UL 207 sets requirements for the construction, performance, and testing of flexible cord and appliance hose valves used in refrigerant systems. It ensures valves withstand pressure, prevent leakage, and resist corrosion, supporting safe and reliable operation in residential, commercial, and industrial HVACR applications.
Scope of UL 207
UL 207 is a safety standard developed by Underwriters Laboratories for refrigerant-containing components and accessories, specifically focusing on flexible cord and appliance hose valves. This standard outlines comprehensive requirements for the construction, performance, and testing of valves used in refrigeration and air-conditioning systems. Its purpose is to reduce risks related to mechanical failure, leakage, and improper material selection. These valves are often exposed to varying pressures, temperatures, and refrigerant types, making standardized assessment essential for safe and reliable operation. UL 207 covers a range of aspects, including design specifications, pressure ratings, endurance testing, resistance to vibration and corrosion, and proper sealing against leaks.
Application of UL 207
Manufacturers designing valves for use with refrigerant media in HVACR (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration) equipment are required to demonstrate compliance with UL 207. The requirements apply to both component parts and complete valve assemblies. The standard specifies necessary tests for endurance under repeated operation, long-term exposure to refrigerants, and ability to maintain sealing integrity under designated operational conditions. Meeting UL 207 is typically a prerequisite for market access in North America and serves as a benchmark for product evaluation in other regions.
Key requirements evaluated
Critical test requirements of UL 207 include mechanical strength checks, hydrostatic and pneumatic pressure testing, endurance cycling, refrigerant exposure verification, and corrosion-resistance assessment. These tests are carried out according to defined protocols to ensure reliable and safe valve performance across a variety of scenarios.
Takeaway
UL 207 sets clear protocols for the design and testing of flexible cord and hose valves used in refrigerant-containing systems, protecting end users and system integrity.
Preliminary planning and design assessment
Meeting the requirements of UL 207 involves an ordered set of actions beginning at the product design stage and continuing through laboratory verification. Manufacturers should start by reviewing UL 207 requirements in detail, assessing whether their valve materials, intended application, and construction approaches align with the detailed prescriptions of the standard. Early engineering assessment and consultation with testing laboratories can help identify potential non-conformities before formal evaluation begins.
Preparation for testing
To initiate compliance, manufacturers must produce documentation and sample units of the valve that is to be certified. This includes material certifications, dimensional drawings, and assembly specifications. Preparation for laboratory testing should focus on ensuring samples are representative of production units and are correctly assembled in accordance with manufacturer instructions.
Laboratory testing process
Authorized laboratories will test samples following UL 207 procedures. Typical tests include hydrostatic pressure cycles, leakage checks using refrigerant, valve operating endurance (repeated open/close cycles), corrosion resistance tests, and dimensional conformity verification. Results are compared with the thresholds specified in the standard to determine if the component passes.
Documentation and certification
After successfully passing all tests, laboratories issue formal reports summarizing the results and granting UL 207 compliance or listing. Manufacturers use this documentation to demonstrate conformity and to support regulatory approvals and product listings.
Ongoing validation and production monitoring
Maintaining compliance with UL 207 may also involve periodic retesting and manufacturing site audits as required by UL or other certifying bodies. Record-keeping and regular review of product changes ensure continuing alignment with the standard. This process supports ongoing market access and reliability assurance for end customers and regulators.
Summary
The UL 207 compliance process combines detailed product design reviews with laboratory verification to ensure flexible cord and appliance hose valves are safe and reliable in refrigerant applications.
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