IEC 61540:1997 Electrical accessories - Portable residual current devices without integral overcurrent protection for household and similar use (PRCDs)
This International Standard applies to portable devices for household and similar uses (hereafter referred to as portable residual current devices (PRCDs) consisting of a plug, a residual current device (RCD) and one or more socket-outlets or a provision for connection, functionally independent of, or functionally dependent on, line voltage. They do not incorporate overcurrent protection. They are intended for single-phase circuits for rated currents not exceeding 16 A for rated voltages not exceeding 250 V a.c., or for rated current not exceeding 32 A for rated voltages not exceeding 130 V a.c. 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.
They ensure tripping in case of residual alternating currents and residual pulsating direct currents, whether suddenly applied or slowly rising (see 8.15).
Plugs and socket-outlets will comply with the relevant standards.
This standard 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.
They are not intended to be used as parts of fixed installations. Their connecting means may be plugs, socket-outlets, terminals or cords.
NOTES
1 The requirements for PRCDs are in line with the general requirements of IEC 61008-1. PRCDs are essentially intended to be operated by unskilled persons and designed not to require maintenance. They may be submitted for certification purposes.
2 The RCD part of the PRCD is not intended to provide isolation which may be provided by the plug.
3 The use of an integral fuse is permitted, if necessary, for the relevant plug and socket-outlet system.
4 In Australia and in Germany, PRCDs switching also the PE circuit are in use. Such devices are not covered by this standard.
The requirements of this standard apply for environmental conditions as defined in 7.1. Additional requirements may be necessary for PRCDs used in locations having more severe environmental conditions.
PRCDs including batteries are not covered by this standard.
The present standard does not contain additional requirements for PRCDs without earthing contacts for which specific requirements may apply. It may, however, be used as a guide for such devices which are intended to be used only with Class II appliances.
The present standard does not apply to PRCDs providing the additional function of detecting faults on the supply side and avoiding the closing of the PRCD on a faulty supply circuit.
IEC 61540:1997 history
2023IEC 61540:2023 Portable residual current devices (PRCDs) without integral overcurrent protection for household and similar use
1999IEC 61540:1999 Electrical accessories - Portable residual current devices without integral overcurrent protection for household and similar use (PRCDs)
1998IEC 61540:1997/AMD1:1998 Electrical accessories - Portable residual current devices without integral overcurrent protection for household and similar use (PRCDs)
1997IEC 61540:1997 Electrical accessories - Portable residual current devices without integral overcurrent protection for household and similar use (PRCDs)