UL 498 Figure 9.1 Articulate Probe with Web Stop

The UL 498 Figure 9.1 Articulated Probe with Web Stop is a versatile safety tool built for testing household, commercial, and electronic equipment—from plug receptacles to electric fans and coffee makers. It mimics human finger movement via restricted joint motion and a palm simulator, verifying if dangerous live parts, hot components, or mechanical parts are accessible while blocking solid foreign objects from entering devices. Crafted with a stainless steel test finger (for live-part detection) and a nylon insulated handle (for operator safety), it meets multiple UL standards. This probe is critical for manufacturers to validate anti-shock safety and ensure compliance with global equipment regulations.

Standards:

Specifications:
Tool Type: UL 498 Figure 9.1 Articulated Probe (with Web Stop; for hazardous part/foreign body testing in appliances/plugs)
Test Finger Material: Stainless steel (resistance ≤ 0.1Ω; corrosion-resistant; maintains rigidity under test force while flexible at joints)
Handle Material: Nylon (fully insulated, resistance ≥ 100MΩ; heat-resistant up to 110°C; ergonomic non-slip grip for precision)
Key Dimensions
– Test Finger Diameter: 25.4mm (1 inch) ± 0.1mm
– Test Finger Length: 101.6mm (4 inches) ± 0.2mm
– Head Radius: R12.7mm (0.5 inch) ± 0.05mm
– Tail Diameter: 31.75mm (1.25 inches) ± 0.2mm
– Web Stop: Integrated design (blocks over-insertion into equipment gaps like plug slots)
Joint Characteristics: Articulated (restricted motion); max bending angle: 90° ± 10° (simulates natural human finger flexibility)
Applied Thrust: 10N ± 0.5N (simulates accidental human contact; aligns with UL standard test requirements)
Core Function: Detects accessible hazardous live/hot/mechanical parts; blocks solid foreign objects; ensures UL compliance across equipment types

Test Procedures:
1. Inspect the probe for loose joints, bent fingers, cracked insulation, or damaged web stops; confirm conductivity with a test tool.
2. Power on the equipment under test (EUT, e.g., a plug receptacle) and set it to normal operating mode (if applicable).
3. Hold the nylon handle, use the articulated joint to guide the 25.4mm finger into EUT gaps (receptacle slots, fan grilles).
4. Apply steady 10N thrust—stop if the web stop touches the EUT or resistance blocks insertion.
5. Check the connected live-part detector for signals (indicating contact with hazardous parts).
6. Record results: Pass if no contact; Fail if the probe reaches dangerous components.

Applications:
1. Testing plug receptacle slots (per UL 498:2023 Figure 9.1) to block access to live terminals and prevent electric shock.
2. Verifying fan grille gaps in electric fans (compliant with UL 507:2023 Figure 9.2) to avoid contact with rotating blades and motors.
3. Safety checks for vacuum cleaner nozzle seams (per UL 1017:2023 Figure 2) to prevent exposure to internal wiring.
4. Quality control for food processor blade housings (per UL 982:2023 Figure 7.1) to avoid injury from moving parts.
5. Post-production testing of coffee maker heating element covers (per UL 1082:2023) to meet household appliance safety rules.

Articulate Probe with Web Stop of UL 498 Figure 9.1