IEEE C37.04-1999

C37.04-1999 is a technical standard for voltage circuit breakers, setting out requirements that support consistent design, evaluation, and application in power, energy, and industry settings. It helps define how these breakers are described and assessed so engineers, purchasers, and utilities can align equipment expectations with service needs. For organizations working with medium-voltage switching equipment, this standard provides a structured reference for performance and compliance considerations.

About C37.04-1999

This standard addresses voltage circuit breakers in a way that is relevant to electrical power systems where dependable interruption and switching performance matter. C37.04-1999 is used as a reference for technical requirements associated with breaker classification, ratings, and related application characteristics. In practice, it supports clearer communication between manufacturers, specifiers, and users when selecting equipment for industrial and utility installations. As a superseded document, it may still be useful for legacy equipment review and historical comparison.

Where is C37.04-1999 used?

C37.04-1999 is commonly relevant in substations, switchgear assemblies, and other medium-voltage installations that rely on voltage circuit breakers for protection and control. It may be used when specifying equipment for generation, distribution, and large industrial power systems where fault interruption and switching coordination are important. The standard can also support maintenance teams, engineering consultants, and procurement staff who need a clear basis for comparing breaker types and checking technical conformity in power infrastructure projects.

Importance in practice

In practice, C37.04-1999 matters because circuit breaker requirements influence safety, system reliability, and procurement consistency. Using a defined standard helps reduce ambiguity in ratings, testing expectations, and equipment selection, which can lower the risk of mismatch between breaker capability and system conditions. For legacy installations, it may also assist with documentation review, replacement planning, and comparison of older equipment against established technical criteria. That makes the standard a practical reference for controlled engineering decisions.

• Voltage circuit breaker requirements
• Power and industrial application context
• Ratings and technical evaluation
• Legacy and superseded reference use