ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT


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EFFECTIVE TESTING With such a range of tests, and the availability of relatively inexpensive test instrumentation, typical electrical safety testing to meet routine product test requirements can be completed in seconds. For example, with simple to use set-up and control features, test stations can be readily incorporated into the production environment without the need for highly skilled labour. Of course, specific type testing standards may


involve a flash test (also called a hipot testing or dielectric strength test) using high current levels (sometimes in excess of 100mA) and extended test times (several minutes for some standards). However, for routine production line testing, electrical safety standards define not only a lower safer trip level, but also the setting up of the test area to ensure the safety of the operator. As a result, where delicate electronic components are involved, far from omitting the flash test, various techniques can be incorporated to soft-start (ramp) the test voltage or apply DC voltages with discharge circuits, thus removing any likelihood of damage occurring. Far from costing time and money, routine 100 per cent electrical safety testing on the production line makes sound economic and business sense. Seaward’s free guide helps manufacturers


understand better electrical safety testing requirements. To access the guide, please visit www.seaward.com/gb/support/guides/manufact uring/f4c40-electrical-safety-testing-during- manufacture-a-practical-guide/


Seaward Electronic www.seaward.com sales@seaward.com


UKManufacturing Autumn 2022


MAKING LIGHT WORK OF ELECTRICAL SAFETY TESTING


nvestment in production and testing expertise from Seaward is helping an importer and distributor of domestic lighting ensure products supplied to trade customers across the UK work safely. Huddersfield-based Pacific, which is quality assured by the Lighting Industry Association, has been involved in the design and import of a wide range of lighting among other household products for over 50 years. This includes contemporary table and floor lamps, walls lights and outdoor lighting. After investing in a HAL LED, the firm has


been working closely with Seaward to develop an effective regime to secure optimum electrical test performance, improving both the speed and accuracy of product safety checks carried out by the quality and safety compliance department. The development reflects the additional benefits Seaward brings to customer service, says Didi Prakova, Pacific’s technologist responsible for electrical safety testing. She adds: “Working closely with Seaward,


we have been able to implement improved testing processes and understand fully the set- up of the HAL and the capabilities it offers. We now have seven trained people across the department, who have been able to take advantage of Seaward’s production expertise to create a safer, far more efficient and, importantly, bespoke process that meets our current and expected future testing needs. “Moreover, it now only takes us 15 seconds


on average to complete a full product electrical safety test cycle, which is easily done at the press of a button. This is a major step forward thanks to firm’s input and a significant benefit to our distribution operations, particularly when product demand is high.” Products are fully tested at Pacific’s purpose- built facility using the HAL, verifying the safety of lights imported from South East Asia before they are distributed to trade wholesalers across the UK. This includes batch-testing of current ranges as part of quality control procedures along with 100 per cent checking of all new product introductions. The tester is used to check products for signs of electrical leakage, secure wiring and that internal integrity has been maintained. It can also provide power measurement readings with a resolution of 0.2VA below 1000VA and performs continuity and ground/earth bond tests alongside AC/DC Hipot (FLASH/ Dielectric Strength).


Function testing is also undertaken to check


units effectively switch on/off and perform correctly at the required power consumption


levels and that any ancillary equipment operates in accordance with technical specifications. Test results are stored automatically by the


HAL, providing full traceability, which ensures all products are proven to be quality assured before leaving Pacific’s premises. Prakova and her team can use this data to maintain a test record for all units in the event of any damage during distribution, or to track and trace any product returns - in line with company customer service policies. She adds: “The HAL is a good product


that we like to use, offering a good level of feedback and extensive capabilities. It’s easy- to use, delivering more effective testing and providing the reassurance that units leaving our site are 100 per cent safe-to-use and will operate as required.” The HAL delivers better resolution when testing low power products compared to the other safety testers, ensuring improved accuracy of measurement and quality control standards during manufacturing. Companies like Pacific are benefiting from


Seaward’s production expertise to complete end-of-line tests with the additional benefit of functionality testing of the operation of the equipment. This ensures that product is not only safe but benefits from consistent quality control throughout the supply chain. The HAL combines the performance of a


multi-function production line safety tester with power measurement for product energy consumption. The tester can be integrated into automated manufacturing systems with selectable sensors and can be controlled using a PC, either using Seawards own software solution or by means of a command protocol. A large graphic display presents


information either in a numerical or analogue format while a powerful internal memory allows the storage of up to 6,000 test results and up to 50 configurable test routines. The instrument can also be interfaced with a variety of accessories, to improve both safe working and efficiency, including Bar Code scanners and Safety warning beacons.


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