Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here's a list of our most asked questions; please contact us if you have any additional questions.

How soon will my materials be tested?

ArcWear conducts arc flash testing for one week during each month at the Kinectrics High Currency Lab in Toronto, Canada. The testing dates are listed on the right column of our website. Items are tested in the order that they are received. The sooner that you send us your items, the more likely that they will be tested during the next scheduled testing dates.

When will I get my test results?

As soon as the testing has been completed, you will receive an email with the results. Within three weeks, you will receive an email with your final report.

You will be given a user name and password for our website, www.arcwearonline.com.

You will be able to log in to download the raw data, photos, video and final reports from your testing.

How do I get started?

Email ArcWear at arctesting@arcwear.com to receive the arc testing forms and instructions.

What materials should I send for testing?

Textiles, F1959 per F1506, F1959 per F1891, IEC 61482-1 Method A

  • For single layer testing: 6 meters/yards, width 1.5 meters/60 inches
  • For multi-layer and rainwear testing: 7 meters/yards, width 1.5 meters/60 inches

Garment Evaluation, F2621, IEC 61482-1 Method B

  • Single Layer Garment - Two garment samples - Size Large
  • Multi-Layer Garment - Three garment samples - Size Large

Fall Protection Harness, F887

  • Six harnesses

Hoods, Goggles and Face Shields, F2178

  • 28 samples with at least six hard hats

Gloves - Size 10 or Large

  • Rubber: 20 pairs
  • All other: 15 pairs

Where should I send the materials for testing?

Textiles, Garments, Harnesses and Gloves should be shipped to:

ArcWear
13113 Eastpoint Park Blvd.
Suite E
Louisville, KY 40223
United States

Hoods, Face Shields and Goggles should be sent to the lab:

Kinectrics Inc.
c/o Claude Maurice
ATTN: Hugh Hoagland
800 Kipling Ave Bldg KL
Toronto, Ontario M8Z-5G5
Canada

When shipping from outside the country, indicate "samples for destructive testing ONLY". Assign a very low value to the items since they will be destroyed in the testing. Ship DDP (Delivered Duty Paid).

How should fabric/garments be washed?

ASTM F1959 and ASTM F2621 require three washings and one dry. ArcWear can provide this service for you using the AATCC Method 135. Contact us for pricing on other numbers of wash cycles.

IEC 61482 requires 5 washings and one dry per ISO 6330. This washing must be done before sending the materials to ArcWear.

How should fabric panels be cut?

Panels should be cut after washing. ArcWear can cut panels for for a for a fee, contact us for pricing.

If you want to cut them yourself, panels should be 66 cm x 30 cm or 26 inches x 12 inches. The length should be cut along the selvage edge.

Single Layer Test: 31 panels
Multi-Layer Test: 37 panels

Does ArcWear perform all testing for ASTM F887?

No, ArcWear performs only the arc flash testing portion. After the arc flash testing, a drop test must be performed. ArcWear can arrange for this testing or will return the tested harnesses to you for the drop test.

What is the difference between ASTM F1959 and ASTM F1891?

The testing method is the same. However, ASTM F1891 for rainwear and laminates requires additional testing. For ASTM F1959, either the ATPV or EBT is determined (whichever is lower). For ASTM F1891, both the ATPV and EBT are determined and the panels are also tested at 2 times the ATPV value to check for melting and dripping.