IEC 60335-2-90:2015

Overview

IEC 60335-2-90:2015 (consolidated with Amendment 1, 2019) specifies safety requirements for commercial microwave ovens and related equipment. It applies to microwave ovens with a cavity door intended for commercial use (rated ≤ 250 V single-phase phase-to-neutral, ≤ 480 V for other appliances), plus special cases covered in annexes:

• Annex AA: combination microwave ovens
• Annex BB: microwave ovens without a cavity door with conveyor/transportation means (tunnel ovens, some vending machines)
• Annex EE: microwave ovens intended for use on board ships

This Part 2 is to be used in conjunction with the latest edition of IEC 60335-1 (general household and similar electrical appliance safety requirements). The standard focuses on hazards including electrical, mechanical, thermal, fire and radiation risks associated with commercial microwave ovens and microwave enclosures.

Key Topics and Requirements

• Scope and classification of commercial microwave ovens (cavity and non-cavity types).
• Marking and instructions: visibility of warnings, cleaning instructions (including water-jet considerations), and statements for appliances installed in commercial road vehicles.
• Interlock and door safety: revised rules allowing interlock systems with at least one concealed door interlock as well as alternative systems without a concealed interlock.
• Radiation and leakage testing: requirements and test methods for microwave leakage from access openings and enclosures; national deviations and specific leakage limits exist in some countries.
• Construction and mechanical safety: protection against access to live parts, mechanical strength, stability, and conveyor/transport means requirements for non-cavity ovens.
• Routine tests and endurance: annex added for routine testing procedures for manufacturers and test labs.
• Installation-specific requirements: added provisions for appliances installed in commercial road vehicles and for shipboard use.

Applications - Who Uses This Standard

IEC 60335-2-90 is primarily used by:

• Appliance manufacturers (commercial microwave ovens, tunnel ovens, vending machines) for product design and conformity.
• Test laboratories and certification bodies conducting safety and leakage testing.
• Regulatory authorities and standards committees implementing national safety regulations.
• Designers and integrators specifying microwave enclosures and transport/conveyor systems for foodservice, vending, shipboard and industrial microwave heating.

Practical benefits: ensures safe microwave operation, reduces radiation and electrical hazards, clarifies interlock and cleaning requirements, and supports market access through harmonized safety tests.

Related Standards

• IEC 60335-1 - Essential: Part 2-90 is a supplement and must be applied together with the latest edition of IEC 60335-1.
• National variations: some countries (e.g., USA, Japan, Canada) have specific deviations for leakage limits and test procedures; consult national implementing documents.

Keywords: commercial microwave ovens, microwave oven safety, microwave enclosure, microwave leakage, combination microwave ovens, tunnel microwave ovens, microwave vending machines.