Comparison of ANSI/IEEE and IEC requirements for low-voltage switchgear

As economies become more global in scope, the ability to satisfy different markets with a single or basic product is attaining an increased focus. For electrical distribution and control products, this is made somewhat difficult due to the difference in standards and market expectations in different parts of the world. This paper discusses and compares some of the major conformance testing and constructional differences between metal-enclosed switchgear designed in accordance with American National Standards Institute/IEEE standards with similar switchgear and controlgear equipment designed in accordance with International Electrotechnical Commission standards. With the comparison of the constructional and conformance test procedures between the two standards, it becomes evident that the application of the products in an environment foreign to the standard to which it was designed requires careful consideration.