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Huygens Engineers is grateful for the joint completion with Infinidrive Motor Manufacturing of the journey towards a comprehensive UL certification. The Infinidrive MDR (motor driven roller) and its associated controller (C101BU) are officially UL- recognized.  

The Assignment 

Infinidrive Motor Manufacturing (or IMM) is reputed for its advanced solutions for conveyor belts and roller conveyors. Over the years, Huygens Engineers has executed a variety of innovation projects for Infinidrive Motor Manufacturing, previously part of Mol Belting systems. IMM contracted Huygens Engineers to organize UL-certification for their motorized rollers, according to UL1004-1 and UL1004-3, and also the accompanying motor controller according to UL61800-5-1. These rollers are used in warehouses and luggage handling systems, among other applications.  

UL Certification 

While having comparable objectives to CE-certification, which is mandatory in Europe, the approach to certification required by UL is substantially different. The DNA of UL lies in fire and electrical hazards, and includes substantial practical and experimental components.  

UL Certification Process Steps 

Infinidrive produces several versions of their rollers. All variants of the Powered Roller must meet the same standards. The selection of a representative model for testing was made in consultation with UL. 

The certification process consists of the following steps: 

• Analysis and Reporting for the various components and the assemblies against the requirements set out in the UL standard
  In this case UL1004-1 and UL1004-3 for the motor, as well as UL61800-5-1 for the driver card. These standards provide guidelines that the motor and motor controller must meet, demonstrating that the motor remains safe under extreme conditions.

• Research and Testing
  We tested the components according to the relevant standards, which involved extensive documentation. We redesigned certain parts and retested the redesign and created test rigs to perform motor and motor controller testing.

• Eliminating Screening
  The comprehensive test report, including research and testing results, was submitted to UL. They reviewed our documentation through an eliminating screening.
  
  

• UL Reproduces the Tests
  UL conducted the tests on the provided test rig or attended retests on-site as part of the certification process.  The motor was tested in the provided rig at UL in the US, while the motor controller tests were conducted again at our facility in The Hague under the supervision of a UL inspector. 
  
  

Comparing UL and CE 

The steps 1 to 4 that embody the UL-certification process deviate substantially from the analysis and documentation exercise that leads to CE marking. Huygens Engineers is pleased with the added experience it now has of UL certification as an addition to its experience with other certification and documentation processes.