An ASTM International standard aimed at manufacturers of aramid paper provides a test method for high-performance paper used to insulate electrical parts of motors, transformers, ballasts, gaskets and heat shields.

The new ASTM standard provides a test method for paper used to insulate transformers, among other things. Image credit: Morguefile.com. The strength and stiffness of aramid paper is critical in the design, manufacture and end use of a variety of products, particularly in the aerospace and locomotive industries, says ASTM member Michael McKeiver, associate investigator, DuPont Protection Technologies. The test described in the new standard, soon to be published as D7812, Test Method for Tensile Testing of Aramid Paper, will be used for quality control during the different stages of manufacturing to the final product.

Development of the standard was carried out by ASTM Subcommittee D13.19 (Industrial Fibers and Metallic Reinforcements). Interested parties can join in the development work of the subcommittee, which formulates standards on fatigue, abrasion, adhesion and paper—and is now working on a proposed standard on determination of initial creep for optical fiber cables and areal density of armor panels.