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CSA C22.2 No. 105-1953 (2018): Magnetic Motor Starters – Scope, Technical Requirements, and Compliance
Comprehensive guide to the Canadian standard for magnetic motor starters, covering construction, testing, and certification for use under the Canadian Electrical Code
CSA C22.2 No. 105-1953 (R2018) is the Canadian standard for magnetic motor starters rated up to 600 V. Published by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA Group), this standard specifies construction, marking, and test requirements for starters that protect and control single-phase and polyphase motors. Although originally issued in 1953, it has been reaffirmed in 2018 to remain current with industry practice and the Canadian Electrical Code, Part I (CEC).
Scope and Application
This standard applies to magnetic motor starters intended for use in ordinary (non-hazardous) locations. It covers starters rated 600 V or less that use electromagnetic contactors and overload relays to start, stop, and provide overcurrent protection for motors. The standard encompasses:
- Across-the-line magnetic starters
- Reversing and non-reversing types
- Combination starters (with disconnect and/or short-circuit protection)
- Starters for manual or automatic control
It does not cover solid-state motor controllers, reduced-voltage starters, or starters rated for hazardous locations. Starters covered by this standard must be suitable for use in accordance with the CEC and are typically installed in industrial, commercial, or agricultural environments.
Technical Requirements
Construction and Marking
Enclosures must be corrosion-resistant and provide protection against contact with live parts. Minimum ingress protection (IP) ratings are specified based on environment. All terminals must be clearly identified, and wiring diagrams must be provided. Permanent marking includes:
- Manufacturer’s name or trademark
- Model number
- Voltage and current ratings
- Horsepower rating (if applicable)
- Overload relay heater table or setting range
- CSA certification mark
Dielectric Strength
The standard requires a dielectric voltage-withstand test between live parts and accessible dead metal parts. Test voltages vary with circuit voltage:
| Rated Circuit Voltage (V) | Test Voltage (V) |
|---|---|
| 0–150 | 1000 |
| 151–300 | 1200 |
| 301–600 | 1500 |
The test is performed at 60 Hz for 60 seconds without breakdown or flashover.
Temperature Rise
Under rated load and ambient temperature conditions (40 °C typical), components must not exceed these temperature rises:
- Copper windings: 70 K (resistance method)
- Contact points: 50 K
- Terminals: 45 K
Larger rises may be permitted if materials are rated for higher temperatures, but must be verified by test.
Overload Relay Performance
Overload relays must open the circuit within prescribed time–current windows. Typical requirements include:
- No trip at 100% of rated current continuously
- Trip within 2 hours at 110%
- Trip within 2 minutes at 600% (for typical Class 10 relays)
Relays must also reset automatically (or manually) when the overcurrent is removed.
Implementation Highlights
When applying magnetic motor starters under CSA C22.2 No. 105-1953 (R2018), engineers and installers should note:
- Select starters with a short-circuit current rating (SCCR) equal to or greater than the available fault current at the installation point.
- Ensure the overload relay is selected based on motor nameplate full-load current and ambient temperature derating.
- Provide proper grounding per CEC Rule 10-614.
- For remote pilot devices, control circuits must be isolated from power circuits and protected by overcurrent devices.
Tip: Always verify that the starter’s marking includes the reaffirmation year (2018) to ensure acceptance by local authorities and inspection agencies.
Warning: Using a starter outside its ambient temperature rating may cause nuisance tripping or failure to trip during overload. Consult the manufacturer’s derating tables.
Compliance Notes
Compliance with CSA C22.2 No. 105-1953 (R2018) is mandatory in all Canadian provinces and territories where the Canadian Electrical Code is adopted. Certification by an accredited body (e.g., CSA Group, UL) is required. Certified starters bear the certification mark and are subject to periodic factory inspections. Key compliance points include:
- Markings must be permanent and legible.
- Starters must pass routine production tests (dielectric, mechanical operation).
- Field modifications void certification unless approved by the certification body.
- Use of non‑matching overload heaters may invalidate the listing.
Compliance check: Verify that the starter model appears on the CSA listing file (on‑line directory) to confirm active certification.
Danger: Never bypass or adjust the overload trip setting above the motor full-load current. This can cause motor burnout or fire.
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between CSA C22.2 No. 105-1953 (R2018) and UL 508?
A: CSA C22.2 No. 105 is the Canadian standard for magnetic motor starters; UL 508 is the US standard for industrial control equipment. While the two are largely harmonized, differences exist in construction details, marking, and some test conditions. Products certified to both standards meet the requirements of both countries.
A: CSA C22.2 No. 105 is the Canadian standard for magnetic motor starters; UL 508 is the US standard for industrial control equipment. While the two are largely harmonized, differences exist in construction details, marking, and some test conditions. Products certified to both standards meet the requirements of both countries.
Q: Can a starter certified to this standard be used in hazardous (classified) locations?
A: No. This standard covers only ordinary (non-hazardous) locations. For use in hazardous environments, the starter must also comply with CSA C22.2 No. 30 or the appropriate hazardous location standard and be marked accordingly.
A: No. This standard covers only ordinary (non-hazardous) locations. For use in hazardous environments, the starter must also comply with CSA C22.2 No. 30 or the appropriate hazardous location standard and be marked accordingly.
Q: What is the meaning of the reaffirmation date “(R2018)”?
A: It means the 1953 edition was reviewed in 2018 and considered still technically valid without changes. The standard remains current until superseded by a new edition or withdrawn.
A: It means the 1953 edition was reviewed in 2018 and considered still technically valid without changes. The standard remains current until superseded by a new edition or withdrawn.
Q: How do I verify that a starter is compliant with this standard?
A: Look for a CSA or recognized certification mark on the product. Use the online certification directory (e.g., CSA OnLine) to confirm the listing. The manufacturer’s data sheet should also state compliance.
A: Look for a CSA or recognized certification mark on the product. Use the online certification directory (e.g., CSA OnLine) to confirm the listing. The manufacturer’s data sheet should also state compliance.