Bar Probe for UL 1278 Figure 10.2

This Bar Probe (designed to UL 1278 Figure 10.2) is a specialized safety tool for testing movable, wall-hung, and ceiling-hung electric room heaters. It features a hardened steel “bar” for durable, consistent access simulation—critical for checking if hazardous parts (like hot elements or mechanical components) are out of reach. Paired with a lightweight nylon handle for safe, easy grip during testing, it aligns strictly with UL’s safety standards. Compact and easy to maneuver, it’s essential for verifying heater compliance, ensuring end-users are protected from burns or mechanical injuries.

Standards:

Specifications:
Probe Type: Bar Probe (compliant with UL 1278 Figure 10.2 for electric room heater testing)
Probe Material: Hardened steel (resists wear, maintains shape for repeated testing)
Handle Material: Nylon (insulating, non-slip, and heat-resistant for safe operation)
Key Dimensions:
– Probe Section 1: 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) diameter
– Probe Section 2: 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) diameter
(precision-machined to match UL 1278 Figure 10.2 requirements)
Core Function: Verifies inaccessibility of hazardous parts (hot elements, moving components) in electric room heaters
Applied Force: No appreciable force (mimics accidental, light contact by users)

Test Procedures:
1. Inspect the probe for damage (e.g., bent steel bar, cracked nylon handle).
2. Power on the electric room heater and let it reach normal operating temperature.
3. Hold the nylon handle and align the hardened steel bar with potential access points (e.g., heater grilles, gaps).
4. Gently guide the bar toward hazardous parts (e.g., glowing elements, fans).
5. Check if the bar touches any dangerous components.
6. Record whether the heater meets safety requirements (pass/fail).

Applications:
1. Safety testing of movable electric space heaters (per UL 1278:2023 Figure 10.2).
2. Compliance checks for wall-hung electric room heaters to block access to hot elements.
3. Verification of ceiling-hung electric heaters (e.g., office or workshop models) for mechanical hazard protection.
4. Quality control for small commercial electric heaters (e.g., restaurant patio heaters) during manufacturing.
5. Post-production safety audits of residential electric room heaters to ensure UL 1278 compliance.

Bar Probe with UL 1278 Figure 10.2