What is BS EN 60695-11-2:2018?

BS EN 60695-11-2:2018 is a technical standard established by the British Standards Institution (BSI) that relates to fire hazard testing of electrical and electronic products. It specifically focuses on the assessment of fire hazard arising from heat sources such as glowing or flaming components, in order to ensure the safety and reliability of these products.

The Importance of Fire Hazard Testing

Fire hazard testing plays a crucial role in establishing safeguards against potential fire incidents caused by electrical and electronic products. As technology continues to advance, the complexity of these products increases as well, increasing the risk of potential fire hazards due to various factors including design flaws, manufacturing defects, or improper usage.

BS EN 60695-11-2:2018 provides manufacturers and regulators with guidelines and procedures for effectively assessing and mitigating fire hazards. By complying with this standard, manufacturers can ensure that their products meet certain safety requirements, reducing the possibility of fire outbreaks and potential harm to users and properties.

Scope and Key Requirements of BS EN 60695-11-2:2018

The scope of BS EN 60695-11-2:2018 covers a wide range of electrical and electronic products. It provides guidance on the sample preparation, test methods, criteria for classifying fire hazards, and the interpretation of test results. The standard consists of various fire hazard tests, including the Glow-Wire Ignition Test (GWIT), Glow-Wire Flammability Index (GWFI), and Needle-Flame Test (NFT).

The GWIT assesses the ability of a material not to ignite under specified conditions, while the GWFI measures the flammability of materials used in mandatory parts, like enclosure materials, obtaining valuable information regarding the fire spread risk. The NFT is designed to simulate the effect of small flames resulting from faults in electrical equipment.

Conclusion

BS EN 60695-11-2:2018 plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and reliability of electrical and electronic products by assessing their fire hazard potential. By complying with this standard, manufacturers can mitigate potential risks and build products that are safe for consumers to use. The comprehensive scope and requirements specified in the standard provide manufacturers and regulators with valuable tools to ensure the fire safety of products, making it an essential guideline within the industry.