Physical damage to the electronic management board of a mass-market radiator

Context

A remotely-controlled electric radiator equipped with a circuit board is the source of breakdowns or fire outbreaks. The INQUEST laboratory was appointed to carry out an extensive technical assessment of the product.

INQUEST’s know-how

A laboratory appraisal of the circuit board schematic and verification of its operation with an oscilloscope showed that the assembly was correctly designed and installed.

However, a very specific instance of use not taken into account in the design has been brought to light: one of the power components turned out to be undersized (repeated on-off cycles due to power failure).

After questioning the user, he explained that the product was connected to a day/night clock instead of being controlled by its dedicated remote control.