Overview
IEC 62873-3-2:2016 specifies particular requirements for residual current operated circuit-breakers (RCDs) that are fitted with flat quick-connect terminations. It applies to RCDs with an integral male tab of nominal 6.3 mm width × 0.8 mm thickness, intended to mate with a female connector for copper conductors, for rated currents up to and including 16 A (usage to 20 A accepted in some countries). This part is supplementary and must be used together with the relevant RCD product standard (IEC 61008-1 or IEC 61009-1).
Key topics and requirements
- Scope & components
- Covers RCDs having integral male tabs and matching female connectors (flat quick-connect terminations).
- Connectable conductors: flexible up to 4 mm², rigid stranded up to 2.5 mm² (AWG ≥ 12).
- Dimensional requirements
- Mandatory tab dimensions and detent locations are specified (see tables and figures in the standard) to ensure interchangeability and secure mating.
- Materials & plating
- Terminals shall be of metal with adequate mechanical strength, conductivity and corrosion resistance; silver- or tin-plated copper alloys are cited as suitable examples.
- Mechanical retention and testing
- Male tabs must be securely retained. Compliance is verified by mechanical overload-force tests and other tests referenced in Clause 9.
- Thermal and electrical performance
- Temperature-rise measurements and construction requirements ensure safe operation at rated current.
- Marking & instructions
- Manufacturers must provide product identification and connector information, including colour coding of female connectors relative to conductor cross-section (examples: 1 mm² = red; 2.5 mm² = blue or yellow; 4 mm² = yellow).
- Compatibility
- Shapes may vary (corrugations, folds) provided required dimensions and test performance are met.
Applications and who uses this standard
- Manufacturers and product designers of RCDs and accessories use IEC 62873-3-2 to design compliant flat quick-connect terminations.
- Test and certification laboratories apply the standard’s dimensional, mechanical and thermal test methods for compliance verification.
- Compliance engineers and procurement teams reference the standard when specifying RCDs for household and similar use.
- Electrical installers and specifiers benefit from the clear conductor-connector compatibility and colour-coding guidance when selecting connectors and wiring.
Related standards
- IEC 61008-1 (RCCBs) and IEC 61009-1 (RCBOs) - product standards to be applied in conjunction.
- IEC 61210 - safety requirements for flat quick-connect terminations.
- IEC 62873-2 - vocabulary for RCD-related terms.
Keywords: IEC 62873-3-2, RCD, residual current operated circuit-breaker, flat quick-connect terminations, male tab 6.3 mm, female connector, 16 A, IEC 61008-1, IEC 61009-1, IEC 61210.
Open preview (PDF)Residual current operated circuit-breakers for household and similar use - Part 3-2: Particular requirements for RCDs with flat quick-connect terminations
