Overview
IEC 60335-2-108:2008 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that focuses on the safety requirements for electrolysers used in household and similar electrical appliances. These electrolysers produce low viscosity, ionized liquids designed as detergent-free wash water, commonly integrated into household appliances. The standard applies to electrolysers with a rated voltage not exceeding 250 V and outlines safety protocols under the most severe expected usage conditions.
As a particular requirements standard, IEC 60335-2-108 supplements and modifies the general safety requirements found in IEC 60335-1, ensuring a tailored approach to the unique hazards posed by electrolysers. It serves manufacturers, testing organizations, and national committees by providing a framework for safe product design, testing, and certification.
Key Topics
-
Scope and Application
Focuses on the safety of electrolysers used separately or integrated into household appliances, with special attention to performance under severe conditions at rated voltages up to 250 V.
-
Safety Considerations
Addresses electrical, mechanical, thermal, fire, radiation, and other hazards to protect users during normal and abnormal appliance operation.
-
Test Procedures and Conditions
Defines general testing methodologies to verify safety features including leakage current, electric strength, overheating, moisture resistance, transient overvoltages, and mechanical hazards.
-
Construction and Components
Sets requirements for materials, insulation, wiring, and protective devices to ensure durability and safe electrical operation throughout the lifecycle of the electrolyser.
-
Marking and Instructions
Requires clear marking for proper identification and instructions to guide safe installation, operation, and maintenance of electrolysers.
-
Compatibility and Integration
Ensures that electrolysers comply with relevant wiring rules, including IEC 60364, and can be safely integrated with other appliance functions under corresponding part 2 standards.
-
Elastomeric Parts Aging
Includes annexed guidelines for aging tests of elastomeric parts, crucial for maintaining the integrity and safety of seals and gaskets over time.
-
Transitional and National Implementation Guidelines
Recommends a minimum 12-month transition period for manufacturers and testing bodies to implement the standard following its publication.
Applications
-
Household Appliances
Electrolysers designed following IEC 60335-2-108 can be safely used in washing machines, dishwashers, and other household appliances that utilize ionized or detergent-free wash water.
-
Commercial Equipment
Related commercial cleaning devices or similar appliances benefit from adherence to these safety requirements, helping reduce chemical use and environmental impact.
-
Product Safety Certification
Helps manufacturers and certification labs ensure compliance with international safety benchmarks for electrolysers, facilitating global market access and consumer trust.
-
Research and Development
Engineers and product designers use this standard to develop new electrolyser technologies that meet robust safety and performance criteria.
Related Standards
-
IEC 60335-1
General safety requirements for household and similar electrical appliances that provide the foundational safety principles complemented by IEC 60335-2-108.
-
IEC 60364
International wiring rules referenced to ensure compatibility of appliances with supply mains electrical installations.
-
ISO 1817
Standard related to aging tests for elastomeric materials, referenced for testing components used in electrolysers.
-
Additional IEC 60335 Part 2 Standards
Other part 2 standards may apply if the appliance incorporates additional electrical functions beyond electrolysis.
By adhering to IEC 60335-2-108:2008, manufacturers and stakeholders enhance the safety, reliability, and acceptance of electrolysers in household and similar appliances. This contributes to improved consumer protection and supports innovations in sustainable, detergent-free cleaning technologies.