astm f1959/f
AMERICAN REQUIREMENTS FOR FABRIC AND MATERIALS THAT PROTECT AGAINST ELECTRIC ARC
ASTM f1959/f – This standard specifies the protection levels that protective clothing must comply with if it is to be used by electricians exposed to a momentary arc flash and related thermal risks.
REQUIREMENTS FOR ASTM f1959/f STANDARD CERTIFICATION
TEST METHOD
DESCRIPTION
MINIMUM COMPLIANCE VALUES
ASTM F1959
Arc classification test.
Three samples are needed for the arc test in order to determine the after-flame average with regard to which incident energy is equal to, or greater than, ATPV or EBT.
For single-layered arc test samples:
• Woven and knit fabric: After-flame ≤ 5 s
Arc classification ≥ 5 cal/cm² (20.9 J/cm²):
• No melting or dripping.
The test may be made after three consecutive washes, followed by drying, in accordance with the manufacturer’s care instructions. If no care instructions are provided, the fabric must be washed based on the AATCC 135 (3, IV A iii) method, followed by drying.
| Risk category | Arc classification |
| 1 | 4 |
| 2 | 8 |
| 3 | 25 |
| 4 | 40 |
Sectors where the ASTM F1959/f standard is applicable
ELECTRIC COMPANIES
UTILITIES AND SUBCONTRACTORS
