What is UL 696 ?

What is UL 696?

UL 696 is a set of standards developed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) to establish guidelines for the construction, performance, and testing of industrial machinery cables. These cables are designed to carry power and control signals in heavy-duty applications, where factors such as high temperature, chemical exposure, and mechanical stress can pose significant risks. UL 696 helps manufacturers produce cables that can withstand these harsh conditions and operate safely and reliably.

The main purpose of UL 696 is to ensure that the cables meet certain safety requirements and are suitable for use in hazardous environments. The standard covers various aspects, including design, construction, components, installation, and testing of industrial machinery cables.

Key Requirements of UL 696

UL 696 establishes key requirements for the construction and performance of industrial machinery cables. These requirements are designed to ensure the cables can withstand harsh environmental conditions, including high temperature, mechanical stress, and chemical exposure. The key requirements of UL 696 include:

Electrical Conductivity: The cable must be able to carry electrical currents without breaking or sparking.

Insulation: The cable must be made of a material that is resistant to electrical currents and provides adequate insulation.

Ground: The cable must be connected to a grounding system that is designed to prevent electrical hazards.

Surge Protection: The cable must be able to withstand surges in electrical current without being damaged.

Temperature: The cable must be able to operate safely in the temperature range that it is designed to operate in.

Chemical Exposure: The cable must be resistant to chemical exposure and corrosion.

Mechanical Strain: The cable must be able to withstand mechanical stress without being damaged or breaking.

UL 696 also includes requirements for the testing and labeling of the cables. These requirements ensure that the cables are suitable for use in a wide range of industrial applications and are backed by a comprehensive testing program.

Introduction to UL 695

UL 695, or Underwriters Laboratories Standard 695, is a safety standard specifically designed for electrical control cabinets. The standard sets forth the requirements that electrical control cabinets must meet to ensure their safe operation and prevent potential hazards such as electrical shock, fire, and other risks.

The standard covers various aspects, including design, construction, components, installation, and testing of electrical control cabinets. The key components of UL 695 include:

Electrical Conductivity: The cabinet must be able to carry electrical currents without breaking or sparking.

Insulation: The cabinet must be made of a material that is resistant to electrical currents and provides adequate insulation.

Ground: The cabinet must be connected to a grounding system that is designed to prevent electrical hazards.

Surge Protection: The cabinet must be able to withstand surges in electrical current without being damaged.

Temperature: The cabinet must be able to operate safely in the temperature range that it is designed to operate in.

Chemical Exposure: The cabinet must be resistant to chemical exposure and corrosion.

Physical Protection: The cabinet must be designed to withstand physical damage, including impacts, twists, and bending.

Conclusion

UL 696 and UL 695 are both important safety standards that help manufacturers produce cables and control cabinets that are suitable for use in hazardous environments. These standards ensure that the cables and cabinets are designed, constructed, and tested to meet the necessary safety requirements. Understanding these standards is essential for manufacturers, engineers, and anyone involved in the production or use of electrical devices.