What is IEC 60335-2-98?

IEC 60335-2-98 is an international safety standard that specifically applies to household and similar electrical appliances. It sets out safety requirements and test methods for these appliances to ensure their safe use by consumers. The standard was developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in collaboration with experts from various countries.

Scope of IEC 60335-2-98

The standard covers a wide range of household and similar electrical appliances, including but not limited to washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators, ovens, and vacuum cleaners. It provides guidelines for manufacturers and regulators to evaluate the safety aspects of these appliances throughout their lifecycle – from design and production to installation, operation, and maintenance. Compliance with this standard helps prevent accidents and injuries caused by faulty appliances.

Main Requirements of IEC 60335-2-98

IEC 60335-2-98 specifies various requirements that must be met by manufacturers of household electrical appliances. These requirements include:

Protection against electric shock: Appliances must be designed and constructed in a way that prevents users from coming into direct contact with live electrical parts.

Temperature limits: Appliances should not reach excessive temperatures that could cause burns or fires during normal use.

Mechanical strength: Appliances and their components must be robust enough to withstand expected mechanical stresses without posing any risk to users.

Insulation: Adequate insulation must be provided to prevent electrical leakage or short circuits.

Protection against moisture: Appliances that may come into contact with moisture, such as washing machines, must incorporate measures to ensure safe operation in such conditions.

Clear instructions and markings: Appliances must be accompanied by clear instructions for safe use and appropriate warning labels.

Compliance and Certification

To demonstrate compliance with IEC 60335-2-98, manufacturers typically subject their appliances to extensive testing and evaluation. This may involve various tests, such as electrical safety tests, temperature rise tests, mechanical strength tests, and insulation resistance tests. Once the appliances meet all the requirements of the standard, manufacturers can obtain certification marks, such as the CE mark in Europe, indicating that their products comply with the safety standards set by IEC 60335-2-98.

In conclusion, IEC 60335-2-98 plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of household electrical appliances. By providing guidelines and requirements for manufacturers, it helps prevent accidents resulting from faulty appliances. Compliance with this international standard gives consumers confidence in the safety and reliability of the appliances they use in their everyday lives.