IEEE C37.59-1996

This standard cannot detail each test that must be carried out to qualify a converted circuit breaker. The specific tests shall be selected by the convertor considering exact changes made from the previously qualified design. The converter shall conduct a thorough and formal design verification for the completed circuit breaker conversion, and shall perform all additional tests determined to be necessary. Present industry conversions involve low- and medium-voltage power circuit breakers used in metal-enclosed and metal-clad switchgear; switchgear vertical sections; and certain ratings of other high-voltage circuit breakers. This document outlines criteria for conversion of those types of equipment and it can also provide guidance in the conversions of other types of power switchgear equipment. A vital part of the conversion process is the coordination of the mechanism-operated contact (MOC) devices with the converted circuit breaker to ensure proper operation. However, since the new, sealed interrupter, modular units may require much less mechanism power than the air magnetic circuit breakers they replace, they may not necessarily have the ability to operate all existing, installed MOCs. Accordingly, this may necessitate substantial revision to or replacement of the MOCs and their operating linkage in the existing vertical sections to assure proper operation. Any conversions and all work performed on third party labeled or listed or involved in Nuclear Regulatory Commission required conformance equipment may void the label, listing, or certification of the equipment. It will be necessary to reapply to the third party for continued certification of the equipment under any and all requirements of the third party for such conversions. For instance, if a UL listed low-voltage switchgear assembly, using UL listed power circuit breakers, is converted to use UL listed molded case circuit breakers, the converted switchgear assembly must be submitted to the UL for evaluation for continued coverage. UL may elect to use this or any other standard as a guide for continued acceptance.
Revision Standard – Superseded. Power switchgear equipment that is converted from the original manufacturer’s designs, whether the conversion is performed in manufacturing plants or at installation sites, is covered.