ASTM announces new standard for testing of arc blankets.
Press Release Summary:
ASTM F2676, Test Method for Determining the Protective Performance of an Arc Protective Blanket for Electric Arc Hazards, will be used to determine effectiveness of arc protective blankets in suppressing combined effect of arc flash and arc blast. Developed by Subcommittee F18.65 on Wearing Apparel, it will enable utility companies and heavy industry users to evaluate blankets with repeatable standard at test labs using electric arc and high-speed camera.
Original Press Release:
Testing of Arc Protective Blankets Covered in New ASTM Standard
W. CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa., 17 July 2009 - Arc protective blankets are used in many electrical applications to protect workers who are stationed near energized electrical parts. While these blankets have been used for years, there have been no testing criteria for their evaluation. A new ASTM International standard will be used to determine the effectiveness of arc protective blankets in suppressing the combined effect of an arc flash and an arc blast. The new standard, ASTM F2676, Test Method for Determining the Protective Performance of an Arc Protective Blanket for Electric Arc Hazards, was developed by Subcommittee F18.65 on Wearing Apparel, part of ASTM International Committee F18 on Electrical Protective Equipment for Workers.
"Now companies have the ability to evaluate blankets with a repeatable standard that can be done at many test labs using an electric arc and a high speed camera," says Hugh Hoagland, technical consultant, ArcWear.com and e-Hazard.com, and a member of F18.
"Research showed the most critical factor was the current in amps and the time exposed," says Hoagland. "Now blankets can be compared." Hoagland also notes that, while ASTM F2676 will be initially used by utility companies, many electricity users in heavy industry will also benefit from being able to reference the new standard.
Subcommittee F18.65 is continuing its research in blanket use and care, and it next plans to investigate how blanket installation affects protection and how to further quantify protection. The subcommittee encourages participation, particularly from utilities, in its standards developing efforts.
ASTM International standards are available for purchase from Customer Service (phone: 610-832-9585; service@astm.org) or at www.astm.org. For technical information, contact Hugh Hoagland, ArcWear.com, Louisville, Ky. (phone: 502-314-7158; hugh@arcwear.com). ASTM Committee F18 meets Nov. 8-11 during November committee week in Atlanta, Ga.
ASTM International welcomes and encourages participation in the development of its standards. ASTM's open consensus process, using advanced Internet-based standards development tools, ensures worldwide access for all interested individuals. For more information on becoming an ASTM member, please contact Jeff Adkins, ASTM International (phone: 610-832-9738; jadkins@astm.org).
Established in 1898, ASTM International is one of the largest international standards development and delivery systems in the world. ASTM International meets the World Trade Organization (WTO) principles for the development of international standards: coherence, consensus, development dimension, effectiveness, impartiality, openness, relevance and transparency. ASTM standards are accepted and used in research and development, product testing, quality systems and commercial transactions around the globe.
Press Contact:
Barbara Schindler
610-832-9603
bschindl@astm.org
