ISO 9539:2010/Amd 1:2013

Overview

ISO 9539:2010/Amd 1:2013 is an important amendment to the international standard governing materials used in gas welding equipment. Developed by ISO/TC 44/SC 8, this amendment provides clarifications and updates to the previous 2010 edition regarding the selection and testing of non-metallic materials in equipment used for gas welding, cutting, and related processes. The focus is on ensuring that components such as seals and lubricants maintain integrity and safety when exposed to gases like acetylene, propane, and butane.

This amendment enhances the practical value of the standard by defining clear test procedures and resistance criteria for materials that come into contact with various solvents associated with gas welding applications. Adhering to ISO 9539:2010/Amd 1:2013 helps manufacturers guarantee safety and durability in gas welding tools and accessories.

Key Topics

• Material Resistance Requirements: The amendment specifies that non-metallic materials such as seals and lubricants must resist specific solvents depending on the gas type:

  • Materials in contact with acetylene must be resistant to acetone and dimethylformamide (DMF).
  • Materials in contact with propane, butane, and methylacetylene-propadiene mixtures must resist n-pentane.

• Adequate Resistance Definition: To be deemed adequately resistant, materials must meet the following conditions after testing:

  • Maximum change in mass and hardness should not exceed ±15%.
  • Testing involves conditioning materials in solvent-saturated atmospheres followed by exposure periods at elevated temperatures and standard atmospheric conditions.

• Testing Procedure:

  • Step a): 168 hours in solvent-saturated atmosphere at 23 ± 2 °C.
  • Step b): 70 hours in air at 40 ± 2 °C.
  • Step c): 24 hours at a standard atmosphere of 23 °C and 50% relative humidity.

• Measurement Standards: Mass and hardness changes are measured following ISO 1817, ensuring consistent evaluation of materials' solvent resistance.

Applications

This amendment to ISO 9539 is critical for manufacturers, quality control professionals, and engineers involved with:

• Gas Welding and Cutting Equipment Manufacturing: Ensuring components such as hoses, seals, and lubricants are safe and reliable when exposed to reactive gases.
• Safety Compliance: Meeting stringent resistance requirements reduces equipment failure risks due to material degradation from gas exposure.
• Maintenance and Inspection: Guiding routine checks focused on material integrity in existing welding and cutting gear.
• Product Development: Assisting R&D teams in selecting and testing new materials that comply with international safety standards for enhanced performance.

Related Standards

• ISO 1817: Specifies the method for determining the effect of liquids on rubber materials, which is directly referenced for testing non-metallic components in gas welding equipment.
• ISO 554: Defines standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing materials, relevant for step c) in the material conditioning process.
• Other ISO/TC 44 Standards: Cover welding and allied processes, offering comprehensive guidelines for welding equipment and procedures.

By complying with ISO 9539:2010/Amd 1:2013, stakeholders in the gas welding industry can ensure their equipment meets internationally recognized quality and safety benchmarks, helping to reduce risks and enhance operational reliability. For detailed procedures and official interpretations, contact your national ISO member body or visit www.iso.org.