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Glow Wire capable testing became a mandatory requirement in 2001 for certain home appliances sold in Europe. This International Safety Standard (IEC/EN 60335-1 5th Edition) was issued by the International Electrotechnical Commission. Legislation may soon expand to other regions.
All connectors in unattended appliances carrying a current greater than 0.20A must pass the Glow Wire test. The Glow Wire test measures ignition resistance of the plastic connector material. To pass the test, a connector housing must withstand 30 seconds of an applied glowing wire at a temperature of 750°C and not ignite, or if ignition occurs it must self extinguish within 2 seconds, alternatively the connector housing must be made from a material that meets or exceeds the required GWFI and GWIT requirements as detailed in the IEC/EN 60335-1 5th Edition standard. A connector that is just UL94 V-0 or V-2 rated does not necessarily meet Glow Wire requirements.
- Glow Wire Ignition Temperature (GWIT) of at least 775°C - Requires tests to be conducted on three material plaques in an identical manner and location.
- Glow Wire Flammability Index (GWFI) of at least 850°C - Reduces time and expense associated with end product testing on molded parts.
Molex has expanded its product line to include Glow-Wire Compliant versions of the Mini-Fit Jr Connectors. Glow-Wire Compliant Mini-Fit Jr Connectors are constructed using materials that conform to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Glow-Wire Ignition Temperature (GWIT) and the IEC Glow-Wire Flammability Index (GWFI) standards. Glow-Wire Compliant Mini-Fit Jr Connectors range from 2 to 24 circuits and up to 13 Amps.
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