BS EN 60137:2017

What is BS EN 60137 - Insulated bushings about? 

BS EN 60137 is a standard that specifies the characteristics and tests for insulated bushings. 

BS EN 60137 is applicable to bushings, as defined in Clause 3, intended for use in electrical apparatus, machinery, transformers, switchgear, and installations for three-phase alternating 

current systems, having the highest voltage for equipment above 1 000 V and power frequencies of 15 Hz up to and including 60 Hz. 

BS EN 60137 may be applied, in part or as a whole, to the following: 

• Bushings used in other than three-phase systems 
• Bushings for high-voltage direct current systems 
• Bushings for testing transformers 
• Bushings for capacitors  

Who is BS EN 60137- Insulated bushings for? 

BS EN 60137 on insulated bushings is relevant to: 

• Manufacturers of insulated bushings 
• Manufacturers of electrical applications such as transformers, switchgears etc 
• Electrical engineers 
• Product design engineers 
• Quality testing personnel 

Why should you use BS EN 60137 - Insulated bushings? 

Insulating bushings are used to protect conductors inside rigid or IMC conduits when entering a box or enclosure.  

BS EN 60137 provides a specification for different types of bushing, voltage temperatures, ratings, insulation levels, design, and operating conditions.  

BS EN 60137 also covers a wide range of routine and type tests. Type tests include dry or wet power-frequency voltage withstand test, long duration power-frequency voltage withstand test, dry lightning impulse voltage withstand test, dry or wet switching impulse voltage withstand test, thermal stability test, electromagnetic compatibility tests (EMC) and temperature rise tests. Conformity to these tests can help you demonstrate the reliability and performance of your products.  

If you are a manufacturer, adopting best industry requirements recommended by BS EN 60137 can contribute to efficient performance of insulated bushings for the optimal functioning of the end-application. Consequently, incidents of product failure, damage and leakages can be minimized.  

What’s changed since the last update? 

BS EN 60137:2017 supersedes BS EN 60137:2008, which is withdrawn. The following significant changes are: 

• Resin-impregnated synthetic (RIS) bushings have been introduced 
• Bushings with Um ≤ 1,1 kV, Um = 1 100 kV and Um = 1 200 kV have been introduced 
• Temperature rise testing has been included for liquid-insulated bushings according to clause 3.4 
• Introducing dry lightning impulse testing as a routine test for all transformer bushings with Um > 72,5 kV 
• The altitude correction procedure has been revised