AS/NZS 61439 standard update
What is AS/NZS 61439?
AS/NZS 61439 is a series of standards for low voltage switchgear and control gear assemblies which are derived from the International IEC series but with specific notes relating to Australian and New Zealand. The 61439 series helps address the need for portability between Australia, New Zealand and international suppliers.
AS/NZS 61439 has 7 parts:
Part 0 - A guide for specifiers to be used at tender
Part 1 - General rules
Part 2 - Low voltage switchgear and control gear assemblies
Part 3 - Distribution boards intended to be operated by ordinary persons
Part 4 - Assemblies for construction sites
Part 5 - Assemblies for power distribution in public networks
Part 6 - Busbar trunking systems
What standard do I have to comply with?
AS/NZS 3000 requires that new ASSEMBLIES are to comply with the relevant part of the AS/NZS 61439 series or AS/NZS 3439 (available superseded). (Refer to local state regulations).
Alterations and upgrades may comply with the original standard to which the switchboard was designed, installed, and energised.
Why the standard has changed?
AS/NZS 3439 was first introduced in 1998. There have since been many changes and improvements to electrical switchgear, design, manufacture and safety processes. As the electrical industry advances, standards are updated to suit the current technology and market demand.
The AS/NZS 61439 has compiled all the testing procedures from other standards into one place to make it much easier for design and verification for switchboard manufacturers.
The series of standards also aim to harmonise the rules and requirements of the international and local low-voltage switchgear and control gear assemblies (ASSEMBLIES) as far as practicable.
Term for a compliant switchboard
Design Verified. The terms ’Type Test (TT)’ and ’Partial Type Test (PTT)’ are no longer used.
Device substitution
Allowed if not exceeding 3150A and equal or lower watts loss and terminal temperature, and conditions in Table 13 are satisfied. Download whitepaper
Heat rise testing and calculations
Must be completed as a complete system
(all covers fitted and electrical components connected).
Temperature limits of copper conductor
ΔT of 105K from a mean of 35°C. Therefore, a maximum theoretical mean of 140°C on the copper.
Heat rise calculation using AS 60890
For a single compartment ASSEMBLIES not exceeding 630A or for multicompartment ASSEMBLIES not exceeding 1600A.
Staying within scope of the design
Changes made to an already verified assembly will need to stay within the design scope provided by the original manufacturer.
How can you make sure your site is AS/NZS 61439 compliant?
NHP has worked comprehensively with our global partners to give you hassle-free solutions for your enterprise needs.
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CUBIC switchboards
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Terasaki circuit breakers
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NHP panelboards
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Socomec enclosed ATyS Bypass
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Allen-Bradley CENTERLINE 2500 motor control centres
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Allen-Bradley Powerflex 755 arc fault contained VSDs
Resources and downloads
For further information on AS/NZS 61439 changes information and product options, please download the documents below or contact your local NHP Account Representative.
Technical downloads
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Knowledge base brochures
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Product selection assistance
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Standard certificates of conformity (SDocs)
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CAD blocks