What is EN 61326-2-1:2020?

The EN 61326-2-1:2020 standard is an international technical standard that specifies requirements for electrical equipment used for measurement, control, and laboratory use. This standard is applicable to a wide range of devices, including industrial process measurement and control equipment, scientific laboratory instruments, and test and measurement instruments.

Scope and Objectives

The scope of EN 61326-2-1:2020 encompasses all aspects of electrical equipment that are involved in measurement and control processes or used in laboratory settings. The standard sets forth specific requirements for these devices to ensure their accuracy, reliability, and safety.

The main objectives of this standard are to:

Establish general requirements for electrical equipment used in measurement and control applications;

Define performance criteria for such equipment to ensure accurate and reliable results;

Promote compatibility and interoperability among different types of measurement and control equipment;

Ensure the safety of operators, other personnel, and the equipment itself.

Main Requirements of EN 61326-2-1:2020

EN 61326-2-1:2020 outlines several key requirements that manufacturers and users of electrical equipment should consider. Some of the main requirements include:

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC): The standard defines limits for electromagnetic emissions and immunity to ensure that devices can function properly even in the presence of electromagnetic disturbances.

Safety: EN 61326-2-1:2020 sets forth safety requirements to protect users, operators, and equipment from potential hazards, such as electric shock or fire. It covers aspects such as electrical insulation, protective grounding, and protection against overvoltage.

Environmental Conditions: The standard specifies the conditions under which equipment should be able to operate without performance degradation. These conditions include temperature, humidity, vibration, and altitude.

Sampling Rate and Accuracy: EN 61326-2-1:2020 defines requirements for the sampling rate and accuracy of measurement equipment to ensure reliable and precise results.

Compliance and Certification

In order to demonstrate compliance with EN 61326-2-1:2020, manufacturers need to perform specific tests and evaluations on their equipment. This includes testing for electromagnetic compatibility, safety features, environmental effects, and performance characteristics. Once a device meets all the requirements outlined in the standard, it can be certified accordingly.

Certification is essential for both manufacturers and users of electrical equipment as it provides assurance that the devices meet international standards for quality, reliability, and safety. Compliance with EN 61326-2-1:2020 also ensures compatibility and interoperability between different brands and types of equipment, allowing for seamless integration and connectivity in various measurement and control applications.