UL 982 Figure 58.5 Test Probe PA190

UL 982 Figure 58.5 Test Probe PA190 is a precision safety testing instrument designed for compliance verification of household refrigerators, freezers, and similar cooling appliances, with full conformance to UL 498 Figure 10.1 requirements. This specialized probe features a rigid, precision-machined stainless steel tip engineered to simulate accidental insertion into appliance access openings—critical for validating that hazardous live components (e.g., electrical wiring, compressor terminals) and moving parts (e.g., fan assemblies, motor components) remain inaccessible during normal operation. The instrument incorporates an insulating nylon handle with ergonomic design for secure grip and operator safety during testing procedures. It applies controlled insertion force to replicate real-world contact scenarios without damaging appliance components. Manufactured to exacting dimensional tolerances specified in UL 982, this probe demonstrates exceptional durability and dimensional stability under repeated testing cycles. It serves as an essential compliance tool for appliance manufacturers, testing laboratories, and quality control departments to verify product safety and achieve U.S. market regulatory approval.

Technical Specifications

• Probe Type: UL 982 Figure 58.5 Test Probe PA190 (for refrigerator/freezer safety testing)
• Probe Material: Stainless steel (rigid construction, corrosion-resistant, maintains precise tip geometry for accurate insertion testing)
• Handle Material: Nylon (electrically insulating, heat-resistant, non-slip surface for controlled testing operations)
• Key Dimensions:
  • Probe Tip Diameter: 3.2 mm ± 0.05 mm
  • Effective Probe Length: 76.2 mm ± 0.2 mm
  • Handle Length: 120 mm ± 0.5 mm
  • Total Length: 196.2 mm ± 0.5 mm
• Applied Force: Minimal insertion force (simulates accidental contact with appliance gaps and openings without appreciable mechanical pressure)
• Primary Function: Verification of hazardous live part and moving component inaccessibility in household refrigerators, freezers, and ice-making appliances per UL 982 and UL 498 compliance requirements

Standardized Test Procedures

1. Conduct visual inspection of the probe assembly for any physical damage (e.g., tip deformation, handle cracks, material degradation) to ensure testing accuracy and instrument integrity.
2. Power the refrigerator or freezer unit and allow it to reach normal operating conditions, including full cooling cycle and any auxiliary functions (e.g., ice production, water dispensing).
3. Securely grip the nylon handle and precisely align the probe tip with appliance access points (e.g., door seal interfaces, ventilation apertures, ice dispenser openings, control panel gaps).
4. Gently insert the probe into identified openings using controlled, minimal force to avoid appliance damage while simulating accidental contact scenarios.
5. Systematically verify whether the probe contacts any hazardous components (e.g., exposed electrical conductors, rotating fan blades, moving mechanical assemblies).
6. Document test results including probe insertion depth, contact observations, and compliance status according to UL 982 and UL 498 acceptance criteria.