Codeofchina.com is in charge of this English translation. In case of any doubt about the English translation, the Chinese original shall be considered authoritative.
This standard is developed in accordance with the rules given in GB/T 1.1-2009.
This standard replaces GB/Z 6829-2008 General Requirements for Residual Current Operated Protective Devices; the following technical changes have been made with respect to GB/Z 6829-2008 (the previous edition):
——The paragraph "any standard for accessories, devices or equipment capable of completing only one or two of the above-mentioned three functions or failing to fully comply with all parts of this standard cannot be referred to as RCD standard, …" is added in the scope (see Chapter 1);
——Types of residual current devices type F are increased (see 4.7);
——Characteristic description for RCD type F is added (see 5.2.9.3);
——The characteristic description for RCD type B is modified (see 5.2.9.4; 5.2.9.3 of Edition 2008);
——Marking of RCD type F is added and that of RCD type B is modified (see Chapter 6);
——"Alternate current or pulsating direct residual current superimposition smooth direct current" is modified and the requirements for RCD type F and RCD type B are given respectively (see 8.3.1.3 and 8.3.1.4; 8.3.1.3 and 8.3.1.4 of Edition 2008);
——The requirements for combination frequency residual current are modified, and component values of different frequencies of test current and initial value (IΔ) for correct operation verification at the time the residual current stably increases in Table 11 as well as the range of action current of recombination residual current in Table 12 are added (see 8.3.1.5; 8.3.1.5 of Edition 2008);
——Two poles in the column of pole number corresponding smooth direct current are added in Table 14 (See Table 14);
——The possible load current and fault current in Annex B are modified (13 waveforms in the latest draft of IEC 60755 are adopted) (see Annex B; Annex B of Edition 2008);
——Annex C "Supplementary Requirements for Auto-reclosing RCD" is deleted.
This standard is modified in relation to IEC/TR 60755: 2008 General Requirements for Residual Current Operated Protective Devices.
Technical differences exist between this standard and IEC/TR 60755: 2008; these differences are marked with perpendicular single line (｜) in the outside page margin of the provisions concerned, and the technical differences and their causes are as follows:
——For normative references, this standard adjusts technical differences so as to adapt to technical conditions in China, which is reflected in Chapter 2 "Normative References", and the specific adjustment is as follows:
GB/T 156-2007 modified in relation to international standard is used to replace IEC 60038 (see 5.3);
GB/T 16895.21-2011 identical to international standard is used to replace IEC 60364-4-41 (see 5.3);
GB/T 16895.4-1997 identical to international standard is used to replace IEC 60364-5-53 (see Chapter 1);
GB/T 13140.1-2008 identical to international standard is used to replace IEC 60998-1 (see Chapter 3 and 8.5);
GB/T 17045-2008 identical to international standard is used to settle IEC 61140 (see Chapter 1).
——IEC/TR 60755: 2008 may be used as guidance for residual current devices with rated voltage not exceeding 1 000V a.c. while this standard for residual current devices with rated voltage not exceeding 1 200V a.c.;
——The paragraph "any standard for accessories, devices or equipment capable of completing only one or two of the above-mentioned three functions or failing to fully comply with all parts of this standard cannot be referred to as RCD standard, …" is added in the scope (see Chapter 1);
——The classification by actuation mode as well as the requirements "according to relevant product standards" specified in IEC/TR 60755: 2008 are added (see 4.1.1);
——Types of residual current devices type F are increased (see 4.7);
——The classification of delayed type is further detailed [see 4.9 b)];
——Classification by whether there is auto-reclosing is added (see 4.11);
——The characteristic description for RCD type F is added (see 5.2.9.3);
——Grades 220 V and 380 V are added for rated voltage priority value and Grade 800 A is added for rated current priority value (see 5.4.1 and 5.4.2);
——The requirements "time-delay type is only applicable to residual current devices with IΔn greater than 0.03 A" is explicitly specified in 5.4.12.2 of this standard, thus corresponding modifications are made to other relevant parts;
——Types, requirements and markings of RCD type F are added and the requirements and markings of Type B RCD are modified (see Chapter 6);
——"Alternate current or pulsating direct residual current superimposition smooth direct current" is modified and the requirements for RCD type F and RCD type B are given respectively (see 8.3.1.3 and 8.3.1.4);
——The requirements for combination frequency residual current are modified, and component values of different frequencies of test current and initial value (IΔ) for correct operation verification at the time the residual current stably increases in Table 11 as well as the range of action current of recombination residual current in Table 12 are added (see 8.3.1.5);
——The additional requirements for RCD functionally dependent on supply voltage are added in this standard; it is also specified that residual current devices for household and similar purposes with IΔn≤0.03A shall be capable of operating automatically in case of the residual current greater than or equal to the rated residual operating current while the supply voltage drops to 50V (phase-to-earth voltage) (see 8.3.3);
——Annex B "Possible Load Current and Fault Currents" is modified (see Annex B).
This standard was proposed by China Electrical Equipment Industry Association.
This standard is under the jurisdiction of SAC/TC 189 National Technical Committee on Low-voltage Apparatus of Standardization Administration of China.
The previous editions of this standard are as follows:
——GB 6829-1986, GB 6829-1995 and GB/Z 6829-2008.
Introduction
Residual current devices are primarily intended to give protection against the risk of dangerous, and possibly lethal, electric shocks and to provide protection against fire hazards due to a persistent earth fault current.
This standard specifies the operational characteristics for these devices; details of how they should be installed to provide the desired level of protection are specified in the various parts of GB 16895.
This standard is intended for use by technical committees and relevant organizations in the preparation of standards for residual current devices. It is not intended to be used as a stand-alone standard, for example, for certification.
It has been prepared in accordance with its pilot function for residual current devices.
There are two basic conditions of protection against the risk of electric shock: fault protection (indirect contact) and basic protection (direct contact).
Fault protection implies that the device is used to prevent dangerous voltages persisting on accessible installation metalwork, which are earthed but become live under earth fault conditions.
Under such conditions, the risk arises not from the user making direct contact with a live conductive part but from making contact with earthed metalwork, which itself is in contact with a live conductive part.
The primary or basic function of residual current devices is to give fault protection, but, with devices of adequate sensitivity (i.e., units having operating residual currents not exceeding 30 mA), there is the additional benefit that, should other methods of protection fail, the device will give a high degree of protection to a user making direct contact with a live conductive part.
The operating characteristics given in this standard are therefore based on requirements, which themselves are based on the information contained in GB/T 13870 Effects of Current on Human Beings and Livestock.
These devices also provide protection against the risk of fire resulting from earth fault currents which can persist for lengthy periods without operating the overcurrent protective device.
General Requirements for Residual Current Operated Protective Devices
1 Scope
The requirements of this standard apply to residual current operated protective devices (hereinafter referred to as “residual current devices” (RCD)) for rated voltages not exceeding 440 V a.c., intended primarily for protection against shock hazard. They are intended to be used by technical committees and relevant organizations when drafting product standards and apply only if they are incorporated or are referred to in the relevant standards. This standard is not intended to be used as a stand-alone standard, for example, for certification.
Note 1: This standard may also be used as a guide for residual current devices of rated voltages up to 1 200 V, a.c., the performance of which shall be determined through negotiation between the manufacturer and the user when the standard for relevant products are prepared.
It applies to
——a single device which detects a residual current (see 3.3.2), compares it to a reference value (see 3.3.3) and opens the protected circuit when the residual current exceeds this reference value (see 3.3.4);
——an association of devices, each one of them performing separately one or two of the above-mentioned functions, but acting together in order to accomplish all three functions. Particular requirements may be necessary for devices intended for accomplishing only one or two of the above three functions.
Any standard for accessories, devices or equipment capable of completing only one or two of the above-mentioned three functions or failing to fully comply with all parts of this standard cannot be referred to as RCD standard, or refer to "RCD", either abbreviation or full name "residual current device". "RCD" shall not be marked on products of such accessories, devices or equipment or in their technical documents.
This standard applies for conditions as stated in Chapter 7. For other conditions, additional requirements may be necessary.
Residual current devices are intended to protect persons and livestock against harmful effects of electric shock due to contact with exposed conductive parts by automatic disconnection of supply in accordance with GB/T 17045-2008 and GB/T 16895.21-2011.
Note 2: In this context “harmful effects” include the risk of occurrence of heart fibrillation.
In accordance with GB/T 16895.4-1997, residual current devices with a rated residual operating current not exceeding 300 mA may also be used to provide protection against fire hazards due to a persistent earth fault current.
In accordance with GB/T 16895.21-2011, residual current devices with a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30 mA may also be used for additional protection in case of failure of the basic protective provisions or carelessness of the user of the installation or equipment.
For residual current devices performing additional functions, this standard applies together with the relevant standard covering the additional functions; for example, when residual current devices incorporate a circuit-breaker it should comply with the relevant circuit-breaker standard.
Supplementary or particular requirements may be necessary, for example, for
——residual current devices intended for use by uninstructed persons;
——socket-outlets, plugs, adapters and couplers incorporating residual current devices.
This standard states
——the definitions and terms used for residual current devices (Chapter 3) ;
——the classification of residual current devices (Chapter 4);
——the characteristics of residual current devices (Chapter 5);
——the preferred values of the operating and influencing quantities (5.4);
——the marking and information to be provided for residual current devices (Chapter 6);
——the standard conditions for installation and operation in service (Chapter 7);
——the requirements for construction and operation (Chapter 8);
——the list of minimum requirements to be tested (Chapter 9).
Note 3: Devices having a residual current function for specific purposes other than those mentioned above (for example, motor protection) are not covered by this standard.
2 Normative References
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
GB/T 156-2007 Standard Voltages (IEC 60038: 2002, MOD)
GB/T 2900.8-2009 International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Insulators (IEC 60050-471: 2007, IDT)
GB/T 2900.25-2008 International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Rotating Machines (IEC 60050-411: 1996, IDT)
GB/T 2900.35-2008 International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Electrical Apparatus for Explosive Atmospheres (IEC 60050-426: 2008, IDT)
GB/T 2900.70-2008 International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Electrical Accessories (IEC 60050-442: 1998, IDT)
GB/T 13140.1-2008 Connecting Devices for Low-voltage Circuits for Household and Similar Purposes – Part 1: General Requirements (IEC 60998-1: 2002, IDT)
GB/T 16895.4-1997 Electrical Installations of Buildings – Part 5: Selection and Erection of Electrical Equipment – Chapter 53: Switching and Control (IEC 60364-5-53: 1994, IDT)
GB/T 16895.21-2011 Low-voltage Electrical Installations – Part 4-41: Protection for Safety – Protection Against Electric Shock (IEC 60364-4-41: 2005, IDT)
GB/T 17045-2008 Protection against Electric Shock – Common Aspects for Installation and Equipment (IEC 61140: 2001, IDT)
IEC 60050-441: 1984 International Electrotechnical Vocabulary - Part 441: Switchgear, Controlgear and Fuses
3 Terms and Definitions
For the purposes of this document, definitions given in GB/T 2900.8-2009, GB/T 2900.25-2008, GB/T 2900.35-2008, GB/T 2900.70-2008 and IEC 60050-441: 1984, as well as the following, apply.
3.1 Definitions relating to currents flowing from live parts to earth
3.1.1
earth fault current
current flowing to earth due to an insulation fault
3.1.2
earth leakage current
current flowing from the live parts of the installation to earth in the absence of an insulation fault
3.1.3
pulsating direct current
current of pulsating wave form which assumes, in each period of the rated power frequency, the value 0 or a value not exceeding 0.006 A d.c. during one single interval of time, expressed in angular measure, of at least 150°
3.1.4
current delay angle
α
time, expressed in angular measure, by which the starting instant of the current conduction is delayed by phase control
3.1.5
smooth direct current
direct current which is ripple-free
Note: A current is considered to be ripple-free when the coefficient of ripple is below 10 %.
3.2 Definitions relating to the energization of a residual current device
3.2.1
residual current
IΔ
vector sum of the instantaneous values of the current flowing in the main circuit of the residual current device (expressed as r.m.s. value)
3.2.2
residual operating current
value of residual current which causes the residual current device to operate under specified conditions
3.2.3
residual non-operating current
value of residual current at which and below which the residual current device does not operate under specified conditions
3.3 Definitions relating to the operation and to the functions of the residual current device
3.3.1
residual current device; RCD
mechanical switching device or association of devices designed to make, carry and break currents under normal service conditions and to cause the opening of the contacts when the residual current attains a given value under specified conditions
3.3.2
detection
function consisting in sensing the presence of a residual current
3.3.3
evaluation
function consisting in giving to the residual current device the possibility to operate, when the detected residual current exceeds a specified reference value
3.3.4
interruption
function consisting in bringing automatically the main contacts of the residual current device from the closed position into the open position, thereby interrupting the current(s) flowing through them
3.3.5
switching device
device designed to make or to break the current in one or more electric circuits
3.3.6
trip-free mechanism of a residual current device
mechanism, the moving contacts of which return to and remain in the open position when the opening operation is initiated after the initiation of the closing operation, even if the closing command is maintained
Note: To ensure proper breaking of the current which may have been established, it may be necessary that the contacts momentarily reach the closed position.
3.3.7
residual current device without integral overcurrent protection
residual current device not designed to perform the functions of protection against overloads and/or short circuits
3.3.8
residual current device with integral overcurrent protection
residual current device designed to perform the functions of protection against overloads and/or short circuits
Note: This definition includes residual current devices intended to be coupled to a circuit breaker (r.c. units, see 3.3.9)
3.3.9
r.c.unit
device performing simultaneously the functions of detection of the residual current and of comparison of the value of this current with the residual operating value and incorporating the means of operating the tripping mechanism of a circuit-breaker with which it is designed to be assembled or associated
3.3.10
break time of a residual current device
time which elapses between the instant the residual operating current is attained and the instant of arc extinction in all poles
3.3.11
limiting non-actuating time
maximum time during which the residual operating current can be applied to the residual current device without causing it to operate
3.3.12
time-delay residual current device
residual current device specially designed to attain a predetermined value of limiting non-actuating time, corresponding to a given value of residual current
3.3.13
reset residual current device
residual current device which should be intentionally reset prior to reclosing by a means different from the operation means to be able to be reclosed and to operate again
3.3.14
test device
device incorporated in the residual current device simulating the residual current conditions for the operation of the residual current device under specified conditions
3.4 Definitions relating to values and ranges of energizing quantities
3.4.1
non-operating overcurrents
3.4.1.1
limiting value of the non-operating over-current in the case of a single-phase load
maximum value of a single-phase overcurrent which, in the absence of a residual current, can flow through a residual current device (whatever the number of poles) without causing it to operate
Notes:
1 In the case of an overcurrent in the main circuit, unwanted tripping may occur in the absence of residual current, due to asymmetry existing in the detecting device itself.
2 In the case of a residual current device with integral overcurrent protection, the limiting value of the non-operating current may be determined by the overcurrent protection means.
3.4.1.2
limiting value of the non-operating current in the case of a balanced load
maximum value of the current which, in the absence of a residual current, can flow through a residual current device with a balanced load (whatever the number of poles) without causing it to operate
Notes:
1 In the case of an overcurrent in the main circuit, unwanted tripping may occur in the absence of residual current, due to asymmetry existing in the detecting device itself.
2 In the case of a residual current device with integral overcurrent protection, the limiting value of the non-operating current may be determined by the overcurrent protection means.
3.4.2
residual short-circuit withstand current
maximum value of the residual current for which the operation of the residual current device is assured under specified conditions and above which that device may undergo irreversible alterations
3.4.3
limiting thermal value of the short-time current
highest value of current (r.m.s.) which the device is capable of carrying for a specified short period and under specified conditions without undergoing, by heating effect, permanent deterioration of its characteristics
3.4.4
prospective current
current that would flow in the circuit, if each main current path of the residual current device and of the overcurrent protective device (if any) were replaced by a conductor of negligible impedance
Note: The prospective current may be qualified in the same manner as an actual current, for example, prospective breaking current, prospective peak current, prospective residual current, etc.
3.4.5
making capacity
value of the a.c. component of a prospective current that a residual current device is capable of making at a stated voltage under prescribed conditions of use and behaviour
3.4.6
breaking capacity
value of the a.c. component of a prospective current that a residual current device is capable of breaking at a stated voltage under prescribed conditions of use and behaviour
3.4.7
residual making and breaking capacity
value of the a.c. component of a residual prospective current which a residual current device can make, carry for its opening time and break under specified conditions of use and behaviour
3.4.8
conditional short-circuit current
value of the a.c. component of a prospective current, which a residual current device without integral short-circuit protection, but protected by a suitable short-circuit protective device (hereafter referred to as an SCPD) in series, can withstand under specified conditions of use and behaviour
3.4.9
conditional residual short-circuit current
value of the a.c. component of a residual prospective current which a residual current device, without integral short-circuit protection but protected by a suitable SCPD in series, can withstand under specified conditions of use and behaviour
3.4.10
I2t (Joule integral)
integral of the square of the current, over a given time interval (t0, t1):
3.4.11
recovery voltage
voltage which appears across the supply terminals of the residual current device after the breaking of the current
Note: This voltage may be considered as comprising two successive intervals of time, one during which a transient voltage exists, followed by a second one during which power-frequency recovery voltage alone exists.
Foreword i
Introduction iv
1 Scope
2 Normative References
3 Terms and Definitions
4 Classification
5 Characteristics of Residual Current Devices
6 Marking and Other Product Information
7 Standard Conditions for Operation in Service and for Installation
8 Conditions for Construction and Operation
9 Guidance for Type Tests
Annex A (Informative) Recommended Diagram for Short-circuit Tests
Annex B (Informative) Possible Load and Fault Currents
Bibliography
Figure A.1 Diagram for All the Short-circuit Tests
Figure A.2 Detail of Impedance Z or Z
Figure B.1 Possible Load and Fault Currents according to the Different Electronic Circuits
Table 1 Standard Values of Maximum Break Time of Non-time-delay Type RCDs for a.c. Residual Current
Table 2 Standard Values of Maximum Break Time of Non-time-delay Type RCDs for Half-wave Pulsating d.c. Residual Current
Table 3 Standard Values of Maximum Break Time of Non-time-delay Type RCDs for Residual Direct Currents Which Result From Rectifying Circuits and/or Smooth d.c. Residual Current
Table 4 Acceptable Alternative Standard Values of Maximum Break Times for RCD with a Rated Residual Current of 6mA and Non-time-delay Type Intended to Be Used in Bi-phase System 120 V with Middle Point
Table 5 Standard Values of Break Time for a.c. Residual Current for Time-delay Type Residual Current Devices
Table 6 Standard Values of Break Time for Pulsating d.c. Residual Current for Time-delay Type Residual Current Devices
Table 7 Standard Values of Break Time for Smooth d.c. Residual Current for Time-delay Type Residual Current Devices
Table 8 Values of Influencing Quantities
Table 9 Tripping Current Limits of Alternating Residual Current
Table 10 Tripping Current Limits of Pulsating d.c. Residual Current
Table 11 Component Value of Different Frequencies in Test Current and Initial Value (IΔ) of Recombination Residual Current for Correct Operation Verification When Residual Current Is Stably Increased
Table 12 Range of Operating Current of Recombination Residual Current
Table 13 Tripping Current Range of Type B RCD at Frequencies Different from Rated Frequency Preferred Value 50Hz/60Hz
Table 14 Tripping Current Limits of Smooth Direct Residual Current
Table 15 List of Minimum Requirements to Be Checked or Tested
Codeofchina.com is in charge of this English translation. In case of any doubt about the English translation, the Chinese original shall be considered authoritative.
This standard is developed in accordance with the rules given in GB/T 1.1-2009.
This standard replaces GB/Z 6829-2008 General Requirements for Residual Current Operated Protective Devices; the following technical changes have been made with respect to GB/Z 6829-2008 (the previous edition):
——The paragraph "any standard for accessories, devices or equipment capable of completing only one or two of the above-mentioned three functions or failing to fully comply with all parts of this standard cannot be referred to as RCD standard, …" is added in the scope (see Chapter 1);
——Types of residual current devices type F are increased (see 4.7);
——Characteristic description for RCD type F is added (see 5.2.9.3);
——The characteristic description for RCD type B is modified (see 5.2.9.4; 5.2.9.3 of Edition 2008);
——Marking of RCD type F is added and that of RCD type B is modified (see Chapter 6);
——"Alternate current or pulsating direct residual current superimposition smooth direct current" is modified and the requirements for RCD type F and RCD type B are given respectively (see 8.3.1.3 and 8.3.1.4; 8.3.1.3 and 8.3.1.4 of Edition 2008);
——The requirements for combination frequency residual current are modified, and component values of different frequencies of test current and initial value (IΔ) for correct operation verification at the time the residual current stably increases in Table 11 as well as the range of action current of recombination residual current in Table 12 are added (see 8.3.1.5; 8.3.1.5 of Edition 2008);
——Two poles in the column of pole number corresponding smooth direct current are added in Table 14 (See Table 14);
——The possible load current and fault current in Annex B are modified (13 waveforms in the latest draft of IEC 60755 are adopted) (see Annex B; Annex B of Edition 2008);
——Annex C "Supplementary Requirements for Auto-reclosing RCD" is deleted.
This standard is modified in relation to IEC/TR 60755: 2008 General Requirements for Residual Current Operated Protective Devices.
Technical differences exist between this standard and IEC/TR 60755: 2008; these differences are marked with perpendicular single line (｜) in the outside page margin of the provisions concerned, and the technical differences and their causes are as follows:
——For normative references, this standard adjusts technical differences so as to adapt to technical conditions in China, which is reflected in Chapter 2 "Normative References", and the specific adjustment is as follows:
GB/T 156-2007 modified in relation to international standard is used to replace IEC 60038 (see 5.3);
GB/T 16895.21-2011 identical to international standard is used to replace IEC 60364-4-41 (see 5.3);
GB/T 16895.4-1997 identical to international standard is used to replace IEC 60364-5-53 (see Chapter 1);
GB/T 13140.1-2008 identical to international standard is used to replace IEC 60998-1 (see Chapter 3 and 8.5);
GB/T 17045-2008 identical to international standard is used to settle IEC 61140 (see Chapter 1).
——IEC/TR 60755: 2008 may be used as guidance for residual current devices with rated voltage not exceeding 1 000V a.c. while this standard for residual current devices with rated voltage not exceeding 1 200V a.c.;
——The paragraph "any standard for accessories, devices or equipment capable of completing only one or two of the above-mentioned three functions or failing to fully comply with all parts of this standard cannot be referred to as RCD standard, …" is added in the scope (see Chapter 1);
——The classification by actuation mode as well as the requirements "according to relevant product standards" specified in IEC/TR 60755: 2008 are added (see 4.1.1);
——Types of residual current devices type F are increased (see 4.7);
——The classification of delayed type is further detailed [see 4.9 b)];
——Classification by whether there is auto-reclosing is added (see 4.11);
——The characteristic description for RCD type F is added (see 5.2.9.3);
——Grades 220 V and 380 V are added for rated voltage priority value and Grade 800 A is added for rated current priority value (see 5.4.1 and 5.4.2);
——The requirements "time-delay type is only applicable to residual current devices with IΔn greater than 0.03 A" is explicitly specified in 5.4.12.2 of this standard, thus corresponding modifications are made to other relevant parts;
——Types, requirements and markings of RCD type F are added and the requirements and markings of Type B RCD are modified (see Chapter 6);
——"Alternate current or pulsating direct residual current superimposition smooth direct current" is modified and the requirements for RCD type F and RCD type B are given respectively (see 8.3.1.3 and 8.3.1.4);
——The requirements for combination frequency residual current are modified, and component values of different frequencies of test current and initial value (IΔ) for correct operation verification at the time the residual current stably increases in Table 11 as well as the range of action current of recombination residual current in Table 12 are added (see 8.3.1.5);
——The additional requirements for RCD functionally dependent on supply voltage are added in this standard; it is also specified that residual current devices for household and similar purposes with IΔn≤0.03A shall be capable of operating automatically in case of the residual current greater than or equal to the rated residual operating current while the supply voltage drops to 50V (phase-to-earth voltage) (see 8.3.3);
——Annex B "Possible Load Current and Fault Currents" is modified (see Annex B).
This standard was proposed by China Electrical Equipment Industry Association.
This standard is under the jurisdiction of SAC/TC 189 National Technical Committee on Low-voltage Apparatus of Standardization Administration of China.
The previous editions of this standard are as follows:
——GB 6829-1986, GB 6829-1995 and GB/Z 6829-2008.
Introduction
Residual current devices are primarily intended to give protection against the risk of dangerous, and possibly lethal, electric shocks and to provide protection against fire hazards due to a persistent earth fault current.
This standard specifies the operational characteristics for these devices; details of how they should be installed to provide the desired level of protection are specified in the various parts of GB 16895.
This standard is intended for use by technical committees and relevant organizations in the preparation of standards for residual current devices. It is not intended to be used as a stand-alone standard, for example, for certification.
It has been prepared in accordance with its pilot function for residual current devices.
There are two basic conditions of protection against the risk of electric shock: fault protection (indirect contact) and basic protection (direct contact).
Fault protection implies that the device is used to prevent dangerous voltages persisting on accessible installation metalwork, which are earthed but become live under earth fault conditions.
Under such conditions, the risk arises not from the user making direct contact with a live conductive part but from making contact with earthed metalwork, which itself is in contact with a live conductive part.
The primary or basic function of residual current devices is to give fault protection, but, with devices of adequate sensitivity (i.e., units having operating residual currents not exceeding 30 mA), there is the additional benefit that, should other methods of protection fail, the device will give a high degree of protection to a user making direct contact with a live conductive part.
The operating characteristics given in this standard are therefore based on requirements, which themselves are based on the information contained in GB/T 13870 Effects of Current on Human Beings and Livestock.
These devices also provide protection against the risk of fire resulting from earth fault currents which can persist for lengthy periods without operating the overcurrent protective device.
General Requirements for Residual Current Operated Protective Devices
1 Scope
The requirements of this standard apply to residual current operated protective devices (hereinafter referred to as “residual current devices” (RCD)) for rated voltages not exceeding 440 V a.c., intended primarily for protection against shock hazard. They are intended to be used by technical committees and relevant organizations when drafting product standards and apply only if they are incorporated or are referred to in the relevant standards. This standard is not intended to be used as a stand-alone standard, for example, for certification.
Note 1: This standard may also be used as a guide for residual current devices of rated voltages up to 1 200 V, a.c., the performance of which shall be determined through negotiation between the manufacturer and the user when the standard for relevant products are prepared.
It applies to
——a single device which detects a residual current (see 3.3.2), compares it to a reference value (see 3.3.3) and opens the protected circuit when the residual current exceeds this reference value (see 3.3.4);
——an association of devices, each one of them performing separately one or two of the above-mentioned functions, but acting together in order to accomplish all three functions. Particular requirements may be necessary for devices intended for accomplishing only one or two of the above three functions.
Any standard for accessories, devices or equipment capable of completing only one or two of the above-mentioned three functions or failing to fully comply with all parts of this standard cannot be referred to as RCD standard, or refer to "RCD", either abbreviation or full name "residual current device". "RCD" shall not be marked on products of such accessories, devices or equipment or in their technical documents.
This standard applies for conditions as stated in Chapter 7. For other conditions, additional requirements may be necessary.
Residual current devices are intended to protect persons and livestock against harmful effects of electric shock due to contact with exposed conductive parts by automatic disconnection of supply in accordance with GB/T 17045-2008 and GB/T 16895.21-2011.
Note 2: In this context “harmful effects” include the risk of occurrence of heart fibrillation.
In accordance with GB/T 16895.4-1997, residual current devices with a rated residual operating current not exceeding 300 mA may also be used to provide protection against fire hazards due to a persistent earth fault current.
In accordance with GB/T 16895.21-2011, residual current devices with a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30 mA may also be used for additional protection in case of failure of the basic protective provisions or carelessness of the user of the installation or equipment.
For residual current devices performing additional functions, this standard applies together with the relevant standard covering the additional functions; for example, when residual current devices incorporate a circuit-breaker it should comply with the relevant circuit-breaker standard.
Supplementary or particular requirements may be necessary, for example, for
——residual current devices intended for use by uninstructed persons;
——socket-outlets, plugs, adapters and couplers incorporating residual current devices.
This standard states
——the definitions and terms used for residual current devices (Chapter 3) ;
——the classification of residual current devices (Chapter 4);
——the characteristics of residual current devices (Chapter 5);
——the preferred values of the operating and influencing quantities (5.4);
——the marking and information to be provided for residual current devices (Chapter 6);
——the standard conditions for installation and operation in service (Chapter 7);
——the requirements for construction and operation (Chapter 8);
——the list of minimum requirements to be tested (Chapter 9).
Note 3: Devices having a residual current function for specific purposes other than those mentioned above (for example, motor protection) are not covered by this standard.
2 Normative References
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
GB/T 156-2007 Standard Voltages (IEC 60038: 2002, MOD)
GB/T 2900.8-2009 International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Insulators (IEC 60050-471: 2007, IDT)
GB/T 2900.25-2008 International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Rotating Machines (IEC 60050-411: 1996, IDT)
GB/T 2900.35-2008 International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Electrical Apparatus for Explosive Atmospheres (IEC 60050-426: 2008, IDT)
GB/T 2900.70-2008 International Electrotechnical Vocabulary – Electrical Accessories (IEC 60050-442: 1998, IDT)
GB/T 13140.1-2008 Connecting Devices for Low-voltage Circuits for Household and Similar Purposes – Part 1: General Requirements (IEC 60998-1: 2002, IDT)
GB/T 16895.4-1997 Electrical Installations of Buildings – Part 5: Selection and Erection of Electrical Equipment – Chapter 53: Switching and Control (IEC 60364-5-53: 1994, IDT)
GB/T 16895.21-2011 Low-voltage Electrical Installations – Part 4-41: Protection for Safety – Protection Against Electric Shock (IEC 60364-4-41: 2005, IDT)
GB/T 17045-2008 Protection against Electric Shock – Common Aspects for Installation and Equipment (IEC 61140: 2001, IDT)
IEC 60050-441: 1984 International Electrotechnical Vocabulary - Part 441: Switchgear, Controlgear and Fuses
3 Terms and Definitions
For the purposes of this document, definitions given in GB/T 2900.8-2009, GB/T 2900.25-2008, GB/T 2900.35-2008, GB/T 2900.70-2008 and IEC 60050-441: 1984, as well as the following, apply.
3.1 Definitions relating to currents flowing from live parts to earth
3.1.1
earth fault current
current flowing to earth due to an insulation fault
3.1.2
earth leakage current
current flowing from the live parts of the installation to earth in the absence of an insulation fault
3.1.3
pulsating direct current
current of pulsating wave form which assumes, in each period of the rated power frequency, the value 0 or a value not exceeding 0.006 A d.c. during one single interval of time, expressed in angular measure, of at least 150°
3.1.4
current delay angle
α
time, expressed in angular measure, by which the starting instant of the current conduction is delayed by phase control
3.1.5
smooth direct current
direct current which is ripple-free
Note: A current is considered to be ripple-free when the coefficient of ripple is below 10 %.
3.2 Definitions relating to the energization of a residual current device
3.2.1
residual current
IΔ
vector sum of the instantaneous values of the current flowing in the main circuit of the residual current device (expressed as r.m.s. value)
3.2.2
residual operating current
value of residual current which causes the residual current device to operate under specified conditions
3.2.3
residual non-operating current
value of residual current at which and below which the residual current device does not operate under specified conditions
3.3 Definitions relating to the operation and to the functions of the residual current device
3.3.1
residual current device; RCD
mechanical switching device or association of devices designed to make, carry and break currents under normal service conditions and to cause the opening of the contacts when the residual current attains a given value under specified conditions
3.3.2
detection
function consisting in sensing the presence of a residual current
3.3.3
evaluation
function consisting in giving to the residual current device the possibility to operate, when the detected residual current exceeds a specified reference value
3.3.4
interruption
function consisting in bringing automatically the main contacts of the residual current device from the closed position into the open position, thereby interrupting the current(s) flowing through them
3.3.5
switching device
device designed to make or to break the current in one or more electric circuits
3.3.6
trip-free mechanism of a residual current device
mechanism, the moving contacts of which return to and remain in the open position when the opening operation is initiated after the initiation of the closing operation, even if the closing command is maintained
Note: To ensure proper breaking of the current which may have been established, it may be necessary that the contacts momentarily reach the closed position.
3.3.7
residual current device without integral overcurrent protection
residual current device not designed to perform the functions of protection against overloads and/or short circuits
3.3.8
residual current device with integral overcurrent protection
residual current device designed to perform the functions of protection against overloads and/or short circuits
Note: This definition includes residual current devices intended to be coupled to a circuit breaker (r.c. units, see 3.3.9)
3.3.9
r.c.unit
device performing simultaneously the functions of detection of the residual current and of comparison of the value of this current with the residual operating value and incorporating the means of operating the tripping mechanism of a circuit-breaker with which it is designed to be assembled or associated
3.3.10
break time of a residual current device
time which elapses between the instant the residual operating current is attained and the instant of arc extinction in all poles
3.3.11
limiting non-actuating time
maximum time during which the residual operating current can be applied to the residual current device without causing it to operate
3.3.12
time-delay residual current device
residual current device specially designed to attain a predetermined value of limiting non-actuating time, corresponding to a given value of residual current
3.3.13
reset residual current device
residual current device which should be intentionally reset prior to reclosing by a means different from the operation means to be able to be reclosed and to operate again
3.3.14
test device
device incorporated in the residual current device simulating the residual current conditions for the operation of the residual current device under specified conditions
3.4 Definitions relating to values and ranges of energizing quantities
3.4.1
non-operating overcurrents
3.4.1.1
limiting value of the non-operating over-current in the case of a single-phase load
maximum value of a single-phase overcurrent which, in the absence of a residual current, can flow through a residual current device (whatever the number of poles) without causing it to operate
Notes:
1 In the case of an overcurrent in the main circuit, unwanted tripping may occur in the absence of residual current, due to asymmetry existing in the detecting device itself.
2 In the case of a residual current device with integral overcurrent protection, the limiting value of the non-operating current may be determined by the overcurrent protection means.
3.4.1.2
limiting value of the non-operating current in the case of a balanced load
maximum value of the current which, in the absence of a residual current, can flow through a residual current device with a balanced load (whatever the number of poles) without causing it to operate
Notes:
1 In the case of an overcurrent in the main circuit, unwanted tripping may occur in the absence of residual current, due to asymmetry existing in the detecting device itself.
2 In the case of a residual current device with integral overcurrent protection, the limiting value of the non-operating current may be determined by the overcurrent protection means.
3.4.2
residual short-circuit withstand current
maximum value of the residual current for which the operation of the residual current device is assured under specified conditions and above which that device may undergo irreversible alterations
3.4.3
limiting thermal value of the short-time current
highest value of current (r.m.s.) which the device is capable of carrying for a specified short period and under specified conditions without undergoing, by heating effect, permanent deterioration of its characteristics
3.4.4
prospective current
current that would flow in the circuit, if each main current path of the residual current device and of the overcurrent protective device (if any) were replaced by a conductor of negligible impedance
Note: The prospective current may be qualified in the same manner as an actual current, for example, prospective breaking current, prospective peak current, prospective residual current, etc.
3.4.5
making capacity
value of the a.c. component of a prospective current that a residual current device is capable of making at a stated voltage under prescribed conditions of use and behaviour
3.4.6
breaking capacity
value of the a.c. component of a prospective current that a residual current device is capable of breaking at a stated voltage under prescribed conditions of use and behaviour
3.4.7
residual making and breaking capacity
value of the a.c. component of a residual prospective current which a residual current device can make, carry for its opening time and break under specified conditions of use and behaviour
3.4.8
conditional short-circuit current
value of the a.c. component of a prospective current, which a residual current device without integral short-circuit protection, but protected by a suitable short-circuit protective device (hereafter referred to as an SCPD) in series, can withstand under specified conditions of use and behaviour
3.4.9
conditional residual short-circuit current
value of the a.c. component of a residual prospective current which a residual current device, without integral short-circuit protection but protected by a suitable SCPD in series, can withstand under specified conditions of use and behaviour
3.4.10
I2t (Joule integral)
integral of the square of the current, over a given time interval (t0, t1):
3.4.11
recovery voltage
voltage which appears across the supply terminals of the residual current device after the breaking of the current
Note: This voltage may be considered as comprising two successive intervals of time, one during which a transient voltage exists, followed by a second one during which power-frequency recovery voltage alone exists.
Contents of GB/T 6829-2017
Foreword i
Introduction iv
1 Scope
2 Normative References
3 Terms and Definitions
4 Classification
5 Characteristics of Residual Current Devices
6 Marking and Other Product Information
7 Standard Conditions for Operation in Service and for Installation
8 Conditions for Construction and Operation
9 Guidance for Type Tests
Annex A (Informative) Recommended Diagram for Short-circuit Tests
Annex B (Informative) Possible Load and Fault Currents
Bibliography
Figure A.1 Diagram for All the Short-circuit Tests
Figure A.2 Detail of Impedance Z or Z
Figure B.1 Possible Load and Fault Currents according to the Different Electronic Circuits
Table 1 Standard Values of Maximum Break Time of Non-time-delay Type RCDs for a.c. Residual Current
Table 2 Standard Values of Maximum Break Time of Non-time-delay Type RCDs for Half-wave Pulsating d.c. Residual Current
Table 3 Standard Values of Maximum Break Time of Non-time-delay Type RCDs for Residual Direct Currents Which Result From Rectifying Circuits and/or Smooth d.c. Residual Current
Table 4 Acceptable Alternative Standard Values of Maximum Break Times for RCD with a Rated Residual Current of 6mA and Non-time-delay Type Intended to Be Used in Bi-phase System 120 V with Middle Point
Table 5 Standard Values of Break Time for a.c. Residual Current for Time-delay Type Residual Current Devices
Table 6 Standard Values of Break Time for Pulsating d.c. Residual Current for Time-delay Type Residual Current Devices
Table 7 Standard Values of Break Time for Smooth d.c. Residual Current for Time-delay Type Residual Current Devices
Table 8 Values of Influencing Quantities
Table 9 Tripping Current Limits of Alternating Residual Current
Table 10 Tripping Current Limits of Pulsating d.c. Residual Current
Table 11 Component Value of Different Frequencies in Test Current and Initial Value (IΔ) of Recombination Residual Current for Correct Operation Verification When Residual Current Is Stably Increased
Table 12 Range of Operating Current of Recombination Residual Current
Table 13 Tripping Current Range of Type B RCD at Frequencies Different from Rated Frequency Preferred Value 50Hz/60Hz
Table 14 Tripping Current Limits of Smooth Direct Residual Current
Table 15 List of Minimum Requirements to Be Checked or Tested
