SIST EN 61270-1:1999

Overview

EN 61270-1:1996 (CLC) - Capacitors for microwave ovens - Part 1: General sets uniform rules for the design, performance and safety of capacitors used in microwave ovens. The standard applies to metal-cased, non-self-healing capacitors with metal foil electrodes and paper and/or plastic dielectrics impregnated with oil, rated for alternating voltages up to 3 000 V and with a superimposed DC of up to 1.13 × rated AC voltage. It also limits the upper rated maximum temperature to 100 °C. EN 61270-1:1996 provides general requirements covering performance, testing, rating and safety for these specific capacitor types.

Key Topics

• Scope and application: Defines which capacitor constructions and operating conditions are covered (metal case, oil-impregnated dielectrics, non-self-healing behavior).
• Performance requirements: Uniform rules for electrical characteristics and service behavior under normal operating conditions.
• Testing and type/production tests: Principles for verifying dielectric, thermal and electrical performance (type tests and routine/production checks are specified in the document).
• Rating and marking: Guidance on rated voltages, allowable superimposed DC, temperature ratings and mandatory markings for safe identification.
• Safety rules: Specific safety measures tied to non-self-healing capacitors and oil-impregnated constructions, including enclosure and insulation considerations.
• Environmental and reliability considerations: Temperature limits (up to 100 °C) and construction requirements that affect long-term reliability in microwave oven environments.

Applications

EN 61270-1:1996 is relevant to professionals concerned with the safe and reliable use of capacitors in microwave ovens, including:

• Capacitor manufacturers designing metal-cased, oil-impregnated capacitors for oven applications.
• Microwave oven OEMs specifying components that meet safety and performance rules.
• Electrical test laboratories performing type-approval and routine testing to confirm compliance.
• Regulatory and safety authorities evaluating appliance safety and conformity.
• Procurement and quality engineers ensuring purchased capacitors meet required ratings and markings.

Related Standards

• The standard is aligned with IEC 61270-1:1996 (international reference). National adoptions may exist (e.g., SIST EN 61270-1:1999 noted in Slovenia).
• For complete system compliance, users often consult additional parts of the IEC/EN capacitor series and appliance safety standards relevant to microwave ovens.

By following EN 61270-1:1996, manufacturers and appliance designers ensure that capacitors used in microwave ovens meet consistent safety, performance, and testing expectations for oil-impregnated, metal-cased capacitor constructions.