The manufacturing of cables necessitates rigorous inspection, given their application in critical projects. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is a non-profit, independent global safety certification company with testing laboratories. This company is responsible for inspecting and testing the safety and quality of various wires and cables to ensure compliance with international and national safety standards. Additionally, UL checks for quality, regulatory compliance, and environmental impact.
However, the mere presence of a UL mark on a cable does not guarantee acceptance. This is due to the complexities involved in the approval process. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the different approval types before opting for a UL-certified cable.
UL approval is crucial for manufacturers as it grants access to various markets worldwide. This approval can pertain to the entire system or individual components. However, there are significant differences between the various approval types and how inspectors handle them.
Types of UL Cable Approvals
There are two primary types of UL approvals: UL Recognized and UL Listed. These two types exhibit numerous distinctions. Many inspectors are well-versed in UL Listed cable compliance, making cables with this mark more likely to be accepted. This translates to time and cost savings for plant engineers and machinery, as the acceptance and testing costs are lower.
The UL Recognized approach differs significantly. While the mark encompasses hundreds of AWM styles listed on the UL identity card, which identifies the manufacturer’s AWM Style, UL Recognized cable approval is granted only after the wired device is submitted along with its specifications, including voltage level and temperature range. UL experts then verify these aspects by testing the mechanical properties of the existing cable.
Why Opt for UL Listed Cables?
Technicians and purchasers are recommended to choose UL Listed power cords because these cables are easier to standardize and check. Additionally, acceptance of UL-approved power cords is swift. Once a cable meets the UL Listed requirements, the inspector must approve it, thereby saving the time required for conducting an AWM research.
It’s worth noting that the AWM Style is advantageous because it is customized to the product’s application; not every application may meet the standard requirements of UL cables. For instance, woodworking machines will undoubtedly have different cable requirements compared to metalworking machines.
Are There Variations in UL Cable Approvals Across Countries?
Yes, there are differences in UL cable approvals depending on the country. Europe primarily focuses on the materials used within the cable, whereas the USA emphasizes the cable’s flame retardant properties.
Over the years, due to the varying elements involved, UL has implemented different approaches during cable approvals. European approval pays significant attention to the cable’s materials, including the use of lead-free products and the number of high-risk plasticizers. Cables used in buildings must exhibit low smoke densities and halogen-free or low toxicity properties.
Conversely, UL certification focuses on the flame retardant characteristics of the cable.
Summing Up
UL-approved extension cords guarantee that the cable meets the recommended standards, enabling its application in various projects. Therefore, it is crucial to work with a UL-certified cable manufacturer to obtain a UL-approved wire for your project.
