Webinar: Getting to know the AS/NZS 61439 Series of Standards GROUP/Events... · 2021. 4. 29. ·...

Webinar:Getting to know the AS/NZS 61439 Series of Standards

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Webinar Agenda2. Key changes and definitions - Boris Fuchs

3. Documentation - Brian Rodricks

4. Contractors Responsibility – Shane Townsend

5. Terminology and Impact - Mena

6. Q&A02

Presenters

S W I T C H B O A R D W E B I N A R

1. Introduction – Michael Horsham

1. Introduction


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Michael Horsham – NECA Technical

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S W I T C H B O A R D W E B I N A R – K E Y C H A N G E S & D E F I N I T I O N S

2. Key changes & definitionsAS/NZS 61439 series

Boris Fuchs - Schneider Electric

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Why introduce a new standard ?


• Surveys showed that worldwide, 80% of assemblies were not compliant to IEC60439.1 (and/or AS/NZS3439.1)

• To clarify the requirements/responsibilities linked to assembly systems.

• Introduce the concept of “design verification” to document a methodology for verifying alternate designs

• Increase test requirements for certain performance criteria.

• Harmonise with 60947 series ⚬ Switchgear testing / Switchboard testing⚬ Similar structure (ie -1 common rules, and

subsequent parts)

Key Concepts

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• No more references to ‘TTA’ or ‘PTTA’ ⚬ The expression “type-tested” assembly disappears

• TTA and PTTA classifications were often ‘abused’ , ‘misused’ and misunderstood• Assemblies must now be verified• Design verification ⚬ 13 characteristics to be verified⚬ 3 methods are recognised

￭ Testing (similar to ‘type tests’ according to IEC60439.1)￭ Comparison with a tested assembly￭ Assessment (calculation, application of design rules)

• The possible methods applicable to each characteristic are nominated in Annex D

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Annex D


Table D.1 - List of Design Verifications to be performed

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61439 Series


Definitions and Responsibilities

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Design Verification Comments

Clause 10.1There is no need to re-test to 61439 series, if existing tests to AS/NZS 3439.1 (IEC 60439.1) fulfil the relevant requirement of 61439.


Verification MethodsAll 3 verification methods are deemed equivalent from an acceptance point of view (although they may result in difference performance limits).


Impact: Temperature Rise

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AS/NZS 3439.1 AS/NZS 61439.2 & 1


Impact: Voltage withstand

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AS/NZS3439.1

AS/NZS 3439.1 AS/NZS 61439.2 & 1


Impact: Short Circuit

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Once a particular Assembly has been tested, variants on this Assembly may be verified by comparison.

AS/NZS 3439.1 AS/NZS 61439.2 & 1


Impact: Other

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AS/NZS 3439.1 AS/NZS 61439.2 & 1


Impact: Routine Verification

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AS/NZS 3439.1 AS/NZS 61439.2 & 1

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Product Substitution


• IEC61439.1 allows substitution under the following strict conditions⚬ For temperature rise (10.10.3.5)

￭ “similar device from another series used in the test”￭ Better power loss (lower)￭ Better terminal temperature rise performance (lower)￭ Identical physical arrangement￭ Identical functional unit rating

⚬ For short circuit interruption (Table 13)￭ Manufacturer to declare that the “performances to be the same or better in all

relevant aspects to the series used for verification : breaking capacity, limitation (Ip and I2t), and critical distances”

• IEC61439.1does not allow cross manufacturer substitution• AS/NZS61439.1 will allow cross manufacturer substitution under some conditions.

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What about AS/NZS modifications ?

Most existing AS/NZS3439.1 modifications are integrated


Annex ZC/ZD is maintained ( and IEC/TR61641 is recognisedas an alternate option)

Forms of separation categories ‘i’ and ‘h’ are maintained

AS/NZS mods are NOT trade barriers to IEC


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• No more TTA / PTTA

• Each assembly design to be verified (13 characteristics, 3 potential methods)

• Some of the verification tests are different

• Some testing will be required to verify “old” ratings

• Above 1600A, temp rise must be verified by testing (not calculation)

• No major redesign necessarily required.

CONCLUSION

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S W I T C H B O A R D W E B I N A R – M A N U F A C T U R E R ’ S D O C U M E N TAT I O N

3. Manufacturer’s DocumentationAS/NZS 61439-1 & 2: 2016

Brian Rodricks - IPD

SWITCHBOARD WEBINAR – MANUFACTURER’S DOCUMENTATION

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3. Information – Clause 6

1. Design Verifications – Clause 10 / Table D.1

2. Routine Verification – Clause 11


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Table D.1 – List of Design Verifications to be performed

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Table of applicable Design Verifications AS/NZS 61439-1 & 2 : 2016

Verification options & associated reference documentation

No Characteristics to be verified Clauses or Sub clauses

Verification testing by approved/Independent laboratories

Verification comparison(with a reference design)

Verification assessment(design rules/calculation)

1 Strength of materials and parts 10.2

Resistance to corrosion 10.2.2 Test report required No No

Properties of Insulating materials 10.2.3

Thermal Stability 10.2.3.1 Test report required No No

Resistance to abnormal heat and fire due to internal electric effects 10.2.3.2 Test report required No Test report along with assessment

Lifting 10.2.5 Test report required No No

Mechanical Impact (IK) 10.2.6 Test report required No No

Marking 10.2.7 Test report required No No

2 Degree of Protection of enclosure 10.3 Test report required No Test report along with assessment

3 Clearance 10.4 Test report required No No

4 Creepage 10.4 Test report required No No

5 Protection against electrical integrity of protective circuits 10.5

Effective continuity between the exposed conductive parts of the assembly and the protective circuit 10.5.2 Test report required No No

Short Circuit Withstand Strength of the protective circuit 10.5.3 Test report required Test Reference Required No

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Incorporation of switching device and components 10.6 No NoSwitchboard builder to assess and confirm compliance to clause 8.5 and original manufacturers data

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Table of applicable Design Verifications AS/NZS 61439-1 & 2 : 2016

Verification options & associated reference documentation

No Characteristics to be verified Clauses or Sub clauses

Verification testing by approved/Independent laboratories

Verification comparison(with a reference design)

Verification assessment(design rules/calculation)

7 Internal electrical circuits and connections 10.7 No No Switchboard builder to assess and confirm compliance to clause 8.6 and original manufacturers data

8Terminals for external conductors

10.8 No NoSwitchboard builder to assess and confirm compliance to clause 8.8 and original manufacturers data

9 Power-frequency withstand voltage 10.9.2 Test report required No No

Impulse withstand voltage 10.9.3 Test report required No 10.9.3.5 (relevant applicable penalties)

10Temperature-rise limits 10.10 Test report required

1. Test reference required. Refer to clause 10.10.3 for applicable conditions

2. If device substitution if offered (<3150A) refer applicable conditions clause 10.10.3.5

1. Limited to 630A (single compartment) and 1600A (multi compartment) assembles2. Refer to clause 10.10.4 for applicable rules and penalties

11 Short-circuit withstand strength 10.11 Test report required 1. Test reference required 2. Refer to clause 10.11.3 for applicable

conditions

No

12 Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) 10 .12 Test report required if electronic circuits are incorporated in the devices

NoAssessment to be carried out to check if references are available tests to be carried out if references are not available

13 Mechanical operation 10.13 Test report required No No

Routine Verification is intended to detect faults in materials and workmanship and to ascertain proper functioning of the manufactured assembly

This comprises of the following categories:

Routine Verification(Clause 11)

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1. Degree of protection of enclosures2. Clearances and creepage distances3. Protection against electric shock and integrity of protective circuits4. Incorporation of switching devices and components5. Internal electrical circuits and connections6. Terminals for external conductors7. Dielectric properties8. Mechanical operation9. Wiring, operational performance and function

Where the user requires details of the Assembly’s routine verification, it should be requested in the user’s specification (refer Optional Information Table C.2).


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Information (clause 6) including -Assembly designation markingE.g. - Assembly manufacturer’s name & date of manufacture

Documentation on:Information relating to the assembly (covering all Interface Characteristics where applicable

according to clause 5)Clause 5: The characteristics of the ASSEMBLY shall ensure compatibility with the ratings of

the circuits to which it is connected and the installation conditions and shall be declared by the Assembly Manufacturer using the criteria identified in 5.2 to 5.6

Instructions for handling, installation, operation and maintenanceE.g. – Correct weightsCorrect location and installation of lifting means

Device/component identification within the assemblyLegible identification tags to identify individual circuits & their protective devices

Assembly Information

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Interface Characteristics


Interface Characteristics-5.2 Voltage ratings: Un / Ue / Ui / Uimp5.3 Current ratings: InA / Inc / Ipk / Icw / Icc5.4 RDF5.5 Rated frequency5.6 Other characteristics

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Example of a Table of Interface characteristics (clauses 5.2 ~ 5.6) Verified rating Over-voltage category IV

Rated voltage (Un) of the assembly 415V

Rated operational voltage (Ue) of incoming/outgoing circuit(s) of the assembly 415V

Rated insultation voltage (Ui) of the assembly 800V

Rated impulse withstand voltage (Uimp) of the assembly 8kV

Rated current of assembly(InA) A

Rated current of each circuit (Inc) [Device Rating] & [QTY] As detailed on drawings

Rated peak withstand current (Ipk) of the assembly 105kA

Rated short-time withstand current (lcw) of incoming circuit(s) of the assembly 50kA 1sec.

Rated conditional short circuit current (Icc) of the assembly 50kA

Rated frequency (fn) 50Hz +/- 2%

Rated diversity factor(s) RDF [Device ratings] As detailed in drawings

Form internal separation Form4b

Types of electrical connections of functional units WFF

Additional requirements depending on the specific service conditions (E.g: Type of coordination, Overload characteristics) Not specified

Pollution degree 3 (Industrial)

Type(s) of system earthing for which assembly is designed TN-S/TN-C-S

Indoor and/or outdoor installation Indoor

Stationary or moveable Stationary

Degree of protection IP54

Intended to use by skilled or ordinary persons Skilled

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) classification Environment A

Special service conditions Suitable for 350 C Ambient temperature

External design Multi-cubicle type assembly

Mechanical impact protection IK03

Type(s) of construction Fixed and removable parts (ACB,MCCB)

Overall dimensions - mm (W x H x D) 0 x 0 x 0

Weight As detailed drawings

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S W I T C H B O A R D W E B I N A R – C O N T R A C T O R ’ S R E S P O N S I B I L I T Y

4. Contractor’s ResponsibilityAS/NZS 61439 Assembly Verification

Shane Townsend - NHP

Information sourced from AS/NZS 61439 and AS/NZS 3000 for discussion purpose only.

Copyright material of Standards Australia

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SA/SNZ 61439

SA/SNZ 61439-0 assists the End User, Original Manufacturer, Device Manufacturer and Assembly Manufacturer to reach an agreement on the requirements of a switchboard



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What is the process REQUIRED for a AS/NZS61439 design verified switchboardRequired details For A new project

The User

S W ITC H B O A R D W EB IN A R – C O N TR A C TO R ’S R ES P O N S IB ILITY

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SA/SNZ IEC/TR 61439-0Extract from scope:This technical report identifies, from the user’s perspective, those functions and characteristics that should be defined when specifying ASSEMBLIES. It provides:

• an explanation of the ASSEMBLY characteristics and options within the AS/NZS 61439 series;

• a guidance on how to select the appropriate option and to define characteristics so as to meet specific application needs, using a functional approach; and

• an assistance in the specification of ASSEMBLIES.

References within this technical report to the interface characteristics of an ASSEMBLY and the requirements with which they will comply assume that the ASSEMBLY is designed, manufactured, and verified in accordance with the relevant AS/NZS 61439 standard.

AGREED SWITCHBOARD DESIGN CRITERIA

USE CHECKLIST Annex C for PSC

Subsequent Annex for DBO and other assemblies

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Verification


Who is responsible for what?

Original and Assembly Manufacturer:Once the end user has specified any arrangements, characteristics or functions particular to the switchboard, the switchboard builder will be responsible for:• Design of the switchboard • Compliance with all relevant clauses within the new AS/NZS 61439

Series of standards • Responsibility to ensure compliance with the end user requirements• Required to complete routine verification of each switchboard to prove

compliance with the standard. • Validation of the Design Verification of the final assembly.

Using Annex D Design Verification

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Checklists


Who is responsible for what?Contractor/User:

The user and the assembly manufacturer will be required to use checklists to form an agreement for the purpose of defining the construction of the switchboard.

Highlighting the following requirements such as:- Short Circuit Withstand- Current Carrying Capacities- Forms of separation - IP Ratings

Using Annex C User Template.

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Table C.1 – Items subject to agreement between the ASSEMBLY manufacturer and the user

• The USER completes the Annex C details and includes with

the project tender documents.

• Table C.1 compiles information that the standard identifies

as subject to an agreement between the ASSEMBLY

manufacturer and the user. Unless specified otherwise, the

default arrangement will apply. In some cases, information

declared by the ASSEMBLY manufacturer may take the place

of an agreement.

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Checklists


5. Electrical Systems (i.e. V, I, f, earthing, etc.)

6. Short circuit withstand capacity

7. Protection against electric shock

8. Installation environment

9. Installation method

10. Storage and handling

11. Operating arrangements

12. Maintenance and upgrade capabilities

13. Current carrying capacity

AS/NZS TR 61439.0:2016Annex C, Table C.1: Main Section Headings


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Compliance Statement for Main Switchboards Greater than 100 Amps

This statement is to be completed and signed by the relevant switchboard manufacturer, then submitted with main switchboard plans for all new and altered main switchboards that require the Distributor to inspect prior to energising.

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Summary

• You are the User

• Ask for what you want up front – Or

• Accept manufactures standard design

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S W I T C H B O A R D W E B I N A R – T E R M I N O L O G Y A N D I M P A C T

5. Terminology and Impact

Mina Shehata - NESMA

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No Major commercial impact

From AS/NZS 1136 to AS/NZS3439 now AS/NZS61439

Compliance to a switchboard standard under AS/NZS3000

No significant impact to contractor industry

Impact testing to switchboard manufacturers


No endless flexibility

Commercial Impact

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TerminologyPartially Type-Tested Arrangement, Type-Tested Arrangement & Verification


Testing, Comparison & Assessment

Difference between Arc flash, Arc Fault

AS/NZS 3000, Clause 2.5.5.5 “Protection against switchboard arcing fault”

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• 13 Point of verification

• Annex D

• What you need to look for

• Does you manufacturer suit your requirements

• What does compliance mean to you as an

electrical contractor

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• Annex C

• Have your say on what you want

• Do you just leave it to the manufacturer

• What is your responsibility as an electrical

contractor

• Do you follow the documentation supplied


User Agreement & Installation

• Agreement between

manufacturer/electrical contactor/ end

user

• What can I keep or throw out

• Recommended way to install the

switchboard

• Why does it need to be installed properly

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S W I T C H B O A R D W E B I N A R – Q & A

6. Q&A

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Verification of the alteration includes the following :

a) Is the new CB installed as per the original manufacturer’s instructions, using verified means (busbars, support, size of enclosure, etc…) this is expected to require consultation with the switchboard builder.

a) Will the new load corresponding to the additional breaker overload the existing busbars ? this can be verified by understanding the existing max demand on the switchboard section busbars and seeing if the proposed additional load will exceed the rating of these busbars (as documented by the switchboard builder).

a) Will the additional load overload the main incoming breaker and or distribution breakers? as per the above step , the existing load is required, and it must be verified the additional load does not exceed the max rating of the supply breaker and/or distribution breakers feeding this additional load (as documented by the switchboard builder).

1. If you add a CB to an existing switchboard, how can it be verified?

2. How does the AS61439 affect the existing switchboard if required to do alternation, such as if we add new MCC/ adjust trip unit setting?

Yes under AS/NZS3000 all alteration will need to be done in line with the switchboard standard.

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AS/NZS3000 clause 7.8.2.1 refers to construction sites and requires compliance with AS/NZS301.

AS/NZS3012 recognises AS/NZS61439-4 as an “alternate switchboard construction” as such it is recognised but is not mandatory (“Alternate”).Clause 2.3.2.1 lays out the general requirements.

3. Boris stated that the construction site section 4 in 61439 is not used in Australia. Can you clarify and comment please?

4. If we have a small control panel, say 400 x 600 x 200 with a 6ka circuit breaker contactor and overload, do we have to a heat rise test.

The question is a bit vague, but assuming the fault level is less than 10kA (6kA MCB used), and assuming there is less than 125A of connected load, Amendment 2 of AS/NZS3000 due mid May will exempt compliance to 61439 for the ‘small control panel’. It is still required that compliance to the other requirements of clause 2.10.3.2 be met.

These requirements have not changed (2.10.3.2) for many years, so nothing has changed there.

5. Do these requirements apply to all switchboards or is there a minimum current limit?

61439 compliance will ONLY be mandated in amendment 2 for assemblies rated greater than 10kA and above or for assemblies having more than 125A of connected load. Small switchboards rated up to 10kA and having less than 125A of connected load per phase will not have a MANDATORY requirement to comply with AS/NZS3000.

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61439 compliance will ONLY be mandated in amendment 2 for assemblies rated greater than 10kA and above or for assemblies having more than 125A of connected load. Small switchboards rated up to 10kA and having less than 125A of connected load per phase will not have a MANDATORY requirement to comply with AS/NZS3000. Also refer to question 1.

6. Most of the discussions seem targeted for large switchboards. Can you please confirm requirement to comply to 61439 for all low voltage assembly's, in particular one off custom control panels (containing switching and control gear not meant for operation by ordinary personnel). How do you see this practically being implemented and how is it likely to impact pricing, manufacturing time, compliance regulation etc. The 61439 standard is mandated under AS3000, and is mandating extensive testing, verification, design and documentation for one off custom minor assemblies. Can you please also provide guidance on allowable works to existing infrastructure which does not comply. I.e. if an existing board is not to 61439, and want to retrofit additional breakers, does the board need to be verified, and if not able to replaced? How do you see this practically being implemented on existing sites without the resources to verify/replace existing boards which do not comply?

7. What about modifications to existing switchboards?

If it’s a repair then non-compliance is required to AS/NZS61349. If it’s an alteration then compliance will be required.

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8. If a tender was submitted prior to May 2021 can it still be manufactured to 3439?

No. It applies to switchboard that are being energised from May 2021 regardless of tender date. Amendments to AS/NZS3000 usually include a ‘period of grace’. Also refer to Amendment 2 when it is issued for the answer to this questions.

9. Brian, you as IPD, what are you going to supply and do for your boards you provide ? Especially the one falling under PART 3 ?

IPD do have compliant solutions for the boards and DBO’s. However, we can only confirm this after evaluating project specific requirements. I advise that you contact your representative.

10. Do the new standards apply to switchboards/projects tendered and awarded before May 1?

Amendments to AS/NZS3000 usually include a ‘period of grace’ > Refer to Amendment 2 when it is issued for the answer to this questions.

It applies to switchboard that are being energised from May 2021 regardless of tender date.

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11. We are seeing a large variation in pricing between some switchboard builders. Their explanation is that our Switchboards are as per the new standard. However when we ask others, they also advise their DB's also comply to the standard. Comments?

I cannot comment on third party pricing. Compliance to 61439 does not increase the cost of the board. It may simply affect the claimed performances.

12. Can you use cables to join certified parts?

Without knowing the specific details of the installation it will not be possible to provide a proper response to this question.

13. With respect to existing switchboard previously installed, is there a requirement to bring them up to specification of AS61439 if adding additional circuits or modifying the board?

Refer to question 1.

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14. We've been advised that a mechanical service switchboard (less than 250A/10kA) located in a plantroom be classified as a DBO. Is this correct?

No. DBO are assemblies intended to be used by Ordinary people.

Refer to AS/NZS3000 clause K3.2 for the definition of ‘ordinary: “either skilled nor instructed”. It is assumed that on WORK premises, anyone using plant equipment is either skilled or instructed, otherwise they should NOT be using equipment they have not been trained to use.

15. Does the testing have to be done at a test station?

No. It can be done in your own premises if you have the equipment to run the test, which then you will need to prepare a suitable report of the test with evidence of the results achieved for review at a later stage should any failure occur on site.

Note : some consultants may choose to specify where verification tests are performed, for example “NATA approved laboratory”.

Additionally, not all testing is required to be done at the test station. If its done outside the test station calibration/verification of the equipment is required and also a non-partial 3rd should witness/verify.

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16. Can I add a new breaker into an existing switchboard?

17. What about modifications to existing MDB's ? do they need be upgraded as well?

Yes, but refer Q1.

If it’s a repair then non-compliance is required to AS/NZS61349. If it’s an alteration then compliance will be required


18. What is the process to have a dB’s rated at 50ka? Most supplied dB's are 10ka.

There are cascading association which allow to backup 10kA MCB/RCBOs to 50kA. Refer to manufacturer for details. The board will then need to be built appropriately.

19. How does fitting equipment through doors I.E an operator interface module that has a lower rating than the cubical I.E IP 10. Would that lower the IP rating for the total cubical for example you turn and IP 44 off the shelf box to IP 10?

Yes.

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20. Other than AS3000 is 61439 called up in legislation any other place? Eg, AS3000 has requirements for compliance with 61439 for over 800A, but what about less than 800A?

AS/NZS3000 does NOT have an 800A cut-off for compliance to 61439.

Amendment will require compliance for all boards rated above 10kA and boards with more than 125A of connected load per phase.

Compliance to AS/NZS61439 is called for switchboards. Switchboards over 800A have a certain requirement under 2.5.5.

21. Who is going to be the police for non compliance? Also is there certified parties that can validate compliance?

- Some inspectors (with know how) may investigate non-compliance.

- Contractors are required to take responsibility for compliance of their work, and in the event of a failure of the installation, they may be found responsible if the installation was deemed non compliant by the forensic inspector (who is expected to have access to qualified persons to asses the compliance of the installation).

- Supply authority & electrical inspectors. Yes test station and individual companies can validate compliance.

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22. Following the question on contractor responsibilities for buying a "Box" over the counter. For every day Joe doing small jobs- I can see this as being a major cost expense to the end user (customers). It will also take away from a simple solution for a fix to become a longer completion time on the job.

Only if the instructions are complex. It is expected simple instructions will be provided.

The alternative is far more serious. Overloading a DB can start a fire and be responsible for injury and/or death of people on site.

23. What about the contractors responsibility when purchasing a switchboard "off the shelf" or "over the counter" under 250A but over 125A? Previously breakers would be clipped in, contactors installed and the board hung as the contractor saw fit. Now, in this situation, aren't they considered the assembly manufacturer?

Yes, the contractor that fits breakers to the enclosure becomes the default Assembly Manufacturer, and must do work according toinstructions provided by the Original Manufacturer, or they must do the design verification for their works independently.

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24. Requirement on modifying existing SWB / New custom made panel without tested certification to new std but comply to old std.


25. What are the rules regarding retrofitting components on to switchboards

Yes, IEC61439 test reports can be used to support compliance claims to AS/NZS61439. Refer clause 10.1 of AS/NZ61439


26. Do SwBd Compliance Docs that Reference IEC61439 comply for installs in Australia? , or must they also reference AS/NZS 61439?

27. How does the date effect jobs started / finished but not energized / commissioned by the 1st May.

Refer Application dates for Amendment 2. It applies to switchboard that are being energised from May 2021 regardless of tender date.

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28. Where to find more resources on how 61439 applies to small low current cabled assemblies (eg plc and motor starter in small box).

AS/NZS3000 Amendment 2 : 61439 compliance only applies to assemblies rated above 10kA or having more than 125A of connected load.

29. Are control switchboards under 250A, where sub mains to the board is supplied from a MDB fall under the same standard?


Yes.

30. Does this apply to existing boards upgrades e.g. circuit MCCB replacements or MCCB added to existing chassis.

31. How will this affect manufactures of small-medium MSSBs like our company?

I have a copy of 1136 from 1980. Testing has always been a requirement when manufacturing switchboards. Testing should have never been neglected if you are a switchboard manufacturer. Other options such as modular switchboards are available if you don’t want to test.

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32. Are the off the shelf' 250A DB designed to meet this standard?

They can meet the standard if they are used/configured within the limits provided by the suppliers.

33. Can a Switchboard (MCC) be relocated with its corresponding equipment?

They need to comply with the terms and conditions of the contract. It applies to switchboard that are being energised from May 2021 regardless of tender date

If the environmental conditions (e.g. ambient temp, indoor/outdoor) and installation conditions (e.g. prospective fault levels) at the new location as same or better this may be possible. However, a proper study would need to be done to confirm this

34. Do projects that have been tendered for, won and specified as AS 3439 before May 1 have to comply with 61439 or are they exempt?

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35. Have Schneider done any Type Testing with their CNS 630Amp & 800Amp Chassis utilising the Esteel or Cubic Modular System.

‘Type testing’ is not defined in 61439 We have not done any testing inside Elsteel or Cubic for CNS630 and NS800 busbar systems, nor do we expect to.

36. When will this be enforced by Inspectors, i.e. will it be based on when jobs priced, ticket in or energised?

The corrosion resistance test is only done on FERROUS parts. As per AS/NZS 10.2.2 its only required for ferrous material.

It depends on the contract, and the inspector

37. Do marine grade aluminium and stainless steel switchboards comply with the corrosion test without being actually tested?

38. Is there a minimum current rating that the design verification applies e.g. are control panel/enclosure exempt?


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39. Who is going to police/ensure compliance is going to be adhered to?

Consultants/Inspectors/Electrical contractors taking responsibility or their work.

Supply authority & electrical inspectors. Yes test station and individual companies can validate compliance

40. Does this standard apply for all new projects that starts after May 2021 or all projects regardless of their commencement dates?


It applies to switchboard that are being energised from May 2021 regardless of tender date. However, please refer to the contract date.

41. How do we determine if a board is met to meet the new specs?

42. Any situations where compliance with AS61439 is legally required even if not specified by the customer/consultant?


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43. Expand on the electrician as the Assembly manufacturer for off the shelf/over the counted swbds i.e. no swbd builder involved.

The electrician becomes the assembly manufacturer and takes on that responsibility in the interpretation of AS/NZS61439. They become responsible for the design . They can follow instructions from original manufacturer r do their own thing, in which case they are responsible for providing design verification evidence to support a compliance claim.

44. The difference between IEC & ANZ Standards?

Enclosures meant for use outside need to be tested for Severity B of AS/NZS61439-1. Stainless steel may be acceptable if it passes the test requirements of Severity B, but so could any other material that passes Severity B tests.

Refer Appendix ZA of AS/NZS61439-1.

45. External boards need to have "nonCorrosive" outer shell, does this mean only stainless steel can be used? What other materials?

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46. Advise from supplier is DBO is considered any board under 250A/10kA. Does this apply to a mechanical board in a plantroom?

Incorrect : DBO classification is for assemblies intended to be used by ordinary persons. A DBO cannot be rated more than 250A though (clause 1 of 61439-3). Refer AS/NZS3000 clause K3.2 for definition of ‘Ordinary person’ : neither skilled nor instructed.

Plantroom equipment is intended to be used by either skilled or instructed persons, hence it is NOT a DBO.

47. How does this standard relate to LV + ELV control panels containing DOL/VFD/Servo motor controls?

It applies to switchboard that are being energised from May 2021 regardless of tender date.


48. If we have a custom switchboard that has been on order since December can we still install it after May 1?

49. Does the 17kA rule negate the need for short circuit withstand test. Is it correct that some MCCB’s up to 400A according to the let thru curves could negate this test?

Yes. Refer to manufacturer’s peak limitation curves.

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50. If we carry out cut outs in the switchboard doors / panels will this effect the arc fault containment ability. Is there a minimum size of cut out which would be oK.

Cutouts will affect the internal arc fault performance of the assembly.

The term ‘containment’ is not used in 61439 and it should not be used in this context since arc events can be expelled from the board in safe directions.

51. When we have a small commercial board 250A with chassis board to install. These boards are coming normally without any breakers. furthermore, we need to install timers or other gear into this switchboard. how and what do we need to look for ?

We cannot comment on third part pricing. Compliance to 61439 is not expected to affect the cost of the switchboard, only its performance.

Follow manufacturer’s instructions when they will be provided.

52. We are seeing a large variation in pricing between some switchboard builders. Their explanation is that our Switchboards are as per the new standard. However when we ask others, they also advise their DB's also comply to the standard. Comments?

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53. how much would that verification cost to adjust the setting on an MCCB just as you mentioned? doesn't seem practical.

Refer Q1. What is the cost of increasing the trip threshold of a 2000A ACB from 800A to 2000A when the board is only rated to 1000A for example ? What is the cost of the fire, meltdown that is likely to occur ? What is the cost of loss of material and people that may occur ?

I use extreme examples to highlight the issue. If its ‘obviously’ not OK to increase a 2000A ACB from 800A to 2000A , then what is OK ?

54. What if the existing switchboard is rated to support the load increase but needs alterations for new switchgear ? Does the board need to be replaced with new ?

If an existing switchboard requires alterations then you will need to certify the alteration to AS/NZS61439

55. Following from previous question, when will the original manufacturers provide this information for off the shelf boards? No information appears to be available prior to May 24th.

Refer manufacturers. It is expected ASAP, prior to 24 May 2021.

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56. As a contractor, is there a way to verify that a switchboard builder actually complies with the new standard? There are a lot of small companies who are 'switchboard manufacturers' around the place building commercial/residential switchboards that I believe certainly wouldn't comply. Is there a governing body that can audit these companies to make sure they comply?

Yes, hire a consulting engineer to perform an audit.

57. Can you put an IP55 switchboard within an outer enclosure to raise the IP rating? or will that affect how the switchboard is designed?

The IP rating of a switchboard is not raised when fitted inside an outer shell. The outer shell has one IP and the inner enclosure has another.

This will affect the switchboards performance based on air flow, temperature inside the enclosure etc

Disclaimer:

These questions are a guide only, please contact your assembly manufacturer for further clarifying.

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Date post:	12-Aug-2021
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