Hi Frank:
You ask about testing requirements for capacitors
bridging a safety insulation.
I am assuming that the capacitors are connected between
mains and secondary circuits. (If they are connected
between a high-voltage secondary and a low-voltage
secondary, then this discussion does not apply.)
Such capacitors would be Y capacitors in the IEC
scheme, or UL-Recognizied capacitors in the UL scheme.
If the capacitors bear a certification mark (e.g.,
SEMKO or UL), then the capacitors have been appropriately
tested and comply with the IEC 384-14 requirements for
double/reinforced insulation, or with UL 1414 equivalently.
As such, no further testing of the capacitors is necessary.
If the capacitors do not bear a certification mark,
then it is appropriate to test the capacitors per the
applicable standard, IEC 384-14 or UL 1414. (I doubt
ordinary capacitors will pass these tests!)
After the capacitors are installed in the end-product,
end-product tests should be conducted. These would
include:
hi-pot (a function of the lead spacings and body
position)
leakage current (a function of the capacitance
value)
If I have made the wrong assumptions, let me know the
particulars and I will try again!
Best regards,
Rich
"Champions keep playing until they get it right."
-- Billie Jean King
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Richard Nute Quality Department
Hewlett-Packard Company Product Regulations Group
San Diego Division (SDD) Tel : 619 655 3329
16399 West Bernardo Drive FAX : 619 655 4979
San Diego, California 92127 e-mail: [email protected]
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