Low voltage

The LVD Directive (2014/35/EU), also known as the “Low Voltage” Directive, applies to electrical equipment intended for use at a voltage rating of between 50 and 1000V for alternating current and between 75 and 1500V for direct current, with the exception of the materials and phenomena listed in Annex II of the Directive. 

It covers all risks related to the use of electrical equipment, i.e. electrical, mechanical, chemical and other risks. In addition, health aspects related to noise and vibration as well as ergonomic aspects are involved.

Products manufactured in accordance with existing technical standards, such as European standards (harmonised standards), international provisions or national standards, are presumed to comply with the safety objectives of the Directive.

The laboratory operates for all testing and verification activities concerning standards relating to the “Low Voltage” Directive.

Fields of operation of the Low Voltage Laboratory:

• Domestic/civil: IEC/EN 60335-1 and parts 2
• Lighting: IEC/EN 60598-1 and parts 2
• Information Technology: IEC/EN 62368-1
• Measurement and Laboratory Devices: IEC/EN 61010-1 and parts 2
• Audio Video Equipment: IEC/EN 60950, IEC/EN 62368-1 and parts 2
• LV switchboards: IEC/EN 61439-1 and parts 2
• Electrical equipment of machines: EN 60204-1 (accredited ISO/IEC 17025 by ACCREDIA)

To view the general list of ACCREDIA-accredited tests: 

• 00019 Bb office in Gatteo (FC) in Strada Erbosa Uno 70-84 

 

Main laboratory activities:

Environmental tests and degrees of protection on electrical devices

• Climatic chamber tests temperature range - 70°C to + 180°C with relative humidity up to 95% according to EN 60068 parts 1 and 2
• Fixed temperature tests, variations, cyclic, thermal shock
• Static oven tests up to 650° C
• IK tests according to EN 62262
• IP tests according to EN 60529 (accredited ISO/IEC 17025 by ACCREDIA)
• IP tests according to EN 60598-1
• IP tests according to ISO 20653
• Drop tests 

Electrical characterisation of materials:

• CTI-PTI trace resistance and leakage tests according to EN 60112
• Track and erosion resistance test according to EN 60587
• Ball pressure test according to EN 60695-10-2
• Non-porousness test of coatings according to EN 14628 and EN 15189
• Test for determination of dielectric strength of insulating materials at industrial frequency according to EN 60243-1 and ASTM D149
• Test for determination of electrical resistance on conductive materials according to ISO 3915 and ISO 1853
• Tests for determination of electrical resistance (surface and volume resistivity) on insulation material according to EN 62631-3-1, EN 62631-3-2 and ASTM D257
• Electrostatic discharge prevention tests (ESD), EPA areas
• Static magnetic field evaluation tests

Safety tests on electrical devices:

• Continuity of equipotential bonding
• Insulation resistance
• Dielectric rigidity
• Residual tensions
• Over-temperature
• Short-circuit resistance
• Discharge of the plug
• Electrical absorption evaluation (power, current, etc.)
• Conformity of markings
• Assessment of human exposure to electromagnetic fields according to EN 62233 

Railway Sector Tests:

• Windscreen heating test according to EN 15152
• Aging test of the windscreen heating system according to NF F 15-818
• Tests in accordance with RFI railway specifications

 To view all our activities in the railway sector, see also our dedicated page "Railway sector laboratory tests"