This standard is a conformance testing standard optionally applicable to all metal-enclosed interrupter switchgear assemblies designed, tested, and manufactured in accordance with ANSI/IEEE C37.20.3. The requirement of ANSI/IEEE C37.20.3 is sufficient for application of metal-enclosed interrupter switchgear assemblies, and conformance testing is not necessary to satisfy the basic requirements of that standard. Conformance testing is performed to show compliance with the basic requirements when required to satisfy special agreements or regulatory agency requirements. Conformance testing may be performed associated with the basic design testing if agreeable to those concerned; however, conformance testing is more likely to be performed some time after original development to satisfy a special need. Conformance testing need not be performed if not required.

Metal-enclosed interrupter (MEI) switchgear may include control and instrumentation components unique for the application, which are not individually evaluated under this standard.

NOTE—In this standard, the use of the term "MEI switchgear" shall be considered to mean "metal-enclosed interrupter switchgear."

This standard does not cover equipment intended for use in installations under the exclusive control of electric utilities for the purpose of communication or metering, or for the generation, control, transformation, transmission, and distribution of electric energy located in buildings used exclusively by utilities for such purposes or located outdoors on property owned or leased by the utility or on public highways, streets, or roads, or outdoors by established rights on private property.

NOTE—An electric utility is an entity that is overseen by a public utility commission, a public service commission, or other regulatory agency having jurisdiction for such installations.

General

This standard specifies the tests that shall be required to demonstrate that the MEI switchgear being tested conforms with the ratings assigned to it and meets the electrical and mechanical performance requirements specified in ANSI/IEEE C37.20.3.