Overview
IEC 60873-2:2004 is an international standard issued by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that provides technical guidance for the inspection and routine testing of electrical and pneumatic analogue chart recorders used in industrial process control systems. These chart recorders operate from standardized signals and are essential for continuous monitoring and recording of process variables such as temperature, pressure, and flow. The standard covers devices producing continuous and dotted line traces, including multiple pen and multiple-channel instruments.
This part 2 of IEC 60873 complements IEC 60873-1, which focuses on performance evaluation methods. IEC 60873-2 offers practical procedures for acceptance testing, routine inspections, and post-repair assessments to ensure reliable operation and accuracy in industrial environments.
Key Topics
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Scope and Applicability
Applies to analogue chart recorders used in process control systems with standardized signal inputs. The standard addresses electrical and pneumatic types and multiple-channel instruments with continuous or dotted line outputs.
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Inspection and Routine Testing Guidance
Provides detailed methods to conduct acceptance tests and routine checks. Tests include measured error and hysteresis, effects of varying power supply and pressure, over-range behavior, recording quality, paper speed accuracy, and step response performance.
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Sampling and Test Procedures
Sampling tests are recommended in agreement with the manufacturer and user, with reference to IEC 60410 for statistical sampling. User inspectors may select the sample recorders for testing.
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Performance Testing Criteria
Tests must consider environmental conditions, use manufacturer’s recommended ink and paper, and follow adjustments agreed by manufacturer and user. The test results should clearly specify which tests were performed and quantitative criteria for acceptable performance.
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Safety Compliance
The recorders must comply with the safety requirements outlined in IEC 61010-1, ensuring the testing practices and devices meet safety standards for electrical equipment in measurement and control.
Applications
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Industrial Process Control Systems
Ensuring analogue chart recorders provide reliable and accurate data logging for industrial processes such as chemical production, oil and gas monitoring, and manufacturing.
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Acceptance Testing
Verifying that new chart recorders meet contractual performance criteria before deployment in critical process environments.
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Post-Repair Certification
Confirming functionality and compliance of chart recorders after maintenance or repair activities to maintain operational integrity.
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Routine Maintenance Programs
Assisting maintenance teams in scheduling regular inspection and performance verification to avoid downtime and ensure precise process monitoring.
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Quality Assurance and Compliance
Enabling manufacturers and users to agree on performance standards and implement consistent evaluation methods to achieve international conformity and quality assurance.
Related Standards
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IEC 60873-1: Methods for performance evaluation of electrical and pneumatic analogue chart recorders in industrial process control systems. Used alongside IEC 60873-2 for comprehensive assessment.
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IEC 60410: Sampling plans and procedures for inspection by attributes, guiding statistical methods for testing batches of equipment.
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IEC 61010-1: Safety requirements for electrical equipment for measurement, control, and laboratory use – ensures safety compliance during inspection and operation.
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IEC 61298 (all parts): General methods and procedures for evaluating performance of process measurement and control devices, referenced for test methods and performance criteria.
By following IEC 60873-2:2004, manufacturers, inspectors, and users can ensure that analogue chart recorders used in industrial process control systems perform accurately, reliably, and safely, supporting high-quality process monitoring and documentation. This standard remains a key resource for establishing consistent inspection and testing practices essential for industrial automation and instrumentation.
