Six FAQs about HARTING connectors on UL508A panels

HARTING has made it easier to connectorize UL508A panels with its own existing products.

Using connectors on UL508A cabinets used to be a huge hassle for the panel builder. As a result, they often chose the older hardwiring solution in the past. Now, HARTING, in partnership with UL, has made it possible to easily connectorize UL508A panels with existing HARTING products. The following six FAQs explain this new standard and the benefits it offers.

1. How has HARTING made it possible to connectorize UL508A panels?

Underwriters Laboratories (UL) sets the industry standards for both commercial and consumer use. HARTING’s connectors listed below are approved to PVVA/2 (UL2237). Both standards are acceptable for use on UL508A panels.

2. Did HARTING have to create a new connector series to pass testing successfully?

No. Due to its innovative processes and focus on customer needs and safety, HARTING’s existing connector series already adheres to the stringent requirements of PVVA/2. This forward-thinking design means that HARTING customers can continue to use the connectors with which they are familiar.

3. Does UL still require an end user/control panel builder to “procedure-describe” the use of these connectors?

No. The upgrade from UL1977 to PVVA/2 means that HARTING’s connectors can be used with UL508A panels without being “procedure-described.” Customers are no longer required to open a separate UL investigation project in order to utilize these connectors, reducing customer risk, time spent, and frustration.

4. Is this approval for Branch, Power and Control circuits within a panel?

Yes. Branch, Power and Control circuits can all be connectorized on UL508A panels. While historically, only Class 2 Control circuits could be connectorized, the addition of Branch and Power circuit connectorization saves HARTING’s customers’ time and reduces HARTING’s customers’ costs by implementing reliable connector solutions.

5. Do HARTING connectors now have a Short Circuit Current Rating (SCCR)?

Yes. HARTING connectors now have an SCCR between 5kA and 65kA. HARTING’s primary concern is for the safety of its products for the end user. HARTING tested their circuits to SCCR levels to mitigate overload and overheating and/or to cause catastrophic damage. These SCCR levels allow HARTING customers to safely connectorize Power circuits with minimal risk.

6. What are the potential risks if a customer uses a non-HARTING connector approved to an older, less stringent UL1977 specification on a panel that needs UL508A approval?

The worst-case scenario is that UL will determine that the connector is not appropriate for that use. In this case, the panel will require a redesign. The best-case scenario is that UL determines that the connectors are acceptable for the customer’s use. However, even this outcome may prove costly in terms of time, testing, and management. Using HARTING connectors that are compatible with UL508A panels allows the user to skip this entire process, as this work with UL has already been done.

For more information, contact HARTING.

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