UL 50E Compression Test for Gaskets and Seals

Both solid and cellular gasket materials can be evaluated to UL 50E, but not all materials require the UL 50E Compression Test. Solid gasket materials and cellular gasket materials used in electrical enclosures where the seal is intended to be under continuous compression for the life of the seal, e.g. gaskets used in pilot lights, selector switches and viewing windows, are not required to comply with the UL 50E Compression Test. The UL 50E Compression Test applies only to cellular gasket materials used in periodic recompression applications where the seal may periodically be broken and must be reestablished, e.g. door or cover seals on electrical enclosures.

• UL 50E applies only to solid gaskets. These gaskets need not comply with the compression test but are considered suitable for either continuous compression or periodic recompression applications.
• UL 50E continuous compression applies to cellular gaskets that have not been evaluated to the compression test requirements. Gaskets are only suitable for continuous compression applications.
• UL 50E periodic recompression applies to cellular gaskets that comply with the compression test requirements. Gaskets are considered suitable for either continuous compression or periodic recompression applications.

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Our technical experts can also help you align your products to the appropriate UL Certification category and the applicable standards. This enables manufacturers of UL Certified products to easily source components that demonstrably meet their compliance needs and project specifications.