Which referenced standard in the guide applies to metal-enclosed low-voltage power circuit breaker switchgear?

IEEE C37.20.1 is the specific standard for Metal-Enclosed Low-Voltage Power Circuit Breaker Switchgear. This standard defines the design, construction, testing requirements, and ratings for switchgear assemblies containing low-voltage power circuit breakers (up to 1000 V AC). Key industry guides, such as API Recommended Practice 14F, which governs electrical systems for petroleum facilities, explicitly reference IEEE C37.20.1 as the governing standard for this type of equipment. It ensures that the entire assembly, not just individual components, meets stringent safety and performance criteria for industrial applications.

A. IEEE C37.13: This standard applies specifically to the low-voltage AC power circuit breakers themselves, which are components used within the switchgear, not the entire metal-enclosed assembly.
C. NEMA ICS 2: This standard covers industrial control devices like motor controllers, contactors, and overload relays, which are different from power distribution switchgear.
D. UL 489: This is the standard for molded-case circuit breakers (MCCBs). While MCCBs are overcurrent protection devices, they are distinct from the low-voltage power circuit breakers covered by IEEE C37.13 and used in switchgear governed by C37.20.1.

1. IEEE Std C37.20.1-2015, IEEE Standard for Metal-Enclosed Low-Voltage (1000 V AC and below, 3200 V DC and below) Power Circuit Breaker Switchgear.

Section 1, Scope: "This standard covers metal-enclosed low-voltage power circuit breaker switchgear assemblies containing but not limited to...low-voltage power circuit breakers...for use in generation, transmission, distribution, and industrial applications."

2. API Recommended Practice 14F, 6th Edition, 2018, Recommended Practice for Design, Installation, and Maintenance of Electrical Systems for Fixed and Floating Offshore Petroleum Facilities.

Section 6.3.2.1, General: "Low-voltage switchgear should be of the metal-enclosed dead-front type and should be designed, manufactured, and tested in accordance with IEEE C37.20.1."

3. Glover, J. D., Sarma, M. S., & Overbye, T. J. (2011). Power System Analysis and Design. Cengage Learning.

Chapter 11, Section 11.2, Circuit Breakers: This chapter discusses various types of circuit breakers and switchgear, referencing the IEEE C37 series standards as the primary guidelines for their ratings and application in North America. It distinguishes between standards for breakers (e.g., C37.13) and for the complete switchgear assembly (e.g., C37.20.1).