Hard Steel Rod Probe for UL 1278 Figure 10.4

This UL 1278 Figure 10.4 Hard Steel Rod Probe is a specialized safety instrument for portable electric tools, including drills, sanders, and circular saws. It is designed to evaluate the accessibility of hazardous internal components, such as live wires and gear assemblies, and to enhance safety checks for moving parts. The probe features a rigid stainless steel rod for consistent insertion into tool gaps and an insulating nylon handle to protect testers from electric shock, simulating accidental user contact.

Specifications:
Probe Type: UL 1278 Figure 10.4 Hard Steel Rod Probe (for portable electric tool safety testing)
Rod Material: Hard Steel
Handle Material: Nylon (fully insulating, heat-resistant up to 100°C; non-slip grip for controlled force application)
Key Dimensions:
– Probe Length: 69.9mm (2-3/4 inch)
– Probe Diameter: 1.6mm (1/16 inch)

Test Procedures:
1. Inspect the rod probe for damage, such as a bent stainless steel rod or a cracked handle, to ensure accuracy.
2. Power on the portable electric tool and activate its normal operating mode, such as sanding or cutting.
3. Hold the insulating handle and align the rod tip with tool gaps, such as guard seams or control slots.
4. Apply a steady 10N thrust to the rod and maintain force for 5 seconds to simulate sustained contact.
5. Check if the rod touches hazardous parts, such as exposed wiring or gear trains, or moving components.
6. Record whether the tool meets safety requirements (pass/fail) and power off the unit.

Applications:
1. Safety testing of hand-held electric drills to block rod access to internal wiring per UL 1278 Figure 8.4.
2. Verification of portable circular saws to prevent rod access to blade drive gears for U.S. retail markets.
3. Quality control for angle grinders by testing enclosure gaps during manufacturing.
4. Post-production audits of electric screwdrivers to ensure live parts remain inaccessible to meet UL 1278 standards.