GB21518-2022
Minimum allowable values of energy efficiency and energy efficiency grades for AC contactors
交流接触器能效限定值及能效等级
GB 21518-2022 is a current mandatory Chinese national standard for Minimum allowable values of energy efficiency and energy efficiency grades for AC contactors. It appears in the Construction compliance cluster with a energy efficiency focus and has an implementation date of Jan 1, 2024.
Applicability depends on product scope, certification route, competent authority notices and transition rules. Requst for the translation or verify source before using this record in a compliance decision.
Compliance overview
Scope and applicability
This standard applies to three-pole electromechanical, direct-acting integral AC contactors with a rated frequency of 50Hz, main circuit rated working voltage up to 1000V, and rated working current from 6A to 630A. It specifically targets contactors with a rated control supply voltage of AC 400V and below, categorized under utilization category AC-3. This standard is not applicable to external power-saving devices, household contactors, or semiconductor (solid-state) contactors.
Technical requirements
GB 21518-2022 establishes the energy efficiency grades and minimum allowable values of energy efficiency for AC contactors. The standard classifies contactors into three energy efficiency grades, where Grade 1 represents the highest efficiency level. The core technical requirement focuses on the holding power (apparent power consumed when the main circuit contacts are kept closed) under specific rated working currents. Manufacturers must ensure that the measured holding power does not exceed the maximum allowable values specified for Grade 3, which serves as the mandatory energy efficiency threshold. The standard also defines terms such as contactors of the same frame size and integral contactors to ensure consistent classification during compliance assessments. It references foundational low-voltage switchgear standards like GB/T 14048.1 and GB/T 14048.4 for general terminology and requirements.
Testing methods
The standard outlines specific sampling procedures based on variations in rated control supply voltage and main circuit rated working current. Testing must be conducted in a controlled environment with an ambient temperature of 23°C ± 3°C and no load in the main or control circuits. The evaluation involves measuring the control circuit current once stabilized and calculating the holding power using the formula $S_h = U_s \times I$. Measurements require instruments with an accuracy of class 0.2 or higher, and the measurement uncertainty for holding power must be strictly below 5%.
FAQs
What products are regulated under GB 21518-2022?
It regulates integral AC contactors (50Hz, up to 1000V, 6A-630A) used in AC-3 utilization categories, explicitly excluding solid-state and household types.
What is the mandatory minimum energy efficiency requirement?
The mandatory minimum allowable value corresponds to Grade 3 energy efficiency. Products must not exceed the maximum holding power limits set for this grade.
Are there specific environmental conditions required for testing?
Yes, testing must be performed at an ambient temperature of 23°C ± 3°C with sufficient power supply capacity and no loads connected to the main or control circuits.
The summary above provides a high-level overview of GB 21518-2022. To ensure complete compliance for your products entering the Chinese market, a precise and professional translation of the full technical specifications is essential. Purchase our high-quality English translation of GB 21518-2022 today to access all detailed parameters, holding power tables, and testing procedures.
Applicability hints
- Type
- Foundational
- CCS
- F01
- ICS
- 27.010
- Competent department
- Standardization Administration of China
- Technical committee
- National Technical Committee on Energy Fundamentals and Management of Standardization Administration of China
Relationships
Replaces:GB 21518-2008