IEC60335-1 clause 25.14 Requirement for Flexing Test of Supply Cord

Appliances provided with a supply cord which are moved while in operation, shall be constructed so that the cord is adequately, protected against excessive flexing where it enters the appliance.  

The part of appliance comprising the cord entry, the cord guard if any and the supply cord, is fixed to the oscillating member so that when the latter is at the middle of its travel, the axis of the cord where it enters the cord guard or inlet is vertical and passes through the axis of oscillation. The major of the section of flat cords shall be parallel to the axis of oscillating.  

The cord is loaded so that the force applied is:

1) 10N for cords having a nominal cross-sectional area exceeding 0.75mm².

2) 5N for other cords.  

The distance A between the axis of oscillation and the point where the cord or cord guard enters the appliance, is adjusted so that when the oscillating member moves over its full range, the cord and load make the minimum lateral movement.  

The oscillating member is moved through an angle of 90⁰ (45⁰ on either side of the vertical), the number of flexing for type Z attachments being 20000 times and for other attachments 10000 times, the rate of flexing is 60 per min.  

A flexing is one movement at 90⁰, the cord and its associated parts are turned through with the rated current of the appliance at rated voltage. The test shall not result in:

1. Short circuit between the conductors

2. Breakage of more than 10% of the strands of any conductor

3. Separation of the conductor from its terminal

4. Loosening of any cord guard

5. Damage to the cord or cord guard which could impair compliance with this standard.  

6. Broken strands piercing the insulation and becoming accessible.  

IEC60335-1 Figure 11 Flexing Test Apparatus:

Supply Cord Flexing Test Apparatus

Parameter

● Power supply: AC220V, 50Hz

● Bend angle: 45⁰, 60⁰, 90⁰ or 120⁰, 180⁰ adjustable

● Bend speed: 8~60rpm (frequency control)

● Station: single (customized 3 and 6)

● Output voltage (Max): 240V

● Output power (max): 3KW

● Output current (max) 12A

● Load capacity (max): 30kg

● Load weights: 5N, 10N

● Timer: 0~999999   (6 digits, preset able)

● Equip with different clamps or customized