IEC · X

Interchange of conductors

A crossing mark showing that two or more conductors swap position, such as a phase transposition or deliberate phase swap.

In plain English

What does Interchange of conductors mean?

The interchange form shows conductors crossing over so that their positions change along the run. On transmission lines it represents transposition, used to balance phase impedances. On motor and generator circuits it may show a deliberate swap of two phases to reverse rotation or to correct phase sequence.

A simple example

The symbol must be read with the phase labels on both sides, because the purpose differs. An unlabelled crossing may be mistaken for a drafting artefact. Where the interchange changes phase sequence, any synchronising or phase-sequence-sensitive equipment downstream must be checked.

Identify the device and formRead the connections and stateCheck the equipment reference
A guide to reading this reference. The original symbol illustration and its drawing notes appear below; these boxes are not a wiring diagram.

What the drawings help you do

Read phase labels either side of the interchange. Check whether rotation or phase sequence downstream depends on it. Interchanged conductors change position or phase; an unconnected crossing just passes over another conductor with no change.

This particular reference

A crossing mark showing that two or more conductors swap position, such as a phase transposition or deliberate phase swap. Interchanged conductors change position or phase; an unconnected crossing just passes over another conductor with no change.

Phase
One of the related AC waveforms in a power system.
Schematic
A drawing showing function and connections rather than physical appearance.

Read the source: Wire connection dots, crossing gaps and loops · IEC-60617 symbol preview directory

IEC · Conductor interchange form

Independent IEC-context illustration; not certified IEC geometry.

Shown as an independently authored educational illustration. Use the cited publication and drawing legend to verify the required drafting form.

SLD / Schematic · XInterchange of conductors: original educational illustration
Original educational illustrationNot to scale · See source and graphic notes

What it represents

The interchange form shows conductors crossing over so that their positions change along the run. On transmission lines it represents transposition, used to balance phase impedances. On motor and generator circuits it may show a deliberate swap of two phases to reverse rotation or to correct phase sequence.

The symbol must be read with the phase labels on both sides, because the purpose differs. An unlabelled crossing may be mistaken for a drafting artefact. Where the interchange changes phase sequence, any synchronising or phase-sequence-sensitive equipment downstream must be checked.

How to read it

  • Read phase labels either side of the interchange.
  • Check whether rotation or phase sequence downstream depends on it.

Information to show or reference

  • Label phases on both sides of the interchange.
  • State the reason for the swap where it changes rotation.
  • Check synchronising and metering connections downstream.

A distinction that matters

Interchanged conductors change position or phase; an unconnected crossing just passes over another conductor with no change.

Sources you can follow

These public references support the explanation and provide further detail. Their graphics and downloadable files remain with their publishers.

Wire connection dots, crossing gaps and loops

Public guidance on wire crossings and connection display in drawings.

Autodesk · Public reference checked 14 October 2026 · Link only

IEC-60617 symbol preview directory

Public directory of IEC-oriented symbol families.

Autodesk · Public reference checked 13 October 2026 · Link only

About this graphic

This illustration was authored independently by Elora Grid to explain the concept. It is not reproduced from a customer drawing, an official standard graphic or a manufacturer CAD file. Its correspondence to an exact IEC or IEEE symbol identifier has not been certified.

SVG and DXF downloads contain this original artwork. DXF uses unscaled drawing units; a GA envelope supplies no product dimensions, clearances or fabrication information. Original artwork is available under CC BY 4.0. Third-party references retain their own terms.

Entry JSON · Entry Markdown · Last editorial update: 28 October 2026

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