IEC 61010 Resistance to Mechanical Stresses

IEC 61010 product safety compliance evaluates electrical products in regards to mechanical stresses. As a certified product safety compliance lab, we realize the importance of IEC 61010-1 mechanical stress testing. Meeting the IEC test method requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.

Keystone Compliance creates an accurate test plan to eliminate expensive over-testing. Our proven process helps avoid product launch delays. Keystone also provides comprehensive reports shortly after completion of the IEC product safety test. Lastly, we are in constant communication throughout the entire test process.

Request a quote to see why so many companies partner with Keystone Compliance. Contact us to receive more information on IEC standard test method 61010.

Summary of IEC Product Safety Regulatory Compliance Testing

Equipment subjected to mechanical stresses during normal use is prohibited to cause a hazard. The normal energy protection level required is 5 J. Thus, levels between 5 and 1 J are permitted provided that specified criteria are met:

• The lower level is justified by a risk assessment carried out by the manufacturer.
• When the equipment is installed in its intended use, it cannot easily be touched by unauthorized persons or the general public.
• In normal use, the equipment is only accessed for occasional operations such as adjustment, programming, or maintenance.
• The equipment is marked with an IK code or specified IEC symbol.

Scope of Product Conformance Test and Certifications

During the IEC 61010-1 standard, conformity is checked by inspection and performing of each applicable test. These include a static test, an impact test, or a drop test.

The static, impact, and drop tests are carried out as follows:

Static Test – The equipment is held firmly against a support. Then, it is subjected to a force of 30 N applied by the hemispherical end of a hard rod. The rod is applied to each part of the enclosure which could easily be touched when ready to use.

Impact Test – The impact test consists of bases, covers, etc. tightened using a torque likely to be applied in normal use. With the equipment held against rigid support, the impact is applied. More specifically, it is applied to any point on surfaces that are easily touched in normal use and which would most likely cause a hazard.

Drop Test – Hand-held equipment is dropped once at a distance of 1 m onto a thick hardwood board. The equipment is dropped so that it lands in the position expected to present the most severe condition. Non-hand-held equipment and direct plug-ins are placed in a normal use position. It is then tilted about each edge and allowed to freely fall onto the test surface.

After the product safety standard tests mentioned above, visibly damaged equipment is inspected for hazardous live phenomena. The equipment is examined so the insulation of all other parts of the enclosure could not have been affected. In addition, the equipment is inspected to check that:

• There have been no leaks of corrosive or harmful substances.
• Enclosures show no cracks which could cause a hazard.
• Clearances are not less than their permitted values.
• The insulation of the internal wiring remains undamaged.
• Protective barriers necessary for safety have not been damaged or loosened.
• No moving parts are exposed.
• There has been no damage that could cause the spread of a fire.

Expert IEC 61010 Product Safety Testing Lab

In addition to international standards and certification, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including EMC/EMI, ingress protection, and military environmental testing. Our team strives to give our customers more time and energy on product development instead of testing. Keystone has a full lab of test equipment which permits us to provide short lead times on scheduling.

 Request a quote to find out for yourself about the Keystone difference. Have a question about IEC 61010-1 product safety or our compliance lab testing process? Contact us or call (919) 296-0098 and we will determine the best course of action.

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