International winding wire standards-progress towards harmonization

It is noted that increases in international trade in electronic/electrical products have focused attention upon a greater need for having a common language for addressing and describing the various common winding wires produced throughout the world. The author shows the current status of the language, in the form of standards sanctioned by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). The most recent publications for magnet wire specifications, test methods, packaging requirements, and basic dimensions are reviewed. Several common denominators between IEC and National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) standards are discussed. A table shows some of the key elements to be used in equating wire specifications listed by the IEC to other national wire standards. Both the direction of present efforts and possible future needs for winding wire (magnet wire) harmonization are included.<>