EN 60921:2004/A1:2006

Overview

EN 60921:2004/A1:2006 is a European standard developed by CLC (European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization) that specifies the performance requirements for ballasts used with tubular fluorescent lamps. This standard is an amendment to EN 60921:2004 and aligns with the IEC 60921:2004/A1:2006 international standard issued by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). Its primary focus is to ensure the reliability, safety, and efficiency of ballasts operating tubular fluorescent lamps, which are key components in lighting systems worldwide.

The amendment A1 was approved on June 1, 2006, and establishes updated procedures and requirements for testing and performance evaluation to maintain high-quality standards across Europe. Compliance with EN 60921:2004/A1:2006 is mandatory for CENELEC members, ensuring harmonization of electrotechnical products and facilitating market access.

Key Topics

• Performance Requirements: Specifies criteria for electrical and operational performance of ballasts including starting characteristics, lamp current control, and power consumption.
• Testing Protocols: Details test methods to validate ballast performance under various operating conditions to ensure consistency and safety.
• Compliance and Endorsement: Sets deadlines for adoption and withdrawal of conflicting national standards, mandating nationwide implementation.
• Lamp Compatibility: Highlights the importance of following existing lamp performance standards for proper ballast design and operation.
• Product Safety: Addresses operational safety margins to reduce risks of overheating, electrical faults, or lamp malfunction in commercial or residential applications.

Applications

EN 60921:2004/A1:2006 applies across multiple sectors where tubular fluorescent lighting is used, providing consistent performance and energy efficiency benefits:

• Commercial Lighting: Offices, retail spaces, and industrial buildings use ballasts meeting this standard for reliable, long-duration operation.
• Public Infrastructure: Airports, train stations, and public government buildings require standardized ballasts for safe and consistent lighting.
• Residential Use: High-efficiency ballasts for household fluorescent fixtures reduce energy consumption and lamp flicker.
• Manufacturing: Lighting product manufacturers must comply with EN 60921:2004/A1:2006 to ensure product acceptance in the European market.
• Energy Management Systems: Facilitates integration of ballasts into energy-saving lighting systems compliant with latest regulations.

Related Standards

EN 60921:2004/A1:2006 should be considered in conjunction with other standards related to fluorescent lamp operation and safety, such as:

• IEC 60921:2004: The base international standard for ballasts of tubular fluorescent lamps, upon which this amendment is based.
• Lamp Performance Standards: Documents detailing electrical and luminous characteristics of fluorescent lamps, providing design guidance for compatible ballasts.
• IEC TC 34 Series: Broader series of standards covering lamp auxiliaries, ensuring seamless product interoperability and safety conformity.
• Energy Efficiency Regulations: European directives targeting lighting efficiency and environmental impact, supported by standardized ballast performance.

By adhering to EN 60921:2004/A1:2006, manufacturers and users of tubular fluorescent lamp ballasts benefit from enhanced product quality, improved safety, and compliance with European electrification and energy-saving objectives. This standard plays a vital role in ensuring the reliable performance and longevity of fluorescent lighting installations across diverse sectors.