e-tech News & views

from the IEC

ISSUE 05/2013

SUPERSMALL, SUPERFAST

INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT

Market trends
Mini, micro, nano

TECHNOLOGY FOCUS

Disruptive printing
The printed electronics revolution

TECHNICAL COMMITTEE AFFAIRS

TC 119
Printout for the future

TC 107
Keep safety sky high

IEC WORLD

CEM4
Increasing global energy safety
 CONTENTS

4 5 7

8 16 29
4 Printed electronics, set to revolutionize the electronics industry, will prove a disruptive, yet creative process that will allow the production of
new low-cost electronic devices 5 The IEC was invited to participate in the GSEP annual summit and hosted a session on energy microgrids for
disaster resilience and recovery 7 A new brochure showcases IEC work in the energy sector 8 IEC TC 107 prepares International Standards to
ensure the safety and reliability of avionics products and systems 16 IECEE just launched a new service entirely dedicated to industrial automation
29 New feedback button on IEC websites.

EDITORI AL IE C WO R L D
Supersmall, superfast 3 Increasing global energy safety 22
Focus of the month
TECHNOL O GY FO CU S Stimulating national adoption 23
Supersmall, superfast Disruptive printing 4
WSD 2013 – Frederica Scott Vollrath 25
IEC shares vision with energy leaders 5 designs a winner
This issue of e-tech focuses
on the trend to reduce the size The IEC helps keep the power on 7 Upcoming global event 26
of many systems and devices,
which is gathering pace and Citius, Altius, Fortius 8 IE C FAM ILY
is driven by cost, energy Meeting expectations – IEC training 27
INDUSTR Y S P O T L IGHT workshops in Southeast Asia
efficiency and environmental
Small is beautiful 11
considerations. It is most Latest nominations and extensions 28
noticeable in the electrical TECHNIC AL CO M M IT T E E S
and electronic domains which AFFAIRS IN S T O R E
provide components that are IEC TC 119 – Printout for the future 13 Keeping in touch – new feedback 29
integrated into other equipment button on IEC websites
IEC TC 107 – Keep safety sky high 14
and systems like mechanical
Very small yet global – Standardization 30
products, to make them smaller, CONFOR M IT Y AS S E S S M E NT for nanotechnology set to boost global
more efficient, reliable and IECEE – Focus on industrial 16 industry
cheaper to operate. automation

IECEx – Preventing dust explosions 18

MEMS tested and certified by IECQ 21

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 ISSUE FOCUS

Supersmall, superfast
IEC Standardization work makes it possible

Benefits for industry and consumers

The advantages of small components, systems and installations are obvious: new
technologies such as printed electronics allow more compact equipment that finds
its use where space and weight are at a premium, like on aircraft where avionics
products are replacing older analogue systems. The use of MEMS has brought forward
a new generation of smaller and thinner portable electronic devices, increasing their
performance, accuracy and reliability. Many other industry sectors benefit from these
Claire Marchand, technological advances.
Managing Editor e-tech.
International Standards
The trend towards the production of smaller systems and products has been
Mini, pico, nano, micro are
made possible by the work of dozens of IEC TCs (Technical Committees) and their
prefixes that are getting
SCs (Subcommittees), whose title often indicates that their work focuses on small
ever more common in the
components.
electrotechnology world.
They are used to describe
components, such as MEMS
(micro-electromechanical
systems), technologies
(nanotechnology),
installations (pico hydro-
stations) or networks
(minigrids).

MEMS developed by the Institute for Micro-hydroelectric system in Bhutan Nano dipole antennas under the
System Level Integration (Photo: ISLI) (Photo: Schatz Energy Research Center) microscope. The colors reflect the different
transmission frequencies (Photo: LTI)

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 TECHNOLOGY FOCUS

Disruptive printing
Printed electronics is a relatively new transformational technology

Morand Fachot printing methods (e.g. lithography, inkjet, Multiple applications

Printed electronics is set to or screen printing,) allows great design PE are already widely used in RFID (radio
revolutionize the electronics industry flexibility and possibilities. frequency identification) tags on product
and many other domains. It will prove packaging to protect against shoplifting
a disruptive, yet creative process that Both inorganic and organic materials and to identify items during transport.
will allow the production of new low- are used for printed electronics. Organic They are also used in the production
cost electronic devices. Equipment, materials can be found in products of flexible electronic circuits which are
substrates and printing processes such as OLED (organic light-emitting widespread in products where space
are already widely available. An diodes) displays used in televisions sets, constraints are significant, such as in
IEC TC was set up in 2011 to prepare computer monitors or mobile phones, small consumer electronics devices
International Standards in the field and OPVC (organic PV cells). (i.e. digital cameras, mobile phones).
of printed electronics.
Innovative materials such as carbon Technologies are being developed that
nanotubes allow new or enhanced make it possible to print electronic
The new printing revolution applications for batteries, new types of components, such as sensors,
Printing is no longer just about solar cells, ultracapacitors and electrical transistors, light-emitters, smart tags and
reproducing text and images with circuits. labels, flexible batteries to power flexible
ink on paper or another support. and printed electronics, memory, etc.
3D printing, rapid prototyping or additive Engineers throughout the world use
manufacturing, as it is often called, has printed electronics to design a variety New printed electronics applications are
seen the creation of various objects by of components and products, such as emerging opening up possibilities not
adding successive layers of materials to TFT (thin film transistor), flexible displays envisaged before. One such application is
create a product. that can be unfolded to make up a large in the domain of printed batteries.
television, PV (photovoltaic) cells that fit US scientist have recently printed a lithium-
Another form of 3D-related printing, windows or the roofs of cars or innovative ion battery the size of a grain of sand that
PE (printed electronics), is fast emerging and energy-efficient lighting solutions. could one day power tiny medical implants
and set to revolutionize many industrial as well as other micro electronic devices.
applications. It consists in the creation of In the short- and medium term, hybrid
electronic devices and components using systems – combining printed, flexible From research to industrial design
various printing methods, equipment and electronics with building blocks and to marketable products
material. containing classical (silicon) electronics New technologies in the printed
will be introduced. electronics domain are emerging all the
This technology makes it possible to
produce a wide variety of products that
can be used in countless applications.
It has other advantages, such as much
lower production costs than conventional
electronics and it can be applied
to flexible or rigid supports (or
substrates).

Wide range of materials

PE transforms the way electronic
devices are made and employed.
Using materials (inks and substrates)
that have conducting, semiconducting,
non-conducting, electroluminescent,
Printed electronic component Carbon nanotubes are used to make printed
PV or other properties, and different electronic products

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 TECHNOLOGY
ISSUE FOCUS

time, many are still at the research stage • ISS (integrated smart systems)
or under development and not ready for that include smart objects,
commercialization yet. sensors like MEMS (micro
electro mechanical system) and
However, printed electronics are being smart textiles.
found in more and more mass-produced
items, in particular in the automotive, IEC contribution
consumer electronics and pharmaceutical The 5 areas that see widespread use of
industries, as well as in packaging where printed electronics are already covered by
smart labels can provide item-level several IEC TCs (Technical Committees).
tracking of quality data for goods such as However, printed electronics industry
pharmaceuticals and perishable food. experts stressed, at their regular trade
meetings and events, a need for
Printed photovoltaic panel (Photo: Solamet)
The printed electronics industry currently standardization in a number of
covers 5 main areas: PE-specific areas. These include
terminology, materials, processes,
• Lighting, including both OLED and equipments, products as well as health, October 2011. It has 11 participating
electroluminescent (EL) products) safety and environment issues. As members and 7 observer members.
• Organic PV a result of this need the IEC’s SMB Given the rapid growth of the PE industry
• Flexible displays (Standardization Management Board) in recent years and its prospects
• Electronics and components, decided to create TC 119 to prepare in the future the obvious need for
including RFID, memories, batteries standardization work in the field of printed PE standardization points to a very
and other components electronics. TC 119 was established in dynamic future for TC 119.

IEC shares vision with energy leaders

IEC President attends GSEP 2013 Washington Summit

Janice Blondeau with the aim to promote sustainable for developing nations. The original
At the recent GSEP (Global energy development through electricity GSEP founders, Électricité de France and
Sustainable Electricity Partnership) sector projects and training programmes Hydro-Québec, invited the chairmen of
annual summit the IEC was invited
to participate in the programme and
also hosted a session on energy
microgrids for disaster resilience and
recovery. The GSEP summit, held in
Washington D.C. on 5-7 June 2013,
brought together the heads of the
largest electricity companies in the
world. IEC President Klaus Wucherer
represented the IEC at this key
international gathering of electric
utility leaders.

The GSEP and its annual summit

The GSEP was created in 1992 in the
context of the UN Rio Earth Summit, The GSEP Summit brought together the world’s 14 leading electric utilities. (Image: GSEP)

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TECHNOLOGY FOCUS

Keep the electricity on, no matter what The role of small-scale renewable energy
IEC President Klaus Wucherer welcomed systems, such as roof-top solar, in
participants at the IEC-hosted session disaster recovery and the role that
which discussed how microgrids may IEC International Standards could play in
assist energy utilities to resist disaster microgrid operation and disaster recovery
and to enable faster recovery when were also discussed. On the agenda
disaster strikes. SGCC (State Grid as well were the interdependencies
Corporation of China) CEO Liu Zhenya that can complicate today’s electricity
gave the opening address, stating that networks – such as relationships between
coordinated development and integration communication systems, fuel supplies
between UHV grids and grids at all and distribution system operation.
levels was the key for constructing a
“strong, smart, green” next generation Discussions also recognized the urgent
IEC President Klaus Wucherer represented the
IEC at the GSEP Summit in Washington D.C. grid. He highlighted that IEC International need to upgrade infrastructure to
Standards are fundamental for these ensure the reliability of the grid, and the
innovations to be realised. Glenn Platt challenges that this brings, such as rising
of the Local Energy Systems division costs and consumers not wanting price
of Australia’s CSIRO (Commonwealth increases. Policy makers and utilities will
Scientific and Industrial Research need to look at this in different ways to
Organisation) moderated the discussion. find new solutions.

Recent natural disasters including IEC and CSIRO working on new

tsunamis, widespread flooding, White Paper
hurricanes and bushfires have left millions Recognizing these opportunities and
of people without power and the critical the challenges still to be overcome,
services it assures. Ensuring that the in September 2012 the IEC MSB
electricity stays on when natural disasters (Market Strategy Board) started working
strike is crucial, especially since climate on a MDR (microgrid for disaster
change science suggests the frequency recovery) project. A Microgrid Disaster
Smart microgrids bring advantages for both of these disasters is likely to increase. Preparedness and Recovery workshop
disaster resilience and recovery.
In addition, despite the best efforts and meeting was hosted by IEC in early
of system engineers, major unrelated 2013. In cooperation with CSIRO and
power outages have occurred when an IEC MSB member from Japan, the
some of the largest electric utilities among small electrical faults have cascaded into IEC Market Strategy Board is preparing
G7 countries to create an international serious network-wide failures. a White Paper on microgrids for disaster
group. Today the GSEP brings together recovery, with publication planned for
the world’s 14 leading electricity companies. Energy microgrids in disaster recovery October 2013.
“Smart microgrids present an accessible
The GSEP Washington summit featured and reliable solution for recovery, given About microgrids
exchanges between the GSEP member their flexibility to resist outages A microgrid is a collection of controllable
companies’ Chairmen and distinguished caused by disasters,” said IEC President and physically proximate distributed
guests including former US President Klaus Wucherer. “They allow energy to be generator and load resources, with
Bill Clinton and World Bank President available and distributed to communities multiple sources of power of which at
Dr Jim Yong Kim. where or close to where it is generated. least one is based on a renewable energy
Microgrids could help ensure that when technology.
During the summit, Wucherer participated a disaster occurs, the electrical power is
in a panel discussion on the impact of kept on, to help life get back to normal for There are a number of reasons why
emerging technologies and innovations those affected.” microgrids are now receiving significant
on the current business models. The attention. If the wider grid is operational
IEC participated in the summit as an For the utility, microgrids may ease the but strained, a microgrid can assist by
invited guest as did MIT (Massachusetts challenge of controlling large numbers reducing the load on the wider grid or
Institute of Technology), the World of distributed resources by making by exporting power from the microgrid
Energy Council and EPRI (Electric Power distributed generation control an internal to a surrounding area. As well as power
Research Institute). process, operating within the microgrid. management, microgrids can also help

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 TECHNOLOGY
ISSUE FOCUS

with voltage and frequency control in prepares International systems The IEC participates in the UN
such situations. Standards for equipment, protection Foundation Energy Access Practitioner
schemes, and communication Network to address market barriers to
Microgrids group distinct distributed systems. achieve universal energy access, as part
resources such as generators or loads so of the global initiative on SE4ALL.
that they represent a single generator or Clean energy for all
load to the wider electricity system. They A highlight of the summit was
are also useful in areas not yet reached Jim Yong Kim’s speech on the role
by the main grid. the World Bank can play in advancing GSEP
universal energy access and the
IEC work on microgrids importance of having a coordinated effort The Global Sustainable Electricity
IEC SG (Strategic Group) 3: Smart Grid, across sectors. His intervention stressed Partnership is an organization
developed the Smart Grid Roadmap with the importance of GSEP’s UNSE4ALL of the world’s leading electricity
microgrids placed within DER (Distributed (the Sustainable Energy for All companies that promotes
Energy Resources). Guidelines for initiative of the UN) commitment. sustainable energy develpment
the General Planning and Design of President Clinton stated that the through electricity sector projects
Microgrids have been submitted as new answer to poverty reduction is access and human capacity building
work proposals in IEC TC (Technical to electricity and that international activities in developing and
Committee) 8: Systems aspects for cooperation is essential to achieve this emerging nations worldwide.
electrical energy supply. TC 8 also on a global scale.

The IEC helps keep the power on

New brochure showcases work in the energy sector

Janice Blondeau of emerging systems such as off-grid The IEC and energy
Modern life is unthinkable without small-scale sustainable energy initiatives. The new brochure provides insights,
electricity – it transforms lives. IEC’s primary drivers are safety, energy with colourful photos and graphics,
IEC International Standards cover efficiency and systems compatibility, thus of how the IEC and the thousands of
all facets of electrical energy enabling safe and economic use experts who participate in its work are
generation, distribution, storage and of electrical and electronic goods committed to bringing reliable and
use; including manufacturing, Smart and services wherever they are safe electricity to the world, including
Grid, smart cities, smart buildings, needed. the 1,3 billion people who so urgently
and e-mobility. They allow millions of need it. It presents real life examples
components, devices and systems Electricity lights homes, offices and
that use or produce electricity or public spaces, drives information and
contain electronics to work safely communication technology, enables
with each other everywhere in financial transactions and powers
the world. A new brochure shows gadgets and mobile phones. IEC work
just how the IEC is working when covers the devices that use electricity
it comes to energy – you may be at home, in the office, in healthcare
surprised! facilities or public spaces, as well
as the components from which they
are all built.
Wherever there’s electric energy
the IEC is present The IEC also administers Conformity
IEC has led the way in establishing Assessment Systems with thousands
International Standards for transmission, of testing laboratories that certify that
connection and use. It provides detailed components, equipment and systems How the IEC helps keep the power on is the
technical guidance for implementers meet its Standards. theme of a new brochure

Issue 05/2013 I e-tech 7

TECHNOLOGY FOCUS

T&D (Transmission & Distribution),

storage, components, connectors,
cables and switches. Also covered
is work in interoperability, safety,
EMC (Electromagnetic compatibility),
terminology, and the environment and
hazardous substances.

The brochure Electrical energy...

the IEC helps keep the power
on can be downloaded in
PDF format or as a paper version
IEC International Standards and Millions of devices, components and their
Conformity Assessment schemes are larger systems are covered by IEC work from the IEC Central Office. It is
present wherever there is electrical a suitable educational and awareness-
energy. (Photo credit © Norsk Hydro) building tool which can be used
by Technical Committees and
National Committees alike. This
with reference to the relevant Electrical energy... the IEC helps keep is a living document, which
IEC Technical Committees and the power on has sections on the main will continue to be updated as
Conformity Assessment schemes. areas of the IEC’s work – generation, IEC work develops.

Citius, Altius, Fortius…

The sky’s no limit.

Morand Fachot In its Current Market Outlook 2013-2032 demand for aircraft (from wide body to
“Faster, Higher, Stronger” – the for the commercial aviation sector, the regional jets) over that period will exceed
Olympic motto could very well reflect Boeing Company estimates that the 35 000 units with a total value of over
the evolution of civil aviation. Planes USD 4 800 billion.
are flying faster, higher and further
than ever, as well as transporting From pioneers to international air
more passengers, nearly 3 billion in transport
2012, with increasing safety. This Commercial air transport started with mail
has much to do with major advances services in Europe, the US and between
in avionics, the electronic systems continents soon after WW1 (World War 1).
used in commercial, civil and Services for fare-paying passengers were
defence aerospace applications. launched on short-haul flights on a very
IEC TC (Technical Committee) 107 limited scale in the 1930s. Following
develops process management WW2, the availability of large fleets of
standards for avionics. surplus advanced military aircraft, capable
of carrying many passengers and freight
over longer distances, helped kick-start
A huge market international air transport. Initially this was
Avionics represent a significant share of the on a limited scale due to relatively high
cost of both commercial and defence aircraft, costs.
anywhere between 20% and 80% according
to the type of plane. Sales of commercial In early air travel, aircraft were equipped
aircraft are booming: no less than 1 460 units only with basic instruments and pilots
of all types were sold at the recent Flight engineer stations, such as this one, were
flew according to mainly visual flight
Paris Air Show. made obsolete by advanced avionics rules.

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 TECHNOLOGY
ISSUE FOCUS

Safety: a prime concern from proved a major technology accelerator, However, the added complexity of their
the onset heralding advances in equipment, such various systems, such as multiple piston
Navigation, one of the most crucial as autopilot, which allowed the first and jet engines, hydraulic and electrical
factors in air safety, relied initially on a transatlantic flight with automatic landing equipment, meant constant monitoring
limited set of instruments that gave pilots to take place in 1947. of countless dials and gauges under the
indications of speed (airspeed and vertical supervision of a flight engineer.
speed indicators), altitude (altimeter), Arguably the most significant innovation
direction (magnetic and gyro compass) that found its way into civilian aviation Safer flights
and used attitude indicators that showed applications after the war was radar The use of radars and transponders in
the degree of bank (level wings) and pitch detection. Radars were first installed in aircraft led to the introduction of other
(nose up or down). ground stations in Britain shortly before systems, such as airborne weather radar,
WW2 to provide long-range detection which warns of severe weather conditions
These instruments were particularly and tracking of enemy bombers. They ahead of the aircraft, and lightning detectors.
valuable in poor visibility conditions were later fitted into military aircraft to find
and gave air pressure and indications targets on the ground and in the air. TCAS (traffic alert and collision avoidance
of magnetic or gyroscopic effects. system), reducing the risk of mid-air
They were liable to report inaccurate Another electronics-based device that collision, and GPWS (ground proximity
information due to imprecise calibration was developed during the war was the warning system), helping prevent a
and adverse atmospheric conditions transponder for IFF (identification, friend normally functioning aircraft under
(e.g. ice might clog the pitot tubes used or foe) system. The SSR (secondary the control of a properly trained crew
to determine airspeed) or magnetic surveillance radar) system used in air from flying into the ground, are further
effects (geomagnetic storms, changes in traffic control is based on IFF. examples of detection equipment that
geomagnetic fields affecting compass). has been gradually installed into aircraft.
These developments were introduced The systems have greatly enhanced
Pilots also relied on other methods such into civil aviation applications along with aviation safety. The ICAO (International
as celestial navigation or dead reckoning, advances in the use of radio navigation Civil Aviation Organization) recommends
where an aircraft’s current position is systems using the VHF (very high or mandates that these systems
calculated based on previous position, frequency) band (108 to 117.95 MHz) are fitted to civilian aircraft of certain
expected plane and wind speeds and deployed in VOR (VHF omnidirectional categories. Many different IEC TCs
other parameters, such as sightings of radio range) and led to major (Technical Committees) participate in
landmarks. These methods are notably improvements in aircraft navigation. the development of Standards for these
subject to human error. technologies.
After WW2, civilian aircraft, like their
Other flight instruments such as dials military counterparts from which they Aircraft navigation errors can lead to
and gauges were also indispensable for were often derived, allowed long-haul crashes and other tragic incidents. This
keeping pilots and crews informed about transport of passengers and freight. was the case when KAL 007, a Korean
essential mechanical parameters on the
aircraft, such as fuel levels, engine oil
pressure and temperature.

Another important aspect of flight safety,

communication with the ground, was
introduced with the use of HF (high-
frequency) shortwave radio in the 1930s.
It is still in use today.

Into the modern age

Although some radio navigation
techniques such as RDF (radio detection
finding), which determines a position
via triangulation, and other radio beam
systems, were developed in the 1930s,
the main technological innovations for
air navigation were launched during
WW2. Again, as often in the past, war Boeing 777 glass cockpit (Photo: Boeing Company)

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 TECHNOLOGY FOCUS

introduction of ICs (integrated circuits) still perform reliably and safely during their
that resulted in the availability of smaller working life.
and more powerful electronic equipment
in general, as well as advances being IEC TC 107 develops process
made in other domains. One example is management standards for these
flat displays offering full colour graphics and other issues. Avionics OEMs use
both at night and in full sunlight. increasing volumes of COTS (commercial
Avionics now covers a very wide range off the shelf) electronic components,
of equipment that includes fly-by-wire equipment and systems designed and
systems, communications, flight controls, manufactured for other industries in
displays, flight management, aircraft which they have limited control.
sensors, data management, navigation
Pilot using “FlySmart with Airbus” electronic
and monitoring systems. Many countries and regions are adopting
flight bag for Apple iPad devices (Photo Airbus) legislation that restricts or eliminates the
Enter the glass cockpit use of substances containing lead in
As computers and electronic sensors most electrical and electronic equipment.
Air Lines passenger flight from Anchorage started providing all the information As the avionics industry relies on COTS
to Seoul, was shot down by a Soviet pilots needed, it became more practical components, TC 107 provides a lead-free
Air Force fighter after it strayed over to replace arrays of multiple analogue control plan that allows manufacturers to
Soviet airspace in September 1983. This mechanical dials and gauges with check the reliability of the components
tragedy, in which 269 died, led electronic displays. In particular, they use.
US President Ronald Reagan to MFDs (multi-function displays) can
announce the same month that GPS show navigational, weather and other TC 107 has also set up a WG (Working
(Global Positioning System), the US- information from multiple systems if and Group) to provide guidance for the
developed satellite-based navigation when required. avoidance, detection and mitigation of
system, would be made available for counterfeit electronic parts in avionics
civilian use once it became operational, Replacing analogue dials and gauges applications.
which it did in 1994. with digital units made it possible to
have a so-called “glass cockpit” with IECQ, the worldwide approval and
The electronics revolution a two-man flight deck, eliminating the certification system for covering the
The widespread and parallel introduction need for a flight engineer. Furthermore, supply of electronic components and
of avionics in the military and civilian avionics allows families of aircraft to share associated materials and assemblies
sectors is a natural development of the same basic glass cockpit, making it and processes, has a special scheme,
the integration observed in the aircraft easier for crews to train and fly different ECMP (Electronic Component
industry. A small number of large aircraft. Management Plan), for avionics
companies (some now merged into products. Other IEC TCs, such as
others), such as Lockheed, McDonnell- Pilots now increasingly use electronic TC 47: Semiconductor devices, or
Douglas or Boeing in the US, British flight bags, the size of a laptop computer TC 110: Electronic display devices,
Aerospace in the UK, Dassault Aviation or smaller, which replace the traditional prepare International Standards
in France, United Aircraft Corporation carry-on flight bags containing aircraft for components used in avionics
(Russia), EADS (European Aeronautic operating manual, flight-crew operating applications.
Defence and Space Company), or manual, navigational charts and other
Embraer (Brazil), develop most of the paper documents. Tablet computers can Contributing to the safety of a whole
world’s civilian and military aircraft. Most also be adapted for use as electronic industry
of them participate actively in IEC work. flight bags. In addition to new aircraft being equipped
Their engineers frequently develop with avionics (“forward fit”), the retrofit of
systems that are installed in both military IEC work crucial for avionics newer systems into existing aircraft adds
and civilian aircraft. However, 80% of Although they may be subjected to value to the avionics market, which is
the avionics market is controlled by a severe conditions such as the possible worth billions of dollars.
very small number of OEMs (Original negative effects of atmospheric radiation
Equipment Manufacturers). at high altitude, or temperatures that IEC International Standards ensure this
may be outside the range specified sector expands whilst offering authentic
The development of avionics has been for semiconductor devices by their products that are reliable and safe during
greatly accelerated by the widespread manufacturers, avionics products must their required life.

10 e-tech I Issue 05/2013

 INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT

Small is beautiful
Small electrical and electronic components and devices are found everywhere

Morand Fachot The downsizing trend has spawned indicates that their work focuses on small
The trend to reduce the size of many nanotechnology, the science, engineering components.
systems and devices is gathering and technology of manipulating matter at
pace, driven by cost, energy efficiency a nanoscale (i.e. down to 1/100 000th the All electrotechnology products require a
and environmental considerations. width of a human hair) to create new and power source. Small, mini, micro and nano
It is most noticeable in the electrical unique materials and products. components and devices often draw their
and electronic domains which provide power from either rechargeable (secondary)
components that are integrated into Integration or disposable (primary) batteries. IEC TC 21
other equipment and systems such as Electronic components are now ubiquitous and TC 35 develop International Standards
mechanical products, to make them in applications ranging from packaging, for, respectively, these types of cells and
smaller, more efficient, reliable and where RFID (radio-frequency identification) batteries.
cheaper to operate. Many IEC TCs is used to identify and track products, to
are involved in ensuring the success large mechanical systems such as motor Small components and devices also require
of this trend. vehicles, trains, ships or aircraft. other parts, such as cables, connectors,
miniature fuses, capacitors and resistors.
The miniaturization of electronic IEC TC 20: Electric cables, SC 32C:
Downsizing components, such as semiconductor Miniature fuses, TC 40: Capacitors and
Micro, mini, pico, nano: there are few devices, and electronic assemblies, as well resistors for electronic equipment,TC 48:
domains where all these suffixes are used as the gradual and recent introduction of Electromechanical components and
as frequently as in electrotechnology. new techniques and processes such as mechanical structures for electronic
printed electronics or nanotechnology, have equipment, as well as many other
They can be found in hydroelectricity made it easier to integrate the devices into IEC TCs and SCs develop International
production where mini-, micro- and other products – or create entirely new ones. Standards to enable the production of
pico-hydro stations are proving more and such small scale technologies.
more popular in places in which large Work across the IEC
hydropower stations are not feasible for The trend towards the production of Semiconductors have played and will
various reasons. smaller systems and products has been continue to play a decisive role in the
made possible by the work of dozens of miniaturization of devices and systems.
In power generation and distribution, IEC TCs (Technical Committees) and their International Standards for these are
minigrids and microgrids, small clusters SCs (Subcommittees), whose title often developed by IEC TC 47: Semiconductor
of loads and generators linked together
and sharing one point of connection to the
wider grid, are seen as a groundbreaking
solution for providing access to electricity
for the 1,3 billion people currently without
it. They are being installed in rural areas
that are beyond the reach of the main grid.
They are also used elsewhere to provide
reliability, grid stabilization and renewable
integration in both developing and
developed economies.

In electronics, downsizing is the rule of

the game. This is the result of the growing
global demand for small and affordable
consumer electronic goods, the integration
of miniature electronic components and
devices in other systems and the quest for
lower manufacturing costs. Pico-hydro generators

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 INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT

devices, and its SCs, in particular:

SC 47E: Discrete semiconductor devices,
and SC 47F: Micro-electromechanical
systems (MEMS).

Standardization work by TC 119: Printed

electronics, a rapidly expanding area, will
open many more opportunities for the
production of smaller systems, assemblies
and devices.

Ever smaller
Nanotechnology, the manipulation of
Special conductive ink is used for printed Nanochip
matter at the atomic scale, is seen as a electronics (Photo: DuPont)
key technology for the future. Its ultimate
goal is to build nanomachines, mechanical
or electromechanical devices whose
the fact that a number of materials that are, Standards for electrical equipment in
dimensions are measured in nanometres
under normal circumstances, harmless for medical practice are prepared by TC 62.
(millionths of a millimetre).
humans, animals or the environment can
become toxic at the nano-scale because of Small equipment helps take you
Companies and governments are
their increased ability to cross skin or cell- far away
investing heavily in nanotechnology.
membranes. The automotive sector is a major user of
The US government, for instance, is
electronic and electrical systems as the
allocating nearly USD 1,8 billion in federal
Relentless march electrical content of motor vehicles is
funds for the sector in Fiscal Year 2014.
The quest for more compact and energy- growing constantly. Cars contain a wide
Global government R&D investments in
efficient devices and products in many range of systems that include printed circuit
nanotechnologies were reported to be
consumer and industrial applications boards and sensors to control lights and
around USD 7,7 billion in 2010.
and goods is driving a strong demand wipers, to indicate parameters such as
for smaller electrical and electronic speed, tyre pressure and temperature, or
The sector has generated global components. These are integrated into to set off airbags. They offer more security
economic returns of some USD 253 billion equipment and systems for which many and comfort for road users and contribute
in 2009 and is expected to bring in nearly IEC TCs and SCs prepare International to the lower fuel consumption of vehicles.
USD 2 500 billion by 2015. Standards.
Small electronic and electrical components
IEC TC 113: Nanotechnology standardi- Household appliances have become much and assemblies have also led to major
zation for electrical and electronic products more versatile and can be programmed advances in avionics, the electronic
and systems, was set up in 2006 to more easily than ever before thanks to systems used on aircraft instrumentation
develop International Standards for the smaller electronic components. They have for navigation, communications, and flight
technologies relevant to electrical and also become safer. IEC TC 61, prepares management. They have greatly improved
electronic products and systems in the field safety requirements for electrical appliances flight safety and made it possible to have
of nanotechnology. for household and similar purposes. The lighter systems, an important factor in a
same trend towards smaller products has sector where extra weight translates into
In June 2013 it approved a Nanoelectronics been observed in equipment and systems significant additional fuel consumption and
Standardization Roadmap that will provide for the audio, video, multimedia and cost. IEC TC 107 develops International
the foundation for a standardization IT domains, including displays, for which process management Standards on
strategy for nano-electrotechnologies. TC 100 and TC 110 develop International systems and equipment used in the field of
Standards. avionics.
The TC is developing and has already
published International Standards for the A significant segment of electrical medical The integration of smaller electric and
use of nanomaterials such as carbon equipment relies on microsystem devices electronic components and systems is set
nanotubes or graphene, as well as for that are based on MEMS. The so-called to expand into more electrotechnology
nano-enabled electrotechnical products. bioMEMS market is expected to increase domains. This trend is made possible by
Environmental, health and safety issues are threefold over the 2012-2015 period the standardization work of dozens of
at the forefront of its work. This is due to to exceed USD 6,5 billion. International IEC TCs.

12 e-tech I Issue 05/2013

 TECHNICAL COMMITTEE AFFAIRS

Printout for the future

New IEC TC for new technology

Morand Fachot The research and consulting company • TC 40: Capacitors and resistors for
Printed electronics is a relatively IDTechEx expects the market to grow electronic equipment
new technology that uses an additive nearly 10-fold between 2013 and 2020 • TC 47: Semiconductor devices
process to create a variety of to exceed USD 55 billion. • TC 82: Solar photovoltaic energy
electronic components and systems. systems
It is rapidly advancing from research Over 3 000 companies are currently active • TC 91: Electronics assembly
and inventions into production and in the printed electronics domain, most technology
mass market. Calls for standardization of them in North America, East Asia and • TC 110: Electronic display devices
in this sector by the industry led to the Europe. • TC 113: Nanotechnology
creation of IEC TC 119. standardization for electrical and
Need for standardization electronic products and systems.
Since the focus has been shifting in recent
Expanding domain years from developing printed electronics Objectives
The fast rising global demand for relatively technologies to manufacturing products, TC 119 outlined its objectives for the
low-cost consumer electronic goods the need for standardization has emerged. medium term (3-5 years). They include,
has stimulated the emergence of various A proposal to establish a standardization among other things:
technologies to support this market. body for the printed electronics was
Producing conventional electronics using presented at Printed Electronics Europe • developing an international
silicon-based components is costly and 2011, the largest trade event in Europe for standardization roadmap for printed
faces some environmental issues making it the industry. The proposal indicated the electronics to define the scope of
necessary to find other technologies. IEC was the most suitable organization for printed electronics
the standardization of printed electronics • promoting and streamlining
Using additive manufacturing processes since the technology intends to develop standardization efforts in the areas
some producers have started printing mainly electronic and electric devices. where marketing is under way
electronic parts and components on rigid Organizations such as the OE-A (Organic • identifying standardization needs in
or flexible substrates. and Printed Electronics Association), the the areas where new technologies
leading international industry association are emerging
Printing techniques are often similar to for the industry strongly supported the • helping standardize technologies
those used in conventional printing, such proposal. from the research stage.
as offset, screen printing, flexography
or inkjet. Each of these techniques for TC 119: Printed electronics, was Multiple domains
printed electronics production has been established in October 2011, it currently To cover the standardization of printed
developed over the previous decades with has 11 participating members and electronics TC 119 is setting up WGs
a wide choice of substrates and inks that 7 observer members. Its creation was
allow an extensive and expanding range welcomed by the industry with OE-A
of products. It includes printed circuit stating “The OE-A has been supporting
boards, flexible displays, PV (photovoltaic) IEC TC 119 from the start”.
cells, lights, memory, sensors, RFID (radio
frequency identification) and NFC (near Systems approach with other TCs
field communication) systems, to name Since printed electronics emerged from
only a few. conventional electronics by introducing
printing technologies in the industry,
Huge market emerging the need to cooperate with pre-existing
The demand for new kinds of electronic electronics sectors and IEC TCs is obvious.
goods and the variety of low-cost products TC 119 earmarked the following IEC TCs
made possible by printing electronics concerned:
and the range of printing techniques
and materials point to a very large • TC 21: Secondary cells and batteries Flexible printed circuit electronics are
market. • TC 34: Lamps and related equipment produced on...

Issue 05/2013 I e-tech 13

TECHNICAL COMMITTEE AFFAIRS

(Working Groups) to deal with terminology,

materials (functional materials and
substrates), processes, equipment
used for printing processes, printability
assessment, parts, devices and
products, and health/safety/environment
issues.

The fast growing nature of the printed

electronics sector, new techniques
and materials and the absence of
standardization for the industry so far
...machines such as this ESC-ATMAGP screen ...using conductive inks (Photo: DuPont) point to a substantial workload for the
printer (Photo: Europa-Siebdruckmaschinen-
Centrum)... recently created TC 119.

Keep safety sky high

IEC TC works to ensure electronic systems for aircraft operate reliably

Morand Fachot subassemblies or top level assemblies. TC 107 work focuses on tackling both
The safety of aircraft, even light One problem faced by the aerospace technical and industrial issues. Technical
aircraft, has become increasingly electronics industry is its dependence on issues include the impact of temperature,
reliant on electronic systems – avionics materials and components that have been the effect of atmospheric radiation on
– designed and manufactured for developed for other domains. avionics products and the use of lead-
ADHP (aerospace, defence and high free solder in aerospace and defence
performance) applications. They must Another problem that is linked to this is electronic systems. Industrial challenges
be especially robust and reliable. the long lifecycle of avionics (15-40 years) incorporate the availability of components
IEC TC 107 prepares standard which has to run in parallel with the much and preventing the use of counterfeit
processes (technical recommend- shorter lifecycle of the parts and board parts.
ations, specifications and the assemblies (3-5 years) developed by
standards themselves) for the industry the components industry for other To deal with these issues TC 107 has
to ensure this is the case. markets. set up three WGs (Working Groups),
a PT (Project Team) and 2 MTs
Specific remit (Maintenance Teams).
Severe environment TC 107 does not prepare International
Aircraft operate in a harsh environment; Standards for the components (integrated Temperature rising and… falling
they are subjected to extremes of circuits and assemblies) used in the Avionics products are used in a very wide
temperature, considerable turbulence and avionics industry. This task is handled by range of temperatures. Some systems are
atmospheric radiation. Avionics equipment other IEC TCs. What TC 107 does is to subjected to very low outside temperatures
must be capable of withstanding these as develop standard processes for using at high altitude, whilst others are deployed
well as of operating reliably for many years. and managing these components in in a higher temperature environment inside
meeting the requirements of the avionics the aircraft.
Supply chain issues industry (cost, lifetime, quality, reliability,
Initially avionics systems primarily safety, performance, etc.). This must be Traditionally, industries that produce
integrated parts that had been designed achieved despite the preoccupation of electronic equipment for ADHP applications
specifically for them. Nowadays avionics the electronics industry with high-volume have relied on the military specification
manufacturers increasingly use COTS applications, rapid change, obsolescence system to supply their semiconductor
(commercial off-the-shelf) components, and problems of wear. device standards and upon manufacturers

14 e-tech I Issue 05/2013

 TECHNICAL COMMITTEE AFFAIRS

of military-specified devices to source the assess and accommodate atmospheric products. Counterfeit electronics are
parts they require. radiation effects within avionics electronic the second most “valuable” sector of
equipment via SEEs and to specify the counterfeiting industry after drugs.
Typical ambient temperature ranges guidelines, system design and testing Counterfeit products may take the form of
at which military specified devices are procedures to deal with these. recycled parts fraudulently sold as “new” or
marketed are -55 °C to +125 °C. The “unused” components.
respective ranges for industrial and No more lead please!
commercial devices are -40 °C to +85 °C Many countries and regions are introducing TC 107 WG 3 works on guidance for the
and 0 °C to +70 °C. regulations limiting or banning the use development of a management plan to
of lead in industrial products. This is avoid the use of counterfeit electronic
Over the years a number of device a substance that is widely used in parts in avionic applications. The plan
manufacturers have left the military market, electronic solder and electronic piece part will maximize the use of authentic parts
resulting in the reduced availability of terminations, and printed wiring boards. with correct traceability and conformance
devices specified to operate over wide Lead-free tin finishes can be susceptible documentation.
temperature ranges. In the absence to the spontaneous growth of crystal
of reasonable or practical alternatives, structures known as “tin whiskers”. These It will help trusted manufacturers, suppliers
a potential response for equipment have been known to cause electrical and distributors identify and eliminate the
manufacturers is to use devices at failures. use of counterfeit components in avionics
temperature ranges that are wider than products.
those specified by the device manufacturer. To meet this challenge, TC 107 WG 1
has developed the IEC 62647 series of Constantly evolving and expanding
To address this issue TC 107 has prepared documents. They look at the preparation work
IEC/TR 62240-1, Process management for for producing a lead-free control plan and The aerospace industry is a booming
avionics - Electronic components capability the mitigation of the deleterious effects sector that employs a growing share of
in operation - Part 1: Temperature uprating. of tin, as well as at testing and system avionics products. TC 107 has 67 experts
IEC 62240-1 is a Technical Report that guidelines. from 7 participating and 12 observer
provides information regarding the methods member countries that develop the wide
and processes to be implemented when Availability of avionics-specific and always expanding range of technical
using semiconductor devices in wider components recommendations, specifications and
temperature ranges than those specified As a number of manufacturers of standards to meet the industry’s needs. Its
by manufacturers. This is to ensure ADHP components have abandoned the work programme is set to be extremely full
that the device and the system operate market, the avionics equipment industry for the foreseeable future.
satisfactorily. However, this wider usage has had to rely on COTS for components
should be limited to temperature ranges and assemblies. TC 107 has produced
that do not compromise the applications’ an ECMP (electronic components
performance and reliability. management plan) and is preparing an
electronic assemblies management plan
TC 107 MT 2 work includes the use of that will extend to the use of COTS.
semiconductor devices operating outside
manufacturers’ specified temperature range. Fighting fraud
Avionics systems are high-value products,
Closer to the sun and as such attract counterfeiters.
Another important factor that affects The counterfeit “industry” is global and
avionics products is the atmospheric booming. It affects all domains, from
radiation encountered at high altitude. fashion items to drugs, from toys to
Microelectronic devices may be affected electronic goods and is expected to
by SEE (single event effect): the response exceed USD 1 500 billion by 2015.
of a component to the impact of a single
particle induced by atmospheric neutrons It has an obvious economic impact but
from galactic cosmic rays or solar may also present very serious risks if the
phenomena. counterfeit goods affect health (counterfeit
drugs) or result in accidents (failure of
Aircraft operate in harsh conditions that
TC 107, through PT 62396, has developed counterfeit mechanical or electronic parts).
avionics equipment must be capable of
the IEC 62396 series of documents to This is particularly serious for aerospace withstanding

Issue 05/2013 I e-tech 15

 CONFORMITY ASSESSMENT

Focus on industrial automation

IECEE launches INDAT, a new service for products and installations in the
automation field

Claire Marchand sectors of industry use at least some Industrial-process measurement, control
The development of automation element of automation. and automation, provides many of the
throughout the 20th century brought Standards that are relevant for industry.
enormous changes to the industrial IEC standardization plays major role IEC TC 2: Rotating machinery,
world: some jobs disappeared, others The IEC has a number of TCs (Technical IEC TC 17: Switchgear and controlgear,
underwent major transformations, Committees) that prepare International IEC TC 22: Power electronic systems
new ones were created and, most Standards connected with specific areas and equipment, IEC TC 44: Safety of
importantly, the interaction between of industrial automation. IEC TC 65: machinery - Electrotechnical aspects,
man and machine was altered
forever. In the pre-automation era,
machinery had been used to assist
workers.

Safety, reliability and quality through

automation
The advantages of having automated
systems were soon recognized by
industry. The systems enabled human
operators to be replaced in tasks that
involved hard physical or monotonous
work, or those being performed in
hazardous environments including
fires, nuclear facilities or underwater.
Automated systems can also undertake
jobs that cannot be performed by human
beings because of excessive demands
in areas such as speed, size, weight or Automation combines the use of control systems and information technology applications to
endurance. Automated processes often provide solutions to different industrial needs

result in more consistent quality and

reliability in the assembly chain.

Automation changed the industrial

landscape
The rapid evolution of IT (information
technology) in the second part of the
20th century enabled engineers to create
increasingly complex control systems that
integrated fully with the factory floor.

The automotive industry, for instance,

has been transformed radically by the
development of automation. Over time,
the food industry, pharmaceutical and
other manufacturing companies have also
relied heavily on automation to produce
more and at lower cost. Today, most The automotive industry has been transformed radically by the development of automation

16 e-tech I Issue 05/2013

 CONFORMITY ASSESSMENT

and IEC TC 66: Safety of measuring, well as the environment with which it in all IECEE member countries. It is so
control and laboratory equipment, all play interacts. well known that global acceptance is a
important roles in this field. reality, even in countries that are not part
Cyber security of the IECEE community. “One test, one
Specific certification for industrial The security of industrial communications international certificate” opens the doors
automation systems is also at stake. TC 65 is to the global market.
Most of the International Standards currently working on a set of
developed by these IEC TCs are already IEC International Standards addressing …through the CB Scheme…
integrated within services provided by the security of networks and systems. The IECEE CB Scheme provides the
IECEE, the IEC System of Conformity assurance that tested and certified
Assessment Schemes for Electrotechnical Benefits of INDAT products meet the strictest levels
Equipment and Components. The introduction of the INDAT product of safety, reliability and performance
category has benefits for industry as well in compliance with the relevant
However, the complexity and as for IECEE CBs (Certification Bodies) IEC International Standards. It helps
sophistication of today’s systems and TLs (Test Laboratories): reduce costs and time to market,
and equipment in industrial plants eliminates duplicate or multiple testing
require a specific approach to safety • it provides a platform offering and provides a high level of confidence
and security. To provide improved progressive support of global for manufacturers, retailers and
response to industry and market needs, recognition and acceptance of consumers alike.
IECEE and its WG (Working Group) 2: industrial automation products
Business Development, have produced • it allows for the sharing of expertise, …and the CB-FCS
a new service entirely dedicated to knowledge and tools that enable The CB-FCS Scheme for Mutual
industrial automation. One of the first third-party CBs to deliver compliance Recognition of Conformity Assessment
tasks undertaken by WG 2 was to gather services pertaining to the functional Certificates for Electrotechnical
into one product category – INDAT – all safety of industrial automation Equipment and Components is an
the existing IEC International Standards products extension of the IECEE CB Scheme in
that have a direct bearing on products • it provides easier and faster market that it also includes factory audits and
used in this area. access for industry, eliminates the inspections. It goes far beyond mere
need for multiple testing and product testing by including a complete
Safety and functional safety ultimately drastically reduces the quality system and surveillance methods
In industrial plants, overall safety extends costs associated with the global at the factory that manufactures a
further than is traditional with safety: it roll-out of products certified product. This is interesting for
includes functional safety and has to manufacturers who need to provide proof
meet very strict requirements. IECEE facilitates access to market… that products manufactured in a given
A CB Test Certificate is a global passport factory offer a consistent level of quality
Safety can be defined as protection that allows products to be accepted over time.
from an unacceptable risk of physical
injury or from impairment to the health
of people, either directly or indirectly, as
a result of damage to property or to the
environment.

Functional safety is the part of overall

safety that depends on the correct
operation of a system or equipment in
response to its inputs. If a potentially
dangerous condition is detected, either
a protective or corrective device or
mechanism may be activated to prevent
hazardous events arising or some
mitigating feature may reduce their
consequences.

Neither safety nor functional safety

can be determined without taking into The introduction of IT enabled engineers to create increasingly complex control systems fully
consideration the system as a whole as integrated with the factory floor

Issue 05/2013 I e-tech 17

 CONFORMITY ASSESSMENT

IEC International Standards in the INDAT product category

The IEC International Standards listed below are currently IEC 62026 series on low-voltage switchgear and
available in the INDAT product category. Other Industrial controlgear - Controller-device interfaces (CDIs)
Automation Standards may be proposed and added to the list
in the future. IEC/TS 62046, Safety of machinery - Application
of protective equipment to detect the presence of
IEC 61010-1, Safety requirements for electrical equipment for persons
measurement, control, and laboratory use - Part 1: General
requirements Note: This publication is a Technical Specification.
The development of IEC 62046 as an IEC International
IEC 61010-2-201, Safety requirements for electrical Standard is currently undeway
equipment for measurement, control and laboratory use - Part
2-201: Particular requirements for control equipment IEC 62061, Safety of machinery - Functional safety of safety-
related electrical, electronic and programmable electronic
IEC 60034 series on rotating electrical machines control systems

IEC 60439 series on low-voltage switchgear and controlgear IEC 60204 series on safety of machinery - Electrical
assemblies equipment of machines

IEC 60947 series on low-voltage switchgear and controlgear IEC 62477-1, Safety requirements for power
electronic converter systems and equipment -
IEC 61131 series on programmable controllers Part 1: General

IEC 61204 series on low-voltage power supply devices, d.c. output IEC 62477-2, Safety requirements for power
semiconductor converter systems - Part 2: Power
IEC 61496 series on safety of machinery - Electro-sensitive Electronic Converters from 1000 V a.c. or 1500 V d.c.
protective equipment up to 35 kV a.c. is under development

IEC 61800 series on adjustable speed electrical power drive These IEC International Standards may be available in
systems other IECEE categories as well.

Preventing dust explosions

IECEx certification provides high level of protection

Claire Marchand exists in a variety of other sectors, A common denominator

When addressing the topic of such as transportation – including What is the common denominator
explosive atmospheres, what aerospace – furniture manufacturing, between all these sectors? They all utilize
immediately comes to mind is the oil automotive manufacturing and flammable or combustible substances
and gas or petrochemical industries. repair, pharmaceuticals, food in quantities capable of resulting in
Unfortunately the list doesn’t stop processing, grain handling and storage, concentrations that are potentially
there. The risk of fire or explosion sugar refineries and coal mining. explosive, whether on a constant basis,

18 e-tech I Issue 05/2013

 CONFORMITY ASSESSMENT

as a by-product of normal operation or

due to the occurrence of an abnormal
situation.

Let’s have a look at one of the

substances found in huge quantities in
many Ex industry sectors: dust.

While dust is often the byproduct of a

production process and treated as waste,
it can also be an important element in
the manufacturing of products such food
products, pharmaceuticals or pigments.
Coal, wood, grain, sugar starch, certain
metals, dyes and plastics all generate
dust.

The risk of dust explosion exists in the pharmceutical industry...

A risk factor
The large majority of industrial dusts
are combustible, and dust explosions
can occur in any enclosed area. Dust
explosions are a frequent occurrence in
underground coal mines, but they can
happen in any location where powdered
combustible material is present.
A publication by German-based company
Stahl explains the mechanisms of a dust
explosion:
“If a draft of air swirls up a layer of dust
in a small area, the dust, along with
oxygen, forms a combustible dust/air
mix. If this mix is ignited by an ignition
source, an explosion is triggered.
The force of the resulting explosion
swirls up more dust, which is in turn
ignited. This process continues,
...in sawmills...
and under some conditions chain
reactions such as these sweep through
entire buildings or facilities, destroying
them.” electric cables and motors, Commission has been at the forefront
enclosures, isolators and vents, of Ex standardization for many years,
Even an extremely thin dust layer in a lamps and switches, control systems preparing International Standards
closed room is sufficient to trigger an and many, many more – used in and establishing a CA (Conformity
explosion when the dust is swirled up manufacturing processes should Assessment) System that provides
and ignited. have the relevant level of dust testing and certification for all types
Ignition sources for dusts include sparks explosion protection. Failure to do of Ex equipment and related services as
from electrical or mechanical processes, so can result in major industrial well as personnel competence.
arcs, open flames, ESD (electrostatic accidents and have fatal consequences.
discharge), and electromagnetic waves International Standards
among others. Through its standardization and IEC TC (Technical Committee) 31:
conformity assessment work, the Equipment for explosive atmospheres,
Safe manufacturing processes IEC has a solution for all sectors has a complete series of International
Because of the hazards associated with of industry that are operating in Standards, IEC 60079, that cover all
the presence of dusts, all equipment – those hazardous environments. The specific requirements for Ex equipment

June 2013 I e-tech 19

 CONFORMITY ASSESSMENT

...and in silos for grain storage

and systems, from general requirements Standards, an important assurance for services including, installation and inspection
to protection levels for apparatus used anyone responsible for the safety of those of Ex equipment and installations.
by all sectors that operate in hazardous working in such areas.
environments, such as food processing, High level of safety for
pharmaceuticals, sugar refineries, flour Repair and maintenance of Ex workforce
mills, grain silos as well as the paper and Ex equipment To cover all safety aspects in
textile sectors. Because Ex equipment has a much Ex environments and to complement
higher capital cost than the same the Certified Equipment Scheme, IECEx
TC 31 has also developed the equipment used elsewhere, repairing has developed the IECEx Certification
IEC 61241 series of International Standards it is often more cost-effective than of Personnel Competence Scheme
that focuses on electrical equipment in replacing it. The IECEx Certified Service for assessing and certifying individuals
the presence of combustible dust. Facilities Scheme assesses and certifies working in potentially hazardous areas.
that organizations and workshops that
Testing and certifying to IEC Standard provide repair and overhaul services to The IECEx CoPC (Certificate of Personnel
To make sure that the equipment the Ex industry do so according to the Competence) provides independent
they purchase meets the very strict strict requirements of IEC International proof that the certificate holder has the
requirements specified in the Standard 60079-19, Explosive required qualifications and experience for
IEC 60079 series of International atmospheres - Part 19: Equipment working on electrical equipment located
Standards, as well as those put in repair, overhaul and reclamation. This in hazardous areas and can implement
place by national or regional regulations ensures that unique Ex safety features IEC International Standards covering
and legislation, the Ex industry can rely are not compromised during the repair or explosive atmospheres.
on IECEx, the IEC System for Certification overhaul process. The system includes
to Standards Relating to Equipment for on-site audits prior to issuing the For the CoPC, competence is defined
Use in Explosive Atmospheres for testing IECEx Certificate and periodic audit as “the ability to apply knowledge” rather
and certification. reports. than simply assessing knowledge. In
this sense, the assessment of persons
An IECEx certificate provides clear The IECEx Certified Service Facilities includes assessing their ability to perform
proof of compliance with International Scheme also covers other Ex related certain Ex-related tasks.

20 e-tech I Issue 05/2013

 CONFORMITY ASSESSMENT

MEMS tested and certified by IECQ

Little components do more and are smaller

Aliyah Esmail using less power. This fabrication process

In thousands of ways, new and has led to thinner plasma televisions,
smaller technologies are helping smaller and lower cost computers as well
us move forward. From surgical as cars with lighter weight and better fuel
tools that are smarter to toys that efficiency.
let us compete at playing tennis
with someone around the world, The future of MEMS
electronics and their components are As the use and study of MEMS move
doing more than ever before. forward, MEMS are being used in
more and more disciplines. The military
uses sensor networks for unattended
Smaller is better battlefield monitoring. Medicine is
Colossus, one of the first computers, was using MEMS for cell sorting, smaller
MEMS has led to thinner plasma TV sets,
built by the British in World War II to break and smaller surgical tools with smart smaller and lower electronics as well as lighter
coded messages sent by the German sensors and toys are becoming smaller and more fuel-efficient cars
High Command to the German armies with more advanced sensors.
throughout Europe. It used about
1 800 vacuum tubes to compute data. IECQ ensures component safety and
Bigger and more sophisticated versions reliability and associated materials and processes,
were built before the end of the war Electronic component manufacturers and IECQ tests and certifies components
in 1945. suppliers have a very powerful tool at using quality assessment specifications
their disposal to ensure that their MEMS, based on IEC International Standards.
At that time, this large set of used as components, are safe, reliable
computational machines was processing and meet the strictest requirements: In addition, there are a multitude of
data as quickly as possible. Today, the IECQ (IEC Quality Assessment System related materials and processes that
equivalent data can be processed on a for Electronic Components) testing and are covered by the IECQ schemes.
mobile device with the right programme certification. IECQ certificates are used worldwide
because the transistors and vacuum as a tool to monitor and control the
tubes have been replaced by MEMS As the worldwide approval and manufacturing supply chain, thus helping
(micro-electromechanical systems) as certification system covering the supply to reduce costs and time to market,
well as sensors, connectors, resistors, of electronic components, assemblies and eliminating the need for multiple
capacitors, semiconductors, LEDs
(light-emitting diodes), and OLEDs (organic
LEDs).

MEMS are defined by Forbes magazine

as the miniaturized version of bigger
components. They can be the size of
a grain of pollen or a blood cell. And
these mini components allow mobile
technologies, cameras and video
equipment as well as electronic clocks
to be ever smaller.

These teeny components are

manufactured in the same way as semi-
conductors, which make them more These teeny technologies are manufactured
A MEMS chip can be the size of a grain of
exact in their design and they work better pollen. in the same way as semi-conductors

Issue 05/2013 I e-tech 21

 IEC WORLD

Increasing global energy safety

IEC scope and expertise supports broad roll-out of new energy technologies

Aliyah Esmail information please see IEC shares vision Key challenges identified
During the Clean Energy Ministerial with energy leaders in the June 2013 Principal problems that have been
meeting which was held in Delhi in e-tech.) pointed out with regard to mini-grids
April, IEC General Secretary and CEO relate to their operation and maintenance,
Frans Vreeswijk represented the Vreeswijk actively participated in a control and grid connection as well as the
IEC at the mini-grid development discussion on mini-grid development. lack of policies to support them.
roundtable. He outlined how the IEC The roundtable allowed practitioners and
can facilitate the broad roll-out of policymakers to cooperatively identify the The IEC can contribute significantly to
energy technologies, providing truly obstacles to further scaling up mini-grids solving technical mini-grid challenges and
global reach and state-of-the art and Smart Grids and look at potential stimulate their roll-out. IEC International
expertise. At the same time the solutions to addressing barriers as a key Standards facilitate the design,
new edition of IEC/TS 62257-9-5 component to achieving universal energy installation, control and maintenance of
for stand-alone lighting kits for access. renewable and hybrid mini-grids and can
rural electrification (prepared by
IEC Technical Committee 82:
Solar photovoltaic energy systems)
was announced by the US Energy
Secretary.

Mini-grids could help electrify the

world
Mini-grids are enjoying a high level of
attention because of their promise to
bring electricity to the 1,3 billion people
who don’t have it and increase the
reliability of electrical energy generation.
Today, many mini-grids still use
diesel generators, but renewable
mini-grids or hybrids may be the way
forward – most of which are still in CEM4 is where energy ministers, industries, academics and non-governmental organizations
the pilot phase. come to discuss clean energy

The IEC is at the core of the whole

energy chain. Its work enables all forms
of energy generation and transmission.
The Commission is a key partner for
accessible, safe, interoperable electrical
energy infrastructure and as a global
technology partner can significantly
contribute to the broad roll-out of new
energy technologies, including mini and
micro-grids.

IEC TC (Technical Committee) 8 has set

forth a new plan to work on the creation
of guidelines for the general planning
and design of micro-grids. (For more Mini-grids have the promise of bringing electricity to the 1,3 billion people who don’t have it

22 e-tech I Issue 05/2013

 IEC WORLD
ISSUE FOCUS

also support policy decisions. Lighting the way

These Standards can be further The ability to work and study after dark
improved when policymakers, is often the first step towards a better,
regulators, investors, insurance more prosperous life. Today up to 10%
companies, equipment manufacturers of average household income in Africa
and installers actively participate in is spent on dirty kerosene lamps that
their development. give off limited light, with emissions that
endanger the health of children and
Active participation in SE4ALL adults alike.
CEM4, the fourth Clean Energy
Ministerial, is a part of the UN’s (United While solar lanterns have been available
Nations) focus on energy. In 2011, the for some time now, standardization allows
UN Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, them to be produced in larger quantities,
made sustainable energy one of his at less cost and of more consistent
five priorities by launching the SE4ALL quality. The new publication announced
(Sustainable Energy for All) initiative. By at CEM4, IEC/TS 62257-9-5 for stand-
2030, the UN has set a goal of universal alone lighting kits for rural electrification, These teeny technologies are manufactured
energy access for all countries, with a will allow this industry to grow, providing in the same way as semi-conductors
clear emphasis on efficiency, energy testing laboratories with a means to
safety and sustainability. test and compare light output and other
quality measures that will ultimately non-governmental organizations to
Governments and private entities need to reassure consumers and enable a broad discuss clean energy. Public-private
urgently address broad energy access for technology roll-out. roundtables addressed topics such
a growing population. Failing to do so will as: solar PV; reducing soft costs; clean
result in increased energy poverty that will CEM4 looks for answers vehicle adoption; power markets in
hinder health, education and economic CEM4 is one of the few regular meetings emerging economies; renewables
development for millions, if not billions of that bring together energy ministers, policy and finance; energy management
people. industries, academics and systems; and mini-grid development.

Stimulating national adoption

Facilitating participation in international standardization for Latin American
countries

Aliyah Esmail Standards offer many benefits

In April 2013 a workshop and When newly industrializing countries adopt
training was held in St Lucia International Standards nationally, local
with the aim of reducing barriers industries, including small and medium
and challenges to the adoption companies - often the lifeblood of an
of International Standards and economy - find it easier to participate in
stimulating participation in global value chains. They are able to sell
international standardization their components and products to many
work in Latin America and the more markets around the globe. In turn,
Caribbean. The workshop this allows countries to develop national
was organized by the Standards economies and add jobs.
Council of Canada under the
CATRTA (Canada-Americas National adoption of International National adoption of International Stan-
dards with conformity assessment allows
Trade related Trade Assistance) Standards also facilitates infrastructure governments to more efficiently protect local
programme. development providing access to a much populations

Issue 05/2013 I e-tech 23

 IEC WORLD

the basis for national standards, where

appropriate. The Code also advocates
participation in the work of international
standardizing bodies.

Training workshop responds

to barriers
To further address the barriers voiced
during the workshop in 2011, the
Standards Council of Canada under the
CATRTA programme organized
a follow-up workshop in St Lucia in
April 2013. Its goal was to show
participating countries how they could
By participating in the national adoption and implementation of International Standards, countries
become more involved with the work of
can have fewer technical barriers to trade organizations like the IEC.

active participation in standardization A form of participation without the cost

work allows national experts to access a Many of the Latin American and Caribbean
global network of state-of-the-art countries that attended this workshop
expertise. participate in the IEC Affiliate Country
Programme. Amaury Santos, IEC-LARC
Barriers to adoption identified (Latin America Regional Centre) Regional
A workshop at the 2011 COPANT (Pan- Manager delivered a well-rounded training
American Standards Commission) General programme to help workshop attendees
Meeting, in Bridgetown, Barbados, and their countries to increase participation
identified a number of challenges linked in the IEC. Santos outlined IEC Affiliate
to national and regional standardization Country Programme advantages and
and conformity assessment systems. explained how IEC International
Participants pointed to obstacles that Standards together with conformity
hindered the national adoption and assessment promote the safety of
International Standards adoption makes it
easier for industries to sell their products to implementation of International Standards. electrical and electronic devices, help
more markets around the world As a result they had difficulties to fully protect the environment, and allow them to
comply with the requirements of the Code successfully combat the influx of
of Good Practice of the WTO (World Trade counterfeit products.
larger selection of suppliers. It also helps Organization) TBT (Technical Barriers to
protect long-term investment by facilitating Trade) Agreement. He drew attention to the fact that the
maintenance and repair with standardized Programme offers industrializing countries
products. Built-in safety and interoperability This Code establishes disciplines for the a form of participation in the IEC without
together with conformity assessment preparation, adoption and implementation the financial burden of actual membership,
allows governments to more efficiently of voluntary standards. It requires that allowing them to make full use of the IEC
protect local populations. Furthermore, countries use international standards as 100% electronic environment.

CATRTA explained
CATRTA (Canada-Americas Trade Related Trade Countries that sent representatives to this workshop
Assistance) programme is a development assistance included: Antigua and Barbuda; Bahamas; Barbados; Belize;
initiative funded by the Canadian International Development Commonwealth of Dominica; Grenada; Guyana; Haiti;
Agency (CIDA) to support regional activities during the Honduras; Jamaica; Montserrat; Peru; St Lucia; Saint Kitts
2013 annual general meeting of COPANT (Pan-American and Nevis; Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; Suriname; and
Standards Commission). Trinidad and Tobago

24 e-tech I Issue 05/2013

 IEC WORLD
ISSUE FOCUS

Frederica Scott Vollrath designs a winner

World Standards Day 2013 poster competition results

Designer Frederica Scott Vollrath whose poster won the WSD 2013
poster competition

Janice Blondeau
Each year the WSC (World Standards Cooperation) runs a
competition to find the poster to provide the visual identity
for World Standards Day, 14 October. The theme for World
Standards Day 2013 is “International Standards ensure
positive change”. The winning poster was designed by
Frederica Scott Vollrath of Germany.

World Standards Day 2013 ensuring positive change

Vollrath who pockets the first prize of CHF 1 500 is a freelance
designer based in Berlin, Germany. Born in the UK, she was raised World Standards Day 2013 poster
in Denmark, England and Kenya, where she was home-schooled on
a remote field station set in the middle of the African bush.
• Taylor Marquis (Canada)
Winners are grinners • Dimitri Monnois (France)
Vollrath graduated with a BA (Hons) in 3D design in 2011 from
University College Falmouth, UK where the degree course is based 14 October is World Standards Day
on two central themes, sustainability and community. With subtle The World Standards Cooperation was set up in 2001 to strengthen
humour and an imaginative use of colour, Vollrath’s graphic and and advance the voluntary consensus-based International Standards
three dimensional work reflects her commitment to the idea that of IEC, ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) and
good design is the key to sustainable living. No stranger to ITU (the International Telecommunication Union).
WSD poster design, Vollrath was a runner-up in the 2012
competition. Download the World Standards Day 2013 Poster on IEC website.

Social media helps spread the World Standards Day message

The winning poster will be a central part of the promotion and
celebration of World Standards Day 2013 around the world. This World Standards Day
year’s poster competition was promoted via social media. Five
finalists were selected by the WSC, and the public was invited to World Standards Day, 14 October, pays tribute to the
vote online to choose the winner. collaborative efforts of the thousands of experts worldwide
who develop the voluntary technical agreements that are
Runners-up receiving CHF 500 each are: published as International Standards.
• The team of Seuwandi Yapa and Samith Roshan (Philippines)

Issue 05/2013 I e-tech 25

 IEC WORLD

Upcoming global event

2013 Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Energy Summit

producers and suppliers, fuel cell and Programme and registration

hydrogen storage companies, automotive As of 21 June and until the
OEMs (original equipment manufacturers), event date, IEC participants benefit
component manufacturers and industrial from a 15% rebate on the
end-users, utilities, government officials and registration fee.
regulators, to name but a few.
Claire Marchand
Contact person:
The IEC regularly lends its support
The conference, which will comprise a Mohammad Ahsan
to key global and regional industry
series of presentations by senior industry [email protected]
events allowing them to put forward
executives and experts, as well as panel +44 (0) 203 141 0606
IEC endorsement on their website
discussions, will be a great networking
and materials.
opportunity for anyone active in the The programme can be downloaded on
hydrogen and fuel cell sector. the IEC website

The conference
This is the case with the 2013 Hydrogen
& Fuel Cells Energy Summit which is
scheduled to take place in Berlin, Germany,
on 30-31 October.

The theme of this year’s summit is

“Economical and Infrastructural Support
for a Sustainable Future Energy Carrier”.
The event will have a heavy focus on
techno-economic case studies of hydrogen
and fuel cell technology initiatives/projects
around the globe looking at the challenges &
obstacles encountered in each project and
how they are approached.

Key topics to be addressed include:

The topic of hydrogen storage will be addressed during the conference
• Legal policy and safety status
• Global market overview
• Financial feasibility of hydrogen
fuel cells
• Hydrogen production, storage and
transportation
• Case studies: Technology
deployment
• Technology case studies
• Commercialization of fuel cell
vehicles: myth or reality
• Infrastructural development and
challenges

The two-day event will bring together key

industry stakeholders from all facets of
the hydrogen economy, such as hydrogen The commercialization of fuel cell vehicles will also be on the agenda

26 e-tech I Issue 05/2013

 IEC FAMILY

Meeting expectations
Training sessions in Southeast Asia focus on individuals

Claire Marchand Focus on the participants Standardization at SPRING, the NSB

As part of its strategy to increase To kick start each workshop, Tiedemann (National Standardization Body) that hosts
awareness of, and enhance tested a new feature: the roll call. Partici- the Singapore NC (National Committee) of
participation in standards development pants were asked to introduce themselves, the IEC, to discuss the possibility of having
work, the IEC made the decision to and also to explain what their personal free use of the IEC IT Collaboration Tool
have regular training sessions for motivation and expectations were in atten- Suite at the national level.
its members, experts and for the ding this event. This put the focus on indivi-
community at large. Three broad duals rather than on the audience as a whole. Having NCs use the IEC tools is a win-win
geographical regions were situation. On the one hand, it helps experts
defined: Asia, the Americas For the organizers it was interesting in their national mirror committee work
and Europe. to see the wide range of interests and who can familiarize themselves with the
expectations brought forward by attendees. IEC 100% electronic environment. Then,
Some were very new to standardization when they become members of an IEC TC/
Spotlight on Southeast Asia and keen to gather any bit of information SC (Technical Committee/Subcommittee),
The training programme put in place by available, others were veterans of 20 or they require minimal training and are
the IEC has picked up speed in 2013: After more years, wishing to find ways of working immediately operational.
Latin America in March, a new series of more efficiently.
workshops were held in Southeast Asia in Spreading the word through social
May. Four countries were on the agenda: Having participants spell out their needs media
Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines and at the beginning of a session helps fine- The half-day workshop gathered people
Thailand. tune the programme. The training material from various horizons representing national
put together by TISS, which consists of stakeholders. It is interesting to note
Organized by TISS (Technical Information a series of presentations on a variety of that two participants learned about the
and Support Services) and conducted topics related to IEC standardization and upcoming Asian tour through LinkedIn
by IEC Community Business Coordinator CA (Conformity Assessment) activities, can discussions and contacted TISS to find
Jan-Henrik Tiedemann, in collaboration easily be adapted to each audience at very out whether there would be an event in
with IEC-APRC (Asia-Pacific Regional short notice. Singapore. They were redirected to their
Centre) Regional Director Dennis Chew, NC for registration and were present at the
the workshops brought together IEC IT tools for Singapore? session.
about 40 participants in each location and Prior to the workshop, Tiedemann
received very positive feedback. and Chew met with the Director of SPRING deemed this workshop extremely
beneficial and asked if another session
could be organized later this year to cover
more ground.

The Philippines – focus on CA

This time, the workshop was organized
with the strong support of industry and
took place in a factory that is assembling
short-term housing modules. This gave
a different flavour to the meeting, hosted
in one of their warehouses fitted with a
modular meeting room.

Among participants, several were from test

laboratories or chairs of mirror technical
Dennis Chew during the workshop in the ...and Jan-Henrik Tiedemann in Singapore committees. While the core presentations
Philippines... on IEC activities remained on the
programme, the focus was more on

Issue 05/2013 I e-tech 27

 IEC FAMILY

CA activities, the IECEE System and The Thai workshop saw some very lively
luminaires in particular. exchanges between presenters and the
audience. Several topics were broached,
Following the workshop, participants were among them the national adoption of
to treated to a tour of the testing laboratory IEC International Standards and the
at the factory. issue of participation in IEC work,
especially for NCs with a limited number
Indonesia and Thailand – making their of experts.
voice heard
Many stakeholders, including The workshops will move to Europe
manufacturers and government agencies, and the United States in the second half
took part in these two events. of 2013. Participants in the Indonesian workshop

Nominations and extensions

Latest nominations

Laurianne Trimoulla Member of ACOS by the SMB. He Extensions

The SMB (Standardization replaces Philippe Juhel who became Technical Committees
Management Board) has approved Chairman of ACOS upon Friedrich The extensions of the terms of office of
one ACOS nomination as well as the Harless’s retirement in February 2013. the following IEC TC Chairmen have been
extension of the terms of office of The appointment is effective immediately. approved by SMB:
existing TC (Technical Committee)
Chairmen and one ACEC (Advisory Marcel Chevalier is currently Quality First extension to term of office for
Committee on Electromagnetic Leader for Pre-Development Projects at the period 2013-06-01 to 2016-05-31
Compatibility) member. Schneider Electric in Grenoble, France, of Gary R. Johnson as Chairman
where he has advanced his career of IEC TC 49: Piezoelectric,
in various departments since 1989. dielectric and electrostatic devices
New ACOS member Marcel Chevalier has a background in and associated materials for
Marcel Chevalier, from France National Mathematics, Computer Science frequency control, selection and
Committee, has been nominated Expert and Statistics. He is an expert in detection.
IEC TC 56: Dependability, and
IEC SC (Subcommittee) 65A: System Third extension to term of office of
aspects of IEC TC 65: Industrial- Dieter W. Bergman as Chairman of
process measurement, control and IEC TC 91: Electronics assembly
automation. technology for the period 2013-06-01
to 2016-05-31.
ACOS deals with safety matters which
are not specific to one single TC of the Advisory Committee
IEC. Its task is to guide and coordinate The SMB also approved the
IEC work on safety matters in order extension of term of office of one
to ensure consistency in IEC safety ACEC member:
Standards. ACOS produces safety
guides and prepares workshops around First extension to term of office of
the world to create great awareness and Martial Patra as member of ACEC,
involve users and regulators on the role representing IEC TC 22: Power electronic
ACOS Expert Member Marcel Chevalier of safety. systems and equipment.

28 e-tech I Issue 05/2013

 IN STORE

Keeping in touch
Feedback button for better communication with the IEC community

Claire Marchand
Since Monday 10 June 2013, the
IEC website has a new functionality:
a feedback button, located on the top
right hand side corner of the screen.
This should make it much easier
for all users to ask questions, make
comments and suggestions or get
support.

Coupled with a ticketing system

After the launch of the new IEC website
in January 2011, some users remarked
that there wasn’t one central place or
The new feedback button is on the top right-hand corner of all web pages
address where they could send feedback.
TISS (Technical Information Services
and Support) planned an IEC ticketing
system to allow for better processing
and treatment of all requests coming to
IEC CO. The ticketing project system was
then developed by the IEC IT department.
The Web team designed the button and
made sure it appeared on all pages of the
IEC website.

The system, available internally since

mid-2012, was tested extensively to make
sure it would perform adequately. Its public
launch coincided with that of the feedback
button.

How it works Clicking on the feedback tab... ...opens a popup form

Clicking on the Feedback tab opens a

popup form on which users enter their
name, email address and the topic they can then process it and quickly forward it for future reference. This database will
want to draw attention to. They can further to the person best able to respond – each serve as basis for the preparation of FAQs
specify whether their communication is department at IEC CO has appointed one (Frequently asked questions) and last but
a question, a suggestion of if they need contact person who will deal with these not least, the IEC can use the statistical
support, and provide detailed explanations. requests. At the same time the person data on support requests and comments to
making the inquiry receives an email better understand where improvements in
To avoid spam, a simple question is message, confirming reception of the the IEC Services and tools are necessary.
asked at the bottom of the form prior to request and providing a ticket number. This
submission. process allows for speedier answers and Keep in touch
better service to users. We look forward to receiving your
The submission goes straight into the feedback and questions. Your comments
system where it is automatically attributed Once completed, the response from and thoughts will help us improve the
a dedicated number and where those IEC CO is sent to the initiator of the inquiry IEC website and make it a better working
monitoring the flux of incoming feedback and filed in the ticketing system database tool for you!

Issue 05/2013 I e-tech 29

IN STORE

Very small yet global

Standardization for nanotechnology set to boost global industry

Morand Fachot surface of, or within, the substrate users and calibration laboratories dealing
Nanotechnology, the manipulation (“buried feature”). with the characterization of the dimensional
of matter on atomic and molecular quality parameters of artificial gratings used
scales, is expected to be one of the Gratings are periodically-spaced collection in nanotechnology.”
key technologies of the 21st century, of identical features.
providing opportunities for the To do so it details the essential
development of new products. The Framing the building blocks specifications, quality and calibration
technology’s rapid growth requires As artificial gratings are the primary building methods and procedures the industry needs
International Standards for its move blocks in nanotechnology, it is essential to assess global and local quality and to
into an industrial phase. The Standards to specify the generic terminology for the manufacture the right products.
address materials as well as so-called global and local quality parameters relating
gratings, which are objects used in to them.
nanotechnology. IEC/TS 62622 also defines general
To do this, IEC TC (Technical Committee) requirements for an adequate documentation
113: Nanotechnology standardization for and reporting of calibration results.
electrical and electronic products and
systems, has published IEC/TS 62622, Challenging work
Nanotechnologies – Description, Measuring and obtaining accurate
measurement and dimensional quality parameters at such minute scales is
parameters of artificial gratings. extremely difficult and challenging. It requires
a precise definition of measurement and
IEC/TS 62622 is a Technical Specification assessment specifications and procedures.
prepared within the JWG (Joint By doing so, IEC/TS 62622 paves the way
Working Group) 2 of IEC TC 113 and for the industry to manufacture nano-
ISO (International Organization for enabled systems and goods that will
Standardization) TC 229. emerge soon in areas including
energy production, efficiency and
Covering dimensional and other next generation consumer electronics;
Unidentified fine object (UFO) observed on a aspects lighting and other products, so sustaining
200 nm-period grating (Electron micrograph by IEC/TS 62622 describes different industries expected to generate some
Rich Aucoin, MIT)
dimensional grating types, such as: USD 2 500 billion in 2015.

• 1D, in which features are repeated in only

Defining the infinitely small 1 direction within the reference plane
Nanotechnology covers objects at • 2D, in which features are repeated
a nanoscale, which is defined as in 2, non-parallel, directions within
ranging from 1-100 nm (nanometre). the reference plane
A nanometre is equal to one billionth of • 3D, in which features are repeated
a metre (or 10-9 m). Standardization in in 3, non-parallel, directions,
nanotechnology starts at the features and containing the reference plane.
gratings levels.
The document also gives examples of
Features are, in general, three- various types and shapes of complex
dimensional objects. They can also be gratings.
nano-objects and have different shapes,
such as a dot, a line, a groove, etc. Other parameters
They might be symmetric or non– IEC/TS 62622 “is intended to facilitate Self-powered nanosensors developed by
symmetric and can be located on the communication among manufacturers, Georgia Tech (Photo: Gary Meek)

30 e-tech I Issue 05/2013

 EDITORIAL FOCUS - PREVIEW

Marine & hydro energy

This issue reviews some of the technologies developed and deployed to
gather power from oceans and rivers throughout the world and explains the role
of IEC TC 114 and several other TC/SCs that prepare International Standards for
these sectors.

Marine energy is emerging as a huge and potentially unlimited source of power.

Oceans cover more than 70% of Earth’s surface; they are sources of huge kinetic
energy from waves, currents and tides, and of thermal energy in the form of heat
they collect from the sun. IEC e-tech reviews some of the technologies that are
being developed and deployed throughout the world and explains the role of
TC 114, the Technical Committee that prepares International Standards for
marine energy converters.

Once gathered, ocean power has to be transferred from the converters to

the grid and end users. Many of the systems and parts necessary for this are
already available in offshore oil and gas installations and offshore wind turbines.
International Standards developed by various IEC TCs (Technical Committees)
and SCs (Subcommittees) support this deployment.

On the hydro side, the IEC plays a pioneering role in preparing International
Standards for small hydropower, that is installations of up to 15 MW. These
can add significantly to the capacities of large and small countries and bring
prosperity to communities deprived of electricity.

Issue 05/2013 I e-tech 31

 e-tech
News & views from the IEC

This is a special printout of IEC e-tech our electronic publication.

You can find a link to e-tech on the IEC homepage, or you can
access it at www.iec.ch/etech

If you would like to receive our monthly email notice telling you
when the latest edition of e-tech is available, you can subscribe
via the e-tech homepage. Click the button “Subscribe” or sign up
for an RSS feed.

Articles may be reproduced in whole or in part provided that the

source “IEC e-tech” is mentioned in full.

- Editor in chief: Gabriela Ehrlich

- Managing Editor e-tech: Claire Marchand

Articles published in e-tech represent the opinion of their author

and the IEC cannot be held responsible for content matter or
content.

IEC e-tech is published 10 times a year in English by the

International Electrotechnical Commission.

Copyright © IEC, Geneva, Switzerland. 2013.

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