Ce Labelling - GE AF-600 FP Design Manual

2.1.3 Disposal Instruction

2.2 CE Labelling

2.2.1 CE Conformity and Labelling
What is CE Conformity and Labelling?
The purpose of CE labelling 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 labelled in accordance with the low-voltage directive of January 1, 1997. The directive applies to all electrical equipment and
appliances used in the 50 - 1000 V AC and the 75 - 1500 V DC voltage ranges. GE 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. GE 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 professionals 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 labelling.
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 labelled 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 labelled 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 labelled 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 labelled in accordance with the EMC directive. The manufacturer can ensure CE labelling under the EMC directive either
by using CE labelled components or by testing the EMC of the system. If he chooses to use only CE labelled components, he does not have to test the
entire system.
Equipment containing electrical components may not be disposed of together with domestic waste.
It must be separately collected with electrical and electronic waste according to local and currently
valid legislation.
AF-600 FP Design Guide
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