What is UL 61058-2-71-2020 ?

Title: Unlocking the Benefits of UL 61058-2-2020: The Ultimate Guide

The world we live in is driven by electricity, and switches play a significant role in powering our daily lives. As we use more and more electrical devices, the need for reliable and safe switches becomes more critical. In response to this growing demand, the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) has introduced UL 61058-2-2020, a comprehensive set of guidelines and regulations for switches used in various electrical devices.

In this article, we will delve into the latest version of UL 61058-2-2020, explore its purpose, and highlight the key requirements that manufacturers, designers, and engineers must comply with to ensure the safety and performance of electrical switches.

What is UL 61058-2-2020?

UL 61058-2-2020 is a professional technical standard that defines the requirements for switches used in appliances, industrial equipment, and control gears. It is designed to ensure the safety of users by minimizing the risks associated with switch faults or malfunctions.

The standard covers a wide range of switches, including those found in household appliances, industrial equipment, and commercial devices. It sets forth specific requirements for the construction, performance, and safety aspects of switches.

Key Changes in UL 61058-2-2020

When UL 61058-2-2020 was first introduced, it was a significant departure from previous versions. Some of the key changes include:

Increased Focus on Safety:

UL 61058-2-2020 places a greater emphasis on safety by reducing the risk of electrical hazards. The standard has been updated to include new requirements for electrical safety features, such as circuit breakers, overcurrent protection, and grounding.

Enhanced Performance:

UL 61058-2-2020 has been updated to reflect the latest trends in switch performance, such as higher switching speeds and lower on-state resistance. The standard also introduces new requirements for the mechanical design of switches, including dimensions, weight, and durability.

Increased Flexibility:

UL 61058-2-2020 has been designed to be more flexible and adaptable to different types of switches and applications. The standard allows manufacturers to use different materials and geometries for the enclosure and internal components of the switch, providing more options for meeting the requirements.

Key Requirements of UL 61058-2-2020

To ensure compliance with UL 61058-2-2020, manufacturers must comply with the following key requirements:

Electrical Safety:

Switches must meet the requirements of NEC (National Electrical Code) 120-2018, including circuit breakers, overcurrent protection, and grounding.

Performance:

Switches must meet the requirements of UL 825-2009, including switching speeds, on-state resistance, and response time.

Durability:

Switches must be capable of withstanding the environmental stresses of their intended environment, including temperature, humidity, and vibration.

Material and Construction:

Switches must be made of materials that are resistant to corrosion, including aluminum, copper, and plastic. The enclosure and internal components of the switch must also meet the requirements of UL 603-2-2004.

Conclusion:

UL 61058-2-2020 is a significant update to the standard for switches used in various electrical devices. By incorporating new requirements for safety, performance, and durability, UL 61058-2-2020 has helped to ensure the safety and reliability of electrical switches for decades.

As manufacturers, designers, and engineers continue to develop new products and applications for electrical switches, compliance with UL 61058-2-2020 will remain essential for ensuring the safety and performance of these devices.