What is IEC 60335-2-104:2020?

IEC 60335-2-104:2020 is an international standard that specifies the safety requirements for household and similar electrical appliances. It is published by International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) to ensure the safety of electrical appliances used in our daily lives.

Safety Requirements for Household Electrical Appliances

IEC 60335-2-104:2020 focuses specifically on the safety requirements for appliances intended for heating liquids, such as kettles, coffee machines, and water heaters. The standard covers various aspects, including electrical safety, mechanical safety, temperature stability, and control systems.

Electrical Safety

One of the primary concerns addressed in IEC 60335-2-104:2020 is electrical safety. The standard outlines specific requirements for insulation of conductive parts, provision of earth connections, and protection against electric shock. This ensures that the appliances are designed and built to prevent electrical accidents and reduce the risk of electric shocks to users.

Mechanical Safety and Temperature Stability

In addition to electrical safety, the standard also focuses on mechanical safety and temperature stability. It specifies requirements for materials used in construction, ensuring that they are resistant to high temperatures and chemical reactions. The standard also sets limits on the surface temperatures of appliances to prevent burns and provides guidelines for pressure-sensitive controls to maintain safe operating conditions.

Control Systems and Risk Reduction

IEC 60335-2-104:2020 emphasizes the importance of control systems in household electrical appliances. It requires manufacturers to implement safety features like automatic shut-off mechanisms and warning indicators to reduce the risk of accidents. The standard also provides guidelines for instructions and markings on the appliances to educate consumers about potential risks and proper usage.

In conclusion, IEC 60335-2-104:2020 plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of household electrical appliances. By setting specific requirements for insulation, electrical connections, mechanical construction, and control systems, this international standard aims to safeguard users from electrical accidents and promote safe usage of appliances in our daily lives.