ASTM B576-94(2005)

1.1 This guide covers the major variables which affect the rate of arc erosion of electrical contact materials and serves as a guide in developing more detailed specifications for arc-erosion tests.

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.2 Arc erosion testing involves some vaporization of material. It is the responsibility of the user to become familiar with all hazards including those identified in the appropriate Material Safety Data Sheet for the material being tested.

The significance of the variables set forth in this guide was proved by various laboratories using several test systems at test currents ranging from 100 to 35 000 A. These variables will be significant for any case where voltage and current are sufficient to produce arcing.