The manufacture of cables necessitates a thorough inspection as these cables will be applied in important projects. Underwriters Laboratories or UL refers to a non-profit worldwide safety certification independent company with testing laboratories. The company is responsible for inspection and testing the safety and quality of different wires or cables for international and national safety standards. It’s also responsible for checking the quality, regulatory compliance, and environmental impact.
However, just because the cable has a UL mark is not a sure sign of acceptance. This is because the approval process is quite tricky. A reason why it’s important to understand the different approval types before settling for a UL certified cable.
UL approval is vital for manufacturers as it guarantees entry to different markets globally. The approval can either apply to the whole system or individual components. However, there is a significant difference between the different approval types and how the inspectors handle them.
The different types of UL Cable Approvals
There are two main types of UL approvals. This includes the UL Recognized and UL Listed. Each of these two types features numerous differences. Most of the inspectors are well acquitted with UL Listed cable compliance. This means cables with such a mark are more likely to be accepted. This saves on time and cost for plant engineers and machinery as the acceptance and test costs are low.
UL Recognized has a different approach – As much as the mark conceals on hundreds of AWM styles found within the UL identity card that’s responsible for identifying the manufacturer AWM Style. UL Recognized cable approval is only granted once the wired device is submitted with its specification, including the voltage level and temperature range. The UL experts will then proceed to confirm these aspects by testing the mechanical properties of the existing cable.
Why Choose UL Listed Cables?
Technicians and buyers are advised to go for UL Listed power cords owing to the fact that the cable is easier to standard check these cables. UL approved power cord acceptance is also quick. Once the cable complies with a UL Listed requirement, the inspector will have no choice but to approve it, saving the time needed to conduct an AMW research.
It is important to note that AWM Style is perfect since it is tailored to the product’s application; not every application might fit the UL cable standard requirements. Woodworking machines will certainly feature different cable requirements as opposed to metalworking machines.
Is there a Difference in UL cable Approvals Depending on the Country?
There is a difference with Europe focusing more on materials applied within the cable while the USA primarily focuses on the cable’s flame retardant features.
Owing to the different elements being involved over the years, different approaches are being implemented by UL during cable approvals. European approval pays much attention to the cable’s materials, including lead-free products and high-risk plasticizers number. Cables used in buildings have to feature low smoke densities, and halogen-free or low toxicity properties.
On the other hand, UL certification focuses on flame retardant features.
Summing Up
UL approved extension cords, therefore, provide a guarantee that the cable has met the recommended standards that makes it possible for the cable to be applied to a project. It’s therefore important to ensure you work with UL certified cable manufacturer to get a UL approved wire for your project.