Testing gasket materials to UL 50E
Both solid and cellular gasket materials can be evaluated to UL 50E, but not all materials require the UL 50E Compression Test. Solid gasket materials and cellular gasket materials used in electrical enclosures where the seal is intended to be under continuous compression for the life of the seal, e.g. gaskets used in pilot lights, selector switches and viewing windows, are not required to comply with the UL 50E Compression Test. The UL 50E Compression Test applies only to cellular gasket materials used in periodic recompression applications where the seal may periodically be broken and must be reestablished, e.g. door or cover seals on electrical enclosures.
UL 50E certifies with the following ratings
- UL 50E applies only to solid gaskets. These gaskets need not comply with the compression test but are considered suitable for either continuous compression or periodic recompression applications.
- UL 50E continuous compression applies to cellular gaskets that have not been evaluated to the compression test requirements. Gaskets are only suitable for continuous compression applications.
- UL 50E periodic recompression applies to cellular gaskets that comply with the compression test requirements. Gaskets are considered suitable for either continuous compression or periodic recompression applications.
Benefits of the UL 50E compression test
With expertise in safety science reaching back to 1894, we are uniquely positioned to provide a complete view of how products function within a given system. This is particularly critical in the plastics and components industry, as interactions between substances, parts, systems and the environment can be the cause of a significant number of hazards. These failures are rarely apparent when components are tested individually.
Our technical experts can also help align your products to the appropriate UL Certification category and the applicable standards. This enables manufacturers of UL Certified products to easily source components that demonstrably meet their compliance needs and project specifications.
Additionally, our worldwide presence allows us to provide local services to you and your team. You’ll have access to our network of experts who will support you in your drive to protect public safety and brand value.
Our trustworthy reputation provides an important product differentiator in a crowded marketplace. Working with us is just one more way in which you can communicate your product’s quality to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), purchasers and regulatory authorities.
Why UL Solutions for your gaskets and seals compression tests
UL Solutions’ comprehensive testing, certification, assessment and regulatory compliance services are designed to foster innovation, enhance product and process quality, enable safety and, most importantly, help you meet your business goals.
Our broad capabilities enable us to help you address a wide variety of key business needs that may arise throughout your product development life cycle and deployment phase. Working with one provider allows you to take advantage of our cost- and time-saving service bundles, and our integrated testing and certification plans allow you to achieve your go-to-market plans in a timely manner.
Our technical experts can also help you align your products to the appropriate UL Certification category and the applicable standards. This enables manufacturers of UL Certified products to easily source components that demonstrably meet their compliance needs and project specifications.
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