Standardization News

ASTM International Committee A06 on Magnetic Properties has approved a new standard that covers thin steel laminations used to increase the energy efficiency of many high performance motors and generators, including those in electric and hybrid-electric vehicles, and contemporary aircraft, power generation and military systems. The new standard, A1086, Specification for Thin-Gauge Nonoriented Electrical Steel Fully Processed Types, was developed by Subcommittee A06.02 on Material Specifications.

A1086 specifies a class of very thin silicon-iron electrical steel not previously covered by an ASTM standard. According to Steve Sprague, sales manager, Proto Laminations Inc., and an A06.02 member, the new standard has two main functions: 1) to standardize existing material designations that are currently based on trade names and 2) to give users and their customers confidence in new designs and innovations by offering a standard material designation that can be relied on to provide consistent material properties.

Sprague notes that A1086 will provide a means for common understanding, terminology and communication regarding the properties of the advanced steels governed by this new standard.

"Use of A1086 will allow for quicker design solutions and better management of manufacturing and supply chain challenges," says Sprague. "The entire electric machine community will benefit from A1086. Seeing immediate benefit will be steel producers and their customers: motor and generator manufacturers, and component builders as well as individuals and companies involved in the design of new electrical machines."

In addition, Sprague says that regulatory agencies and academic and governmental research institutions will be able to use A1086 as a baseline reference for testing and analysis, as well as for further investigations into material properties or machine performance.

To purchase ASTM standards, visit www.astm.org and search by the standard designation, or contact ASTM Sales (phone: 877-909-ASTM; sales@astm.org).

CONTACT Technical Information: Steve Sprague, Proto Laminations Inc. • Santa Fe Springs, Calif. • Phone: 909-338-3744 | ASTM Staff: Kelly Paul • Phone: 610-832-9745 | Upcoming Meeting: Nov. 11-12 • November Committee Week • Jacksonville, Fla.