The IEC 61869-1 standard provides the general requirements for instrument transformers, such as current and voltage transformers. The most recent version, IEC 61869-1:2023, replaces the 2007 edition and incorporates requirements from IEC 61869-6:2016.
Below is a structured "paper" or summary based on the key components of this standard:
IEC 61869-1: General Requirements for Instrument Transformers
1. Scope and ApplicationThis standard applies to newly manufactured instrument transformers (analogue or digital output) intended for high-voltage applications where nominal voltage exceeds
. It serves as a Product Family standard, meaning it must be used alongside specific parts (e.g., Part 2 for Current Transformers). 2. Key Technical Classifications Standard Frequency Range: Covers rated frequencies from
New Accuracy Classes: The 2023 edition introduces optional wideband accuracy classes (like WB1) to evaluate how transformers handle distorted current harmonics.
Environmental Conditions: Defines standard service conditions for temperature, altitude, and vibration.
3. Testing CategoriesThe standard divides testing into several critical categories to ensure safety and reliability:
Type Tests: Verifies the design and is performed once on a representative unit (e.g., temperature-rise tests, impulse voltage tests).
Routine Tests: Performed on every individual transformer (e.g., power-frequency voltage withstand tests). iec 618691 pdf hot
Special Tests: Agreed upon between the manufacturer and purchaser (e.g., corrosion tests).
Commissioning Tests: New to the 2023 edition, these ensure the unit is correctly installed and functional on-site. 4. Major Technical Changes (2023 Edition)
Merger: Integrates general requirements for Low Power Instrument Transformers (previously in Part 6). DC Applications: Expanded scope to include DC systems up to
New Annexes: Includes Annexes E, F, G, and I, which provide updated guidance on technical specifications and testing procedures. Reference Links IEC 61869-1:2023 Official Publication Preview of IEC 61869-1:2023 (iTeh Standards) Evaluation of Wideband Accuracy Paper (ResearchGate)
The most significant recent paper on this topic is the 2025 study titled "Operating Properties of the Inductive Current Transformer and Evaluation of Requirements for Its Compliance with the IEC 61869-1 WB2 Class Extension for Frequency up to 20 kHz". Summary of the Paper
This paper addresses the latest 2023 revision of the IEC 61869-1 standard, which introduced optional wideband accuracy classes (WB0 to WB4) to handle higher harmonics in modern power grids. It specifically explores the WB2 class, which requires accuracy for frequencies up to 20 kHz.
Core Objective: Design and test a high-accuracy (0.1-WB2) inductive current transformer (iCT) using nanocrystalline materials to meet new wideband standards without needing complex electronic compensation.
Key Finding: The paper demonstrates that proper magnetic core design (minimizing the magnetic flux path and limiting secondary load) allows conventional iCTs to maintain high accuracy across a 50 Hz to 20 kHz range.
Significance: This is a "hot" topic because it addresses the growing need for power quality monitoring in grids dominated by high-frequency switching inverters (renewable energy). Key References for IEC 61869-1 (2023 Revision) The IEC 61869-1 standard provides the general requirements
The 2023 edition is the current "active" version and includes several major updates:
Merger with Part 6: It now incorporates additional general requirements for Low Power Instrument Transformers (LPITs).
Expanded Scope: Now covers equipment for high-voltage (HV) applications where nominal voltage is >1 kV AC or >1.5 kV DC.
Digital Integration: Defines error limits for both analogue and digital secondary signals, working in tandem with the IEC 61869-9 digital interface standard.
Testing Revisions: Introduced new classifications for special tests, type tests, and commissioning tests to improve reliability in the field.
For further detailed technical specifications, you can access the full standard or previews at the IEC Webstore or through the iTeh Standards Preview.
EN IEC 61869-9:2019 - Digital Interface for Instrument Transformers
Note: The correct standard designation is IEC 61869 (Series: Instrument Transformers). The typo "618691" is a common search variant. This article addresses both the typo and the intent behind "hot" (new, trending, recent, or high-demand).
The buzz isn’t just random. Several factors are driving the demand for this standard: Why is IEC 61869 So "Hot" Right Now
If you work in electrical engineering, power systems, or grid maintenance, you have likely encountered the term IEC 61869-1. It is one of the most critical standards for ensuring the safety and accuracy of power grids worldwide.
For engineers and procurement officers searching for the IEC 61869-1 PDF, this post breaks down what this standard covers, why it replaced the older IEC 60044 series, and how accessing the official documentation ensures your projects meet global compliance requirements.
IEC 61869 is gradually replacing the old IEC 60044 series for instrument transformers (Voltage Transformers, Current Transformors, and LPITs). If you’re designing a new substation or retrofitting digital relays, you must comply with the new standard. The industry is in a transition phase, and everyone is scrambling to update their specs.
IEC 61869-1 is the first part of the IEC 61869 series, titled “Instrument transformers – Part 1: General requirements.” It serves as the umbrella standard for all instrument transformers, including Current Transformers (CTs) and Voltage Transformers (VTs).
Published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), this standard outlines the general definitions, testing methods, safety requirements, and marking rules for instrument transformers used in electrical power systems.
Recent updates to the standard introduced new metering classes for:
If you use an old PDF from 2011, you are missing the "hot" technical updates regarding 5A vs. 1A secondary currents and low-power CTs (LPCTs).
The IEC 61869 series is the global benchmark for Instrument Transformers. These devices (Current Transformers and Voltage Transformers) are the eyes of the electrical grid. They step down high voltage and current to measurable levels for meters, relays, and protection devices.
The series replaces the old IEC 60044 family. If you are building or maintaining a substation today, IEC 61869 is mandatory.