scope:

In the past, IEC 60050-446 (Part 446 of the IEV) listed the terminology for all types of electrical relays. In order to improve the precision of terms and definitions as well as the general visibility of relay terminology, it had been decided to split that part of the IEV into three separate parts optimised for the specific relay types covered.

Therefore, this part of IEC 60050 gives terms and definitions for elementary relays (nonspecified time all-or-nothing relays) superseding the terminology of IEC 60050-446 for such relays. The terminology for time relays is contained in IEC 60050-445 established in parallel with this part. A new part for measuring relays and protection equipment (IEC 60050-447) is also under preparation. When all these three parts are published, IEC 60050-446 shall be withdrawn from the IEV.