In today's highly electrified world, the safety of electrical equipment is of utmost importance. A critical aspect of ensuring this safety is preventing human contact with dangerous components within the equipment. The IP2X jointed finger probe, such as Pego's PG-TPB, is an essential tool in the realm of electrical safety testing, dedicated to evaluating the protection level of electrical devices.

1. Design and Composition of the IP2X Test Finger Probe

The IP2X test finger probe, also known as test probe B, is meticulously crafted in accordance with various international standards, including IEC 60529, IEC61032, UL507, UL1278, and GB4706.1. It is typically made from corrosion - resistant metal materials, which not only ensure its durability but also maintain its accuracy over time.

The design of the probe is a remarkable imitation of a naturally bent human finger. It takes into account minute details like the bending angles of the knuckles and the exact thickness of the finger. The standard dimensions are as follows:

The finger has a length of 80mm±0.2, which is carefully calibrated to mimic the average length of a human finger that might potentially come into contact with electrical equipment.

With a diameter of 12mm - 0.05, it represents the thickness of a finger, enabling accurate simulation of real - life scenarios.

The baffle has a diameter of Ф75±0.2 and a thickness of 5±0.5. This baffle plays a crucial role in determining the extent to which the probe can access different parts of the equipment during testing.

This elaborate structure is designed to precisely replicate the situations where a human finger might accidentally or during normal use, come into contact with the dangerous internal parts of electrical equipment.

2. Operational Mechanism

The operation of test probe B hinges on the principle of simulation testing. When assessing the protection class of electrical equipment, the IP2X test bent finger is applied to all accessible parts of the equipment's housing. This is done using a specified force and method.

During the testing process, a fundamental requirement is that the test bent finger should not come into contact with the live parts or any other components that could pose a danger inside the equipment. If the test bent finger is unable to enter the openings or gaps in the equipment housing, or if it enters but does not touch the hazardous parts, the equipment is considered to meet the IP2X protection class requirements. This indicates that the equipment can effectively safeguard against objects with a 12mm diameter (simulating fingers) from accidentally entering, thereby protecting users from electrical shock and other potential risks.

3. Diverse Categories of Test Finger Probes

Test finger probes can be classified in several ways, primarily based on thrust force, baffle size, and the nature of the sample being tested.

3.1 Classification by Thrust Force

Without Thrust Force: Probes without built - in thrust force need to be used in conjunction with a push - pull force gauge when force testing is required. They are equipped with an M6 interface at the end of the probe, allowing users to easily attach the push - pull force gauge for accurate force measurement during testing.

With Thrust Force: Test fingers with thrust force typically come with a standard 50N thrust. However, they can also provide variable thrusts such as 10N, 20N, 30N, 40N, and 50N. For users with specific requirements for higher thrust force values, custom - made options are available. This feature allows for direct application of the required force during testing without the need for additional external force - applying devices.

3.2 Classification by Stop Face Size

PG-TPB: This IP2X jointed finger probe with a 50mm stop face complies with the IEC61032 and IEC60529 standards. It is designed to meet the general requirements for electrical equipment protection testing.

PG-TPB-1: A similar test probe B with a 50mm circular stop face, it adheres to the requirements of IEC60335 - 1 clause 20.2. This specific probe is tailored to meet the testing needs of certain types of electrical equipment as per this particular standard.

PG-TPB-2: With a 125mm circular stop face, it meets the requirements of IEC60335 - 2 - 14 clause 20.2. This larger stop face size might be necessary for testing equipment with specific design features or for ensuring comprehensive protection assessment in certain scenarios.

3.3 Classification by the Sample

Protection against Access to Solid Foreign Objects: When the focus is solely on testing the equipment's ability to prevent the entry of solid foreign objects, the test probe does not need to be connected to an electrical wire. This simplifies the testing process for this specific type of assessment.

Protection against Access to Hazardous Parts: For testing the protection against access to hazardous parts, the test probe has a built - in electrical wire. This allows users to easily pair it with a 40 - 45V power indicator. The electrical connection helps in detecting any potential contact with live or hazardous parts during the testing process.

4. Testing Procedures

General Contact Prohibition: As depicted in the relevant diagrams, the joint part of the standard test finger must not touch the live or hazardous parts. Additionally, the 50mm - 20mm baffle should not be able to enter the equipment's openings or gaps. This is a basic and crucial criterion for ensuring the equipment's safety.

Testing for Hazardous Part Access Prevention: In tests related to preventing access to hazardous parts, test probe B is required to apply a thrust of 10 ± 3 N. For probes without built - in thrust, a push - pull force gauge should be used to achieve the required force application.

Anti - Shock Testing: During anti - shock testing, test probe B needs to be connected to the control panel. This connection helps in determining whether the grounding wire is properly connected, especially for equipment with three - prong plugs. After connecting, the power switch of the tested product is turned on, and the appropriate thrust is applied to assess the equipment's anti - shock capabilities.

In conclusion, the IP2X jointed finger probe is an indispensable tool in maintaining electrical safety. Its diverse classification and well - defined testing methods ensure that electrical equipment meets the necessary safety standards, protecting users from potential electrical hazards.

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