In order to operate one electronic equipment, it mostly uses an AC current as its power source. If we look at the capacity of electric shock cases, AC current tends to be more dangerous than DC current. Electrical safety test is an effort to prevent the possible electric shock occurs when we use our electronic equipment at home.
In this article we will discuss all about the electrical safety test and its requirements for DJID certification in Indonesia.
Electrical safety test
Electrical safety test is carried out by evaluating the risk of electric shock that possibly arises from the use of an electronic equipment. This testing will ensure the electrical aspects of the electronic equipment are safe when it being used by humans. Based on the SNI IEC 60950 standard Clause 5.1 and 5.2, the parameters need to be tested on the device are:
- Touch current: it is carried out to ensure that there is no current leakage in the device that can cause electric shock to humans. In this testing parameter, a trial was conducted using silver paper that simulates as a human palm.
- Over voltage: it is carried out to ensure the isolator capacity of the device in the event of an electric shock. In this testing parameter, an electronic equipment will be supplied with high voltage electricity (1500 and/or 3000 V), then it is observed whether or not the electric current flow in the device is still within normal limits.
Some devices that need to do an electrical safety testing are printers, ethernet switches, and home appliances.
Touch current test
Touch current testing is one of the testing parameters of electrical safety test. It is carried out to ensure human safety from possible electric shock. The testing is conducted on the metal surfaces of electronic equipment that can be touched by human palm.
Testing procedures
- Attaching the test leads to the exposed metal parts of the electronic equipment.
- If there are no metal parts, it can be attached to any conductive part of the electronic equipment that might be touched.
- Measuring the electric current flowing through the test leads by using a testing instrument equipped with a resistor to indicate the electric current that would normally flow through the human body.
Testing purposes
- To ensure that electronic equipment will not cause any electric shock when it being use by humans, especially when touching the metal surfaces of electronic equipment.
- To ensure human safety in the substation area and its surroundings, especially when there is a power outage
Over voltage test
Over voltage testing is another testing parameters of electrical safety test. This testing is carried out to evaluate the maximum voltage that an insulating material can resistant before it breaks down so that electric current can pass through it.
Over voltage testing is important to determine the quality and performance of insulating materials used in electronic equipment and components such as transformers, capacitors, and cables.
By performing over voltage testing, manufacturers can ensure that their electronic equipment meets electrical safety standards and it can operate reliably.
Testing procedures
- Prepare the electronic equipment to be tested and the insulating material according to the specified standards and test methods.
- Configure the high-voltage power supply to produce the required test voltage.
- Apply high voltage to the insulating material using electrodes.
- Increase the voltage gradually until the insulating material experiences electrical breakdown or reaches the specified overcurrent strength.
- Record the voltage when the breakdown occurs and evaluate the results based on applicable standards.
Testing purposes
- To determine the electrical strength of an insulating material.
- To ensure that the material can resistant in over voltage operating conditions without electrical failure.
Why electrical safety test important
Electrical safety test is important to be performed because consumers will feel safe and confident when they use the electronic equipment.
- Electrical safety test as a proof of compliance to applicable technical regulations in Indonesia.
- Prioritizing consumer safety related to electrical danger such as electric shock.
- By carrying out electrical safety test, it can also provide information if there is an electrical problem with electronic equipment.
- Prevent product recalls if there is a failure in the electrical safety aspect.
If you have any question related to DJID certification, please don’t hesitate to contact us by sending enquiry to info@narmadi.com.
