BS EN IEC 60947-5-2:2020

What is BS EN IEC 60947‑5‑2 about ? 

BS EN IEC 60947‑5‑2 is a multi-part series of European standard which discusses about low-voltage switchgear and control gear. 

BS EN IEC 60947‑5‑2 applies to inductive and capacitive proximity switches that sense the presence of metallic and/or non-metallic objects, ultrasonic proximity switches that sense the presence of sound reflecting objects, photoelectric proximity switches that sense the presence of objects and non-mechanical magnetic proximity switches that sense the presence of objects with a magnetic field. 

Note 1: Products covered by BS EN IEC 60947‑5‑2 are not subjected to defined behaviours under fault conditions. 

Note 2: BS EN IEC 60947‑5‑2 is not intended to cover proximity switches with analogue outputs. 

Who is BS EN IEC 60947‑5‑2 for ? 

BS EN IEC 60947‑5‑2 on proximity switches for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear is useful for: 

• Manufacturers of proximity switches 
• Companies dealing with the components of proximity switches 
• Retailers and suppliers of proximity switches 

Why should you use BS EN IEC 60947‑5‑2 ? 

Switchgear and controlgear are widely used in electric utility transmission and distribution systems that are used to activate, de-energize, protect and assess defects in electrical equipment. In this regard, circuit control devices such as three-position enabling switches, are used to “turn on” and “turn off” current flow in an electrical circuit.   

Proximity switch consists of a position switch which is operated without mechanical contact with the moving part. 

BS EN IEC 60947‑5‑2 gives general rules and common safety requirements for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear, and provides you the essential constructional, performance and test requirements to enable the design, evaluation and safe operation of proximity switches. 

BS EN IEC 60947‑5‑2 ensures you the quality and safety of the components and performance of the product by testing and verifying the characteristics necessary for proximity switches. 

As a user of BS EN IEC 60947‑5‑2, you will be able to establish a safe and reliable electric supply system in commercial or industrial facilities of varied sizes. In industries such as robotics and automation that are heavily-dependent on efficient interaction between humans and machine, the proximity switch can be vital in maintaining an advanced system for businesses. Efficient switching elements such as proximity switches, will help eliminate damage to the equipment or personnel, especially when working in dangerous areas. Overall, adopting the global safety standards defined in BS EN IEC 60947‑5‑2, can instil credibility and acceptance for your business.   

What’s changed since the last update ? 

BS EN IEC 60947‑5‑2:2020 supersedes BS EN 60947‑5‑2:2007+A1:2012, which will be withdrawn on 27 March 2023. It will include: 

• Update of the scope and update of C.9.1.1 with modification of the specifications concerning the sensing range and operating distance 
• Adaptation and update of the construction requirements according to IEC Guide 116 (e.g., material requirements, artificial optical radiation, instruction requirements, hot surface, unattended operation, foreseeable misuse) 
• Modification of the specifications concerning the sensing range and operating distance and new definitions for photoelectric proximity switch type D with background suppression and integration of the requirements and test procedures of photoelectric proximity switch type D with background suppression and integration of environmental information requirements and environmental condition by referencing Annexes O, W and Q of IEC 60947-1:2007, IEC 60947-1:2007/AMD1:2010 and IEC 60947-1:2007/AMD2:2014 
• Update of EMC requirements in Table 9 and Table 10, update of Annex D in order to consider new connector types and normative references, update of Annex F (additional symbols for photoelectric proximity switches)
• Update of EMC requirements in Table 9 and Table 10 and modification of impulse withstands voltage test (5.3.1.3, 9.3.3.4.5); modification of impulse withstands voltage test (5.3.1.3, 9.3.3.4.5)