ASTM D4246-14(2020)
(Specification)Standard Specification for Ozone-Resistant Thermoplastic Elastomer Insulation for Wire and Cable, 90 °C Operation
Standard Specification for Ozone-Resistant Thermoplastic Elastomer Insulation for Wire and Cable, 90 °C Operation
ABSTRACT
This specification covers an ozone-resistant thermoplastic elastomer insulation for electrical wire and cables. This type of insulation is considered to be suitable for continuous operation at the specified conductor temperatures and operating voltages in dry locations. The minimum installation temperature is specified. Tests shall be done on insulated wire or cable solely to determine the relevant property of the insulation material and not to test the conductor or completed cable. The insulation shall conform to the prescribed physical property requirements such as (1) tensile strength and elongation at rupture before and after air oven aging test, (2) heat distortion, and (3) thickness. AC voltage, insulation resistance, and DC voltage tests shall be performed in that order when any of these tests are specified for electrical requirements. The insulation shall not show any cracks when tested by cold bend test and shall show no cracking or surface checking after exposure to the prescribed ozone concentration.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers an ozone-resistant insulating compound for electrical wire and cables 14 AWG and larger. This compound consists substantially of a thermoplastic elastomer.
1.2 This type of insulation is considered suitable for continuous operation at conductor temperatures not exceeding 90 °C in dry locations. Operating voltages are not to exceed 2000 V. The minimum installation temperature is –40 °C.
1.3 In many instances the insulation material cannot be tested unless it has been formed around a conductor or cable. Therefore, tests are done on insulated wire or cable in this specification solely to determine the relevant property of the insulation material and not to test the conductor or completed cable.
1.4 Whenever two sets of values are presented, in different units, the values in the first set are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 31-Jul-2020
- Technical Committee
- D09 - Electrical and Electronic Insulating Materials
- Drafting Committee
- D09.07 - Electrical Insulating Materials
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Aug-2020
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Aug-2011
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2008
- Refers
ASTM D470-05 - Standard Test Methods for Crosslinked Insulations and Jackets for Wire and Cable - Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2005
- Effective Date
- 10-Mar-2002
- Effective Date
- 10-Oct-1999
- Refers
ASTM D470-99 - Standard Test Methods for Crosslinked Insulations and Jackets for Wire and Cable - Effective Date
- 10-Mar-1999
- Effective Date
- 01-Aug-2020
Overview
ASTM D4246-14(2020): Standard Specification for Ozone-Resistant Thermoplastic Elastomer Insulation for Wire and Cable, 90°C Operation defines requirements for thermoplastic elastomer insulation designed to protect electrical wires and cables against ozone degradation. This specification ensures reliable electrical performance and mechanical integrity for wires and cables 14 AWG and larger, supporting continuous operation at conductor temperatures up to 90°C in dry locations, for voltages not exceeding 2000 V. It applies to insulation with a minimum installation temperature as low as –40°C, and outlines necessary tests and performance criteria to guarantee long-term durability and compliance.
Key Topics
- Ozone Resistance: The insulation compound must withstand exposure to specified ozone concentrations without cracking or surface checking, ensuring longevity even in harsh environments.
- Thermoplastic Elastomer Compound: The standard covers materials that are substantially composed of thermoplastic elastomers, offering improved flexibility and chemical stability.
- Physical Property Requirements: Key physical properties include:
- Minimum tensile strength and elongation at rupture, both before and after aging
- Heat distortion limits at elevated temperatures
- Defined insulation thickness with a tolerance of at least 90% of the specified minimum
- Cold Bend Test: Insulation must remain free of cracks after exposure to very low temperatures (–55°C), demonstrating its flexibility and integrity in cold conditions.
- Electrical Testing: Required tests for insulation include:
- AC voltage testing and/or DC voltage testing at specified levels
- Insulation resistance measurements, with correction for temperature deviations as needed
- Sequenced testing to verify consistent electrical safety and performance
Applications
ASTM D4246-14(2020) is essential for manufacturers, specifiers, and users of wire and cable insulation targeting high-performance, ozone-resistant applications, particularly in:
- Electrical wiring installations in dry, indoor environments
- Industrial and commercial facilities where cables may be exposed to ozone and temperature fluctuations
- OEM wire and cable production needing standardized, reliable insulation solutions
- Retrofit or upgrade projects requiring enhanced longevity of electrical systems due to superior ozone resistance and mechanical performance
Insulation produced to this standard helps prevent premature aging or failure from environmental exposure, thus increasing safety and reducing maintenance or replacement costs in demanding electrical applications.
Related Standards
For comprehensive compliance and coordinated use, ASTM D4246-14(2020) references and aligns with several other key industry standards:
- ASTM D1711: Terminology Relating to Electrical Insulation, offering essential definitions for consistent communication.
- ASTM D2633: Test Methods for Thermoplastic Insulations and Jackets for Wire and Cable, detailing testing methodologies to validate compliance.
- ASTM D470: Test Methods for Crosslinked Insulations and Jackets for Wire and Cable, specifying tests for physical and electrical requirements, including cold bend and aging procedures.
- World Trade Organization TBT Agreement: Ensuring the standard is developed in accordance with global best practices and fair trade principles.
By meeting the requirements of ASTM D4246-14(2020), manufacturers and end-users can be assured of reliable, ozone-resistant thermoplastic elastomer insulation for wire and cable installations, supporting safe and durable electrical infrastructure.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM D4246-14(2020) is a technical specification published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Specification for Ozone-Resistant Thermoplastic Elastomer Insulation for Wire and Cable, 90 °C Operation". This standard covers: ABSTRACT This specification covers an ozone-resistant thermoplastic elastomer insulation for electrical wire and cables. This type of insulation is considered to be suitable for continuous operation at the specified conductor temperatures and operating voltages in dry locations. The minimum installation temperature is specified. Tests shall be done on insulated wire or cable solely to determine the relevant property of the insulation material and not to test the conductor or completed cable. The insulation shall conform to the prescribed physical property requirements such as (1) tensile strength and elongation at rupture before and after air oven aging test, (2) heat distortion, and (3) thickness. AC voltage, insulation resistance, and DC voltage tests shall be performed in that order when any of these tests are specified for electrical requirements. The insulation shall not show any cracks when tested by cold bend test and shall show no cracking or surface checking after exposure to the prescribed ozone concentration. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers an ozone-resistant insulating compound for electrical wire and cables 14 AWG and larger. This compound consists substantially of a thermoplastic elastomer. 1.2 This type of insulation is considered suitable for continuous operation at conductor temperatures not exceeding 90 °C in dry locations. Operating voltages are not to exceed 2000 V. The minimum installation temperature is –40 °C. 1.3 In many instances the insulation material cannot be tested unless it has been formed around a conductor or cable. Therefore, tests are done on insulated wire or cable in this specification solely to determine the relevant property of the insulation material and not to test the conductor or completed cable. 1.4 Whenever two sets of values are presented, in different units, the values in the first set are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ABSTRACT This specification covers an ozone-resistant thermoplastic elastomer insulation for electrical wire and cables. This type of insulation is considered to be suitable for continuous operation at the specified conductor temperatures and operating voltages in dry locations. The minimum installation temperature is specified. Tests shall be done on insulated wire or cable solely to determine the relevant property of the insulation material and not to test the conductor or completed cable. The insulation shall conform to the prescribed physical property requirements such as (1) tensile strength and elongation at rupture before and after air oven aging test, (2) heat distortion, and (3) thickness. AC voltage, insulation resistance, and DC voltage tests shall be performed in that order when any of these tests are specified for electrical requirements. The insulation shall not show any cracks when tested by cold bend test and shall show no cracking or surface checking after exposure to the prescribed ozone concentration. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers an ozone-resistant insulating compound for electrical wire and cables 14 AWG and larger. This compound consists substantially of a thermoplastic elastomer. 1.2 This type of insulation is considered suitable for continuous operation at conductor temperatures not exceeding 90 °C in dry locations. Operating voltages are not to exceed 2000 V. The minimum installation temperature is –40 °C. 1.3 In many instances the insulation material cannot be tested unless it has been formed around a conductor or cable. Therefore, tests are done on insulated wire or cable in this specification solely to determine the relevant property of the insulation material and not to test the conductor or completed cable. 1.4 Whenever two sets of values are presented, in different units, the values in the first set are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ASTM D4246-14(2020) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 29.035.20 - Plastics and rubber insulating materials. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM D4246-14(2020) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM D4246-14, ASTM D1711-24, ASTM D1711-15, ASTM D1711-14a, ASTM D1711-14, ASTM D1711-13, ASTM D1711-11a, ASTM D1711-08, ASTM D470-05, ASTM D1711-02, ASTM D1711-99, ASTM D470-99, ASTM D4967-21. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM D4246-14(2020) is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D4246 −14 (Reapproved 2020)
Standard Specification for
Ozone-Resistant Thermoplastic Elastomer Insulation for
Wire and Cable, 90 °C Operation
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4246; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope D1711 Terminology Relating to Electrical Insulation
D2633 Test Methods for Thermoplastic Insulations and
1.1 This specification covers an ozone-resistant insulating
Jackets for Wire and Cable
compound for electrical wire and cables 14 AWG and larger.
This compound consists substantially of a thermoplastic elas-
3. Terminology
tomer.
3.1 Definitions:
1.2 This type of insulation is considered suitable for con-
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this specification refer
tinuous operation at conductor temperatures not exceeding
to Terminology D1711.
90 °C in dry locations. Operating voltages are not to exceed
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
2000 V. The minimum installation temperature is –40 °C.
3.2.1 aging (act of), n—the exposure of materials to air at
1.3 In many instances the insulation material cannot be
121 °C for 168 h.
tested unless it has been formed around a conductor or cable.
Therefore, tests are done on insulated wire or cable in this
4. Physical Properties
specification solely to determine the relevant property of the
4.1 Requirements for physical properties are listed in Table
insulation material and not to test the conductor or completed
1.
cable.
4.2 Thickness of Insulation—Table 1(a) (Conductor Sizes,
1.4 Whenever two sets of values are presented, in different
Insulation Thicknesses, and AC Test Voltages for Rubber
units, the values in the first set are to be regarded as standard.
Insulations) of Test Methods D470 lists the minimum average
The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions
thickness for the insulation. The required minimum thickness
that are provided for information only and are not considered
is 90 % of the specified average thickness.
standard.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
5. Electrical Requirements
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
5.1 Order of Testing—Perform the ac voltage, insulation
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
resistance, and dc voltage tests in that order when any of these
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
tests are specified. The sequence of other testing is not
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
specified.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
5.2 AC Voltage Test—Unless otherwise specified, omit this
2. Referenced Documents test if the dc voltage test described in 5.4 is to be performed.
Test each insulated conductor for 5 min at the ac voltage given
2.1 ASTM Standards:
in Table 1(a) (Conductor Sizes, Insulation Thicknesses, and
D470 Test Methods for Crosslinked Insulations and Jackets
AC Test Voltages for Rubber Insulations) of Test Methods
for Wire and Cable
D470, under the columns labeled “Ozone-resisting Insula-
tions.”
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D09 on
5.3 Insulation Resistance—The insulated conductor shall
Electrical and Electronic Insulating Materials and is the direct responsibility of
have an insulation resistance value of at least that correspond-
Subcommittee D09.07 on Electrical Insulating Materials.
ing to a constant of 10 000 at 60 °F (15.6 °C).
Current edition approved Aug. 1, 2020. Published September 2020. Originally
5.3.1 If the water temperature at the time measurement was
approved in 1983. Last previous edition approved in 2014 as D4246 – 14. DOI:
10.1520/D4246-14R20.
made differs from 60 °F (15.6 °C), correct the insulation
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
resistance to 60 °F. Table 2 (Temperature Correction Factors
contac
...
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