UL 6703

STANDARD FOR SAFETY

Connectors for Use in Photovoltaic

Systems
JUNE 10, 2021 - UL6703 tr1

UL Standard for Safety for Connectors for Use In Photovoltaic Systems, UL 6703

First Edition, Dated August 28, 201 4

Summary of Topics

This revision of ANSI/UL 6703 dated June 10, 2021 is issued to align the voltage rating for both
single pole and multi·pole PV connectors; 1.3

Text that has been changed in any manner or impacted by UL's electronic publishing system is marked
with a vertical line in the margin.

The revised requirements are substantially in accordance with Proposal(s) on this subject dated February
12, 2021 .

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tr2 JUNE 10,2021- UL6703

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 AUGUST 28, 201 4
(Title Page Reprinted: June 10, 2021)

ANSI/Ul6703-2021

UL 6703

Standard for Connectors for Use in Photovoltalc Systems

Prior to the first edition, the requirements for the products covered by this standard were lnduded In the
O utline of Investigation ror Connectors for Use In Photovoltaic System s, UL 6703 and the O uUioe of
l nvestig<tlion for Multi-Pole Connectors f or Use in PhotovoltaicSystems. UL6703A.

First E dition

August 28, 2014

This ANSI/UL Standard for Safety consists of the First Edition including revisions
I through June 1 0. 2021.

The most recent designation of ANSI/UL 6703 as an American National Standard

I (ANSI) occurred on June 3, 2021 . ANSI approval for a standard does not include
the Cover Page, Transmittal Pages, and Title Page.

Comments or proposals for revisions on any part of the Standard may be

submitted to UL at any time. Proposals should be submitted via a Proposal
Request In UL's On-Line Collaborative Standards Development System (CSDS)
at https://csds.ul.com.

UL's Standards for Safety are copyrighted by UL Neither a printed nor electronic
copy of a Standard should be altered In any way. All of UL's Standards and all
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sole and exclusive property of UL.

COPYRIGHT@ 2021 UNDERWRITERS LABORATORIES INC.

2 UL6703 JUNE 10, 2021

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JUNE 10, 2021 UL6703 3

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

1 Scope 5
. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .

2 General ................................................................. ...............................................................5

2.1 Components ................. . ........... ...... ......... ......... ....... . ....... . . ........ ........................5
. . . . . . . . .

2.2 Units of measurement ...... ................................................ ............ ....... ................... ....6 . .

2.3 Undated references .... .. ... . ... ..... .. ....... ...... . ... ... . ... ... . ... ... .. . ... .. ......... ... . .. 6
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .

3 Glossary . . . .. ... . . . . .
. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . .... .. . . .
.. .
. . . . . . . .. 6 ...... ... . . . . .. . . .. .... . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . ..

CONSTRUCTION

4 General .. . . . . . ....... ....... . ..... ..... .. . ..... .. . . .... .. ..... . . .... .. . . .. ... ......... . . ... ... . . .. . ... . . . . ....... . ?
.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5 Current Carrying Parts (Contacts). .... . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. ... . .. ... .. . . . . . . ... . ... ... . . . .. 7
... . . . ... . . ... . . .. . . .... . . . . . . .. . .. . ..

6 Polymeric Materials . ................. .................... ....................................... . .................................8

6.1 General ... ............... . . . . . .. . . .. .... .... . . . . . ..... . . ... . . . ....... . ...... .. ....... . . . ..... ........ .. ............ ..........8
6.2 Insulating material .. ........ ....... ... .......... .......... ...... .... . ... . . . . . . ......... .... . ... . . . . ........ ......... ..... 8
6.3 Gaskets. seals and o rings . ....... . . . . . . . . . ....... . . ... . . . . . . . .. . . . ... . .... .... . .. .. . . 9
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . ... . .. . . . ..

7 Spacings . .... . .. . . . .... . . .... . . .. . . . . . .. . .. . .. . .

. . . . . . .. . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . .. . . . ... . . . . 9
. . . . . . . .. . . . ..... . . .. . . . .. . . .. . . .. . .. .. . . ..

8 Accessibility of Uninsulated Live Parts ........ ......... ................... .. ..................... ........ ....... .. .. 1 0 . . . .

8A Field Assembled Connectors . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . . ........ . . . . . . . . . .... .. . . . . . . . . . 1 2

. . . ... . . . . .. . . . .. ... .. .. . .. ... ... . .. . . . .. . . . .

PERFORMANCE

9 PV Connector Tests . . . . . . . . .. . .
. . .... .. . . ..... .
. . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . .1 2
. . . .. . . .. .. . . . ... .. . . . . ... . . . . . ..... . . . . . . .. .. . .. .. . . . .. . . . . . ...

9.1 General ............. . ........ . ................. ...... .. ....... ........... . .. ...... ... ..... ....... .. .. ... . .. 1 2
. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . .

9.2 Effectiveness of Locking and Strain Relief tests . . . . 15 . . .. . .. . . . . . . . . . . . ..... . . . .. .. . . . . . .... .. . . . . . . . . . . . . ..

9.3 Gasket tests . . .. . . . . ... .. . . . .... . . . . . . .. . . . .. .. ... . . . . . . . . . ... .. . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . ... . . . ... ... . . 1 6
. .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

RATINGS

10 Details ... . . . ...... .......... ........ . . . . ... ....... .......... ......... ........ . ........ . .... .............. ....... ............ . 1 7
. . . . . . .

MARKINGS

11 General .... ... .. .. . .. . . . ..... . ... .. .

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... ... . . .... . .... .. ...... . . . ... . . ... ..
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . .... .. . . . . . .. ...... 1 7 ..

INSTRUCTIONS

12 Assembly lnstructions ..... . . . . ................ .......... . ........... ... ....... ............ ... .... ... ..... . .............. ..... 1 8
1 2.1 Dissemination ........................ ............ ..... ...................... . .... ........ ........................ ..... 1 8
1 2.2 Required content . ......... ................................................. . .........................................1 9
1 2.3 Assembly procedure .............. ... .. . . ..... .... ........... .......... ... . .. . ...... ....... . ..... . ... 20 . . . . . . . .. . . . . . .

1 2.4 Verification ..................... ............................... ............... ................ ........................ 20

. . .

APPENDIX A

Standards for Components . .... ...... . ......... . ........ ....... . .... ..... ......... ....... . ...... . . ................. 21
. . . .. . . . . .. . . . .
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JUNE 10, 2021 UL6703 5

INTRODUCTION

1 Scope

1.1 This standard covers latching or locking type PV connectors either as a free connector (separate
entity) or as a fixed connector (panel or bulkhead type) and rated 1 500 V ac or de or less. These
connectors are intended for use in wiring methods detailed in Part IV of Article 690 Solar Photovoltaic
-

Systems of the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70.

1.2 This standard is intended for single polarity PV connectors suitable for use on insulated, stranded
copper type USE-2 or Photovoltaic Wire (PV Wire) rated 90°C, 1 05"C, 1 25°C, or 150"C dry; 90oc wet·
600, 1000, or 2000 V.

1.3 This standard also covers latching or locking type multi-pole PV connectors rated 1 500 Vac or de or
less. Multi-pole PV connectors consist of connectors, panel mounted connectors, distribution blocks and
splitter connectors for the purpose of facilitating connections to and from inverters and like devices in a PV
system.

1.4 This standard is also intended for multi-pole PV connectors suitable for use on insulated, stranded
copper type TC-ER, USE-2 or Photovoltaic Wire (PV Wire) rated 90"C, 1os·c, 125"C, or 1so·c dry; 90"C
wet; 600, 1000, or 2000 V.

1.5 This standard covers PV connectors whose dimensions are not defined in any national or
international technical standard. Connectors are identified and tested with compatible mating part (or parts
if multiple exist) and are to be of the same brand, unless multiple product manufacturers are submitting
under the same evaluation for the purpose of proving intermatability.

1.6 This standard does not apply to PV wiring harnesses or cable assemblies consisting of connectors
(single pole or multi-pole) assembled on to cables, which are covered by the Outline of Investigation for
Distributed Generation Wiring Harnesses, UL 9703. PV Wiring Harnesses may use PV connectors
covered by this standard in their assembly. Harnesses have PV connectors factory assembled onto each
end of the cable.

2 General

2.1 Components

2.1.1 Except as indicated in 2.1.2, a component of a product covered by this standard shall comply with
the requirements for that component. See Appendix 6 for a list of standards covering components
generally used in the products covered by this standard.

2.1.2 A component is not required to comply with a specific requirement that:

a) Involves a feature or characteristic not needed in the application of the C{)mponent in the product
covered by this standard, or

b) Is superseded by a requirement in this standard.

2.1.3 A component shall be used in accordance with its recognized rating established for the intended
conditions of use.

2.1.4 Specific components are recognized as being incomplete in construction features or restricted in
performance capabilities. Such components are intended for use only under limited conditions, such as
6 UL6703 JUNE 10, 2021

certain temperatures not exceeding specified limits, and shall be used only under those specific conditions
for which they have been recognized.

2.2 Units of measurement

2.2.1 The requirements in this standard are stated in metric units that make the requirement conveniently
useable in countries employing the various metric systems (practical Sl and customary). In addition to
being stated in metric units. the inch/pound units, that are customary in the USA, are also provided. The
values given in Sl (metric) units shall be normative, except for AWG conductor sizes. Any other values
given are for information purposes only.

2.2.2 Equivalent-although, not necessarily exactly identical-results are to be expected from applying
a requirement in USA or metric terms. Equipment calibrated in metric units is to be used when a
requirement is applied in metric terms.

2.3 Undated references

2.3.1 Any undated reference to a code or standard appearing in the requirements of this standard shall
be interpreted as referring to the latest edition of that code or standard.

3 Glossary

3.1 For the purpose of this standard, the following terms and definitions apply. In addition, see the
Glossary section of the Standard for Cable Assemblies and Fittings for Industrial Control and Signal
Distribution, UL 2238, for multi-polarity devices.

3.2 ACCESSIBLE PART - a part so located that it can be contacted by a person, either directly or by
means of a probe or a tool. or that is not recessed the required distance behind an opening.

3.3 AMBIENT T EMPERATURE - maximum temperature of the ambient as assigned by the

manufacturer, in which the connector is able to operate permanently without the maximum operating
temperature being exceeded.

3.4 0 ISTRI BUTION BLOCK-an insulated fitting with or without mounting options that terminates in two
or more outlets or that terminates in two or more female cable fittings for the purpose of distributing power
to additional outlets/inlets.

3.5 ENCLOSURE - that part of the connector that:

a) renders inaccessible all or any parts of the connector that may otherwise present a risk of
electric shock, and/or

b) retards propagation of flame initiated by electrical disturbances occurring within.

3.5.1 FACTORY ASSE MBLED CONNECTOR - A connector that is intended to be assembled and
terminated to the cable under controlled conditions at a manufacturer's location.

3.5.2 FIELD ASSEMBLED CONN ECTOR - A connector that is intended to be assembled and
terminated to the cable in the field.

3.6 MAXIMUM OPERATING T EMPERAT URE (MOT) [UPPER LIMITING T EMPERATURE] - maximum
temperature of a connector as defined by the manufacturer in which the connector is intended to operate.
JUNE 10, 2021 UL6703 7

3.7 OVERMOLD - additional material applied over the enclosure and cable to provide additional
environmental protection and sealing.

CONSTRUCTION

4 General

4.1 Only materials that are acceptable for the particular use shall be employed in a PV connector. PV
connectors shall be made and finished with the degree of uniformity and grade of workmanship that are
practicable in a well-equipped factory.

4.2 A PV connector shall comply with the requirements in the Standard for Wire Connectors, UL 486A-
486B, as appropriate, and with this standard.

4.3 Multi-pole PV connectors shall additionally comply with the following construction requirements, as
appropriate, in the Standard for Cable Assemblies and Fittings for Industrial Control and Signal
Distribution, UL 2238:

a) Grounding and Dead-Metal Parts (Section 9};

b) Terminals (Section 1 0);

c) Strain Relief and Cord Entries (Section 11 ); and

d) Assembly (Section 1 3).

4.4 There shall be no sharp edges or corners on the outer surface of a PV connector that can result in
damage to the PV wire insulation that the connector contacts.

4.5 Latching connectors shall not require the use of a tool to unlatch. Latching connectors shall
incorporate a suitable latching mechanism such as ribs, twisting action, or other latching mechanisms
between the mated pair.

4.6 Locking connectors shall require the use of a tool to unlock the connectors In a mated position. A tool
can be a specialized devioe provided by the manufacturer or a standard common device, i.e. screwdriver.
The tool and its operation shall be identified in the manufacturer's assembly instructions, see 12.2.1 (d)(B).

5 Current Carrying Parts (Contacts)

5.1 Connectors shall be rated ei·ther for use with aluminum conductors, or rated for use with copper
conductors, or dual-rated for use with either aluminum or copper conductors. The current-carrying parts of
a connector shall use material that complies with the Standard for Wire Connectors, UL 486A-486B at the
points of electrical contact with the conductor.

5.2 Connectors rated for use with aluminum conductors shall only be used with AA-8000 series
aluminum alloy conductors that comply with the Standard for Photovoltaic Wire, UL 4703.

5.3 Connectors rated for use with copper conductors with current carrying parts that contain more than
15% zinc shall comply with 7 .1 2.3 of the Standard for Wire Connectors, UL 486A-486B.

5.4 Mated connectors shall both be aluminum-rated, both be copper rated, or at least one connector
shall be dual-rated for use wrth aluminum or copper conductors. Alternatively, mated connectors that are
listed for use with each other shall be permitted, irrespective of their individual conductor rating.
8 UL6703 JUNE 10, 2021

6 Polymeric Materials

6.1 General

6.1. 1 Polymeric materials may be used as an enclosure or as insulating materials that are in direct
contact with or in close proximity, less than 0.8 mm {1/32 in), to live parts. When the same material is used
for both purposes, the more stringent requirements shall be applied.

6.1 .2 Polymeric materials employed as a part of the connector shall be suitable for its rated temperature.
The relative thermal index (RTI), electrical, mechanical impact (IMP) and mechanical strength (STR), as
determined in accordance with the Standard for Polymeric Materials - Long Term Property Evaluations,
UL 7468, shall not be less than 20 ° C (36° F) above the maximum operating temperature rating for the
connector as specified by the manufacturer. For soft materials, such as elastomers, where the RTI
Mechanical IMP cannot be determined, or for those connectors protected from impact under use, the RT I
mechanical IMP is not required.

6.1 .3 A polymeric material serving as the enclosure of a part involving a risk of fire or electric shock shall
comply with the applicable requirements in the Standard for Polymeric Materials - Use in Electrical
Equipment Evaluations, UL 746C, concerning:

a) Ultraviolet lfght exposure, and

Note: An f1 rating signifies compliance, an f2 rating requires further investigation into its suitability.

b) Water exposure and immersion.

6.1 .4 A polymeric material serving as the enclosure shall have a minimum flammability classification of
V-0 or 5VA as determined by tests described in the Standard for Tests for Flammability of Plastic Materials
for Parts in Devices and Appliances, UL 94. The material thickness for determining the flammability shall
be measured at the thinnest points of the enclosure.

6.1 .5 With reference to 6.1 .4, a material other than V-0 or 5VA may be used when the enclosure of the
PV wire connector complies with the requirements for the equivalent flame test as specified in the
Standard for Polymeric Materials- Use in Electrical Equipment Evaluations, UL 746C.

6.1.6 A polymeric material serving as the enclosure of a part involving a risk of fire or electric shock shall
have a relative thermal index (RTI), electrical, mechanical IMP and mechanical STR, as determined in
accordance with the Standard for Polymeric Materials - Long Term Property Evaluations, UL 7468, not
less than gooc {194°F).

6.2 Insulating material

6.2.1 A polymeric material that is in direct contact with or in close proximity, less than 0.8 mm (1/32 in) to
live parts shall:

a) Have a flammability classification of HB, V-2, V-1 , or V-0 as determined in accordance with the
Standard for Tests for Flammability of Plastic Materials for Parts in Devices and Appliances, UL 94.

b) Have a High-Current Arc Ignition (HAl) performance level category (PLC) in accordance with
Table 6.1;

c) Have a Hot Wire Ignition (HWI) performance level category (PLC} In accordance with Table 6. 1;

d) Have a Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) performance level category (PLC) as defined in Table
6.2;
JUNE 10, 2021 UL6703 9

Exception: A material not having a CTI rating may be used when the material complies with the
requirements for the Performance Tracking Index test (PTI) test as specified in the Standard for
Polymeric Materials- Use in Electrical Equipment Evaluations, UL 746C.

e) Have an Inclined Plane Tracking (IPT) as defined in Table 6.2; and

f) Comply with the requirements for exposure to ultraviolet light as determined in accordance with
the Standard for Polymeric Materials - Use in Electrical Equipment Evaluations, UL 746C, when
exposed to light during normal operation of the product. Polymeric materials that are exposed to
direct sunlight but are protected by glass, or other transparent medium, may be tested with an
equivalent layer of that medium attenuating the ultraviolet light exposure during the test.

Table 6.1
Maximum HAJ and HW I PLC values

Flammability classification High-current arc ignition (HAl) Hot Wire Ignition (HWI)
HB 1 2

V-2 2 2

V-1 2 3

V-0 3 4

Table 6.2
Determination of CTI or IPT

Voltage • Creepage distance IPT b required CTI c required

0-30 All y No No

>30-600 < 12.7 mm No Yes

> 30-600 �12.7 mm No No

>600 -1000 <16.0 mm Yes No

> 600 - 1000 �16.0 mm No No

1001 -1500d <24.0 mm Yes No

1001 -1500d �24.D mm No No

�Voltage is!hem axim um potential difference between:

live parts of different polarity, and

live parts and dead m etal parts that m ay be grounded in service o r exposed t o contact.

b Rating of 1 h using lhe lim e to track m ethod at the higher of the rated \IOitage or 1000 V when the voltage rating ls in the range of
601 - 1000 V or 1500 V when the voltage rating is In the range of 1001 - 1500 V.

ccTI PLC of 0,1,or2.

d Single-pole device s only.

6.3 Gaskets, Seals and 0 rings

6.3.1 Gaskets, seals and 0 rings shall not be used where they may be subject to flexing during normal
operation and shall not deteriorate beyond limits permitted in the Gasket tests, Section 9.3.

7 Spacings

7.1 Connectors in the mated (male- female pair) condition shall comply with 7 .2- 7 .5.
10 UL6703 JUNE 10, 2021

7.2 Spacings between uninsulated live parts of different potentials, and between a live part and an
accessible metal part (or the probe detailed in Accessibility of Uninsulated Live Parts, Section§.), shall not
be less than the values specified in Table 7. 1 and Table 7.2.

Table 7.1
Minimum acceptable spacings for field wiring terminals other than tool applied crimp type
terminals

Through air and over surface

Potentlal lnvorved, V mm (in)

0-50 6.4 (114)

5 1-300 9.5 (3/8)

301-600 1 2.7 (1/2)

601- 1000 1 5.9 (518)

>1 000 up to 1500" 24 (15116)

• Single-pole devk:es only.

Table 7.2
Minimum acceptable spacings for tool applied crimp type field wiring terminals and Minimum
acceptable spacings for locations elsewhere than at wiring terminals

Through air Over surface

Potential involved, V mm (In) mm (In)

0-50 1.6 (1/16 ) 1.6 (1/16)

51 -300 3.2 (118) 6.4 (1/4)

301-600 6.4 (114} 9.5 (318)

601 -1000 9.5 (318) 1 2.7 (112)

>1000 up to 15008 14 (9116) 15 (19/32)

� Single-pole devices only.

7.3 The spacings at a field-wiring terminal shall be measured with and without wire connected to the
terminal. The wire shall be connected as it would be In actual use. If the terminal will properly
accommodate it, and if the product is not marked to restrict its use, the wire shall be one size larger than
that required; otherwise, the wire is to be the size required.

7.4 Surfaces separated by a gap of 0.8 mm {0.031 in) or less are considered to be in contact with each
other for the purpose of judging over surface spacings.

7.5 In Table 7.1 and Table 7.2, the potential involved is the maximum voltage that may exist between
parts during any anticipated use of the connector.

8 Accessibility of Uninsulated Live Parts

8.1 An accessible part of a connector shall not involve a risk of electric shock.

Exception: A part that is not energized when it is accessible need not comply with this requirement.

8.2 In determining whether a part is energized, the connector is to be evaluated:

a) Not mated, and

JUNE 10, 2021 UL6703 11

b) Mated in any implied or described acceptable manner.

In both cases, the connector is to be in the state described in 8.4.

8.3 For voltages and currents between parts of the assembly of products, voltage is to be the maximum
system voltage, current is to be the available current.

8.4 A part is considered accessible if:

a) In a fully assembled connector or connector pair (that is, with all mated pairs and covers in
place) the part may be touched by the probe illustrated in Figure 8.1 or the test probe in IEC 6 1 032,
Figure 2. A cover that may be removed without the use of a tool is to be removed for purposes of
this requirement.

b) In the unmated condition the part may by touched by the probe illustrated in Fi ure 8.1 .

F i gure 8.1

Probe for determining accessibility of live parts

Stop plate

60-------J

Cylrndrical

R=��· A-A B-B

SECTION

Spherical
AU Dimensions in
Millimeters
• I
C-C
SECTION
pa120·1

8.5 The probe illustrated in Figure 8. 1 or the test probe in I EC 61032, Flgure 2 shall be applied to any
depth that the opening will permit; and shall be rotated or angled before, during, and after insertion through
the opening to any position that is necessary to examine the product. The probe shall be applied in any
possible configuration; and, if necessary, the configuration shall be changed after insertion through the
opening. The probe is to be used as a measuring instrument to judge the accessibility provided by an
opening, and not as an instrument to judge the strength of a material; as such, it is to be applied with the
minimum force necessary to accurately determine accessibility.
12 UL6703 JUNE 10, 2021

SA Field Assembled Connectors

8A.1 For field assembled connectors, the manufacturer shall provide all connector components, and
assembly instructions in accordance with Assembly Instructions, Section _11. If any special or nonstandard
tools are required for installation of the connector to the cable in the field, the connector manufacturer shall
ensure the availability of these tools for installers, by either providing the required tools with the
components shipment, or providing reliable supplier's information in the assembly instructions.

PERFORMANCE

9 PV Connector Tests

9.1 General

9.1.1 All PV connectors shall comply with the tests in Table 9.1 and the Effectiveness of Locking and
Strain Relief tests, Section 9.2, and Gasket tests, Section 9.3, as applicable. Multi·pole PV connectors
shall additionally comply with the tests in Table 9.2, as applicable. All test sequences are performed using
the same assemblies/samples throughout a sequence.

Table 9.1
Required tests

Test Reference (Standard, Section) Sample Requirements

Water Spray Sequence

Di electric Vo ltage With stand • as received UL 1703,26 3 assemblies, mated

Leakage Cur rent UL 1703,21

Water Spray UL 1703, 33

DielectricVo ltageWllhstand Fo llowing Water Spray UL 1703,26

Leakage Cur r ent following Water Spr ay UL 1703,21

Temperature Cycling Sequence

Di electric Vo ltage Withstand - as received UL 1703,26 3 assemblies, mated

Leakage Cur rent- as received UL 1703,21

Temperature Cycling UL 1703, 35

Di electric Vo ltageWilhstand Following Temperatur e UL 1703,26

Cycling

Leakage Cur r ent following Temperatur e Cycling UL 1703,21

Wet Insulatio n Resistance follo wing Temperatura UL 1703, 27
Cycling

Humidity Cycling Sequence

Dialectric Vo ltaga With�tand -a!! received UL 1703,26 3 assemblies, mated

Leakage Cur rent - as received UL 1703,21

Humid ty Cycling UL 1703,36

Leakage Cur rent follow ng Humidity Cycl ng UL 1703,21

Wet Insulation Resistance Following Humldily UL 1703,27
Cycling

Add itional tesls to UL 1703

Wet Insulation Resistance- as received UL 1703,27 3 assemblies, mated

Table 9.1 Continued on Next Page

JUNE 10, 2021 UL6703 13

Table 9.1 Continued

Test Reference (Standard, Section) Sample Requirements

Impact" UL1703, 30 3 assembl1es, mated

Low Temperature Impact' UL1703,30 3 assemblies, mated

Additional tests to UL 746C

Grush Resistance UL 746C. 21 3 assemblies. mated

Mold Stress-Relief Distortion followed by Strain UL746C, 29 and UL 1703, 22 6 assemblies, mated
Reller

Additional tests to UL 4{!6A-486B

Current Cyclingb,e UL 486A-486B, 9 ..2 4 assemblies. max wire sile/amp

rating. mated

StaHc Heating Sequencee UL486A-486B. 9.3 4 assemblies, max wire sile/amp

rating, mated

Mechanical Sequence• UL 486A-486B. 9.4 4 assemblies. min wire size not

mated

Dielectric Voltage Wilhstand1 UL 486A-466B, 9.5 24 assemblies, max and min

Test A, 9.5.2 -6 assemblies and mated as

received

Test A, 9.5.2 - 6 assemblies aged then

assembled and mated

Test A, 9.5.2 - 6 assemblfes mated, conditioned,

then tested

Test B, 9.5.3 - 6 assemblies mated"

Stress Corrosion (for current-carrying parts UL486A-486B, 9.12 3 assemblies, max wire siz.e, not
containing more than 15% zinc) mated

Additional tests to UL 486 C

Spring-action clamp sequenced UL486C,9.12 6 or each combinallon of connector

and test conductor(s)

-Cooditfoni ng

-Temperature

- Dielectric withstand
•see9.1.3.
b A PV oonnector that Is dependent upon Insulation piercing, Insulation displacement or spring acton shall be subjected to the
current cycling test A PV oonnector that is a compression type (tool applied crimp) and is rated for copper wire only, need not be
subjected to the Current Cycling Test.

c With the concurrence or those concerned, the unconditioned specimens used for Test A,Insulation punc ture, may be used for
Test B, flashover.

d A PV oonnector that is dependent upon spring action shall be subjected to the spring action sequence.

9 Applicable to single pole oonneclors. For multi-pole connectors, see Table 9.2.

r Table 28 in UL 486A-466B covers voltago rating up to 600 V. Above 600 V, the following requirements apply:

a) For voltage rating of 1 000 V. the test voltage (Vac) for puncture (1 min) is 5 000, and for flashover (maximum) is 11 000.
b) For voltage rating of 1 500 V, the test voltage (Vac) for puncture (1 min) is 7 000, and for flashover (maximum) is 16 000.
c) For other voltage ratings between 600 V and 1 500 V, the following formula applies:

1) Test voltage (Vac) for puncture (1 min) equal to 4 times voltage rating plus 1 000:

2) Test voltage (Vac) for flashover (maximum) equal to 10 times voltage rating plus 1 000.

Note 1- The sample requirements assume only one construction (male and female) and one sfze and type oonductor unless
otherwise noted. Additional tests and samples may be required based on construction.

Note 2- 1 a�wmbly consists of 1 male and 1 female connector with 0.7 m of intended conductor for oach connector.

Note 3 -If connectors may be assembled in the field, unassembled connectors and 2 sets of all necessary tools are required.
14 UL6703 JUNE 1 0, 2021

Table 9.2
Additional required tests for multi-pole PV connectors

Test Reference (Standard, Section) Sample Requirements

Current Interruption Sequence (ac ratings only), see .l.Q&.

Overloada UL 1977,15 6assemblies, mated

Temperature UL 2238,25
Dielectric Voltage Wllhstand UL 2238, 21b

Resistance to Arcing8 UL 1977,18

Temperatura sequence�

Temperature UL 2238,25 6 assemblies , mated

Dielectric Voltage Wilhstand UL 2238, 21b

Additional tests to UL 2238

Insulation resistance UL 2238.22 1 assembly, mated

Conductor secureness UL 1703,23 6samples

Polarization UL 2238,28 1 assembly

Grounding impedance UL 2238,31 6 assemblies

Strength of Insulation base UL 2238, 37.7 6assemblies

Grounding (bonding) path current UL 2238,37.8 6 assemblies

Assembly UL 2238, 37.9 6 assemblies

Aooolerated aging UL 2238,37.10 6 assemblies

PVC compounds and copolymers UL 2238, 37.11 6 assemblies

Current Cyclingd UL 2238, 1 0.7 and UL 4-86E, 9.2 4 assemblies. max w re size/amp
rating, mated

Static Heating Sequenced UL 2238, 10.7 and UL 486E, 9.3 4 assembBes, max wire size/amp
rating. mated

Mechanical Sequenced UL 2238, 10.7 and UL 486E, 9.4 4 assemblies, min wire size not
mated

Strain Relief" UL 2238,11 and 24 6 assemblies

• The over1oad and resistance to arcing tests need not be performed on devices rated and marked in accordance with 11 l(d).

b For devices rated over 600 V, use the Standard for Terminal Blocks. UL 1059, Section 24.

c The temperature sequence need not be performed if the temperature and dielectric voltage withstand tests are conducted as part
of the Current Interruption sequence.

Applicable to a direct bearing, setscrew pressure wire connector Intended for lield wfring; see 10.7 and 10.8 In UL 2238.

e Applicable to a multi-pole connector Intended For connection to a nexlble cord.

Note 1- The sample requirements assume only one construction (male and female) and one size and type conductor unless
otherwise noted. Additional tests and samples may be required based on construction.

Note 2 -1 as.sembty consists of 1 male and 1 female connector with 0. 7 m of intended conductor for each connector.

Note 3 -If connectors may be assembled in the field, unassembled connectors and 2 sets of all necessary tools are required.

9.1 .2 Preparation of specimens

9. 1.2.1 Representative specimens of the PV connector shall be assembled to conductors of the proper
type, length, and size and in the manner used in service. PV connectors shall be tested using the
maximum and minimum outside diameters (00} for each conductor type, PV or USE-2, while considering
the number of strands and the wire size or range, if applicable.

Exception No. 1: A dual rated and labeled PV and USE-2 conductor need only be tested once.

Exception No. 2: For a family of similar designed connectors, the intermediate size need not be tested.
JUNE 1 0, 2021 UL6703 15

9.1.2.2 If a connector is Intended for assembly by means of a specific tool, this tool shall be used in the
intended manner.

9.1.2.3 lf a connector is intended to be assembled to a conductor by means of more than one type of
specific tool, the connector shall meet the requirements when any of the specific tools are employed in the
assembly operation.

9.1.2.4 With reference to 9.1 .2.3, In selecting tools for assembly of a connector to a conductor, the
following features shall be considered:

a) profile, width, and depth of the connector�

b) material of connector body;

c) crimping die geometry;

d) the number of crimps; and

e) similarity of crimp forces.

9.1.2.5 If specific instructions for assembling the connector to the conductor are furnished with the
connector, such instructions shall be followed in the preparation of the specimens, except that the
conductor shall not be brushed or abraded and an antioxidant shall be used only if the connector is
prefilled with the antioxidant. See 1 2.3.

9.1.2.6 For field assembled connectors, all test samples required by this standard shall be assembled
from the connector components provided by the manufacturer. The sample assembly process shall be
performed precisely according to the manufacturer's assembly instructions, including using manufacturer
specified special or nonstandard tools, as described in 8A. 1.

9.1 .3 Impact Test

9.1.3.1 As a result of the test, there shall be no reduction in spacings below the minimum allowable as
defined In Spacings, Section I. no exposed live parts as defined in Accessibility of Live parts, Section §_,
and no other conditions that would increase the shock or fire hazard. Small cracks are acceptable if the
assembly is additionally subjected to the Leakage Current Test, Dielectric Withstand Test, and Wet
Insulation Resistance Test in UL 1703, Sections 26, 21 , and 27, respectively.

9.2 Effectiveness of Locking and Strain Relief tests

9.2.1 General

9.2.1 .1 Three samples of each mating pair of connectors (both male and female) shall be subjected to
the Strain Relief test.

9.2.1.2 Six mated pair assemblies of a locking type C'Onnector shall be subjected to the Effectiveness of
Locking test.

9.2.2 Strain Relief Test (single pole connector)

Note: F'or multi-pole connectors, see Table 9.2.

9.2.2. 1 Each cable exiling a PV connector (both male and female halves) shall be individually subjected
to the Strain Relief Test as described in 9.2. 2.2 and 9.2.2.3.
16 UL6703 JUNE 10, 2021

9.2.2.2 The cable shall withstand for 1 min a force of 89 N (20 lb) applied in any direction permitted by
the construction, without transfer of the force to the internal electrical connection, or damage to the
conductor.

9.2.2.3 The internal connections within the PV connector shall be disconnected or otherwise made
ineffective prior to the test. The strain relief is not acceptable if, at the point of exit of the conductors. there
is such movement of the conductor as to indicate that stress on the internal connections would have
resulted.

9.2.3 Effectiveness of locking Test (locking type connector)

Note: Latching type connectors are not subjected to this test.

9.2.3.1 Connectors with a locking device or with a snap-on device for locking purposes shall withstand
for 1 minute, a minimum tensile force of 89 N (20 lb} without separation.

9.2.3.2 The test shall be conducted on the PV connector with its mating part The specified force shall be
applied in the direction of the separation of the mated pair at the rate of 10 N/sec (4.4 lb/sec). The force
shall be applied directly to the mated parts or using the assembled conductors for ease of applying the
force.

9.3 Gasket tests

9.3.1 Materials used for gaskets, seals. and the like (other than cork, fibrous material, and similar
products) shall have the physical properties as specified in Table 9.3, and shall comply with the physical
property requirements of Table 9.4. The material shall not deform, melt, or harden to a degree which would
affect its sealing properties.

Table 9.3
Physical property requirements

Material Minimum tensile strength• Minimum ultimate Compressive sate,

elongation• maximum set

Silicone rubber 500 psi (3.45 MPa) 1 00 perCt!nt 15 perCt!nt

Flexible celluJar materials

65 psi (0.448 MPa) 100 percent d
(such as foam rubber)

T hermoplastic elastomer
500 psi (3.45 MPa) 290 percent 55 percent
(TPE)

Other elastomers 1500 psi (10.3 MPa)b 300 p ercent" 15 percent

Nonelastomers (excluding
cork, fiber and sim�ar 1500 psi (10.3 MPa)�> 200 percent 15 percent
materials}

a Tensile strength and ultimate elongation are to be determined using Die C specimens describe<! in the Standard Test MethOds for
Rubber Properties In Tension, ASTM D 412-98 or Type I specimens described n the Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties
of Plastics, ASTM D 638•01.

I> As an alternate, an ultimate elongation of 200 percent is acceptable providing that the tensile strength is at least 2200 psi (15.1
MPa).

c Compressive set Ls to be determined In accordance with Section 7.4 of the Standard for Gaskets and Seals, UL 157.

° Compressive set is not applicable to flexible cellular materials.

JUNE 1 0, 2021 UL 6703 17

Table 9.4
Physical requirements after conditioning

Temperature on material fn Minimum percent of the result Maximum

temperature test with unaged specimens c hange (Duro)
fr om
Tensile Ultlmate
·c ('F) Conditioning Procedure u nco nd iti on ed
strength el on gati o n
valueo..b

60 or le ss (140 or less) Air oven aging for 70 h at1 00 :t2'C 60 60 5

(212 ±3.6"F)

61-75 (142 -167) A f r oven agingfor 168 h at100 :t2"C 50 50 5

(212 :t 3.6"F)

76 -90 (169 -194) A ged in fu-d

ll raft, air-circulating oven for 50 50 10
168 h at121 12·c (250 :t2"F)

91 -105 (196 -221) A ged in full-draft, air-cir"CUialing oven for 50 50 10

168 h at136 2"C (277 :t2'F)

A bove 105 (Above 221) 20 ±1"C (36 ±2"F) gre ater than use 50 50 10
tem per ature In circulating conv ection oven ,
168 h e xposure

a De termi ned rn accordance with the Standar d Metho d for Rubber Property-Durometer H ardness, ASTM 02240·02.

b N o t applicable to Rexible cellular materials (a material such as foam rubber).

RATINGS

10 Details

10.1 The electrical rating of a PV Connector shall inolude the voltage and current ratings specified in
Table 1 0. 1.

10.2 An ac voltage rating for a multi-pole device that has be-en evaluated for current interruption
(Overload and Resistance to Arcing tests) shall be identified by "AC" or "AC only" and need not be marked
acoordlng to 11.1 (d). Any de rating shall have the statement in 11 . 1 (d) clearly associated and marked with
the de rating.

Table 1 0.1
Efectrical ratings

Voltage Cu r re nt

Rated vo ltage M a xim um current at r ated voltage�

aThe maximum current corresponds with the " assigned maximum ampere rating" for copper wire co ntain ed In lhe Standard f or
Wire Co nnectors. UL 486A -486B, Ta ble 7, colum n2, cor r espond i ng to the maximum copper wir e s iz e .
Exception: A larger current rating may be assigned by the manufacturer when a temperature test is conducted in acrordance with
the end product standard and the connector romplies with those requirements.

MARKINGS

11 General

11. 1 PV connectors shall be marked with the:

a) Manufacturer's name or trademark (or both).

b) Current rating,
18 UL6703 JUNE 1 0, 2021

c) Voltage rating, and

d) "Do Not Disconnect Under Load."

Exception No. 1: The current and voltage rating may be provided on the smallest unit container.

Exception No. 2: The marking in item (d) may be provided on a flag type label that complies with the
Standard for Marking and Labeling Systems, UL 969, rated for the intended environment.

11.2 The polarity on PV connectors shall be identified with one of the following marking statements:

a) "+" and "-";

b) "POS" and "NEG"; or

c) "POSIT IVE" and " N EGAT IVE".

INSTR UCTIONS

12 Assembly Instructions

1 2.1 Dissemination

12.1 .1 A connector shall be supplied with assembly instructions describing the methods of electrical and
mechanical installation. Instructions shall be supplied with:

a) Each individual connector intended for field installation or

b) Each unit container intended for factory installations.

Exception: Assembly instructions may be made available electronically through a web address specified
on the product, packaging and/or included information sheet, which shall include a statement indicating
that the appropriate instructions can be viewed, downloaded, and printed at http://www. _. com!_!.
Each manufacturer shall supply the appropriate URL address where the actual instructions can be viewed,
downloaded, and printed.

12.1 .2 Bulk shipments provided with less than one set of printed assembly instructions meets the intent
of the requirement when one or more of the following conditions apply:

a) Bulk shipments from a manufacturing facility to an off-site distribution center are not required to
have the instructions provided with the shipment when the appropriate instructions are added at
the distribution center before final redistribution.

b) Bulk shipments from a manufacturing facility to a customer at a single destination where the
redistribution and installation of the product including distribution of instructions is under the control
of the customer shall include one set of instructions as a minimum. In addition, a statement shall be
provided in those instructions indicating that:

1 ) the appropriate instructions (original or copies) are to be made available to the users of
the equipment, or

2) the appropriate instructions can be viewed, downloaded, and printed at http://www._.

com/ /. The blanks are to be filled in with the URL address where the actual instructions
can be viewed, downloaded, and printed.
JUNE 1 0, 2021 UL 6703 19

1 2.2 Required content

12.2.1 The instructions shall include the following in addition to any other information required by this
standard:

a) The manufacturer's name, contact information, the catalog number of the connector being
addressed.

b) A list containing the date of the first edition of these instructions and the dates of any and all
subsequent revisions, amendments, and tech notes related to these instructions.

c) The following statements:

1 ) 'The connector is considered to be In compliance with UL 6703 only when assembled in

the manner specified by these assembly instructions�, and

2) "This connector is suitable for use only with Class B and C stranded copper conductors
(See N F PA N EC 70 Chapter 9, Table 10) . If the connector is found to be suitable for use
"

with other stranding classes, the connector shall be marked with those class conductors.
See the Standard for Wire Connectors, UL 486A-486B.

d) The following technical information:

1) The minimum and maximum outer wire insulation diameter;

2) The minimum and maximum number of conductor strands;

3) The minimum and maximum wire size or wire range;

4) Conductor strip length for each allowable conductor size:

5) For a compression type connector, the specific tool (s) or specific removable tool part(s)
(pressing die), where required for assembly, identified by:

i) Manufacturer, Catalog or type designation;

ii) Color coding;

iii) Die index number; or

iv) Other equivalent means.

6) For a mechanical type connector, the torque requirements for the setscrew;

7) For factory or other assembly using a press, a table showing tool pressure and crimp height for
each conductor size;

8) For locking type connectors, the appropriate tool and it's disconnect operation, see 4.6, and

9) If the PV connector Is Intended to be field assembled and terminated to the cable fn the field,
additional procedures and requirements shall be provided as follows:

i) For electrical connections between connector parts and conductor cables, detailed cable
end preparation shall be provided.

NOTE: Dedicated tools are recommended.

ii) For polymer material sealing and strain relief, if a specific torque value is required for
proper assembly, proper tightening torque values shall be provide<J through one of following
means:
20 UL6703 JUNE 1 0, 2021

1) If special tools are used, especially plastics tools, the proper temperature range or
temperature limitations for the use of the tool shall be provided; or

2) If a generic torque tool is permitted, the tool calibration requirement shall be

specmed, and the torque adjustment for different temperatures shall be provided by
equations, tables, or charts;

iii) Application means of adhesive or sealant, if it is provided as part of the connector;

iv) A statement outlining additional assembly instructions or procedures if assembly occurs

in adverse environmental conditions. Examples of adverse environmental conditions
include, but are not limited to, extreme rain or snowfall, extremely hot or cold ambient
temperatures, or in an area where there is excessive dust; and

v) A statement requiring special precautions if assembly occurs at a time without the other
mating connector, such that a connector's contacts are left unmated and exposed. The
statement should specify necessary precautions to prevent occurrences including, but not
limited to, corrosion, contamination, icing, etc. that may compromise the integrity of the
connector in its final use.

1 2.3 Assembly procedure

12.3.1 A detailed procedure that must be followed for proper assembly of a PV connector to a conductor
as follows:

a) Instructions for preparation of the conductors, such as twisting strands together before
assembly;

b) Location and number of crimping points;

c) Use of crimping tool or reference to tool manufacturer's instructions for the tool;

d) Tightening of any strain relief; and

e) Inspection of completed assembly.

1 2.4 Verification

12.4.1 The contents of the assembly instructions and subsequent revisions to the assembly instructions
or any technical notes associated with them, shall be verified for compliance with this standard by
inspection.
JUNE 1 0, 2021 UL 6703 21

APPENDlX A

Standards for C omponents

Standards under which components of the products covered by this standard are evaluated include the
following ;

Title of Standard - UL Standard Designation

Marking and Labeling Systems - UL 969

Plastic Materials for Parts in Devices and Appliances. Tests for Flammability of - u L 94
Polymeric Materials - long Term Property Evaluations - Ul 7468
Polymeric Materials - Use in Electrical Equipment Evaluations - Ul 7 46C
Wire Connectors UL 486A-4868
-
333 Pfi ngsten Road
Northbroo k , I l l i n o i s 60062-2096
847 . 2 7 2 . 8800

For other locations in the U L family of companies,

please visit UL.com/contact