Glow Wire Test Approved - UPM S1 Polyester Glass
LV Switchboard Builders are experiencing a period of change with the release of a new AS/NZS standard impacting compliance of their switchboard assemblies.
The glow wire test is an important aspect of this new standard.
What is the Glow Wire Test?
This part of IEC 60695 specifies the details of the Glow Wire Test to be applied to test specimens of solid electrical insulating materials or other solid materials for flammability testing to determine the Glow Wire Flammability Index (GWFI).
The test results make it possible to provide a relative comparison of various materials according to their ability to extinguish flames on removal of the electrically heated glow-wire and their ability not to produce flaming or glowing particles capable of spreading fire to a specified layer of wrapping tissue placed below.
To pass, the housing flame duration cannot last more than 2 seconds or must self-extinguish within 30 seconds. Presence of residue not breaking contact or igniting tissue constitutes passing. Failure results when the housing flame duration lasts more than 2 seconds and does not self-extinguish after 30 seconds. Or presence of residue that ignites the tissue constitutes failure.
AS/NZS 61439 Changes
We've prepared a handy downloadable overview of the changes impacting Switchboard Builders since the changes to AS/NZS 61439.
The Insulect Solution: UPM S1 Polyester Glass
By partnering with Rochling, Insulect have developed a product which complies electrically and mechanically with the requirements of material and parts to Clause 10.2 of AS/NZS 61439.1
Our product has been named Durolight UPM S1 and it’s a beauty. Here’s why:
Outstanding mechanical performance characteristics
Electrically compliant
Locally made components
Used by major switchboard manufacturers in Australia
Complies with the new AS/NZS standard for LV SCAs
UPM S1 Busbar Supports
With regards to the new standard and busbar supports, the one major change is effectively a mechanical compliance test rather than electrical, and precludes the use of a standard polyester-based materials commonly used in many LV busbar support systems. Talk to us about how we can substitute your existing busbar supports with UPM S1.
Need help to tackle the change out?
Insulect have the pleasure of working with over a hundred Switchboard Builders, right across Australia and New Zealand to ensure compliance with the new standard AS/NZS 61439 series. We’re here for you too.
If you need help tackling the changeover or would you like to know more about our range of locally made components, speak with one of our Materials Specialists today.