BS EN 60587:2007

What is BS EN 60587 - Test methods for evaluating resistance to tracking and erosion about?  

BS EN 60587 is a European standard on electrical insulating materials. BS EN 60587 standard describes two test methods for the evaluation of electrical insulating materials for use under severe ambient conditions at power frequencies (45 Hz to 65 Hz) by measurement of the resistance to tracking and erosion using a liquid contaminant and inclined plane specimens. 

The two methods in BS EN 60587 are as follows: 

• Method 1: Constant tracking voltage 
• Method 2: Stepwise tracking voltage 

Note 1 - Constant tracking voltage is the most widely used method as there is less need for continual inspection. 

Note 2 - The test conditions are designed to accelerate the production of the effects, but do not reproduce all the conditions encountered in service. 

Who is BS EN 60587 - Test methods for evaluating resistance to tracking and erosion for? 

BS EN 60587 on test methods for evaluating resistance to tracking and erosion are useful for: 

• Electrical equipment manufacturers 
• The thermoplastics industry 
• The electrical industry 
• Wires and Cables Manufacturer 
• Powergrid station 

Why should you use BS EN 60587 - Test methods for evaluating resistance to tracking and erosion?  

Insulators are used in electrical equipment to support and separate electrical conductors without allowing current through themselves. 

BS EN 60426 provides a guideline to manufacturers on how to use general requirements for electrical insulating material to have the best result.  

Using BS EN 60426 best practices guide can ensure the safety and protection of the user/manufacturer.  

What’s changed since the last update?  

BS EN 60587:2007 supersedes HD 380 S2:1987, which is withdrawn. BS EN 60587:2007 

includes some technical changes with respect to HD 380 S2:1987. These include: 

• Experience has indicated the need for improved description of the experimental method 
• For the preparation of the test specimens, abrasion is recommended only if necessary 
• The ventilation of the test chamber is described in detail 
• For specimens of soft elastomeric materials, a mounting support is described 
• The maximum depth of erosion must be reported in the classification