UL 1278 Figure 10.4 Hard Steel Rod Probe

This UL 1278 Figure 10.4 Hard Steel Rod Probe is a precision safety testing instrument engineered for compliance verification of portable electric tools including drills, sanders, and circular saws. The probe facilitates rigorous assessment of hazardous internal part accessibility (e.g., live conductors, gear assemblies) and moving component safety validation in accordance with UL 1278 standards.

Constructed with a rigid stainless steel rod for consistent insertion into tool apertures and an insulating nylon handle rated to 100°C for operator protection against electrical shock, this probe simulates accidental user contact scenarios during safety evaluations.

Technical Specifications

• Probe Type: UL 1278 Figure 10.4 Hard Steel Rod Probe (for portable electric tool safety testing)
• Rod Material: Hardened Stainless Steel
• Handle Material: Nylon (fully insulating, heat-resistant 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)

Standardized Test Procedure

1. Inspect the rod probe for structural integrity (e.g., rod deformation, handle cracks) to ensure measurement accuracy.
2. Power the portable electric tool and engage normal operating mode (e.g., sanding, cutting functions).
3. Grip the insulating handle and align the rod tip with designated tool apertures (e.g., guard seams, control interfaces).
4. Apply consistent 10N thrust force to the rod—maintain application for 5 seconds to simulate sustained contact conditions.
5. Verify whether the rod contacts hazardous components (e.g., exposed conductors, gear trains) or moving mechanisms.
6. Document compliance status (pass/fail) against UL 1278 requirements and de-energize the test unit.

Application Scenarios

1. Safety compliance testing of hand-held electric drills (verifying rod access prevention to internal wiring) per UL 1278 Figure 8.4.
2. Accessibility verification for portable circular saws (preventing rod contact with blade drive gears) for North American market compliance.
3. Manufacturing quality control for angle grinders (testing enclosure gap integrity) during production validation.
4. Post-production audits of electric screwdrivers (ensuring live part inaccessibility) to meet UL 1278 standard requirements.

UL Rod Probe of UL1278 Tags: SMT-SM209, UL 1278