control circuit
world-wide agreement (Europe, United States, devices and switching elements
Canada, Australia, South Africa....). Japan was (formerly IEC 337) (published in March 1990),
the only exception, but should officially recognise IEC 947-5-2: Proximity detectors (published in
this standard in 1997 or 1998 (see fig. 3 ). July 1997),
IEC 947-6-1: Automatic transfer switching
IEC 947-2 is part of a much more equipment (published in 1989),
comprehensive work: IEC 947 IEC 947-6-2: Control and protection switching
This work comprises seven documents which equipment (ACP) (published in August 1992),
constitute the IEC standards for all Low Voltage IEC 947-7-1: Terminal blocks for copper
electrical switchgear for industrial use: conductors (published in 1989).

IEC
Worldwide representation

Standard
947-2

Texts approved Texts approved Texts currently

and applied but not applied undergoing approval

In Western
Europe:
BS
(United Kingdom)
IEC
(Italy)
UNE
(Spain)
UTE
(France)
VDE
(Germany)
In the Southern CSA JIS
hemisphere: Canada Japan
AS
(Australia) UL
USA
SABS
(South Africa)

fig. 3: Worldwide representation of IEC 947-2.

 This structuring allowed homogenisation of the instructions and tests common to all industrial
vocabulary and general rules of the various LV equipment,
product families. However in order to determine a second one called « Products » (IEC 947-2
all the rules relating to one category of device, to 7) which deals with the instructions and tests
two documents have to be consulted: specific to the product concerned.
a first one called « General Rules Thus the texts applicable to industrial LV circuit
(IEC 947-1) which contains the definitions, breakers are IEC 947-1 and IEC 947-2.

1.2 Stages of its application

In Europe In the USA and Canada
The texts published by the IEC 947 are first of all Although favourable comment has been
studied at the level of the European Commitee expressed, the standards in force (UL in the USA
for Electrotechnical Standardisation (CENELEC) and CSA in Canada) are very different from
which brings together the 18 countries of IEC 947-2 and a reaction of conservatism, even
Western Europe. a certain protectionism, has meant that these
From the basic text, CENELEC establishes two countries will probably retain their specific
whether: standards for a long time yet.
it is a European Norm « EN... » which is then In Japan
ratified as a national standard by all the member The only country to have voted in the negative. It
countries; has therefore not adopted the IEC texts and keeps
it is, in the event of technical differences, a its own JIS standards. However, under
harmonisation document « HD... » which is then international pressure, this country is opening up
transformed into a national standard with the progressively to the outside world and the IEC 947
incorporation of points specific to each country. should act as a base for a new JIS standard.
As far as publications IEC 947-1 and 2 are In other countries of the world
concerned, no notable differences have Each country can ratify the IEC text as a national
emerged to date. Consequently, CENELEC standard after studying it and making any
published in 1991 two European Norms, modifications necessary.
EN 60 947-1 and EN 60 947-2, which have been The very wide approval achieved by IEC 947-2
part of the national standards of the various has meant that most countries have adopted it
member countries since 1992. with very few modifications.

1.3 The main new features

First of all it is very important to note that the the actual operating conditions of a circuit
new texts do not change the fundamental circuit breaker in use (see appendix 1).
breaker selection criteria, which are still its Moreover, this standard recognises a circuit
breaking capacity and the rated current. breaker’s ability to fulfil other functions, in
On the other hand, the new texts guarantee the addition to the usual ones of overcurrent
user a better assurance of quality and protection, isolation, or personal protection by
performance, introducing extra tests and residual current device.
requirements which take into account more fully
2.1 Performances and new tests to ensure
better protection against overcurrents
What the user of a circuit breaker requires, The result is that, when a short-circuit occurs
above all else, is that it fulfils, without fail, its (already a very rare occurrence), its real value is
main purpose: in all circumstances and lower (or even much lower in the case of
completely safely, to protect electrical terminal circuits) than the prospective Isc.
installations against overcurrents whatever their On the other hand, it is important that those
values between In and the breaking capacity of currents of higher probability be disconnected
the device. under very good conditions so that after
In view of this need, IEC 947-2 has kept the elimination of the fault, the resumption of service
main well-known characteristics of a circuit is sure to be quick and safe for the entire
breaker (breaking capacity, rated current, installation.
operational voltage,etc...), but it now clarifies It is for this reason that IEC 947-2 introduces a
them and completes them with new principles new characteristic, Ics, known as « service
and new performances (see appendix 2), as well breaking capacity », generally expressed as a
as stipulating a whole series of tests, the severity percentage of Icu (value to be chosen by the
of which guarantees its ability to break any value manufacturer from 25, 50, 75 or 100%) defined
of current. in the following way:
the circuit breaker carries out three
Clarification of breaking capacity
successive disconnections of Ics current;
With IEC 157-1, for any one circuit breaker there
were two breaking capacities called « P1 » and the ability of the device to fulfil all its functions
« P2 » defined both by the test cycle and the is then verified by a series of measurements
post-break requirements. (temperature rise under In, capacity to break its
IEC 947-2 dispels this ambiguity. From now on, rated current by achieving 5% of electrical
each circuit breaker has only one breaking endurance, dielectric withstand, trip operation,
capacity called Icu (ultimate breaking capacity) etc...).
expressed in kA. Icu corresponds, in practice, to This establishes Ics as a performance which can
breaking capacity P1 in the former standard and be considered not simply as breaking capacity
it is defined in the same way: (as was the breaking capacity P2 of IEC 157-1),
Icu (IEC 947-2) = breaking capacity P1 but as the ability of the circuit breaker to ensure
(IEC 157-1) completely normal service, even after having
It is this characteristic which, from the design of disconnected several short-circuit currents
a network, is to be compared with the three- (O-CO-CO).
phase short-circuit current value at the point of The short-time withstand current Icw (for
installation of the circuit breaker. category B circuit breakers)
Icu (of the device) three-phase Isc (of the
IEC 947-2 defines two categories of circuit
system).
breakers:
Service breaking capacity: Ics those of category A for which no short-circuit
Prospective short-circuit currents are normally trip delay is provided. These are generally
calculated using extreme assumptions all aiming moulded case circuit breakers such as
at increased safety. In particular: Compact NS. This requirement is not
the short-circuit is three-phase; synonymous with non-discrimination on tripping
it is said to be « bolted », i.e. without arc; (see « Cahier Technique » n 167).
resistance of connections is not taken into those of category B for which, in order to
account; achieve time discrimination, it is possible to
delay tripping during short-circuit conditions with
the short-circuit is considered to occur at the values lower than Icw. These are generally air
load side terminals of the circuit breaker without circuit breakers (Masterpact type) and some of
intervening cables; the higher rated moulded case circuit breakers
cable resistances are calculated at normal such as Compact C1251N.
operating temperatures (in overcurrent, these For the latter, the new IEC imposes an extra test
resistances are greater because they increase at to verify their ability to withstand, thermally and
the same time as the cables heat up). electrodynamically, the Icw current during the
associated delay, without repulsion of the breaking test for the circuit breakers used in IT
contacts which would give rise to excessive wear earthing systems.
and tear (see fig. 4 ). Circuit breakers which have not successfully
completed this test are marked with the
Breaking in IT earthing system symbol IT and must not be used for IT earthing
In the IT earthing system, circuit breakers may systems.
be obliged to break with a single pole, a « double
fault » current under phase-to-phase voltage Co-ordination between circuit breakers
(see fig. 5 ). The term co-ordination concerns the
Appendix H of IEC 947-2 takes account of this behaviour of two devices, C1 and C2, placed
type of breaking, and imposes a specific in series in an electrical distribution circuit,

Permissible short-time current Icw Associated delay t

In 2500 A In > 2500 A
Values as in IEC 947-2 Icw 12 In Icw > 30 kA 0.05 s (minimum value)

}
(with min. 5 kA) 0.1 s
0.25 s (preferred values)
0.5 s
1s
Example: Masterpact M20 H2 Icw = 75 kA 1s

Max. delay
t

Ir Icw Ics I cu I
fig. 4: Additional test for category B circuit breakers.

1
2
3

N
PE

C1 C2
Ib = 1600 A Ib = 60 A

PIM
M1 M2

fig. 5: Example of « double fault » current breaking in an installation using the IT earthing system. The difference in
ratings between two circuit breakers (C1 and C2) means that only one (C2) may be in a position to eliminate the fault
with a single pole under phase-to-phase voltage.
with a short-circuit downstream of C2 (see fig. 6 ). C1 for any current between Icu2 and Isc2 (see
It covers two principles: fig. 7 ). The main advantage of this technique is
the first is well known: discrimination, which is to be able to install at C2 a device of a lesser
an increasing requirement of modern low voltage performance, thus more economical, without
electrical distribution systems, endangering the safety of the installation.
the other is less well known (although To determine and guarantee co-ordination
recognised in installation standards): cascading, between two circuit breakers, it is necessary to
which consists of installing a device, C2, whose carry out a preliminary theoretical approach, and
breaking capacity Icu2 is less than the three- to confirm the results by means of suitable tests.
phase short-circuit current at its terminals Isc2 This is what Merlin Gerin has always done in
and which is protected or « helped » by device order to draw up tables of discrimination and
cascading which are at present ratified in
appendix A of IEC 947-2.
The theoretical methods or approaches are:
C1 for discrimination, comparing the limitation cha-
racteristics of the loadside circuit breaker with the
non-tripping characteristics of the lineside device
(see fig. 8 ). This method is very precise and
requires little in the way of confirmation testing.
C2 for cascading, comparing the limitation
characteristics of the lineside device with the
maximum withstand of the loadside device (see
fig. 9 ). As this method is much less precise,
fig. 6: Two circuit breakers, C1 and C2, placed in IEC 947-2 requires that the results are verified
series on a circuit. by more numerous tests.

C2 opens only C1 and C2 open

Is Icu2 Isc2 Icu1 I

Discrimination zone Cascading zone

fig. 7: The principle of cascading between 2 circuit breakers, breaker C2 whose breaking capacity Icu2 is less
than the three-phase short-circuit current at its terminals (Isc2), is protected or assisted by breaker C1.

Y Y
C1 circuit breaker
C1 circuit breaker limitation curve
non-tripping curve
C2 circuit breaker
maximum permissible
stress
C2 circuit breaker
limitation curve
Cascading
zone Prospective
Isc
Is Prospective I sc Icu2 Is Icu1
Discrimination limit Cascading limit
Depending on the type of trip unit used by circuit In all cases, verification must be made using curves (Y)
breaker C1, Y is expressed in: expressed in A2 s (thermal stress) and in kA peak.
A2 s (thermal stress) for a thermal-magnetic release,
kA peak for an electronic release.
fig. 8: Theoretical determination of the discrimination fig. 9: Theoretical determination of the cascading limit
limit between two circuit breakers. between two circuit breakers.
2.2 Dielectric strength for « insulation co-ordination »
What is insulation co-ordination? representative of atmospheric and switching
overvoltages.
Every electrical installation is subject to
occasional overvoltages of various origins such The performance Uimp, which the switchgear
as: must withstand, is defined in the installation
standards according to the table in figure 11.
atmospheric overvoltage,
switching overvoltage,
overvoltages arising from faults,
overvoltages following MV/LV arcing,
Uimp
etc,…
The study of these overvoltages (origin, value,
location, etc) and the rules applied in order to
achieve protection against them, are known as
100%
insulation co-ordination (see « Cahiers
Techniques » n 151 and n 179).
In industrial LV systems, overvoltage protection
is considered to be achieved when the
equipment can withstand the following two types 50%
of test without suffering damage:
the familiar dielectric tests at 50 Hz, e.g.
withstand at (2 Ui + 1000 V)/1 min, which
simulates the risk of installation faults at higher
voltages;
1,2 50 s
impulse voltage withstand tests
(1.2/50 s: see fig. 10 ) of value Uimp (imp as
impulse) variable according to location of the fig. 10: impulse wave for industrial circuit breakers
installation; recently introduced, these are 1.2/50 s.

Nominal Applications
installation
voltage

At the main system On the final At load

incomer or main distribution level
LV board circuits
230 / 400 V 6 4 2.5
400 / 690 V 8 6 4

Assumed overvoltage levels chosen

for Merlin Gerin circuit breakers
6 kV = Multi 9
8 kV = Compact and Masterpact

fig. 11: Assumed transient overvoltage levels (source: IEC publication 38 and NF C 15-100 1990 edition, at a
height of 2,000 m).
 Since Uimp must be valid for altitudes of up to 2,000 m, while testing is carried out
generally at sea level, the test impulse level is increased by 23%
(or 9.8 kV for Uimp = 8 kV).

Impulse voltage Impulse voltage levels

applied
Circuit breakers CB-disconnectors
(with class II front face)
Between phases 9.8 kV 9.8 kV
Between upstream 9.8 kV 12.3 kV
and downstream,
circuit breaker open
Between phases and earth 9.8 kV 14.7 kV

Tests relevant to
Compact and
Masterpact

fig. 12: Voltage impulse withstand tests for industrial circuit breakers: during the tests,
no breakdown shall occur between phases, between open contacts or between phase and earth.

Impulse voltage withstand tests

Publications IEC 947 take into account the
rules of insulation co-ordination and require Class II enclosure
that impulse voltage withstand tests are
carried out on the switchgear. Thus for
industrial circuit breakers of Uimp = 8 kV, the
tests detailed in the table in figure 12 are Class II front face
carried out.
In this table, note:
that for the value Uimp to be valid up to a
height of 2,000 m, the tests which are generally
carried out at sea level are raised by 23%;
that a specific test is required for devices with
class II front face according to IEC 1140
(formerly IEC 536).
This design characteristic, in addition to the extra
safety it provides for operators, allows the
assembly of class II equipment while keeping
the manual control handle accessible
fig. 13: Class II equipment with circuit breaker having a
(see fig. 13 ). class II front face.
Thus, for example, all Merlin Gerin Compact and
Masterpact circuit breakers have class II front
faces.

2.3 Taking introduction of electronics into account

in industrial circuit breakers
Miniaturisation, lower costs and the new harmonics, extreme temperatures,
possibilities offered by electronics have recently mechanical impact, etc...) has required
led manufacturers as a whole to partly replace publication of appendices F and J of IEC 947-2
thermal-magnetic releases by electronic ones. in which additional requirements for
The emergence of this technology, used in electronically protected circuit breakers are
severe environmental conditions (strong current, defined.
In particular they describe the various HF (high frequency) perturbations
electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) tests to be (IEC 1000 - 4.4),
carried out on the circuit breakers: electromagnetic fields (IEC 1000 - 4.8.9.10),
tests for immunity to: electrostatic perturbations (IEC 1000 - 4.2)
harmonics (IEC 1000 - 4.13) (see fig. 14 ), tests for limitation of radiated emissions at
current sags and breaks (EN 50 160), radio frequencies.
frequency variations (EN 50 160), They also make provision for dry heat, damp heat
conducted transients (IEC 1000 - 4.4), (see fig. 15 ) and rapid temperature change tests.

T/2 T

T/2 T

fig. 14: Waveforms applied to devices for harmonic immunity tests.

Percentage
relative humidity
100

95

90

0 3 12 14h30 24 Duration (h)

Temperature
deg C
55

25
Period of Cooling
temperature period
increase
1st 2nd
constant constant
temperature temperature
phase phase
fig. 15: Test cycle for humidity/heat endurance, repeated over 28 consecutive days.
2.4 Disconnection and residual current protection:
two extra functions now recognised
For a number of years, certain manufacturers
including Merlin Gerin have worked within major
1. Measurement testing of leakage currents
constraints when proposing suitable circuit Intended to ensure that an open circuit breaker conducts
breakers for disconnection. no leakage current which could endanger a user.
Likewise, during the sixties Merlin Gerin was the four tests are carried out at 110% of the maximum
first manufacturer to propose residual current rated voltage:
circuit breakers comprising a circuit breaker plus new device, leakage current should not be greater
an additional module or « Vigi module » ensuring than 0.5 mA per pole,
protection of persons in the event of an after the breaking test at Ics, leakage current must
insulation fault on the loadside. These two not be greater than 2 mA per pole,
functions are now taken into consideration by after endurance testing, leakage current must not be
IEC 947-2. greater than 2 mA per pole,
after the breaking test at Icu, leakage current must
Disconnector-circuit breaker not be greater than 6 mA per pole.
A circuit breaker can be said to be suitable for in this last case, the breaker is at the end of its life
disconnection and bear the disconnector circuit and we can say, therefore, that a circuit breaker or
breaker symbol visible on its front face (see isolator will never have a leakage current greater than
fig. 16 and 17 ) if it has been successfully 6 mA (a very low current which is not dangerous).
subjected to a whole series of tests described in 2. reinforced voltage impulse withstand
the table in figure 18 ). For a circuit breaker declared unsuited to isolation, the
test consists of applying an impulse voltage Uimp
Residual current circuit breakers between the phases, then between the phases and the
Numerous manufacturers have made use of this earth of the breaker.
Merlin Gerin technology (see fig. 19 ). Today For a circuit breaker declared suited to isolation, a third
test is carried out between the incoming and the
outgoing terminals with the contacts open and with a
higher impulse voltage (see fig. 12 ). Thus for a
Circuit breaker Circuit breaker- device considered suited to isolation and for which
disconnector Uimp = 8 kV, the value of the impulse voltage applied
across open contacts at sea level between the incoming
and outgoing terminals will be 12.3 kV instead of 9.8 kV.
3. Mechanical strength test
This test, often called « welded contact test » consists
of holding the contacts closed while applying a force of
3 times the normal force to the handle for 10 sec.
During this test, the position indicator must not indicate
open and no padlocking device may be engaged.

fig. 18: The three tests to demonstrate circuit breaker

fig. 16: Symbols isolation.

fig. 17: A Merlin Gerin Compact circuit breaker- fig. 19: Vigicompact, a Merlin Gerin industrial residual
disconnector. current circuit breaker.
 the industrial residual current circuit breaker is non deterioration of residual current
a very widely-used device for which there were protection units (Vigi modules) after breaking at
no construction standards, the quality of which Icu and Ics,
could therefore vary considerably from one absence of untimely tripping in the event of:
manufacturer to another.
overcurrent at 6 In,
At the request of French representatives, and
8/20 s impulse current wave,
based on a project set up in France, IEC 947-2
has devoted an appendix (appendix B) to this system capacitance load,
type of product. operation under severe environmental
Among the important points covered, the conditions: 28 day cycle of damp heat (see
following verifications should be noted: fig. 15 ).

3 A test standard based on reality

The life of a circuit breaker in an electrical locking in the OPEN position for circuit
installation is punctuated with a certain number maintenance ,...
of successive events such as: It is therefore usual for a test standard relating to
manual opening/closing (or remote with protective devices such as circuit breakers, not
electrical operating mechanism), on no-load, at only to guarantee all the published performances
current In, or, more exceptionally, on overload, but also to simulate more closely the successive
tripping by undervoltage release or shunt trip, constraints to which they may be subjected
during use.
overvoltage impulses (atmospheric or switching),
It is with this in mind that the type tests required
overload tripping, in IEC 947-2 have been grouped in sequences
exceptional tripping on short-circuit or and that they are to be repeated on a specified
insulation fault, number of devices.

3.1 Sequence tests

With IEC 157-1 each test was carried out on a four of these sequences according to its
new device. characteristics (see the table in figure 20 ).
From now on, with IEC 947-2, the same device Without a doubt, one of the most significant is
is subjected to a series of cumulative tests sequence 1 which provides an excellent
grouped in sequence. illustration of the exceptional constraints imposed
Five sequences are defined and each type of on the devices.
circuit breaker must be subjected to two, three or
Test Type of circuit breaker Tests to be performed successively Additional tests for isolating
sequences on one circuit breaker circuit breakers
Cat. A Cat. B
Icw Icw Icw
< Ics = Ics = Ics
= Icu
Sequence 1 1. verification of tripping thresholds 1. ditto
General X X X X 2. dielectric properties, test: 2. dielectric properties
operating Uimp between phases ditto
characteristics Uimp between phase and earth ditto
Uimp between incoming and outgoing Uimp + 25% between I/O
terminals + leakage current test
( 0.5 mA per pole at 110% Ue)
3. mechanical endurance 3. ditto
4. electrical endurance 4. ditto
5. operation of overcurrent release at 6 In 5. ditto
6. dielectric withstand at 2 Ui (50 Hz - 1 min) 6. ditto
+ leakage current test
( 2 mA per pole at 110% Ue)
7. temperature rise at In 7. ditto
8. verification of overcurrent release calibration 8. ditto
Sequence 2 1. 3 successive breaks at Ics with cycle 1. ditto
Service X X O - 3 min - CO - 3 min - CO
breaking 2. verification of operating ability 2. ditto
capacity Ics (5% of electrical endurance)
3. dielectric withstand at 2 Ui (50 Hz - 1 min) 3. ditto
+ leakage current test
( 2 mA per pole at 110% Ue)
4. temperature rise at In 4. ditto
5. verification of overcurrent release calibration 5. ditto
Sequence 3 1. verification of overcurrent releases at 2 Ir 1. ditto
Ultimate X X X 2. 2 successive breaks at Icu, 2. ditto
breaking (1) (1) (1) cycle O - 3 min, CO
capacity Icu 3. dielectric withstand at 2 Ui (50 Hz - 1 min) 3. ditto
+ leakage current test
( 6 mA per pole at 110% Ue)
4. verification of overcurrent release calibration 4. ditto
Sequence 4 1. verification of overcurrent releases at 2 Ir 1. ditto
Short-time X 2. short-time withstand test for the 2. ditto
withstand test time duration indicated by
Icw the manufacturer
3. temperature rise at In 3. ditto
4. 2 successive breaks at the maximum 4. ditto
voltage for Icw, cycle O - 3 min - CO
5. dielectric withstand at 2 Ui (50 Hz - 1 min) 5. ditto
6. verification of overcurrent release calibration 6. ditto
Combined test X X 1. verification of overcurrent releases at 2 Ir 1. ditto
sequence 2. short-time withstand test for the 2. ditto
time duration indicated by
the manufacturer
3. 3 successive breaks at Ics with cycle 3. ditto
O - 3 min - CO - 3 min - CO
4. verification of operating ability 4. ditto
(5% of electrical endurance)
5. dielectric withstand at 2 Ui (50 Hz - 1 min) 5. ditto
+ leakage current test
( 2 mA per pole at 110% Ue)
6. temperature rise at In 6. ditto
7. verification of overcurrent release calibration 7. ditto
(1) if I cu = I cs, this sequence is not necessary.

fig. 20: Tests conducted in sequence according to IEC 947-2.

3.2 Very wide sampling of circuit breakers tested
For the purpose of covering all of the published
possibilities, the preceding sequences are Sample 1:
repeated on several circuit breakers of the same Test Ics = 100 kA at Ue min. 240 V on a device fitted
type but with different configurations (see with the largest trip unit TM 160 D set to its maximum
fig. 21 ): 160 A. Supply via upstream terminals.
three-pole and four-pole, Sample 2:
Same test with device fitted with the smallest trip unit
fitted with different trips,
TM 16 D set to its minimum 12.5 A. Supply via
at different voltages, upstream terminals.
with different settings, Sample 3:
Test Ics =70 kA at intermediate Ue 415 V on a device
with loadside and lineside supply if the circuit
fitted with the largest trip unit TM 160 D set to its
breaker is suitable,
maximum 160 A. Supply via upstream terminals.
with or without residual current protection, if Sample 4:
provided, Test Ics = 10 kA under max. Ue 690V on a device
etc, … fitted with the largest trip unit TM 160 D set to its
Thus the certification report covers all the maximum 160 A. Supply via downstream terminals.
published performances and guarantees the Samples: 5, 6, 7, 8
user that the device will correctly fulfil its Same as samples 1, 2 , 3, 4 but using a device fitted
function, regardless of: with a residual current Vigi protection module.

network characteristics, fig. 21: The Ics service breaking capacity test
sequence applied to a Vigicompact NS 160H circuit
circuit breaker equipment,
breaker: it must be repeated on 8 devices.
settings chosen.
4.1 Fundamental selection criteria for circuit breakers are unchanged
To determine the circuit breaker to be installed at
a point in the electrical installation, it is primarily
necessary to know two parameters:
the load current IB;
the value of the three-phase short-circuit
current (prospective Isc) at the origin of the I r IB
wiring installation. Icu prospective Isc
The circuit breaker is selected, as always, by Load current
Prospective I sc
comparing its setting current Ir with load current IB
IB, and its breaking capacity Icu with the
prospective Isc (see fig. 22 ). These two basic fig. 22: Basic parameter governing the selection of an
rules are included in the installation standard outgoing circuit breaker.
NF C 15-100 and remain unchanged.

4.2 Use of « service breaking capacity » Ics

For reasons developed in chapter 2, IEC 947-2 It is therefore important to choose devices whose
has defined the new service breaking capacity Ics performance is close to or equal to Icu.
characteristic, Ics, which expresses the ability of The Merlin Gerin Masterpact and Compact NS
a device to continue to operate normally after ranges, designed for use at this distribution level,
short-circuit breaking at a « probable » value. therefore logically have an Ics = 100% Icu.
Although there may be no regulations in the b) Lower rated circuit breakers used at a
installation standards (IEC 364 or NF C 15-100) distance from power sources:
corresponding to the use of performance Ics, it is These devices, usually installed in subdistribution
important, and wise, in order to ensure optimum switchboards, protect cabling between
continuity of service, to choose a device whose switchboards, or between switchboards and
performance Ics is such that Ics probable Isc. loads.
a) Circuit breakers installed near power In this case, the probable short-circuits are
sources: greatly diminished because when they occur they
are nearly always single-phase or two-phase,
These devices are usually installed as general
and located at the extremity of the protected
incomers, connecting up the switchboard or as a
wiring system.
main LV board outgoer which, as a result of their Their value can be estimated as being at most
proximity with transformers, must provide equal to 80% of two-phase Isc calculated at the
protection against virtually non-impedant faults. end of the wiring system,
In actual fact the single-phase ph/N and ph/PE Calculations show that the probable short-circuit
faults are of the same magnitude as the three- current is in most cases less than 50% of
phase Isc due to: prospective Isc (see appendix 3).
low zero-sequence source impedance, Although this is not strictly speaking an
reduced connection resistances, installation requirement for standards, use in this
case of circuit breakers whose Ics is > 50% is a
low impedance cabling between source and wise precaution guaranteeing long service life of
device. the installation.
In these conditions, the probable short-circuit All the devices in the Merlin Gerin Multi 9 range
currents will be close to the theoretical value of are normally used at this distribution level, and
the prospective Isc (see the calculation example have a service breaking capacity at least equal
in appendix 3). to 50% Icu.
4.3 Two devices in one: the circuit breaker-disconnector

Among the qualities required of an electrical

installation, one in particular is of major
importance for the user and that is the capability,
in the event of a breakdown, to take out of service
only the absolute minimum of the installation.
Reminder: take out of service = isolate + lock in
« isolated » position (by padlock or switch-lock)
+ check absence of voltage at the point of
intervention.
The most flexible solution is naturally the ability
to fit such isolating/padlocking devices at all
stages of distribution. Circuit breaker-
disconnectors provide a practical solution, at no
extra cost, for this problem.
For this reason all Merlin Gerin Compact and
Masterpact industrial circuit breakers are circuit
breaker-disconnectors lockable by padlock (see
fig. 23 ), and/or by switch-lock (see fig. 24 ).

fig. 23: Padlocking device on a Merlin Gerin Compact fig. 24: Interlocking devices on a Merlin Gerin
circuit breaker. Masterpact circuit breaker.

4.4 « All risks insurance »: conformity with IEC 947-2

For the designer, a circuit breaker’s organisations such as the ASEFA in France and
conformity with IEC 947-2, or with the national the LOVAG at European level as part of an
standards derived from it, constitutes the international Mutual Recognition agreement.
best possible assurance of quality and Figure 25 shows an example of a certificate of
reliability in the environment of LV electrical conformity.
installations. Note that final distribution circuit breakers,
This assurance results from the fact that the particularly in the domestic sector, must comply
technological progress achieved by leading with standard IEC 898. However, for use in
manufacturers has been taken into consideration industrial installations, some circuit breakers are
by the standards, together with a comprehensive governed by the stipulations of standard
test standard which closely resembles actual IEC 947-2 (see appendix 4).
operating conditions.
Conformity with IEC 947-2 is verified by
accredited laboratories, and certified by
fig. 25: Example of a certificate of conformity issued by the ASEFA.
Appendix 1: main differences between
IEC 157-1 and IEC 947-2

IEC 157-1 IEC 947-2 Comments

(1995 edition and 1997 amendment)

Breaking capacity P1 cycle. Ultimate breaking capacity Icu Equivalent characteristic.

(sequence 3).

Breaking capacity P2 cycle. The new Ics characteristic is

compulsory and more rigorous than
Service breaking capacity Ics
the P2 cycle of IEC 157-1, as its tests are
(sequence 2). followed (after breaking) by an operating
check at In.
Each test is performed on a new Tests are conducted in sequence. More severe because of the
device (operation, endurance, cumulative testing on one device, but
overloads, breaking capacity). closer to real conditions.

Verify (three poles loaded) at Verify (three poles loaded) at where : t

the two asymptotes: the two asymptotes:
Ind = 1.05 Ir Ind = 1.05 Ir t = 1 h ( 63 A)
Id = 1.35 Ir ( 63 A) Id = 1.30 Ir or
or t = 2 h (> 63 A) I r I nd I d I
Id = 1.25 Ir (> 63 A)
No other verification of overcurrent Verification of tripping: Better guarantee of operation of
releases. pole by pole (sequences 3.4.5); releases.
all poles loaded (sequence 2).

Nothing. Definition of tests for isolation with The circuit breaker-disconnector is

the associated symbol: recognised by installation standards to
ensure the isolating function.

Nothing. Voltage impulse withstand test. Allows insulation co-ordination

Characteristic Uimp. throughout the installation.

Co-ordination only between fuse Includes a co-ordination appendix. Takes into account two-circuit
and circuit breaker. breakers in series.

Nothing. Appendix B: devoted to circuit Standardisation of industrial residual

breakers fitted with residual current current circuit breakers.
protection.

Nothing. Appendix F: devoted to circuit Defines the additional tests specific

breakers fitted with electronic to proper operation of electronic
releases. releases.

Nothing. Appendix G: devoted to Standardises power dissipation

measurement of power dissipation measurement.
by circuit breaker.

Nothing. Appendix H: describes the test Guarantees users that a device can
sequence for circuit breakers used be installed in IT earthing system
in IT earthing systems. without other verifications.
Definitions relating to voltage In: rated current = maximum value of current
Ue: rated service voltage. used for the temperature rise tests (e.g. for a
Ui: rated insulation voltage (> Ue max.). Compact NS250 circuit breaker: In = 250 A).
Uimp: rated impulse withstand voltage. Is: discriminating current limit.
Isc: short-circuit current at a given point in the
Definitions relating to current installation.
IB: circuit operational current, as in
NF C 15-100, paragraph 433-2. Various definitions and symbols
Icm: rated short-circuit making capacity. symbol for circuit breaker.
Ics: rated service breaking capacity (normally symbol for circuit breaker/
expressed as a % of Icu). disconnector.
Icu: rated ultimate short-circuit breaking capacity Cat A : category of circuit breakers without time
(expressed in kA). delay on opening under short-circuit conditions.
Icw: rated short-time withstand current. Cat B : category of circuit breakers with time
I n: rated residual operating current (often delay on opening under short-circuit conditions
called residual sensitivity). (Isc Icw).
Appendix 3: probable Isc
calculation examples

1/ Downstream of a circuit breaker installed in

a main LV board (see fig. 26 )

Pcc = 500 MVA

1250 kVA
20 kV/400 V
Ucc = 5.5 %
5 m 4 x 240 mm2/ph
Main LV board

pros. Isc = 29 kA

Phase/earth fault

fig. 26

Calculation of maximum prospective Isc Calculation of the most probable Isc

(Three-phase short-circuit at circuit breaker (Phase/earth short-circuit with an arc in the main LV board)
installation point)
Lineside impedance 400 2 400 2
Za Xa 0.32 m Za Xa 0.32 m
Pcc Pcc
Transformer impedance 400 2 Zt
1
Zd + Zi + Zh
*
Zt = Zd = Ucc
Pn 3
2.4
Xt = 7.04 m where Zt Xt Zt = Zd = 5.63 m where Zt Xt
3
*: For a transformer with delta/zig-zag connection, direct impedance Zd and negative phase-sequence impedance
Zi are equal: zero-sequence impedance equals 0.4 Zd.
Impedance of transformer - 10 Rph = 0.234 m
main LV board connection Rph = 22.5 = 0.234 m
4 240 Xph = 0.25 m
cable 0.1
+ Xph = 10 = 0.25 m RPE = 0.468 m
Busbar impedance 4
X PE = 0.25 m
( 5 m)
PE cross - section = 1/2 cross - section of phases
230 230 0.8
pros. Isc = prob. Isc =
2 2 2 2
0.32 + 7.04 + 0.25 0.234 0.32 + 5.63 + 0.25 + 0.25 0.234 0.468
pros. Isc = 30.2 kA prob. Isc = 28.4 kA
the arc is taken into account by the factor 0.8
Conclusion: As probable Isc is very close to prospective Isc, it is advisable to choose a device whose Ics is equal to 100% Icu,
e.g. a Merlin Gerin NS160N circuit breaker.
2/ Downstream of a circuit breaker installed
in the subdistribution switchboard
(see fig. 27 )

Subdistribution switchboard

pros. Isc = 18 kA
Cos = 0.3

3 m cable
10 mm2

fig. 27

Calculation of the probable Isc

(Two-phase short-circuit with an arc at least 3 m from the switchboard)
Lineside impedance 230
Za = = 12.78 m
18 10 3
Ra = 12.78 0.3 = 3.83 m
Xa = 12.19 m
Cable impedance 22.5 3
Rph = = 6.75 m
10
Xph = 3 0.08 = 0.24 m
Connection impedance R = 4m
X :
Total impedance per phase R = 14.58 m
X = 12.43 m
2 2
Zt = 14.58 12.43 19.16 m

230 x 3
prob. Isc = 0.8
2 19.16
prob. Isc = 8.3 kA
the arc is taken into account by the factor 0.8
Conclusion: The probable Isc is less than 50% of prospective Isc (18 kA). It is thus usual to
choose a device with an Ics equal to 50% of Icu, for example a Merlin Gerin C60L
circuit breaker.
Appendix 4: standard IEC 898 for
domestic circuit breakers

Industrial circuit breakers covered by the (2)

standard IEC 947-2 are selected, installed and standard IEC 947-2 does not fix the range of
used by experienced professionals. operation and leaves the manufacturer to define
This is not always the case with circuit breakers the magnetic trip threshold, which must then fall
for final distribution, particularly where they are within 20%.
used in the domestic field (by inexperienced For Merlin Gerin Compact circuit breakers of
users), hence the standard IEC 898. ratings higher than 250 A, the magnetic
IEC 898 circuit breakers which form part of thresholds are:
« domestic and similar switchgear » are easier to G type adjustable from 2 to 5 Irth,
install (for example they do not have an D type adjustable from 5 to 10 Irth,
adjustable threshold), while still guaranteeing a
MA type adjustable from 6.3 to 12.5 Irth.
high level of safety. Their use by professionals
means that some of them also come under standard EN 60 898 modifies standard practice
IEC 947-2. (curves L, U, D) and introduces some new
IEC 898 dates from 1987. It became a European curves:
Norm in mid-1990. Since then national standards curve B: 3 to 5 In (2.6 to 3.85 for L),
harmonised with the European Norm curve C: 5 to 10 In (3.85 to 8.8 for U),
(EN 60 898) have been published in CENELEC curve D: 10 to 20 In (10 to 14 for D and MA).
member countries.
(3)
There are some notable differences between
IEC 947-2 and EN 60 898. It is of interest to be standard IEC 947-2 gives an « ultimate
aware of them since small circuit breakers are breaking capacity » corresponding to an O-CO
often used in industrial final distribution. test and a « service breaking capacity » of which
the value, as a percentage of Icu, is fixed by the
IEC 947-2 EN 60 898 manufacturer and corresponds to an O-CO-CO
Voltage Un (V) < 1000 < 440 test (see table 1 in figure 4 ).
Current (1) In 125 A standard EN 60 898 gives a rated breaking
Thermal trip 1.05 at 1.03 In 1.13 at 1.45 In capacity Icn corresponding to an O-CO test and
Magnetic trip (2) «curves B-C-D» a service performance of which the value, as a
Breaking capacity Icu Icn (3) percentage of Icn, is fixed by the standard and
Service capacity Ics Ics (3) corresponds to an O-CO-CO test for:
Isolation yes under study Icn 6 kA Ics = Icn
Icn > 6 kA Ics = 0.75 Icn (mini 6 kA)
(1) Icn 10 kA Ics = 0.75 Icn (mini 6 kA)
IEC 947-2 does not provide an upper or lower Icn > 10 kA Ics = 0.5 Icn (mini 7.5 kA)
limit. 947-2 circuit breakers are used in the range Moreover this standard limits its field of
of « a few amps to a few thousand amps ». application to circuit breakers of breaking
standard EN 60 898 defines the ratings (rated capacity 25 kA: short-circuit current which
current: In): 10, 13, 16, 20, 25, 32, 40, 50, 63, there is little chance of observing in a domestic
100 and 125 A or commercial installation.
 998 Schneider

Schneider Direction Scientifique et Technique, Real.: Sodipe - Valence

Service Communication Technique Edition: SEST Grenoble
02.98 - 1500 - Printing: Clerc
F-38050 Grenoble cedex 9