UL 1278 Figure 8.1 PA130A Probe for Uninsulated Live Parts

This UL 1278 Fig 8.1 Uninsulated Live Parts Probe is a specialized safety tool designed exclusively for testing portable electric tools (e.g., drills, grinders). It features a conductive brass probe tip to detect uninsulated live components—critical for verifying if hazardous energized parts remain inaccessible to users. Paired with an insulating nylon handle (to protect testers from electric shock), it applies a precise 10N thrust to mimic accidental contact. Strictly aligned with UL 1278’s requirements, it’s durable, dimensionally stable, and essential for manufacturers to ensure tool safety and meet U.S. market compliance.

Standards:

Specifications:
Probe Type: UL 1278 Fig 8.1 Uninsulated Live Parts Probe (for portable electric tools)
Probe Tip Material: Brass (highly conductive, ideal for detecting live parts; corrosion-resistant)
Handle Material: Nylon (fully insulating, heat-resistant, non-slip for safe tester operation)
Key Dimensions:
– Probe Tip Diameter: 4.8 mm ± 0.1 mm
– Effective Probe Length: 63.5 mm ± 0.2 mm
– Handle Length: 115 mm ± 0.5 mm
– Total Length: 178.5 mm ± 0.5 mm
Applied Thrust: 10N ± 0.5N (simulates accidental user contact with tool openings)
Core Function: Detects accessibility of uninsulated live parts in portable electric tools per UL 1278/60745 standards

Test Procedures:
1. Inspect the probe (no bent brass tip, cracked insulating handle, or loose connections).
2. Power on the portable electric tool and let it reach normal operating mode.
3. Hold the insulating handle and align the brass probe tip with tool openings (e.g., vent slits, switch gaps).
4. Apply steady 10N thrust to the probe toward potential uninsulated live parts.
5. Check if the probe makes contact with energized components (via test equipment or visual inspection).
6. Record whether the tool meets safety requirements (pass/fail).

Applications:
1. Safety testing of handheld electric drills and impact drills (per UL 1278 Fig 8.1 & UL 60745-2:2023).
2. Compliance checks for angle grinders and sanders to block access to uninsulated live parts.
3. Verification of portable circular saws and jigsaws for U.S. market safety compliance.
4. Quality control for electric screwdrivers and rotary tools during manufacturing.
5. Post-production audits of corded/cordless portable electric tools to meet UL’s live part accessibility standards.

Uninsulated Live Parts Probe of UL 1278 Fig 8.1