Testing under UL1741/UL2200 1

[UKpete]

We are in the process of getting UL Recognition on one of our power converters, and are required under UL1741/UL2200 (unless I have misinterpreted it) to demonstrate that the equipment remains safe when short circuits are applied across individual semiconductors and capacitors.

The problem with this is that some of these short-circuit tests will write-off the alternator that feeds the power converter, and we could get through quite an expensive amount of hardware.

Has anyone else come up against this problem? Presumably, if say a 500MW system were being tested, it would be unreasonable to expect the manufacturer to damage the alternator as part of UL testing - are compromises common?

 

[peebee]

I don't know about the specifics of your situation, but UL commonly performs destructive tests.

 

[dpc]

I don't think UL will cut you much slack.

I would be surprised if there was a 500 MW system with a UL label.

 

[UKpete]

Thanks for the responses. It does seem that (in contrast to CE marking) UL recognition or listing is based on witness tests.

Incidentally, we may be modifying the design to include an mcb between the alternator and the power conditioner, to protect the alternator. That should get us through the UL testing without blowing up alternators.

 

[ccaserta]

UKpete just a reminder the UL standards are based off a IEC standards same as the EN standards for CE certification. If you have already gone through safety testing for the CE Mark and have past the above test I recommend you get a second quote if UL will not work with you on the required test. If you haven't run the test and are claiming CE conformance than you probably should do the test and add the information to your CE Technical File. Christopher Caserta
ccaserta@us.tuv.com
Ph:904-225-0360