plugin - Multi

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plugin - Multi

Advanced Contact Technology
Magazine for customers, employees, friends and associates
plugin
1/2011
Environmental management:
ISO 14001 certificate
Application:
CombiTac in medicine
Safety first!
Product-Highlights:
Everything for your safety
plugin
Content
Editorial................................................................3
MC USA relocates to Windsor, CA. ...........................4
Direct sales started in Hungary.................................5
New reception at the headquarters. ..........................5
A clean bill of health:
ISO 14001 environment certificate for Multi-Contact ...6
Toughness test for plug connectors...........................7
CombiTac in computed tomography..........................8
Safe wiring with MC Multilam Technology..................9
Product highlights for greater safety....................... 10
First aid at the workplace...................................... 14
On the road again – safe driving skills..................... 15
IEC/EN 61010-031:2008 – changes now effective..... 16
Copies of plug connectors endanger safety............. 18
New publications. ............................................... 19
Exhibitions 2011. ................................................ 19
Imprint
ulti‑Contact AG
M
Global Communications
2
www.multi-contact.com
Stockbrunnenrain 8, CH-4123 Allschwil
Tel: +41 61 306 55 55
Mail: basel@multi‑contact.com
© by M
ulti‑Contact AG Switzerland
1/2011
Dear Readers,
You are holding the first plugin issue of 2011 in your hands. As always, this is also
an occasion to take a brief glance back as well as forwards. As a result of the solid
growth of the general industrial sector including the product groups Industrial,
Franco
Delvecchio
CEO
Multi‑Contact
Automation, Medical and Test & Measurement together with the continuing strong
demand in the photovoltaic industry, the Multi-Contact group experienced a record
year in 2010. I should like to thank our loyal customers and partners for our good
business relations and the confidence they have placed in us, and last but not least,
the valued members of our staff for their enthusiasm and committed efforts.
Not so long ago, many of the things for which Multi-Contact now stands were not
even dreamt of: Its PV plug connector systems have proved themselves millions of
times over and generate a substantial part of MC’s business. Solar electricity at competitive prices and the growing share of renewable energy in the global energy mix
will continue to power the growth of the photovoltaic industry. As market leaders in
the cabling of solar modules, in order to keep abreast of the booming demand we
have again made large investments in the expansion of production with a more than
threefold increase in production capacity for PV connectors. Despite the significant
increase in output it still goes without saying that we meet the high quality and safety standards of the industry. With this in view, in 2010 investments were also made
in state-of-the-art testing facilities which make a substantial contribution towards
greater process reliability and the faster performance of prototype tests.
Safety is an important issue in all parts of the company as well as in everyday life,
and is assigned the highest priority by Multi-Contact. For that reason, in this issue
we highlight products in which this aspect comes particularly to the fore. In many
applications MC connectors guarantee greater safety for their users, their surroundings or the processes in which they are involved. On the other hand inferior copies
of our connectors can endanger the safety of users and result in high costs – which
is why Multi-Contact warns expressly against the use of copies. The safety of our
employees is also a matter of great concern for us, a fact which finds expression in
safety instruction courses in various fields and a well-trained works first aid team.
With the new environmental management system according to ISO 14001, we face
up to another important issue – the protection of the environment. MC-USA also
shows its commitment to sustainability and renewable energy by the installation of a
photovoltaic system on the roof of its new company building.
We can look forward to an exciting future and another successful, dynamic year.
I wish you an enjoyable read.
Yours sincerely
Franco Delvecchio
3
plugin 1/2011 Company News
MC USA relocates to Windsor, CA
End of February 2011, Multi-Contact USA moved from Santa Rosa to larger quarters
in the nearby town of Windsor.
The 42,500-square-foot building is
located next to Windsor Town Green
in old Downtown. The new premises
are only a few minutes’ drive from the
previous location. Main reasons for the
relocation are the growing demand for
solar components and an expansion of
manufacturing in the U.S.
On the roof of the new U.S. headquarters, there will be installed a
205-kilowatt solar power system with
840 solar panels supplying most of
Multi-Contact’s electrical needs.
Like other MC-Units globally, MC USA
is making a clear statement that it is
The new Location in Downtown Windsor.
serious about renewable energies.
Later in the spring, MC-USA will host
a ribbon-cutting and inauguration
event of the new building. Members
of the Multi-Contact and Stäubli senior
management will be expected to participate in this event. In July, MC-USA
will hold an official open house event
for friends, family, and the community.
New address:
Multi-Contact USA
100 Market Street
Windsor, CA 95492
Tel. +1 (707) 838-0530
Fax +1 (707) 838-2474
www.multi-contact-usa.com
Team MC USA in front of the new building.
CustomSolutions
Photovoltaic Applications
MC USA
Scan QR code with your smartphone to
watch our custom solutions video!
4
Direct sales started in Hungary
MC Czech is in charge of the Hungarian market
since November 2010.
MC Czech
Slovakia
Before that, Multi-Contact had been
on the border between Hungary and
represented in Hungary exclusively by
Slovakia, providing the greatest pos-
distributors. With growing demand
sible proximity to the customers in the
and increasing sales in the region,
neighboring country.
direct customer support became
necessary.
Hungary
Contact address for Hungary:
Multi-Contact Czech
The task has been taken over by
c/o Stäubli Systems, s.r.o.
MC Czech, where a new employee
Hradecká 536
was hired who is familiar with the lo-
CZ – 53009 Pardubice
cal market. His office is located right
connectors.cz@staubli.com
New reception at the headquarters
The foyer at the Multi-Contact AG has been redesigned in modern style. Our friendly receptionists
now present themselves in a elegant outfit.
In the course of extensive renovation work at the company’s headquarters in Allschwil, Switzerland, the foyer of the
Multi-Contact AG has been modernized. In order to complete the competent, professional appearance, the receptionists now
wear uniform clothing as well as name tags. Visitiors often only know the ladies from phone conversations. They are the first contact point and put a face to the company. We’d like to thank the ladies for their great commitment.
CEO Franco Delvecchio presented flowers to the ladies at the opening of
the new foyer.
Left to right: Beatrice Itin, Franco Delvecchio, Christine Hahn
The new welcome counter in modern design at the Multi-Contact AG
5
A clean bill of health: ISO 14001 environment certificate for Multi-Contact
The international standard ISO 14001 specifies what company environmental management systems
should do and achieve. In February 2011 Multi-Contact obtained the respective certificate.
plugin asked Gerd Heger, Global Quality Manager in Allschwil, for background information.
What induced Multi-Contact to
field in which we have held a leading
has been completely reorganised. At
implement an environmental
position from the very beginning.
each of the certified locations a person
management system in accordance
with ISO 14001?
What was the total duration of the
certification process?
Sustainability is a firm part of the
Multi-Contact corporate philosophy and
is firmly anchored in the company’s
self-image. The acquisition of an
appropriate certificate was a logical
___
”Sustainability is
deeply rooted in
the self-image
of Multi-Contact.”_ ____
of the objectives, staff trainings and
still greater emphasis will be placed on
the implementation of the system
environmental considerations in the
in all three locations, it took roughly
choice of new materials and suppliers
one year until certification was
and in packing and logistics. There is
obtained. My special thanks to all our
also a new staff training programme
dedicated colleagues, who made the
aimed at increasing the environmental
implementation possible in this period
awareness of each individual
of time.
employee. Members of the staff are
ecological consciousness in our
taken into consideration in the audit?
our environmental management system
has been further developed and placed
on a more professional basis.
With our products we also contribute
towards greater sustainability in
industry. As a result of their low contact
resistances our plug connectors have a
particularly high energy efficiency and
a long life, thus helping to conserve
resources. One of our biggest global
markets is the photovoltaic industry, a
ISO 14001 covers all fields of
corporate activity – that includes,
for instance, suppliers, production
processes, maintenance, building
services and logistics, but also
aspects such as work safety. Above
all it is concerned with development
processes, continuous improvement
Multi-Contact
Allschwil
6
suggestions as to how sustainability
can be made a concrete part of the
company’s everyday operations.
__
”Environmental
management has been
completely reorganised”_ ___
Must the audit be repeated, and if
so, at what intervals?
The cerficate is valid for three years.
and purposeful implementation of the
Annual audits verify whether conformity
defined measures. One fundamental
with the standard is given, the system
criterion is, of course, the fulfilment of
has evolved, defined measure have
all requirements prescribed by law.
been taken and objectives have
management at MC? Have new
Global Quality
Manager
also encouraged to submit their own
of the environmental performance
What is the status of environmental
Gerd Heger
of the internal procedures is taking
place. This means, for instance, that
What aspects of the company were
system. By the process of certification,
with these matters. An adaptation
With all preparations, the formulation
step towards further cementing
company by means of an official
has been specially appointed to deal
been achieved. The certificate is only
renewed if the result is satisfactory.
measures been resolved and
Thank you for the conversation, Mr.
already implemented in connection
Heger.
with the ISO certification?
The programme for 2011 is in full
progress. Environmental management
Source: MC Allschwil
Toughness test for plug connectors
Multi-Contact subjects PV connectors to extremely rugged tests. For this purpose the test
laboratory in Allschwil has been enlarged and equipped with state-of-the-art climatic exposure
test cabinets.
Components for PV connectors are
ment and the functionality of the plugs
manufactured at various sites in
is checked. If these tests are passed,
Switzerland and abroad. The injection
they are followed by a 1000-hour moist
moulding tools used must be approved
heat test at 85% atmospheric humidity
by Multi-Contact for the production of
and 85°C. Connections with different
these parts.
cable types are tested in a single batch.
If a tool is replaced, new testing is immediately carried out. Identical qualitative characteristics and exact compliance in form and the properties of the
material are an essential requirement
for the compatibility of the individual
components and thus for the correct
function of the finished plug connectors.
In order to better supervise this important process and to save time, MC
An IP test in an immersion tank shows
whether the connection is watertight.
Further electrical tests are carried out
in order to determine the safety of the
plug connectors, as well as a strain
relief test and a torsion test (twisting-
The test laboratory in Allschwil has been enlarged
and equipped with modern climate cabinets.
off of the cable). The connector is not
released for production until it has satisfactorily passed all these tests.
decided to expand the test laboratory
and carry out the tests itself. What tests
are needed, and on what scale, is determined by the various PV standards.
The tests are recorded digitally and the
results for the individual assemblies
and test sequences set down in a test
report.
In the moist heat test the specimens are subjected to an atmospheric humidity of 85% at an
ambient temperature of 85°C.
In the climatic shock cabinet, specimens are exposed to extreme temperature variations from -40°C to +85°. They
Good climate
are then subjected to a visual assess-
A cooling installation on the company’s premises serves to
absorb the waste heat produced by the climate cabinets. It
also cools the high-current installations and air-conditions the
rooms of the test laboratory. It is equipped with two pumps
which operate redundantly – thus enabling the cooling system
to continue operating when undergoing maintenance. The
waste heat serves a useful purpose: to heat the test laboratory
and to generate hot water.
The preliminary test in the upper part of the
cabinet has a duration of 400 hours. After function
tests have been passed, this is followed by 600
hours in the lower part.
7
Industrial
Connectors
plugin 1/2011 CombiTac in computed tomography
MC plug connectors ensure a dependable power supply
to highly sensitive medical equipment.
The SOMATOM Definition Flash CT
contacts for signal transmission. In
self-cleaning effect of the MC Multi-
scanner from Siemens generates high-
addition to dependability, long-term
lams make it extremely reliable and
quality 3D images in real time. These
availability is another important factor.
minimise maintenance requirements.
permit fast and precise diagnosis and
enable the patient to be treated in a
targeted manner. The speed and reliability of the equipment allow a high
patient throughput which is the basis
for cost-effective operation.
Reliable operation
A dependable power supply is an
essential requirement for troublefree operation. During the scanning
process, X-rays strike detectors which
transform them into electrical signals.
Electronic components convert these
signals into digital pulses and transmit them to the image processor. The
detectors are supplied with electric
power via a power pack in maintenance-friendly plug-in construction.
Electric contact between the power
pack and the detectors is established
with Multi-Contact’s modular plug
connector CombiTac. In the configura-
As a result of the time-consuming
approval processes for medical equipment, any product change generates
costs and is avoided as far as
possible.
Flexible due to modular
design
CombiTac has
proved its worth
in many fields
of industry. It en
ables signal, power, data
and pneumatic couplings to be
specifically configured for a specific
individual application. Different contact modules can be combined into
an extremely compact unit. Like all
Multi-Contact connectors, CombiTac is
characterised by a high contact quality
and long life.
tion used in the SOMATOM Definition
It is ideally suited for demanding appli-
Flash, power contacts are used to
cations with a large number of mating
transmit the power supply and control
cycles. The constant contact force and
SOMATOM Definition Flash – one
of the world’s fastest dual source CT
scanners (Photo: Siemens)
The combination of high-grade sensors and short rotation times permits
crystal clear imaging even of moving
organs (Photo: Siemens)
8
Source: MC Weil
In the CombiTac it is possible to combine signal,
data bus, optical fibre and coaxial contacts,
power contacts for up to 300A, high-current
contacts up to 5kV, thermocouples and pneumatic couplings.
plugin 1/2011 Multilam
Safe wiring with MC Multilam Technology
Hawke International, leading manufacturer of high performance connectors for hazardous environments, relies on MC Multilam Technology for absolute dependability.
Electrical infrastructures in potentially
national explains the crucial role of the
explosive environments require high
electrical pin and socket interconnects
quality, reliable wiring solutions to en-
in high quality connectors for high
sure safe operation. The solutions pro-
performance applications: “Absolute
vided by Hawke International meet the
integrity in the electrical contact points
highest international safety standards,
is essential. We needed to achieve the
incorporating innovative and unique
best possible solution in terms of con-
features to enhance reliability and
sistent and continuously low contact
durability while at the same time being
resistance over time, and resilience
quick and easy to mate and demate.
against the effects of oxidation, corro-
With its ControlEx range of connectors
sion or other environmental hazards.
International was able to quickly
certified for use in explosive environ-
Selection, therefore, was based on
introduce its ControlEx connectors
ments the company managed to sig-
outright performance, to deliver the
and immediately received positive
nificantly reduce the wiring installation
greatest reliability and low cost of
feedback from customers. As Hawke
work required on offshore platforms,
ownership for our customers.” Multi-
International expanded its range by
allowing the majority of the electrical
Contact can optimize the construction
the InstrumEx and PowerEx connector
control infrastructure to be completed
and properties of the lamellae to meet
series, pin and socket combinations
before the rig is positioned and reduc-
specific application requirements.
from Multi-Contact were the natural
ing offshore work to a simple process
of mating the connectors. Hawke
recently extended its product range
to the petrochemical and similar
industries by adding the
gineers began integrating the contacts
with the other innovative features of
supported the project, provid-
At the heart of these ulti-
ing expertise at the design
mate quality connectors
Multilam Technology.
the best possible solution, Hawke en-
the ControlEx range. Multi-Contact
InstrumEx and PowerEx.
lies the patented MC
Having identified this technology as
stages to create a customLAIA and LAII
Multilam
Hawke design engineers
chose to integrate
contacts supplied by
made configuration in agreement with the characteristics of
the connectors. “Multi-Contact was
extremely willing to provide the
this was instrumental
MC Multilam Technology, into
in quickly completing
low impedance, durable electrical
interconnections that would complement Hawke’s easy-to-use, high
quality insertion and retention mechanisms. Phil O’Connor of Hawke Inter-
choice. “The high performance of the
Multilam-based contacts, combined
with the ability to optimize specific
properties to serve control, power and
instrumentation requirements, helped
us to strengthen our high reputation
while at the same time extending the
range and number of applications
and installations we serve” O’Connor
concludes.
Source: MC UK
support we required, and
Multi-Contact, based on the
these connector ranges to ensure
Hawke InstrumEx connectors are ideal for applications dominated by the need for frequent
mating and unmating for maintenance and quick
changeover. (Photo: Hawke International)
the development […]”
comments O’Connor.
By working with technical staff at
Multi-Contact UK and the MC Technology Centre in Switzerland, Hawke
9
plugin 1/2011 Medical
Product highlights for greater safety
Safety is an important issue in all fields of industry – be it for the user, the operating environment
or with regard to processes and functionality. These MC products are characterised by their outstanding safety features.
Medicalline
POAG leads with extrusion-moulded insulation for potential equalisation
are in use in medical
technology all over the world. Potential equalisation between electric medical equipment and the bed
is particularly important for the safety of patients.
Medicalline
10
Test &
Measurement
plugin 1/2011 Cableline
The stranded wires with two-layer, reinforced insulation conform to the highest
safety requirements. As a result of the two-layer, two-coloured insulation,
damage to the outer layer (e.g. due to wear) can be more easily
recognised. The inner layer of insulation (white or
transparent) becomes visible before bare
metal parts are exposed.
Cableline
Test & Measureline
The fused measurement leads XSMF-419 / XSMS-419 can be fitted with high-capa
city fuses. This has the advantage that standard test clips and probes can be used
for protected measurements. The insulations of these measurement leads give
protection against transient overvoltages and thus permit safe use up to 1000V,
CAT IV in accordance with IEC/EN 61010-031.
A varied range of plug-on adapters is also available for safe hand-held measurements and for making safely contacting steel studs and screw heads.
H Test & Measureline
11
Renewable
Energy
plugin 1/2011 Product highlights for greater safety
MC4
with optional
safety lock clip
MC4PLUS
with integrated
locking device
Plug connector system MC4 – all-round safety
The original PV plug connector MC4 with optional safety lock clip, and
the new MC4PLUS, have a locking device that can only be opened with
a special tool. This prevents unintentional disconnection under load
and substantially improves safety when in use. The plug connectors are
made from fire-retardant material. They are UV resistant and protected
from splash water in accordance with IP67.
They are touch-protected when unmated.
2 Solarline, Catalogue MC4
N Solarline, Catalogue for Installers
P Solarline, Flyer MC4PLUS
12
Industrial
onnectors
C
plugin 1/2011 Safety flat bar clamps FSA
Our safety flat bar clamps FSA are intended for the rapid and safe contacting of busbars in power distribution,
power generation, in mobile generators and standby power units. The connectors are touch-protected when unmated. A safety tool is needed in order to fix and release the clamps on the busbar. The head and plug connection
of the FSA can be fitted with special caps to protect them from dirt, dust and water splashes.
Utilitiesline
Round plug connectors 10BV
and 16BV
The single-pole,
insulated round
plug connectors 10BV and
16BV are used in such applications as
standby power units, test stands and
switchgear. They have bayonet locking and are touch-protected when
unmated. When mated they conform
to protection class IP65. Optional
protective and sealing caps protect
unplugged connectors from dust and
water splashes. The receptacles can
be shielded from mechanical damage,
dirt and water splashes by means of a
protective cover.
3 Powerline
New: 16BV-GS with continuous shielding
The shielded plug connector 16BV-GS was developed as a customer-specific
solution on the basis of the 16BV. It is suitable for power supply systems with a frequency inverter, such as for the operation of 3-phase motors. The continuous shielding gives reliable protection from electromagnetic influences. The 16BV-GS with
captive protective caps is designed for use under rugged conditions. The high-grade
screwed gland makes contacts the cable shield without damaging it.
13
First aid at the workplace
Works first aiders provide rapid assistance in the event of medical emergencies at the workplace.
Medical equipment suitable for use by laypersons provides additional safety.
The first-aid group
at headquarters
The first aid service at MC
Allschwil has been reorganised.
A total of 8 volunteer first-aiders
provide a standby service on a
rota basis. All have an appropriate training (BLS-AED-SRC) and
receive regular refresher instruction.
They are also at the service of
people with minor troubles such
as faintness, sprains or headache. As part of a pilot project
the mobile doctors are alerted if
necessary. They are on the spot within 30
minutes with a vehicle that is
fully equipped as a doctor’s
surgery, and save long waiting
times in the hospital.
What does one do if somebody suddenly
to be used by persons without medical
collapses unconscious at the workplace?
knowledge. It automatically checks
The shortest way to expert care is via
the vital functions and gives a step-
the voluntary first aiders. These spe-
by-step guide through the procedure
cially trained members of the staff know
- beginning with the ”ABC” procedure
their way round the premises and are
(Airways, Breathing, Circulation) and
therefore quickly on the spot. They make
progressing through cardiac massage
the first diagnosis, administer first aid
to defibrillation. The device checks
and call the emergency medical service if
whether CPR has been correctly carried
necessary. In some cases, however, such
out and gives appropriate feedback.
as cardiac arrest, immediate action must
Only when the device ascertains that
be taken. Here, literally every second
a shock is necessary is the person
counts. Even when an ambulance has
administering first aid instructed by text
been called, valuable minutes may be
and acoustic signals to press the shock
lost before professional help arrives.
button. It is not possible to trigger this
Immediate life-saving measures are
function unintentionally.
facilitated by an Automatic External
Defibrillator (AED), a device which is
suitable for use by laypersons.
These are to be found, for instance, at
the headquarters in Allschwil, Switzerland and at the two German locations
at Weil am Rhein and Essen. One will
soon be in place at Hésingue in France.
The Chain of Survival?
1. Check whether patient is conscious
2. Call emergency medical service
3. Measures according to ”ABC”
procedure
4. CPR and defibrillation if needed
The easily understood pictorial and textual instructions enable the defibrillator
Practising for a real emergency: The works first
aiders of MC Allschwil demonstrate the use of
the ”layperson’s defibrillator”
14
Also for people with no previous training: the AED guides them through the procedure on
a step-by-step basis.
This symbol marks the location of the AED
On the road again – safe driving skills
With its driving courses, Multi-Contact GmbH helps to ensure
that its the members of its field staff reach their customers
safely.
Besides providing good customer care,
response of the vehicle with different
members of the field staff are faced by
road surface conditions was tested.
another challenge every day: that of
In sunny October weather, conditions
reaching their customers on time and
such as a wet or snow-covered surface
without accidents despite traffic con-
could be reproduced. ”My driving
gestion, difficult weather conditions
behaviour has really changed since
and sometimes bad roads. A three-day
the training course. Now that I know
safe driving course held near Berlin
more about braking distances, I take
has excellently equipped our field staff
care to maintain a safe distance from
to face up to this task and brought
the vehicle ahead,” another participant
them new knowledge about safety and
said. Every three years, the field staff
driving technique. ”Now I know that
also undergo G25, a preventive medi-
my emergency stopping leaves room
cal checkup for people whose work
for improvement. By slamming on the
involves driving, control and surveil-
brakes with full pedal pressure, the
lance activities.
The field staff at the driving safety course.
braking distance can be substantially
reduced even with the ABS in op-
Source: MC Weil
eration. But one really has to try it for
oneself,” said one participant. Besides
theoretical and practical instruction on
braking and ABS, obstacle avoidance
Even in fine-sunny weather it was possible
practice manoeuvres on a wet road surface.
manoeuvres were practised and the
15
Test &
Measurement
plugin 1/2011 IEC/EN 61010-031:2008 – changes now effective
The changes to the most important standard for electrical measurement accessories, which were
adopted in 2008, come into force in March 2011. plugin asked Ton Clerkx, Product Line Manager
Test & Measurement and Deputy Managing Director of Multi-Contact Essen, how he viewed the
new version of the standard and the resultant changes in Multi-Contact’s range of measurement
accessories.
All changes in the standard have
the danger of an electric shock but also
to an earthed socket or not. With
the aim of further increasing safety
with the possible consequences of a
double-insulated equipment this is not
in the field of electrical measure-
short circuit such as burns or explo-
permitted. Test accessories are not
ment and testing. Does mean that
sions. The view is also being voiced
appliances – there is no way they can
the measurement accessories in ac-
in the European committee that the
be connected to an earth line – and this
cordance with the previous version
Low Voltage Directive – which cur-
sign is therefore meaningless. In the
of IEC/EN 61010-031 were not safe?
rently applies to voltages from 50VAC
standard, for certain parts we permit a
and 75VDC – should be extended to
lesser degree of insulation with which
cover lower voltages. This means, for
we consider them still to be safe, but
No, certainly not. But just like technology, standards are also undergoing
constant development. IEC Committee
TC66, which is responsible for maintaining this standard, continuously gathers
information on any accidents and regularly carries out risk assessments.
As a result, new potential hazards are
discovered which must be taken into
consideration in order to minimise the
risk for the user. In the committee, we
have ascertained that although we have
covered most potential electric shock
risks, accidents still happen as a result
of short circuits.
One of the changes is the inclusion
in the standard of measurement
equipment with a rated voltage of
33 VAC / 70 VDC. Why will measurement accessories for this ”non-haz-
____ ”
Many measurement leads now on the market
are not up to the exacting demands”______________
instance, that battery-operated devices
they cannot be marked with the double
would fall within the ambit of the direc-
insulation sign. But unlike the case of
tive and would be marked with the CE
equipment which he must provide with
label.
an earth connection, there is nothing
To enable manufacturers to demon-
that the user can do.
strate the conformity of their products
In future, tests on stranded wires
by the fulfilment of a standard, we have
used in hand-held measuring de-
also made the standard applicable to
vices are to be made stricter. What
low voltages.
aspects are covered by this of the
The sign for ”double insula-
requirements?
tion” has been seen for decades on
The new test is a mechanical wear test.
very many mains-operated electrical
This is intended to test the resistance
appliances. Why is this no longer
of the wire to typical causes of wear.
compulsory for measurement ac-
Here, for instance, we have in mind the
cessories?
ardous” voltage range be covered by
As you already mentioned in your
the safety standard in future?
question, this sign is for mains-oper-
_______ Constant risk assessments help to
reveal new potential hazards”_ ________
Ton Clerkx
Product Line
Manager Test &
Measurement
There are two reasons for this. As I
ated electrical appliances. The user
mentioned, the use of measurement
can determine from this sign whether
accessories is associated not only with
the appliance must be connected
Deputy Managing
Director,
Multi-Contact
Essen GmbH
16
Test &
Measurement
plugin 1/2011 rubbing of the cable over the edge of a
lead to explosion-like arcing with
the user will grab at the falling clip and
table or the corner of a cupboard. But
extremely severe burns.
receive an electric shock.
In the case of crocodile clips for
All the relevant changes must have
measurement categories CAT II, III
been implemented by March 2011.
and IV it must no longer be possible
To what extent does this affect
to touch any live parts when they
products made by Multi-Contact,
are closed. Assuming that someone
and what changes result for the ex-
tries to contact the teeth of the clip
tensive range of MC measurement
with ”very thin fingers” or a metal
accessories?
here I can already warn you in advance
that as part of the constant development of the standard the committee
is already working on further tests for
stranded wires. An analysis of the wires
on the market has shown that many of
them are simply not up to the exacting
demands that have to be met by measurement leads.
screwdriver: Where, according to
the standard, is the limit to be set,
Depending on the measuring
i.e. how thick is a standard test
environment, the permitted length
finger, and where does incorrect
of bare metal probe tips is being
handling begin?
A number of MC products are affected,
notably in the field of test probes.
A brief overview of the most important changes and a list of the affeced
MC articles is given in the new
____ ”
Short circuits can lead to arcing
with extremely severe burns”_______
S Test & Measureline flyer.
substantially reduced in order to
IEC defines a number of standard test
view.
prevent short circuits and arcing:
fingers for testing the touch protection
Max. 4mm in measurement cat-
of live parts. This ensures that the re-
egories CAT III and CAT IV, max.
quirements relating to touch protection
19mm in measurement category
are the same in all standard categories.
CAT II. What measuring situations,
In this test a case is simulated in which
in your opinion, have hitherto
a live crocodile clip slips from its con-
presented the greatest potential
tact and falls down. There is a risk that
Mr. Clerkx, thank you for the inter-
Source: MC Essen GmbH
The greatest hazards were in meas-
As chairman of the international safety committee IEC/TC 66 ”Safety of
urements on distribution boxes. These
measuring, control, and laboratory equipment”, Ton Clerkx plays an impor-
are almost always in measurement
tant role in the further development of the standard. He is also chairman
categories III and IV. With the long,
of the German national body DKE/K 911 ”Sicherheitsanforderungen an
bare metal probe tips it is easy to
elektrische einschliesslich elektronische Geräte für das Messen, Steuern
create a short circuit between two
und Regeln” (Safety requirements for electrical and electronic equipment
busbars.
for measurement, control and regulation) and is involved in working groups
As I mentioned at the outset, short
circuits can be very dangerous and
of IEC/TC 66 and IEC/TC 109, as well as in DKE committees and in the
Advisory Committee for Safety (ACOS) of IEC.
Background
Information
hazards?
17
Copies of plug connectors endanger safety
The fight against product piracy by no means serves only the company’s own image. It is, above
all, a question of protecting the consumer, for cheap copies often harbour a safety risk and can
prove very expensive for the user.
Multi-Contact has taken energetic ac-
consequent repair costs and financial
ity. Furthermore, certification becomes
tion against product counterfeiters for
losses for the operator of the system.
invalid if original parts are plugged
many years. But illegal copies of MC3
and MC4 plug connectors as well as
junction boxes, mainly from Asia, still
keep appearing on the market. Outwardly, inferior imitations are almost
indistinguishable from the originals. But
a technical comparison often reveals
serious deficiencies in the quality of
Life and health are also placed at risk
if the copies do not conform to the official safety standards and, for instance,
do not provide sufficient touch protection. For safety reasons, Multi-Contact
manufacturers. The certification of the
plug connectors (TÜV, UL) is expressly
restricted to connections with products
from the same manufacturer.
advises against using any copied
products.
copied products. These, above all, con-
Risks are also involved if seemingly
cern the question of safety. Deficient
compatible products from other manu-
safety-relevant characteristics such as
facturers are mated with MC plugs.
UV resistance and density (IP67) har-
Even if these appear at first sight to fit
bour a potential risk and can have seri-
together, there is a danger that the elec-
ous practical consequences. If contact
trical connection will be unreliable in
resistances are too high, this can result
operation and will lack long-term stabil-
in overheating of the connectors and in
a risk of fire.
This impairs the safe operation and
performance of the installation and may
even result in complete failure with
18
together with products from other
New publications
N Solarline
S Test & Measureline
Catalogue for Installers
MC3 and MC4
IEC/EN 61010-031:2008
The main changes at a glance
Solarline
Steckverbinder für erneuerbare Energie
Connectors for Renewable Energy
Catalogue for Installers
MC3 and MC4
Test&Measureline
Flyer,
edition 02.2011
16 pages
Prüf- & Messtechnik
Test & Measurement
IEC/EN61010-031:2008
Die wichtigsten Änderungen im Überblick
The main changes at a glance
N
Flyer,
edition 01.2011
4 pages
S
Order all our publications online by filling in the order-form:
www.multi‑contact.com > About us > Feedback > Printmedia
PDF version for download:
www.multi‑contact.com > Downloads
Exhibitions 2011
4 – 8 April
Hannover Messe
4 – 6 May
Solarexpo 8 – 10 June
Intersolar Europe
14 – 17 September
Elektrotechnik
11 – 14. October
Taitronics
13 – 15 December
PowerGen
5 – 7 April
Sifer Expo 10 – 12 May
Cebeo Technologie
20 – 26 June
Paris Air Show
20 – 23 September
Automation 2011
18 – 20 October
Solar Power International
14 – 16 December
Intersolar India
Hanover, Germany
Lille, France
6 – 8 April
Green Energy Expo
Daegu, Korea
12 – 15 April
Electron Prague, Czech Republic
19 – 21 April
Expo Electronica
Moscow, Russia
2 – 7 May
Clean Energy Week
c/o DKSH
Melbourne, Australia
Verona, Italy
Brussels, Belgium
11 – 13 May
Genera
Madrid, Spain
17 – 20 May
Energetika &
Elektrotechnika
St. Petersburg, Russia
17 – 20 May
Factory
Munich, Germany
Le Bourget
Paris, France
Dortmund, Germany
Mumbai, India
Dallas, TX / U.S.A.
29 June – 1 July
Automation 2011
21 – 23 September
EP Electrical Shenzhen, China
Shanghai, China
18 – 20 October
eCarTec 12 – 14 July
Intersolar
3 – 7 October
Elektrotechniek
20 – 23 October
RENEX 2011 North America 2011 San Francisco, CA / U.S.A.
Utrecht, Netherlands
Automation Show
c/o Samboe TC
Changwon, Korea
5 – 8 September
26th EU PVSEC
5 – 7 October
PV Taiwan
Hamburg, Germany
Taipei, Taiwan
6 – 9 June
Elektro
13 – 16 September
DSEI
10 – 13 October
Motek
Moscow, Russia
Taipei, Taiwan
London, Great Britain
Stuttgart, Germany
www.multi‑contact.com
Las Vegas, NV, U.S.A.
Mumbai, India
Munich, Germany
Istanbul, Turkey
26 – 27 October Mocon-Hydromech
Brussels, Belgium
22 – 24 November
SPS/IPC/DRIVES
Nuremberg, Germany
For a regular update on
the MC exhibitions see:
> News > Exhibitions
19
Headquarters:
Multi-Contact AG
Stockbrunnenrain 8
CH – 4123 Allschwil
Tel. +41/61/306 55 55
Fax +41/61/306 55 56
mail basel@multi-contact.com
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Hegenheimer Strasse 19
Postfach 1606
DE – 79551 Weil am Rhein
Tel. +49/76 21/6 67 - 0
Fax +49/76 21/6 67 - 100
mail weil@multi-contact.com
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Westendstrasse 10
Postfach 10 25 27
DE – 45025 Essen
Tel. +49/2 01/8 31 05 - 0
Fax +49/2 01/8 31 05 - 99
mail essen@multi-contact.com
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Fax +33/3/89 69 27 96
mail france@multi-contact.com
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US – Windsor, CA 95492
Tel. +1/707/838 - 0530
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mail usa@multi-contact.com
www.multi-contact-usa.com
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AT – 3452 Heiligeneich
Tel. +43/2275/56 56
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mail austria@multi-contact.com
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GB – Buckinghamshire MK8 0ES
Tel. +44/1908 26 55 44
Fax +44/1908 26 20 80
mail uk@multi-contact.com
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c/o Stäubli Benelux N.V.
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Fax +32/56 36 41 10
mail benelux@multi-contact.com
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c/o Stäubli Portugal
Representaçoes Lda
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Fax +351/229 783 959
mail portugal@multi-contact.com
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RU – 196210 Saint Petersburg
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Fax + 7 812 334 46 36
mail russia@multi-contact.com
www.multi-contact-russia.ru
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c/o Stäubli Mechatronic Co. Ltd.
Hangzhou Economic and
Technological Development Zone
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CN – 310018 Hangzhou
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Fax +86/571/869 125 22
mail hangzhou@staubli.com
Multi-Contact Italia
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mail italy@multi-contact.com
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ES – 08205 Sabadell
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mail spain@multi-contact.com
Multi-Contact Türkiye
c/o Stäubli Sanayi Makine ve
Aksesuarları Ticaret Ltd. Şti.
Atatürk Mahallesi, Marmara
Sanayi Sitesi, B Blok No: 28 İkitelli
TR – 34306 İstanbul
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Fax +90/212/472 12 30
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160/865-866 Silom Road
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TH – Bangkok 10500
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mail thailand@multi-contact.com
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Fax +852/2311 4677
mail connectors.hk@staubli.com
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c/o Stäubli (H.K.) Ltd.
Taiwan Branch
6/F-3, No. 21, Lane 583
Ruiguang Road, Neihu Dist.
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mail connectors.tw@staubli.com
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© Multi‑Contact AG, 03.2013 – plugin 1/2011 – Global Communications – Subject to alterations.
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mail connectors.cz@staubli.com
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mail singapore@multi-contact.com

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