IEC 62271-215-2021 PDF

Full title and description

High-voltage switchgear and controlgear — Part 215: Phase comparator used with VDIS. This international standard specifies requirements, tests and marking for phase comparators designed to be plugged into the testing points of a voltage detecting and indicating system (VDIS) to indicate the phase relationship between two energized parts of a high‑voltage network before coupling them.

Abstract

IEC 62271-215:2021 defines the design, performance, environmental and mechanical requirements, and type-test procedures for phase comparators used with VDIS. It covers device types (including simultaneous and sequential operation), connection to VDIS, indication/perceptibility, built‑in power supplies, probes, protection (IP/IK), climatic and EMC requirements, dielectric strength and relevant type tests. This edition merges and replaces content from earlier IEC standards addressing phase comparators.

General information

• Status: Published international standard (IEC International Standard).
• Publication date: 29 June 2021.
• Publisher: International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
• ICS / categories: 13.260; 29.130.10; 29.240.20.
• Edition / version: Edition 1.0 (2021).
• Number of pages: 81 (as published by IEC).

Scope

Applies to phase comparators intended to be connected to the testing points of a VDIS (as defined in IEC 62271-213) to provide a clear indication of the phase relationship between two energized parts of a high‑voltage network at the same nominal voltage and frequency prior to coupling. The standard does not cover phase comparators intended for direct application on bare live parts at network nominal voltage (those are covered by IEC 61481 series). Portions of the document may be applied to other devices performing phase comparison via VDIS by agreement between manufacturer and user.

Key topics and requirements

• Definitions, normal and special service conditions and ratings for phase comparators.
• Design and construction requirements (general arrangement, probes, connectors, built‑in power supplies, additional functions).
• Types of operation: simultaneous connected operation and sequential connected operation (support for sequential comparators for large MV panels).
• Indication methods, perceptibility criteria and response time requirements for correct/incorrect phase relationships.
• Mechanical and climatic requirements (temperature, humidity, vibration, impact, fall resistance, IP/IK ratings).
• Electromagnetic compatibility (immunity to ESD, radiated fields) and dielectric strength (lightning impulse, power-frequency withstand).
• Type tests, test values, inspection and mandatory test procedures for verification of performance and safety.
• Marking, information to be supplied and documentation requirements.

Typical use and users

Used by manufacturers of high‑voltage test equipment and phase comparators, switchgear OEMs, utilities and transmission/distribution operators, commissioning and maintenance engineers, and test laboratories. The standard is intended to ensure interoperable and safe phase‑comparison equipment when used with VDIS during live‑work verification and coupling operations.

Related standards

Closely related to other parts of the IEC 62271 series and VDIS-related documents, notably IEC 62271-213 (VDIS testing points), IEC 61481-1 / IEC 61481-2 (phase comparators for direct use on live bare parts), and it consolidates content previously covered in IEC 61243-5 and IEC 62271-206. National/adopted versions and translations (for example EN/DIN adoptions) exist.

Keywords

phase comparator, VDIS, voltage detecting and indicating system, IEC 62271, high‑voltage switchgear, phase comparison, universal phase comparator, sequential operation, type tests, dielectric strength.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: IEC 62271-215:2021 is an international standard that specifies requirements and tests for phase comparators used with voltage detecting and indicating systems (VDIS) to show phase relationships between energized parts before coupling.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers design and construction, types of phase comparators (simultaneous and sequential), connection to VDIS, indication/perceptibility, environmental/mechanical and EMC requirements, dielectric strength and the type tests needed to verify conformity. It does not cover devices intended for direct use on bare live parts (IEC 61481 series covers those).

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Manufacturers of phase comparators and HV test equipment, switchgear OEMs, utilities and grid operators, commissioning and maintenance personnel, and accredited test laboratories use the standard to design, specify, test and validate phase‑comparison equipment.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The edition was published on 29 June 2021 and is the current edition published by IEC; the IEC webstore shows a stability date to 2028. National adoptions and an amendment project (Amendment 1) have been recorded in subsequent years (Amendment 1 in development/status updates available circa 2024–2025). Users should check for amendments or national versions for the latest status before formal procurement.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes — it is Part 215 of the IEC 62271 series (high‑voltage switchgear and controlgear). It references other parts of IEC 62271 and related standards (for VDIS and live‑working equipment).

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Phase comparator; VDIS; voltage detecting and indicating system; IEC 62271; universal phase comparator; sequential connected operation; dielectric strength; EMC; type tests.