What is EN 60721-3-2:2019?

EN 60721-3-2:2019 is a professional technical standard that provides classifications of environmental conditions for electrical and electronic equipment. It specifies the various categories and severities of environmental conditions in which such equipment can be expected to operate reliably.

Understanding the Purpose

The main purpose of EN 60721-3-2:2019 is to define the environmental conditions to which equipment will be exposed throughout its life cycle. This includes transportation, storage, installation, operation, and maintenance. By considering these factors, manufacturers can design and produce equipment that meets specific environmental requirements.

Categories and Criteria

EN 60721-3-2:2019 classifies environmental conditions into five categories, each representing a unique combination of environmental parameters. These parameters include temperature, humidity, air pressure, dust, and shock or vibration. The standard also defines criteria within each category to evaluate the severity of environmental conditions.

The five categories identified in EN 60721-3-2:2019 are:

Category 1: Stable climate conditions (indoor environment)

Category 2: General climate conditions (indoor environment)

Category 3K: Transportation and storage (controlled conditions)

Category 3M: Transportation and storage (moderate conditions)

Category 3C: Transportation and storage (extreme conditions)

Implementation and Compliance

To ensure compliance with EN 60721-3-2:2019, manufacturers need to conduct thorough environmental testing on their equipment. This involves subjecting the equipment to specific environmental conditions outlined in the standard and verifying its performance and reliability. Compliance with the standard not only ensures that the equipment meets the minimum requirements but also helps to improve its overall quality and durability.

It is crucial for manufacturers to understand the appropriate category for their equipment and design it accordingly. This includes selecting suitable materials, components, and manufacturing processes to withstand the expected environmental conditions. Regular testing and monitoring can help identify any potential issues and ensure that the equipment continues to perform reliably throughout its life cycle.

EN 60721-3-2:2019 serves as a valuable reference for both manufacturers and consumers of electrical and electronic equipment, providing a standardized approach to evaluating environmental conditions. By adhering to this technical standard, manufacturers can design equipment capable of withstanding different environments, while consumers can make informed decisions when purchasing such equipment.