Standards Development

Scope

This document applies to portable residual current devices (PRCDs) for household and similar uses, consisting of a plug, a residual current device (RCD) and one or more socket-outlets or a provision for connection. They do not incorporate overcurrent protection. They are intended for single- and two-phase systems for rated currents not exceeding 16 A for rated voltages not exceeding 250 V AC, or for rated current not exceeding 32 A for rated voltages not exceeding 130 V AC to earth. They are intended to provide protection against shock hazard in case of direct contact, in addition to the protection provided by the fixed installations for the circuit downstream. PRCDs have a rated residual operating current not exceeding 0,03 A. The plug and socket-outlet parts of a PRCD are covered by the national standard of the country where the PRCD is placed on the market. If no national requirements exist, IEC 60884 1 is used. This document applies to portable devices performing simultaneously the functions of detection of the residual current, of comparison of the value of this current with the residual operating value and of opening of the protected circuit when the residual current exceeds this value. PRCDs providing an additional function of detecting faults on the supply side with a defined behaviour in case of supply failures or miswiring (PRCD-S) are also covered by this document. PRCDs are not intended to be used as parts of fixed installations. Their connecting means can be plugs, socket-outlets, terminals or cords.

NOTE 1 The requirements for PRCDs are in compliance with the general requirements of IEC 60755. PRCDs are essentially intended to be operated by ordinary persons and designed not to require maintenance.

NOTE 2 An integral fuse is used, if necessary, for the relevant plug and socket-outlet system. The switching contacts of the PRCDs are not intended to provide isolation, as isolation can be ensured by disconnecting the plug. The requirements of this document apply for environmental conditions as defined in 7.1. Additional requirements can be necessary for PRCDs used in locations having more severe environmental conditions. PRCDs including batteries are not covered by this document. This document does not contain additional requirements for PRCDs without earthing contacts for which specific requirements can apply. This document can, however, be used as a guide for such devices which are intended to be used with Class II appliances only

Purpose

To adopt the IEC standard IEC 61540. This document will replace HD 639- S1.