BS 1363-2 figure 1 test pin

This BS 1363-2:2018 Figure 1 Test Pin is a dedicated tool for verifying protection against access to hazardous live parts in UK-standard socket-outlets. Designed to meet strict British safety norms, it features a 1mm diameter precision steel pin (25mm long) for navigating narrow gaps in socket openings, plus an ergonomic insulating handle for user protection. The pin’s smooth, burr-free tip and tight dimensional tolerances ensure it mimics real-world contact scenarios, making it essential for manufacturers, labs, and certifiers validating socket safety for the UK market.

Standards:

Specifications:
Test Pin Diameter: 1mm (±0.02mm tolerance; aligns with BS 1363-2’s gap access requirements)
Test Pin Length:  25mm (±0.05mm tolerance; ensures reach to potential hazardous internal parts)
Pin Tip Design:  Smooth, precision-machined spherical tip (prevents damage to socket components while ensuring accurate testing)
Material Composition: Pin: High-grade carbon steel (corrosion-resistant, maintains diameter accuracy); – Handle: Flame-retardant ABS plastic (UL94 V-0 rating, insulating for user safety)
Handle Dimensions Length: 80mm; Diameter: 12mm (ergonomic grip for stable operation)
Key Tolerances Linear dimensions: ±0.05mm; Diameter: ±0.02mm (meets BS 1363-2:2018 Clause 8 precision standards)

Test Procedures:
1. Inspect the test pin for bent steel, cracked insulation, or worn tips; confirm diameter/length meet specs.
2. Power off the socket-outlet under test and secure it on a flat, stable surface.
3. Identify target access points (e.g., socket slot gaps, around earth pin openings).
4. Hold the insulating handle, align the pin tip with the gap, and gently insert until resistance is felt.
5. Check if the pin can contact live parts (via visual inspection or electrical continuity testing).
6. Record results to verify compliance with BS 1363-2:2018 Figure 1.

Applications:
1. Safety testing of UK-standard household wall socket-outlets (e.g., 13A mains sockets) per BS 1363-2:2018.
2. Compliance checks for extension lead socket-outlets (e.g., 4-way, 6-way extensions) intended for the UK market.
3. Quality control for socket manufacturers during production (ensuring no unauthorized access to live parts).
4. Third-party certification testing (e.g., UKCA, CE) for socket-outlets seeking UK market entry.
5. Pre-shipment batch verification of commercial socket-outlets (e.g., office, retail sockets) to meet British safety norms.

BS 1363-2 Figure 1 Test Pin