ASTM F1959

ASTM F1959 is a critical test method used to evaluate the arc thermal performance of textile materials used in clothing intended to protect against electric arc and related thermal hazards. Here are the key aspects of ASTM F1959:

1. Purpose: The primary objective of ASTM F1959 is to quantify the thermal protection provided by a fabric or a system of fabrics during exposure to an electric arc. This is crucial for determining the fabric's ability to prevent second-degree burns on the wearer.

2. Arc Thermal Performance Value (ATPV): ATPV is the measure of the thermal energy (in cal/cm²) that a fabric can block before the onset of a second-degree burn. It provides a clear indication of the fabric's ability to protect against the thermal hazards of an electric arc.

3. Energy Breakopen Threshold (Ebt): If the fabric breaks open before the onset of second-degree burns, the energy level at which this occurs is reported as Ebt. This helps in understanding the fabric's performance under extreme conditions.

4. Heat Attenuation Factor: This factor represents the percentage of total heat energy blocked by the fabric from reaching the sensor during testing. It provides additional insights into the fabric's effectiveness in mitigating thermal hazards.

5. Reporting Requirements: Test results from ASTM F1959, including ATPV or Ebt and heat attenuation factor, must be reported for all garments that comply with ASTM F1506 or ASTM F1891. These results are crucial for determining whether garments meet the required safety standards and for providing essential information to end-users.

6. Integration with Standards: ASTM F1959 plays a pivotal role in establishing pass/fail criteria for ASTM F1891, ensuring that flame-resistant rainwear meets specified performance thresholds for arc thermal protection.

7. Accessibility: The standard can be purchased and downloaded from the ASTM website, making it accessible to manufacturers, safety professionals, and regulatory bodies involved in specifying, testing, and certifying protective clothing for electrical workers.

Understanding and adhering to ASTM F1959 is essential for ensuring that protective clothing meets rigorous safety standards and provides adequate protection against the thermal hazards associated with electric arcs in various industrial settings.