The main purpose of this standard is to establish uniform requirements for all switches and switch-disconnectors used in areas of distribution systems normally supplied permanently. Such switches, called "General Purpose Switches", must meet the following service specifications:
——Withstand their rated current continuously. - Withstand short circuit currents for a specified time. - Maneuver sections of the distribution network under load up to their assigned intensity. - Maneuver closed loops up to their assigned intensity. - Maneuver empty transformers up to a power of 1,250 kVA. - Maneuver cables or empty overhead lines of a limited length. - Close on short circuit. Another object of this standard is to establish requirements for the following switches:
——High switching frequency switch. - Limited use switch. - Engine switch. - Single capacitor bank switch. - Switch operated in case of ground fault in networks with isolated neutral or compensated by extinction coil. NOTE- The requirements for switches intended for switching capacitor banks in steps are subject to an agreement between the manufacturer and the user, in particular with regard to the peak value and frequency of the connection current. Closing and opening maneuvers will be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. If necessary, a current-establishing maneuver can immediately follow a cutting maneuver, but it is recommended that a current-establishing maneuver not be immediately followed by a cutting maneuver, as this could exceed the rated cutting current of the switch.