What is UL 987?

UL 987 is a technical standard that provides guidelines for the safety and performance of electric motor-operated household and similar appliances. It was developed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), which is a globally recognized independent safety science company.

The Purpose of UL 987

The primary purpose of UL 987 is to ensure the safe and reliable operation of electric motor-operated household appliances. These appliances include but are not limited to washing machines, dryers, vacuum cleaners, mixers, blenders, and power tools. The standard sets forth requirements for various aspects such as electrical and mechanical construction, performance, testing procedures, and markings to help manufacturers design appliances that meet safety standards.

Key Requirements of UL 987

UL 987 outlines several key requirements that appliance manufacturers must adhere to in order to meet the standard:

Electrical Safety: The standard specifies criteria for electrical components, insulation systems, grounding, and protection against electrical shock hazards. It aims to ensure that the appliance is designed, constructed, and tested to minimize the risk of electrical accidents.

Mechanical Durability: UL 987 requires appliances to withstand a range of mechanical stresses and strains during normal usage. This includes tests for structural integrity, durability of moving parts, and resistance to impact and vibration.

Performance: The standard establishes basic performance requirements for various functions of the appliance, such as energy efficiency, noise levels, motor speeds, and output capacities. These requirements help consumers make informed decisions when purchasing an appliance based on their specific needs.

Markings and Instructions: UL 987 mandates that appliances bear appropriate markings, labels, and clear instructions for installation, operation, and maintenance. This ensures that users can understand how to use the appliance safely and correctly.

Compliance with UL 987

Manufacturers aiming to comply with UL 987 need to follow a comprehensive testing and certification process. The appliances are subjected to rigorous laboratory testing to evaluate their compliance with the standard's requirements. If an appliance meets all the necessary criteria, it can be certified and labeled with the UL Mark, indicating that it has met the safety standards set forth by UL 987.

In summary, UL 987 plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and performance of electric motor-operated household appliances. By adhering to the standard's requirements, manufacturers can provide consumers with reliable products that meet high-quality and safety standards.