Standard Specification for High Voltage Phasing Testers

ABSTRACT
This specification defines the requirements for portable, live-line tool-supported two-pole phasing testers to be used on AC electrical systems. It provides two types of phasing testers, designated as Type I Resistive and Type II Capacitive, and two styles of phasing testers, designated as Style A Numerical and Style B Audible/Visual. It does not cover the use and maintenance of these high voltage phasing testers and any necessary insulated tool handles. The standard addresses ordering information for high voltage phasing testers, marking and instructions, workmanship, finish and appearance, testing, rejection and rehearing, certification, and precision and bias. Definitions of terms specific to this standard are provided, including clear indication, contact electrode, indicator, indication, insertion limit, interference field, interference ground, threshold angle, threshold voltage, and voltage range.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers portable, live-line tool-supported two-pole phasing testers to be used on AC electrical systems.  
1.2 Two types of phasing testers are provided and are designated as Type I Resistive and Type II Capacitive.  
1.3 Two styles of phasing testers are provided and are designated as Style A Numerical and Style B Audible/Visual.  
1.4 The use and maintenance of these high voltage phasing testers and any necessary insulated tool handles are beyond the scope of this specification.  
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.6 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Note 1: Except where specified, all voltage defined in this specification refers to phase-to-phase voltage in a three-phase system. Phasing Testers covered by this specification may be used in other than three-phase systems, but the applicable phase-to-phase or phase-to-ground (earth) voltages shall be used to determine the operating voltage.  
1.7 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-2019
Drafting Committee
F18.35 - Tools & Equipment

Relations

Effective Date
01-Aug-2019
Effective Date
15-Jun-2019
Effective Date
01-Oct-2014
Effective Date
01-Apr-2009
Effective Date
10-Apr-1997
Effective Date
10-Apr-1997

Overview

ASTM F2939-13(2019)e1: Standard Specification for High Voltage Phasing Testers provides requirements for portable, live-line two-pole phasing testers used in AC electrical systems. These essential tools assist electrical workers in determining the presence or absence of correct voltage or phase relationships between energized parts. The standard covers both resistive and capacitive phasing testers and offers guidance on ordering, marking, instructions, testing methods, workmanship, appearance, and certification. It applies to both numerical and audible/visual indicator styles, ensuring consistent safety and performance in high voltage testing operations.

Key Topics

  • Phasing Tester Types and Styles

    • Type I Resistive: Devices measure voltage difference using interconnect cables and determine phase relationships based on current through impedance.
    • Type II Capacitive: Devices operate without interconnect cables, using stray capacitance to earth (ground) to identify phase angles.
    • Style A Numerical: Voltage or phase relationship is displayed numerically.
    • Style B Audible/Visual: Indications are provided by sound and/or light signals for clear detection during field use.
  • Testing and Performance Requirements

    • Phasing testers must operate reliably within specified temperature and humidity ranges.
    • Mechanical durability is verified through drop and impact tests.
    • Clear audible and visual indications under defined ambient conditions.
    • Electrical tests ensure accurate voltage range detection, response time, and continuous duty capability.
    • Self-test features are verified if present.
  • Marking, Instructions, and Certification

    • Each phasing tester must be clearly marked with manufacturer details, voltage range, catalog number, and serial or date code.
    • Accompanying instructions must detail usage, limits of performance, safety precautions, and environmental constraints.
    • Certification is provided upon request, confirming compliance with all test and inspection criteria.
  • Quality and Inspection

    • Emphasis on high standards for workmanship, finish, and labeling durability.
    • Visual inspection required for appearance, potential defects, and label integrity.
    • Rejection and rehearing provisions in case of non-conformity.

Applications

High voltage phasing testers are critical for professionals in the electrical power industry, especially when working on utility transmission and distribution systems. Typical applications include:

  • Phase Identification: Ensuring conductors are correctly phased before energization in three-phase and single-phase systems.
  • Confirmation of De-energized Status: Safely verifying absence of voltage during maintenance, repair, or installation tasks.
  • Live-Line Work: Supporting live-line crews in the field with rapid and reliable phase confirmation, reducing hazards and downtime.
  • Compliance: Meeting utility company and regulatory requirements for voltage detection tools, contributing to electrical safety programs.

This standard ensures that phasing testers provide dependable, repeatable results under real-world conditions, thereby reducing the risk of electrical accidents and supporting efficient power system operations.

Related Standards

  • ASTM F1796 - Specification for High Voltage Detectors (Capacitive Type for Voltages Exceeding 600 Volts AC)
  • ANSI C84.1 - Electric Power Systems and Equipment: Voltage Ranges (provides the nominal voltage classes referenced)
  • Other ASTM and IEEE standards on electrical protective equipment and live-line tools may also be relevant

Keywords

ASTM F2939, high voltage phasing testers, live-line tools, electrical safety, phase identification, voltage detection, resistive phasing tester, capacitive phasing tester, audible indicator, visual indicator, electrical standards, utility system testing

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Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM F2939-13(2019)e1 is a technical specification published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Specification for High Voltage Phasing Testers". This standard covers: ABSTRACT This specification defines the requirements for portable, live-line tool-supported two-pole phasing testers to be used on AC electrical systems. It provides two types of phasing testers, designated as Type I Resistive and Type II Capacitive, and two styles of phasing testers, designated as Style A Numerical and Style B Audible/Visual. It does not cover the use and maintenance of these high voltage phasing testers and any necessary insulated tool handles. The standard addresses ordering information for high voltage phasing testers, marking and instructions, workmanship, finish and appearance, testing, rejection and rehearing, certification, and precision and bias. Definitions of terms specific to this standard are provided, including clear indication, contact electrode, indicator, indication, insertion limit, interference field, interference ground, threshold angle, threshold voltage, and voltage range. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers portable, live-line tool-supported two-pole phasing testers to be used on AC electrical systems. 1.2 Two types of phasing testers are provided and are designated as Type I Resistive and Type II Capacitive. 1.3 Two styles of phasing testers are provided and are designated as Style A Numerical and Style B Audible/Visual. 1.4 The use and maintenance of these high voltage phasing testers and any necessary insulated tool handles are beyond the scope of this specification. 1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.6 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Note 1: Except where specified, all voltage defined in this specification refers to phase-to-phase voltage in a three-phase system. Phasing Testers covered by this specification may be used in other than three-phase systems, but the applicable phase-to-phase or phase-to-ground (earth) voltages shall be used to determine the operating voltage. 1.7 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 defines the requirements for portable, live-line tool-supported two-pole phasing testers to be used on AC electrical systems. It provides two types of phasing testers, designated as Type I Resistive and Type II Capacitive, and two styles of phasing testers, designated as Style A Numerical and Style B Audible/Visual. It does not cover the use and maintenance of these high voltage phasing testers and any necessary insulated tool handles. The standard addresses ordering information for high voltage phasing testers, marking and instructions, workmanship, finish and appearance, testing, rejection and rehearing, certification, and precision and bias. Definitions of terms specific to this standard are provided, including clear indication, contact electrode, indicator, indication, insertion limit, interference field, interference ground, threshold angle, threshold voltage, and voltage range. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers portable, live-line tool-supported two-pole phasing testers to be used on AC electrical systems. 1.2 Two types of phasing testers are provided and are designated as Type I Resistive and Type II Capacitive. 1.3 Two styles of phasing testers are provided and are designated as Style A Numerical and Style B Audible/Visual. 1.4 The use and maintenance of these high voltage phasing testers and any necessary insulated tool handles are beyond the scope of this specification. 1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.6 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Note 1: Except where specified, all voltage defined in this specification refers to phase-to-phase voltage in a three-phase system. Phasing Testers covered by this specification may be used in other than three-phase systems, but the applicable phase-to-phase or phase-to-ground (earth) voltages shall be used to determine the operating voltage. 1.7 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 F2939-13(2019)e1 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 13.260 - Protection against electric shock. Live working; 17.220.20 - Measurement of electrical and magnetic quantities. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

ASTM F2939-13(2019)e1 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM F2939-13(2019), ASTM F1796-19, ASTM F1796-09(2014), ASTM F1796-09, ASTM F1796-97e1, ASTM F1796-97(2002). Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

ASTM F2939-13(2019)e1 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.
´1
Designation: F2939 −13 (Reapproved 2019)
Standard Specification for
High Voltage Phasing Testers
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F2939; 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.
ε NOTE—In 3.1.15, The publication year for the latest version of ANSI C84.1 was removed editorially in August 2019.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 This specification covers portable, live-line tool-
F1796 Specification for High Voltage Detectors—Part 1
supported two-pole phasing testers to be used onAC electrical
Capacitive Type to be Used for Voltages Exceeding 600
systems.
Volts AC
1.2 Two types of phasing testers are provided and are
2.2 Other Standards:
designated as Type I Resistive and Type II Capacitive.
ANSI C84.1 Electric Power Systems and Equipment—
Voltage Ranges
1.3 Two styles of phasing testers are provided and are
designated as Style A Numerical and Style B Audible/Visual.
3. Terminology
1.4 The use and maintenance of these high voltage phasing 3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 clear indication, n—a specific condition that detects
testers and any necessary insulated tool handles are beyond the
and indicates the presence or absence of the correct voltage, or
scope of this specification.
phase relationship, or both, between two energized parts.
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
3.1.2 contact electrode, n—the bare conductive part of the
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conductive element that establishes the electrical connection to
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
the component to be tested.
and are not considered standard.
3.1.3 indicator, n—part of the phasing tester that indicates
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
the presence or absence of the correct voltage, or phase
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
relationship, or both, between two energized parts.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
3.1.4 indication, n—visible, audible, or numeric indication
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
of which clearly indicates the presence of nominal operating
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
voltage within the specified voltage range.
3.1.4.1 Discussion—Noise and light indications shall be
NOTE 1—Except where specified, all voltage defined in this specifica-
clearly detectable under the conditions outlined as follows:
tion refers to phase-to-phase voltage in a three-phase system. Phasing
Testerscoveredbythisspecificationmaybeusedinotherthanthree-phase
(See Specification F1796, sections 10.3.13 and 10.3.14). Ac-
systems, but the applicable phase-to-phase or phase-to-ground (earth)
ceptable Audible Indication – The audible test should be
voltages shall be used to determine the operating voltage.
performedinanenvironmentwherebackgroundnoisedoesnot
exceed 60 dBA. Acceptable Visual Indication – The Style B
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- visual tests should be conducted in an environment with
ambient light conditions ranging from 0 to 18 000 fc.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
3.1.5 insertion limit, n—distinctive location to indicate to
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
the user the physical limit to which the phasing device may be
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
inserted between energized/grounded parts, as specified by the
manufacturer.
1 2
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F18 on For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Electrical Protective Equipment for Workers and is the direct responsibility of contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Subcommittee F18.35 on Tools & Equipment. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved Aug. 1, 2019. Published August 2019. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 2013. Last previous edition approved in 2013 as F2939 – 13. DOI: Available fromAmerican National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
10.1520/F2939-13R19E01. 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
´1
F2939 − 13 (2019)
3.1.6 interference field, n—electrical field capable of affect- whose operation is based on the current passing through a
ing the indication. It may result from the part to be tested or resistor or other impedance device.
other adjacent parts.
5.2 Type II Capacitive—Two-pole phasing device without
3.1.7 interference ground, n—ground potential capable of
interconnect cable(s) used to detect and indicate the correct
affecting the indication. It may result from the part to be tested phase relationship of conductors by measuring phase angle
or other adjacent parts.
whose operation is based on the current passing through the
stray capacitance to earth (ground).
3.1.8 phasing tester, n—portable device used to detect and
indicate the presence or absence of the correct voltage, or
5.3 Style A, Numerical—The presence of voltage or phase
phase relationship, or both, between two energized parts at the relationship is displayed numerically.
same nominal voltage and frequency.
5.4 Style B, Audible/Visual—The presence of voltage or
3.1.9 response time, n—time delay between sudden change
phase relationship is indicated by an audible sound and light,
of the voltage state on the contact electrode and the associated
capable of being heard and seen as defined in Section 10.
clear indication.
6. Ordering Information
3.1.10 status indication, n—the ability by the user to deter-
6.1 Orders for high voltage phasing testers under this
mine that the phasing tester is in its operating position.
specification shall include this ASTM designation and the
3.1.11 test:
following information:
3.1.11.1 acceptance test, n—a test made at the option of the
6.1.1 Type,
purchaser to verify that a product meets design criteria.
6.1.2 Style,
3.1.11.2 design test, n—a test made on a sample treated as
6.1.3 Voltage range(s), and
representative of an industrial product. These tests will not
6.1.4 Catalog number.
generally be repeated in quantity production.
7. Marking and Instructions
3.1.11.3 routine test, n—a test made regularly on production
7.1 Labeling:
material.
7.1.1 Each phasing tester shall be marked clearly with the
3.1.12 testing element, n—built-in or external device, by
name of the manufacturer or supplier, operating voltage range,
means of which the functioning of the phasing tester can be
catalog number, and date code or serial number.
checked by the user.
7.1.2 Instructions for operating the phasing tester shall be
3.1.13 threshold angle, n—minimum phase angle between
included with each unit.
the two parts to be compared which gives a change of signal
indicating the incorrect presence or absence of the correct 8. Specifications
voltage, or phase relationship, or both.
8.1 The manufacturer shall clearly specify the limits of
3.1.14 threshold voltage, n—minimum voltage between the performance of phasing tester within the instructions as fol-
two parts to be compared to give a change of signal indicating lows:
the presence or absence of the correct voltage, or phase 8.1.1 Operating voltage range(s),
relationship, or both (not applicable for capacitive phasing 8.1.2 Operating temperature range,
testers). 8.1.3 Operating humidity range,
8.1.4 Storage temperature range,
3.1.15 voltage, nominal design, n—a nominal value consis-
8.1.5 Storage humidity range, and
tent with the latest revision of ANSI C84.1, assigned to the
8.1.6 Precautions or limitations in use.
circuit or system for the purpose of conveniently designating
its voltage class.
9. Workmanship, Finish, and Appearance
3.1.16 voltage range, n—values stated by the manufacturer
9.1 Workmanship and finish shall be of such quality as to
indicating the minimum and maximum operating voltage in
ensure safe operation of the unit. Appearance shall be the
which the phasing tester will operate.
prerogative of the manufacturer.
4. Significance and Use
10. Testing
4.1 This specification establishes requirements for the de-
10.1 General—Tests shall be performed using a minimum
sign and testing of high voltage phasing set, used in the
of two phasing testers that have been completely assembled.
electrical power industry, to determine the presence or absence
Tests shall be carried out under the following test conditions:
of the correct voltage or phase relationships, or both, and
10.1.1 Ambient temperature 59 to 95°F (15 to 35°C).
approximate voltage line to line or line to ground.
10.1.2 Relative humidity 45 to 75 %.
10.1.3 Unless otherwise specified, tests shall be carried out
5. Classification
using a 60 Hz AC power source.
10.1.4 An acceptable tolerance of 610 % is allowed for all
5.1 Type I Resistive—Two-pole phasing device with inter-
required values.
connect cable(s) used to detect and indicate the correct phase
relationship of conductors by measuring voltage difference 10.2 Test Methods (Environmental):
´1
F2939 − 13 (2019)
10.2.1 Temperature Dependence of the Indication—The 10.5.1.1 The phasing set shall be mounted so that the sound
phasing tester shall operate correctly in the temperature range axis is parallel to the ground at least 3 ft off any sound
of the climatic category according to 8.1.2. The numeric or reflecting surface. The test shall be performed by applying a
threshold voltage shall not vary by more than 610 %, with voltage of 10 % over the threshold voltage to the contact
respect to the numeric or threshold voltage measured when electrode.
testedattheminimumandmaximumtemperature.Thephasing 10.5.1.2 The sound intensity shall be measured at 2 ft
tester shall be subjected to the minimum and maximum
intervals at 615° off centerline while moving away from the
temperature extremes for 24 h and immediately subjected to a phasing tester until the following audible thresholds are deter-
numeric or threshold voltage test. The numeric or threshold
mined: (1) 77 dBA for detectors with intermittent signals, and
voltage is not to deviate more than 610 % from the previously (2) 80 dBA for detectors with continuous signals.
tested and recorded test report when conducted under the
10.5.1.3 The phasing tester is considered passed if the
standard atmospheric conditions as stated in 10.1.1. audible thresholds are met at distances consistent with the
10.2.2 Humidity—The phasing tester shall operate correctly
maximum voltage rating o
...

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