IEC 60884-1 Clause 24.12 Mechanical Strength Test Probe

The IEC 60884-1 Clause 24.12 Mechanical Strength Test Probe is a specialized tool for verifying two critical safety aspects of portable (mobile) sockets: the space between the socket’s suspension means and the wall, and the mechanical durability of insulation layers between live parts. Crafted with a 304 stainless steel probe (resistant to corrosion and deformation) and a POM handle (ergonomic and rigid), it features a Φ3mm tip with an SR1.5 hemispherical end for precise force application. It connects to a push-pull gauge via an M6 threaded hole, delivering 1.5x the force specified in IEC 60884-1 Table 16—ensuring mobile sockets withstand real-world mechanical strain without exposing live parts.

Specifications:
Tool Type Mechanical: Strength Test Probe (IEC 60884-1 Clause 24.12; for mobile socket suspension space & insulation layer testing)
Probe Material: 304 stainless steel (high rigidity; no deformation under test force; corrosion-resistant for long-term use)
Handle Material: POM (polyoxymethylene; heat-resistant up to 120°C; ergonomic grip; low friction for stable force application)
Probe Dimensions:
– Diameter: Φ3mm ± 0.05mm
– Tip Shape: Hemispherical (SR1.5mm ± 0.05mm; prevents artificial damage to socket barriers)
Force Application:
– Connection: M6 threaded hole at handle end (compatible with most push-pull gauges)
– Applied Force: 1.5× the maximum plug withdrawal force (per IEC 60884-1 Table 16); held for 10 seconds
Core Function: Tests mobile socket suspension barrier integrity (resists piercing) and suspension means durability; ensures live parts stay inaccessible post-test

Test Procedures
1. Inspect the probe for bent tips, cracked handles, or thread damage; confirm tip sphericity (SR1.5mm).
2. Mount the mobile socket under test (EUT) as in normal use, with its suspension means attached to a wall-mimicking surface.
3. Connect a push-pull gauge to the probe’s M6 thread; align the Φ3mm tip perpendicularly to the EUT’s suspension barrier (most unfavourable position).
4. Apply 1.5× the specified force for 10 seconds—check if the probe pierces the barrier.
5. Suspend the EUT (with flexible cable) using the probe; pull the cable with force from IEC 60884-1 Clause 23.2 for 10 seconds.
6. Verify no live parts are accessible (use IEC 61032 Test Probe B); record: Pass if barrier holds and no access; Fail otherwise.

Applications:
1. Testing suspension barrier integrity of household mobile power strips (per IEC 60884-1:2022 Clause 24.12) to prevent insulation piercing.
2. Verifying insulation layers between live parts in commercial mobile sockets (compliant with BS EN 60884-1:2022) to avoid shock risks post-strain.
3. Validating suspension means durability of travel mobile sockets (using 1.5× plug withdrawal force) to ensure they don’t break under use.
4. Quality control for mobile socket manufacturers, ensuring compliance with IEC 60884-1 mechanical strength rules.
5. Lab testing of USB-integrated mobile sockets to confirm suspension space and insulation safety meet global standards.

IEC 60884-1:2006 Clause 24.12