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1. Scope and Application
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The CAN CSA C22.2 No. 60947-1-13 (2018) standard is the Canadian national adoption of IEC 60947-1, establishing general rules for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear. It is part of the CSA C22.2 product safety series under the Canadian Electrical Code (CE Code) framework. The standard applies to equipment installed in industrial and commercial settings, covering devices such as switches, disconnectors, contactors, motor starters, and circuit breakers. This article provides a detailed technical review of its scope, key requirements, implementation considerations, and compliance pathways.
1. Scope and Application
The standard applies to low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies and components designed for use in distribution systems and motor control centers, where the nominal voltage does not exceed 1000 V AC (50/60 Hz) or 1500 V DC. It is intended for equipment that primarily performs switching, protection, control, and isolation functions.
The scope also defines the environmental conditions under which the equipment is expected to operate reliably. Canadian modifications include stricter ambient temperature ranges, typically –40 °C to +40 °C for indoor installations, and provisions for higher altitude de-rating (above 2000 m).
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Rated voltage (AC) | ≤ 1000 V |
| Rated voltage (DC) | ≤ 1500 V |
| Rated frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Pollution degrees | 1, 2, 3, 4 (per IEC 60947-1) |
| Overvoltage categories | I, II, III, IV |
| Standard ambient temperature | –40 °C to +40 °C (Canadian modification) |
| Maximum altitude (without de-rating) | 2000 m |
| Enclosure types | Open, enclosed, or flush-mounting |
Important Canadian Difference: The 2018 edition requires equipment to meet a minimum ambient temperature of –40 °C unless otherwise specified in the manufacturer’s documentation. This differs from the IEC base requirement of –5 °C and is a key consideration for design and material selection.
2. Technical Requirements
2.1 Construction and Insulation Coordination
The standard dictates minimum clearances and creepage distances based on rated impulse withstand voltage (Uimp), pollution degree, and overvoltage category. These values are tabulated for both AC and DC applications. An additional requirement for Canadian certification is the mandatory application of secondary barriers for field-wiring terminals when the nominal voltage exceeds 300 V AC.
2.2 Dielectric Strength and Temperature Rise
Dielectric tests are performed at specified power-frequency test voltages. Temperature rise limits for current-carrying parts, terminals, and insulating materials are defined. For Canadian installations, the temperature rise limits are generally consistent with IEC 60947-1, but the 2018 edition includes additional requirements for equipment intended for continuous service at maximum rated current.
| Test Type | Specified Value | Notes (Canadian Modifications) |
|---|---|---|
| Power-frequency withstand (Uimp 2.5 kV) | 1250 V rms (1 min) | All overvoltage category III |
| Power-frequency withstand (Uimp 4 kV) | 2000 V rms (1 min) | |
| Power-frequency withstand (Uimp 6 kV) | 2500 V rms (1 min) | |
| Impulse withstand (1.2/50 μs) | 4 kV, 8 kV, 10 kV (depending on category) | Per IEC 60947-1 |
| Temperature rise limit – terminals | 70 K (Class 105 insulation) | Reduced to 60 K for equipment marked “rated for continuous use” |
| Temperature rise limit – internal parts | 65 K (Class 105 insulation) |
2.3 Short-Circuit Withstand Strength
Manufacturers must declare the rated short-time withstand current (Icw) and rated peak withstand current (Ipk). The standard includes Canadian-specific short-circuit test sequences that account for the high available fault currents typical in Canadian industrial power systems. Equipment must also pass the conditional short-circuit test if protected by a current-limiting device.
Design Tip: When designing for Canadian compliance, pay close attention to the thermal dissipation requirements at –40 °C. Some insulating materials become brittle at low temperatures; use materials that maintain impact resistance and dielectric properties across the full temperature range.
3. Implementation Highlights
Successful implementation of CAN CSA C22.2 No. 60947-1-13 (2018) requires adherence to the CE Code Part I installation requirements in addition to the product-specific provisions. Key areas include:
- Marking: Each unit must be marked with the manufacturer’s name, model, serial number, ratings, and certification mark (e.g., CSA or SCC-accredited agency).
- Wiring terminals: Canadian standards often require larger cubic capacity for wiring space and minimum torque values for terminal screws.
- Protective provisions: Equipment must include bonding terminals sized for the largest supply conductor (unless installed on a separately grounded system).
- Instructions: Installation and maintenance instructions must be provided in both English and French for the Canadian market.
Compliance Advantage: Adopting IEC 60947-1 alignment while incorporating the Canadian-specific amendments allows manufacturers to sell the same core design into both the Canadian and international markets, reducing duplication of effort and testing costs.
4. Compliance and Certification Notes
Compliance with CAN CSA C22.2 No. 60947-1-13 (2018) is mandatory for equipment to be used in installations subject to the Canadian Electrical Code, unless covered by an alternative CSA standard. Certification is typically performed by accreditation bodies such as CSA Group, UL Canada, or other SCC-accredited organizations. The certification process includes:
- Type testing of representative samples at an accredited laboratory.
- Factory inspection and follow-up testing (production line testing per Annex A of the standard).
- Periodic re-testing to ensure continued conformity.
The 2018 edition introduced several changes from earlier editions (e.g., 2007 edition), including revised creepage distances for pollution degree 3, updated temperature rise test criteria, and new requirements for electronic overcurrent protective devices. Equipment certified to previous editions may be re-evaluated to the new edition during periodic recertification.
Critical Note: Equipment that is compliant with IEC 60947-1 alone is not automatically accepted for use in Canada without verification of compliance to the Canadian modifications listed in the national appendix of CAN CSA C22.2 No. 60947-1-13 (2018). Always verify certification marks and the specific standard edition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the relationship between CAN CSA C22.2 No. 60947-1-13 (2018) and IEC 60947-1?
A: The Canadian standard is a national adoption of IEC 60947-1 (Edition 3.0, 2007, plus amendments) with additional national modifications. It incorporates the IEC text but includes a Canadian national appendix with supplementary requirements for ambient temperature range, dielectric test voltages, and marking.
A: The Canadian standard is a national adoption of IEC 60947-1 (Edition 3.0, 2007, plus amendments) with additional national modifications. It incorporates the IEC text but includes a Canadian national appendix with supplementary requirements for ambient temperature range, dielectric test voltages, and marking.
Q: Does the standard cover both open and enclosed equipment?
A: Yes, the standard covers all types of switchgear and controlgear, whether open, enclosed, or intended for flush mounting. Enclosed equipment must also meet the requirements of the applicable enclosure standard (e.g., CSA C22.2 No. 94 or CSA C22.2 No. 14).
A: Yes, the standard covers all types of switchgear and controlgear, whether open, enclosed, or intended for flush mounting. Enclosed equipment must also meet the requirements of the applicable enclosure standard (e.g., CSA C22.2 No. 94 or CSA C22.2 No. 14).
Q: How does the 2018 edition differ from the 2007 edition?
A: The 2018 edition includes updated creepage distance tables for pollution degree 3, revised temperature rise test criteria for continuous-duty equipment, and new requirements for electronic overcurrent protective devices. Additionally, the marking requirements were harmonized with IEC 2007/AM1/AM2 changes.
A: The 2018 edition includes updated creepage distance tables for pollution degree 3, revised temperature rise test criteria for continuous-duty equipment, and new requirements for electronic overcurrent protective devices. Additionally, the marking requirements were harmonized with IEC 2007/AM1/AM2 changes.
Q: Are there special requirements for DC applications?
A: Yes, the standard includes specific provisions for DC applications up to 1500 V. DC dielectric test voltages are 1.6 times the AC values, and additional requirements for arc mitigation and contact welding are provided. The standard also specifies DC breaking capacity tests.
A: Yes, the standard includes specific provisions for DC applications up to 1500 V. DC dielectric test voltages are 1.6 times the AC values, and additional requirements for arc mitigation and contact welding are provided. The standard also specifies DC breaking capacity tests.
© 2026 — This article provides general information about CAN CSA C22.2 No. 60947-1-13 (2018). For specific certification guidance, always consult with a recognized certification body or the complete standard document.
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