Machinery assessment services (MAS) field evaluations

Newly installed equipment without a suitable certification mark may cause the local building or electrical inspectors to delay or deny authorization of the equipment. They often require verification from qualified, independent bodies indicating complex equipment complies with the applicable ANSI or industry standards and local installation codes. UL offers its field evaluation service to meet this need.

UL remains a trusted name for local authorities. UL's field labeling programs have an unmatched history of integrity, thoroughness and reliability. To serve the semiconductor and automated machinery equipment manufacturing industry, UL recognizes the importance of customizing the certification process and making it work within the timeframe and logistical constraints that are critical to successful product delivery. UL is uniquely qualified to balance the sometimes conflicting needs of the manufacturer, equipment purchaser and local authorities.

What to expect

The UL field evaluation program consists of the following steps:

• UL customer service personnel quickly assess the situation, answer basic questions, and assign a UL project manager to work out the details.
• The project manager contacts the AHJ to clarify the scope of the requested work and determine if any special considerations are needed to gain equipment approval.
• The project manager provides a cost quote based on the anticipated scope of the work.
• A site visit is scheduled for the earliest time available, often within a few days of the initial contact. Special consideration is given to situations where equipment operations are on-hold or a new (or remodeled) facility is ready for occupancy.
• UL conducts a thorough evaluation of the equipment. The UL field evaluated product (FEP) Mark is applied to equipment that is determined by UL to fully comply with the applicable requirements. If there are equipment features that do not comply with the requirements, UL can assist with selecting potential corrective measures. When notified that the corrective measures have been implemented, a second site visit can be scheduled to review the changes and, if appropriate, apply a FEP Mark. If the original scope of work did not include a second visit, an increase in the project cost will be requested.

Typical products eligible for MAS field evaluation service include:

• Chillers, pumps.
• Chemical vapor deposition equipment.
• Automated guided vehicles.
• Rail guided vehicles.
• Test inspection stations.
• Probers.
• Power supplies -- RF, microwave, non-contact, etc.