SIST EN 60143-1:2015/A1:2024

Overview

SIST EN 60143-1:2015/A1:2024 is a key European standard published by CLC focusing on series capacitors for power systems. This document serves as Part 1: General and provides foundational guidelines and general principles relevant to the design, application, and protection of series capacitors used within electrical power networks. The amendment issued in 2023 updates the original 2015 standard to reflect the latest technical evolutions and best practices in power capacitor technology.

Series capacitors are vital components in high-voltage power systems, enhancing transmission efficiency, controlling power flow, and improving system stability. This standard ensures uniformity and safety in how these components are applied across diverse power systems.

Key Topics

• Scope and General Requirements
  The standard outlines the common requirements applicable to series capacitors employed in power transmission networks. It addresses performance criteria, safety considerations, and key operational parameters without limiting to a specific application or capacitor type.

• Protective Devices and Coordination
  A significant update in Amendment 1 relates to the protection systems combining varistors with forced triggered bypass gaps. The updated clause emphasizes calculating the coordinating current for the varistor based on the maximum expected fault current and considers the timing and control mechanisms of the bypass gap firing system. This enhances reliability and performance during fault conditions.

• Harmonization with IEC Standards
  SIST EN 60143-1:2015/A1:2024 perfectly aligns with IEC 60143-1:2015/AMD1:2023, ensuring international consistency. This uniformity supports multinational manufacturers and utilities by facilitating compliance and interoperability.

• Regulatory Implementation Dates
  National adoption deadlines are set to ensure the harmonized application of the standard across CENELEC member countries. Conflicting national standards must be withdrawn by December 2026, promoting a unified regulatory environment.

Applications

• Power Transmission Networks
  Series capacitors covered by this standard are widely used in high-voltage transmission lines to reduce reactive power losses, boost transmission capacity, and enhance voltage profiles.

• System Stability Enhancement
  By optimizing power flow and controlling line impedance, series capacitors contribute to dynamic stability of the grid, minimizing voltage fluctuations and power oscillations.

• Fault Protection and Safety
  Updated protection requirements for devices such as varistors with bypass gaps ensure effective operation during transient faults, protecting the capacitors and associated equipment from damage and ensuring safe system shutdown when necessary.

• Equipment Design and Testing
  Equipment designers and testing authorities utilize this standard to develop and verify series capacitors that meet established international performance and safety benchmarks.

Related Standards

• IEC 60143 Series
  This European standard is a direct adoption of the International Electrotechnical Commission’s documents related to power capacitors, ensuring global alignment.

• National Electrotechnical Standards
  Member countries within CENELEC integrate EN 60143-1 into their national frameworks, replacing or harmonizing with existing local standards governing power capacitor technologies.

• ISO/IEC Directives Compliance
  The preparation and amendment of this standard conform to ISO/IEC directives, promoting high-quality and trustworthy international standard development practices.

Summary

SIST EN 60143-1:2015/A1:2024 is an essential reference for professionals involved in the design, installation, and maintenance of series capacitors in power systems. It offers updated guidance on protective arrangements and general requirements that significantly enhance system safety, reliability, and efficiency. Compliance with this standard supports interoperability and regulatory compliance across Europe and beyond, aiding power utilities, manufacturers, and testing laboratories in meeting contemporary electrical network challenges.

Keywords: series capacitors, power systems, EN 60143-1 amendment, power capacitors standard, varistor protection, bypass gap, power transmission, electrical safety standards, CENELEC standards, IEC harmonization