What is IEC 60068-2-39?

IEC 60068-2-39 is an international standard that provides a framework for testing electronic and electrical components against mechanical shock. Developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), this standard ensures that these components can withstand the rigors of transportation, handling, and operational environments.

The Purpose of IEC 60068-2-39

The primary purpose of IEC 60068-2-39 is to evaluate the ability of electronic and electrical components to function properly after being subjected to mechanical shocks. These shocks can occur during manufacturing, transportation, or while in operation. By subjecting these components to controlled shocks, the standard aims to assess their robustness and determine if they meet the required performance criteria.

Additionally, IEC 60068-2-39 helps manufacturers identify design flaws and weaknesses in their products. It allows them to make necessary improvements before the components are released into the market, thereby enhancing product quality and reliability.

Testing Methodology

The standard specifies a set of test procedures to conduct mechanical shock tests. These tests involve exposing the components to various types and magnitudes of shock, such as acceleration, deceleration, and half-sine pulses.

During the tests, the components are mounted securely on a rigid platform or enclosure. They are then subjected to specified shock impulses using mechanical devices like impact hammers or shock machines. The shocks are applied in different directions to mimic real-world scenarios where the components may experience sudden impacts or vibrations.

After each shock, the components undergo detailed inspection and functional analysis to determine if any damage has occurred. This includes checking for physical deformation, breakage, internal disconnections, or changes in electrical properties. Only components that pass the evaluation criteria specified in the standard are deemed compliant.

Benefits and Importance

The implementation of IEC 60068-2-39 brings several benefits to manufacturers, end-users, and regulatory bodies:

1. Quality Assurance: By subjecting components to rigorous mechanical shock testing, manufacturers can ensure the quality and reliability of their products. This helps reduce the risk of failures and recalls once the components are deployed in real-world applications.

2. Safety and Performance: Compliance with the standard ensures that electronic and electrical components will work as intended even under challenging environmental conditions. This promotes safety and optimizes performance, particularly in critical applications like aerospace, defense, and healthcare.

3. International Standardization: IEC 60068-2-39 provides a unified testing methodology that is recognized globally. This helps facilitate trade by ensuring consistent evaluation of components across different markets and countries.

In conclusion, IEC 60068-2-39 plays a vital role in ensuring the reliability, durability, and performance of electronic and electrical components. By subjecting them to controlled mechanical shocks, the standard helps identify weaknesses and drive improvements in product design and manufacturing processes.