IEC 60529 Definition of "Finger Safe" for Cylinders

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the definition of "Finger Safe" as outlined in IEC 60529, specifically regarding the IP2X rating. Participants are exploring the implications of this standard for cylindrical objects, particularly in the context of safety for industrial applications, such as welding robots.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks clarification on whether a cylinder with a diameter greater than 12.5mm can be touched without contacting electrical components, and questions the specifics of the cylinder's design, such as length and end radius.
  • Another participant recalls the need to create specific probes to meet safety standards, suggesting a practical experience related to the topic.
  • A participant expresses frustration at not finding specific information on IP2X ratings despite searching for finger probes that meet the criteria.
  • One participant questions the intent behind the safety measure, humorously suggesting it may be aimed at preventing access by very young children.
  • A later reply discusses the context of the application, noting that the contacts are for high-power welding and emphasizing the importance of adhering to the IP2X rating for safety and legal protection, while also mentioning concerns about the accessibility of the contacts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the precise definition of "Finger Safe" or the specifics of the IEC 60529 standard. Multiple viewpoints and concerns regarding safety and practical application remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the lack of detailed specifications from IEC 60529, as well as the ambiguity surrounding the design parameters of the cylinder in question. The discussion reflects varying interpretations of safety standards and practical implications in industrial settings.

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"Finger Safe"

I'm searching for a precise definition of "Finger Safe" according to IEC 60529 which defines
IP2X as "finger safe" for diameters > 12.5mm. Does thes mean a cylinder of > 12.5mm dia. an not touch the contact? Or is there a radius on the end of the cylinder? How long is the cylinder? Anyone have link to a drawing that better defines this 12.5mm "finger"

Thanks
 
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I remember way back when having to machine a "finger probe" and a "tool probe" to make UL happy. I searched and found that this place sells a variety of similar probes.
http://www.ergonomicsusa.com/
 


Thanks Mike. That site did have lots of finger probes but none of the specific IP rating I need to meet, IP2X from IEC 60529. Anyone else know of where I might find details of the IP2X finger?
 


Are you trying to make it finger safe for a one year-old?
 


I tried the Google search. Only found lots of products that say their "finger safe" or meet IP2X rating. Thanks for the link to the Amateur radio site, but no copy of IEC 60529 there either.

This application is for an industrial robot. The contacts are for high power welding. They shouldn't ever be powered up when the robot is not attached to the welder and the contacts are exposed, but just in case you don't want to accidently be able to touch it and most of our customers require the IP2X level of protection for safety. We have an approximately 6mm annulus gap, but it's not very deep. Anyone who tries can get at least the tip of their pinky in there. Now someone is going to say, how idiot proof does it need to be? The answer, as idiot proof as the IEC spec requires. That provides some legal protection from eventual lawsuits from said idiots.
 
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