2.2 CE Labeling
2.2.1 CE conformity and labeling
What is CE Conformity and Labeling?
The purpose of CE labeling is to avoid technical trade
obstacles within EFTA and the EU. The EU has introduced
the CE label as a simple way of showing whether a
product complies with the relevant EU directives. The CE
label says nothing about the specifications or quality of
the product. Frequency converters are regulated by three
EU directives:
The machinery directive (98/37/EEC)
All machines with critical moving parts are covered by the
machinery directive of January 1, 1995. Since a frequency
converter is largely electrical, it does not fall under the
machinery directive. However, if a frequency converter is
supplied for use in a machine, we provide information on
safety aspects relating to the frequency converter. We do
this by means of a manufacturer's declaration.
The low-voltage directive (73/23/EEC)
Frequency converters must be CE labeled in accordance
with the low-voltage directive of January 1, 1997. The
directive applies to all electrical equipment and appliances
used in the 50 - 1000V AC and the 75 - 1500V DC voltage
ranges. Danfoss CE-labels in accordance with the directive
and issues a declaration of conformity upon request.
The EMC directive (89/336/EEC)
EMC is short for electromagnetic compatibility. The
presence of electromagnetic compatibility means that the
mutual interference between different components/
appliances does not affect the way the appliances work.
The EMC directive came into effect January 1, 1996.
Danfoss CE-labels in accordance with the directive and
issues a declaration of conformity upon request. To carry
out EMC-correct installation, see the instructions in this
Design Guide. In addition, we specify which standards our
products comply with. We offer the filters presented in the
specifications and provide other types of assistance to
ensure the optimum EMC result.
The frequency converter is most often used by profes-
sionals of the trade as a complex component forming part
of a larger appliance, system or installation. It must be
noted that the responsibility for the final EMC properties of
the appliance, system or installation rests with the installer.
2.2.2 What is Covered
The EU "
Guidelines on the Application of Council Directive
89/336/EEC
" outline three typical situations of using a
frequency converter. See below for EMC coverage and CE
labeling.
1.
The frequency converter is sold directly to the
end-consumer. The frequency converter is for
example sold to a DIY market. The end-consumer
is a layman. He installs the frequency converter
himself for use with a hobby machine, a kitchen
appliance, etc. For such applications, the
frequency converter must be CE labeled in
accordance with the EMC directive.
2.
The frequency converter is sold for installation in
a plant. The plant is built up by professionals of
the trade. It could be a production plant or a
heating/ventilation plant designed and installed
by professionals of the trade. Neither the
frequency converter nor the finished plant has to
be CE labeled under the EMC directive. However,
the unit must comply with the basic EMC
requirements of the directive. This is ensured by
using components, appliances, and systems that
are CE labeled under the EMC directive.
3.
The frequency converter is sold as part of a
complete system. The system is being marketed
as complete and could e.g. be an air-conditioning
system. The complete system must be CE labeled
in accordance with the EMC directive. The
manufacturer can ensure CE labeling under the
EMC directive either by using CE labeled
components or by testing the EMC of the system.
If he chooses to use only CE labeled components,
he does not have to test the entire system.
2.2.3 Danfoss Frequency Converter and CE
Labeling
CE labeling is a positive feature when used for its original
purpose, i.e. to facilitate trade within the EU and EFTA.
However, CE labeling may cover many different specifi-
cations. Thus, you have to check what a given CE label
specifically covers.
The covered specifications can be very different and a CE
label may therefore give the installer a false feeling of
security when using a frequency converter as a component
in a system or an appliance.
Danfoss CE labels the frequency converters in accordance
with the low-voltage directive. This means that if the
frequency converter is installed correctly, we guarantee
compliance with the low-voltage directive. Danfoss issues a
declaration of conformity that confirms our CE labeling in
accordance with the low-voltage directive.
The CE label also applies to the EMC directive provided
that the instructions for EMC-correct installation and
Safety and Conformity
VLT Micro Drive Design Guide
MG02K102 - VLT
®
is a registered Danfoss trademark
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