UL Ratings for 3D Printing Filament
Understanding how UL ratings apply to 3D printing filament for components such as electrical outlet covers.
For electrical outlet covers and other safety-critical parts, select filaments rated under UL 94 (preferably V-0 or V-1) and check for UL Yellow Card certification when available.
UL Certifications For Additive Manufacturing Materials
UL Solutions Yellow Card: A globally recognized program for traditional manufacturing technologies, such as injection molding, extrusion, and vacuum forming. The Yellow Card is a digital product information card that lists safety and performance properties for a polymeric material. It can also include additional performance credentials, such as Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) or Non-Halogenated (non-Hal).
UL Solutions Blue Card: An extension of the Yellow Card program for plastics intended for 3D printing and 3D-printed components and products. The Blue Card is a material data sheet that lists properties such as UL94 Flame Class, hot wire ignition, dielectric strength, and recommended layer thickness
UL 94: Flammability Standard
This standard tests the flammability of plastic materials, classifying them based on their reaction to an open flame. The key ratings include:
- V-0: Material stops burning within 10 seconds, with no flaming drips.
- V-1: Material stops burning within 30 seconds, with no flaming drips.
- V-2: Material stops burning within 30 seconds, but with flaming drips.
For electrical outlet covers, filaments with a V-0 or V-1 rating are recommended to ensure limited combustion risk.
UL 746B: Thermal Aging
This standard evaluates the thermal aging of polymers. For components exposed to high temperatures, such as electrical enclosures, the filament must withstand thermal aging without significant degradation.
UL 60950 and UL 62368: Electronic Equipment Safety
These standards cover mechanical, electrical, and fire safety for materials used in electronics housings and components interacting with electrical circuits.
Material Types
- ABS: Commonly used to mass produce outlet covers due to strength and ability to meet UL 94 V-0 standards when formulated correctly. Confirm UL Blue Card rating before use.
- PETG: Typically used as ABS alternative with prosumer 3D printers to avoid noxious fumes when printing with ABS. Confirm UL Blue Card rating before use.
- Polycarbonate (PC): Known for high impact resistance and flame retardance, ideal for electrical covers. Confirm UL Blue Card rating before use.
- PLA: Unsuitable for high-temperature or flame-prone environments. Not eligible for rating.
Prusa Polymers PETG Blue Card
