Home
certification-for-industrial-transformers-and-power-supplies

Certification for Industrial Transformers and Power Supplies

Certification for Industrial Transformers and Power Supplies

Industrial transformers and power supplies are critical components in various industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and energy production. These devices play a vital role in ensuring efficient and reliable operation of equipment, protecting against electrical surges and spikes, and providing stable power supply to connected devices.

In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on the importance of certification for industrial transformers and power supplies. This is driven by growing concerns about product safety, reliability, and compliance with regulatory requirements. In this article, we will discuss the various certifications available for industrial transformers and power supplies, their benefits, and what they entail.

What are Industrial Transformers and Power Supplies?

Industrial transformers and power supplies are electrical devices designed to transfer electrical energy from one circuit to another or convert AC/DC voltage levels to suit specific equipment requirements. These devices can be used in a wide range of applications, including:

  • Step-up/step-down transformers: used for increasing or decreasing the voltage level in a circuit

  • Switch-mode power supplies: used for converting AC to DC or DC to DC voltage levels

  • Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): used for providing backup power during electrical outages


  • Benefits of Certification

    Certification for industrial transformers and power supplies provides several benefits, including:

  • Product safety: certification ensures that the product meets specific safety standards, reducing the risk of electrical shock or fire hazards

  • Reliability: certified products have undergone rigorous testing to ensure they perform as intended, minimizing downtime and equipment damage

  • Compliance with regulatory requirements: certification ensures compliance with relevant industry standards, regulations, and laws, reducing the risk of product recalls or liability issues


  • Certification Schemes for Industrial Transformers and Power Supplies

    Several organizations offer certification schemes for industrial transformers and power supplies. Some of the most widely recognized certifications include:

  • UL (Underwriters Laboratories): offers certification to UL 508A (Industrial Control Panels) and UL 1950 (Information Technology Equipment)

  • ETL (Intertek): offers certification to ETL Listed (for North America) and ETL Certified (for international markets)

  • CE Marking: a mandatory conformity marking for products sold in the European Union

  • EN 61508/IEC 61508: an international standard for functional safety of electrical/electronic/programmable electronic safety-related systems


  • Detailed Information on Certification Schemes:

    UL 508A and UL 1950 Certification

    The Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification scheme offers two key certifications for industrial transformers and power supplies:

  • UL 508A: this standard covers industrial control panels, including those used in manufacturing facilities. It addresses safety considerations such as electrical shock, fire hazards, and mechanical risks.

  • UL 1950: this standard covers information technology equipment, including computers, servers, and other electronic devices that require power supplies.


  • To obtain UL certification, manufacturers must:

  • Ensure compliance with relevant product requirements

  • Conduct testing to demonstrate compliance

  • Pay a fee for certification services


  • Key Requirements:

  • Compliance with safety standards (e.g., electrical shock protection)

  • Verification of design and construction

  • Testing to demonstrate performance and reliability

  • Labeling and documentation to ensure product identification


  • ETL Listed Certification

    The Intertek (ETL) certification scheme offers two key certifications for industrial transformers and power supplies:

  • ETL Listed: this certification is required for products sold in North America. It addresses safety considerations such as electrical shock, fire hazards, and mechanical risks.

  • ETL Certified: this certification is optional but can be used to demonstrate compliance with international standards.


  • To obtain ETL certification, manufacturers must:

  • Ensure compliance with relevant product requirements

  • Conduct testing to demonstrate compliance

  • Pay a fee for certification services


  • Key Requirements:

  • Compliance with safety standards (e.g., electrical shock protection)

  • Verification of design and construction

  • Testing to demonstrate performance and reliability

  • Labeling and documentation to ensure product identification


  • CE Marking Certification

    CE marking is a mandatory conformity marking for products sold in the European Union. To obtain CE marking, manufacturers must:

  • Ensure compliance with relevant EU directives (e.g., Low Voltage Directive)

  • Conduct testing to demonstrate compliance

  • Pay a fee for certification services


  • Key Requirements:

  • Compliance with safety standards (e.g., electrical shock protection)

  • Verification of design and construction

  • Testing to demonstrate performance and reliability

  • Labeling and documentation to ensure product identification


  • EN 61508/IEC 61508 Certification

    The EN 61508/IEC 61508 certification scheme addresses functional safety for electrical/electronic/programmable electronic systems. To obtain this certification, manufacturers must:

  • Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards

  • Conduct testing to demonstrate compliance

  • Pay a fee for certification services


  • Key Requirements:

  • Compliance with functional safety standards (e.g., risk assessment)

  • Verification of design and construction

  • Testing to demonstrate performance and reliability

  • Labeling and documentation to ensure product identification


  • QA Section: Additional Details on Certification for Industrial Transformers and Power Supplies

    1. What is the difference between UL 508A and UL 1950 certification?

    UL 508A covers industrial control panels, while UL 1950 covers information technology equipment.
    2. Is CE marking mandatory for all products sold in the European Union?

    Yes, CE marking is a mandatory conformity marking for all products sold in the EU.
    3. What is the cost of obtaining certification from ETL or UL?

    The cost varies depending on product complexity and testing requirements. Manufacturers should contact the relevant organization to discuss fees.
    4. Can I use the same certification for multiple markets (e.g., US, Europe, Asia)?

    Yes, but manufacturers must ensure compliance with local regulations and standards.
    5. How often do certifications need to be updated or renewed?

    Certifications typically have a validity period of 3-5 years, after which manufacturers must undergo retesting or update their documentation.
    6. Can I self-certify my product without third-party testing?

    No, manufacturers are required to conduct third-party testing and verification for certification.
    7. What is the role of a Notified Body in the CE marking process?

    A Notified Body is an independent organization that verifies compliance with EU directives and issues CE marking certificates.
    8. How do I ensure my product meets regulatory requirements for multiple markets (e.g., US, Europe, Asia)?

    Manufacturers should consult relevant industry standards, regulations, and laws for each market and conduct thorough testing and documentation to demonstrate compliance.

    In conclusion, certification for industrial transformers and power supplies is essential for ensuring product safety, reliability, and compliance with regulatory requirements. By understanding the various certification schemes available (UL 508A, UL 1950, ETL Listed, CE Marking, EN 61508/IEC 61508), manufacturers can ensure their products meet specific standards and are suitable for multiple markets.

    DRIVING INNOVATION, DELIVERING EXCELLENCE