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When it comes to arc flash protection, the ATPV rating (Arc Thermal Performance Value) is one of the most critical factors in determining the effectiveness of your protective clothing. The ATPV rating helps you understand how well your arc flash clothing can protect you from the intense heat generated during an arc flash incident. In this blog, we’ll explain what ATPV rating means, how it’s determined, and why it’s crucial for selecting the right protective gear for electrical work.
ATPV stands for Arc Thermal Performance Value, and it is measured in calories per square centimeter (cal/cm²). The ATPV rating indicates the amount of thermal energy a piece of clothing can withstand before the fabric breaks down and allows harmful heat to reach the skin. The higher the ATPV rating, the more protection the garment offers against an arc flash.
What to Look For: Higher ATPV values mean more protection from the intense heat of an arc flash.
Why It Matters: ATPV rating helps determine whether your arc flash clothing can protect you from the severity of heat and burns in the event of an electrical fault.
The ATPV rating is determined through testing by manufacturers according to standards like ASTM F1959. The fabric of the arc flash clothing is subjected to an arc flash test, where a controlled electrical arc is applied to the material. The ATPV is then determined based on how much heat the fabric can withstand before it fails and allows dangerous thermal energy to reach the skin.
What to Do: Choose arc flash clothing that has been tested and rated according to industry standards to ensure proper protection.
Why It Matters: ATPV is a reliable indicator of how well the clothing will protect you in real-world scenarios.
The ATPV rating helps you decide which level of PPE (personal protective equipment) you need for a specific work environment. Here’s how the ATPV rating correlates with the protection required:
0-4 cal/cm²: HRC 1 – Suitable for low-risk areas where the electrical hazard is minimal.
4-8 cal/cm²: HRC 2 – Provides protection for moderate-risk environments, such as electrical panels and switchgear.
8-25 cal/cm²: HRC 3 – Needed for high-risk areas with higher electrical hazards.
25+ cal/cm²: HRC 4 – Required for very high-risk environments, such as working on high-voltage electrical equipment.
What to Do: Choose PPE with an ATPV rating that matches the risk level of your work environment.
Why It Matters: Selecting the right ATPV-rated gear ensures that you are adequately protected from potential arc flash incidents.
It’s important to note the difference between ATPV and Arc Rating:
ATPV refers specifically to the energy at which the clothing can protect the skin from second-degree burns.
Arc Rating can also refer to the break-open threshold, meaning the level at which the fabric might rupture or fail under the extreme heat of an arc flash.
While both metrics are essential, ATPV is the key measure when it comes to assessing thermal protection from an arc flash.
Choosing arc flash clothing with the appropriate ATPV rating is essential for safeguarding workers from electrical hazards. If the ATPV is too low for the hazard level, workers risk serious burns and injuries, even with the proper gear. Conversely, overestimating the ATPV level might lead to unnecessary costs or discomfort.
What to Do: Always assess the arc flash hazard in your work area and select PPE that provides the correct level of protection based on the ATPV rating.
Why It Matters: Properly selected PPE ensures that workers are protected in the event of an arc flash while providing the appropriate balance of comfort and safety.
The ATPV rating is a vital factor when selecting the right arc flash clothing. Understanding this rating helps ensure that your protective gear offers the necessary level of protection against the thermal energy generated by an arc flash. Always refer to the ATPV when choosing arc flash suits, pants, gloves, and other protective clothing to ensure optimal worker safety.
At Domex Safety, we offer a range of arc flash clothing designed to meet the highest safety standards, with clear ATPV ratings to guide your choices. Explore our collection today and ensure your team is always protected in electrical environments.
