Overview
IEC 60309-5:2017 is an essential international standard developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) for ensuring dimensional compatibility and interchangeability of plugs, socket-outlets, ship connectors, and ship inlets used in low-voltage shore connection systems (LVSC). This standard specifically addresses marine shore power connections-enabling safe, efficient, and reliable interfaces between shore-side power supplies and vessels as described in IEC/IEEE 80005-3.
IEC 60309-5:2017 applies to a single type of accessory for three-phase LVSC systems, including an earth contact and four pilot contacts. These accessories support maximum operating voltages up to 690 V AC and rated currents up to 350 A. The standard must be used together with IEC 60309-1, which sets out general requirements.
Key Topics
Dimensional Compatibility and Interchangeability
- The standard sets specific requirements for the dimensions of plugs, socket-outlets, ship connectors, and ship inlets used in LVSC systems.
- Standardized dimensions facilitate interchangeability between equipment sourced from different manufacturers.
- Four standardized sheets (5-I through 5-IV) define critical dimensions for each accessory type.
Environmental and Safety Requirements
- Accessories must have a high degree of protection (IP66/IP67), suitable for outdoor and seawater-exposed environments.
- Construction requirements provide for sustained performance in salt spray/corrosive marine conditions, referencing ISO 9227 and ISO 15510 standards for corrosion testing and stainless material suitability.
- Provisions ensure proper earthing, protection against electric shock, and mechanical strength.
- Accessories must withstand short-circuit currents up to 16 kA (RMS, 1 s) and peak withstand current of 40 kA.
Functional Markings and Identification
- Each accessory type must be clearly marked with rated current, voltage, protection rating, and manufacturer information.
- Phase and pilot contact markings ensure safe connections and operational clarity.
Applications
Marine Shore Power Connections
IEC 60309-5:2017 accessories are principally used in ports to connect vessels to onshore electrical power. This application:
- Enables ships to shut down onboard generators while docked, reducing emissions and operational costs.
- Ensures that ships equipped with compliant equipment can safely and reliably connect to shore-side power supplies fitted with standardized accessories.
Port Electrification and Sustainability Initiatives
- Supports environmental goals in port operations by facilitating the use of shore-side power.
- Essential for compliance with regulations requiring reduction of shipboard emissions in port areas.
Shipbuilding and Retrofit Projects
- Relevant for shipyards and marine equipment manufacturers when designing or upgrading vessels for shore power compatibility.
- Essential for specifying and procuring replacement or new socket-outlet, plug, ship connector, and ship inlet components.
Related Standards
For comprehensive implementation or integration with ship-to-shore connection projects, consider the following related standards:
- IEC 60309-1: General requirements for plugs, socket-outlets, and couplers for industrial purposes.
- IEC/IEEE 80005-3: Utility connections in port - Part 3: General requirements for low voltage shore connections (LVSC).
- ISO 9227: Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres – Salt spray tests.
- ISO 15510: Stainless steels – Chemical composition standards.
These documents together provide a complete framework for standardized, safe, and interoperable marine shore connection systems.
Keywords: IEC 60309-5:2017, low-voltage shore connection, LVSC, ship connector, ship inlet, marine shore power, plugs, socket-outlets, dimensional compatibility, interchangeability, port electrification, IEC standards, corrosion resistance, IP66, IP67.
Open preview (PDF)Plugs, socket-outlets and couplers for industrial purposes - Part 5: Dimensional compatibility and interchangeability requirements for plugs, socket-outlets, ship connectors and ship inlets for low-voltage shore connection systems (LVSC)