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FI 3-2004 is applicable to qualification and testing of calendered aramid papers in thicknesses up to 30 mils (0.76 mm) for use as electrical insulation. An aramid is a long-chain synthetic polyamide in which at least 85 percent of the amide linkages are attached directly to two aromatic rings. Aramid polymers can be processed into various forms, including resin, fiber, film, paper, or pressboard, but this standard applies only to a non-woven sheet made of 100 percent meta-aramid fibers, formed on wet-process paper machines, and calendered between rolls at high temperatures and pressures. Aramid paper covered by this standard is manufactured from a blend of two forms of fiber: (1) floc, which is short fiber cut from continuous filaments of drawn (stretched) aramid fiber, and (2) fibrids, which are microscopic particles of amorphous polymer. Up to eight percent non-aramid additives are permitted, so long as such additives have a thermal capability at least equal to meta-aramid fiber.

“There is an advantage that it’s now approved as an American National standard, adding to its credibility,” explains Roger Wicks of DuPont. “In absence of that, many companies today are turning to IEC documents. Having an American National standard is advantageous to the U.S. manufacturing community, because it was created with U.S. test methods in mind.”

FI 3-2004 may be viewed or purchased for $42 by contacting Global Engineering Documents at (800) 854-7179 (within the U.S.), (303) 397-7956 (international), or (303) 397-2740 (fax).

NEMA is the leading trade association in the United States representing the interests of electroindustry manufacturers. Founded in 1926 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., its 400 member companies manufacture products used in the generation, transmission and distribution, control, and end-use of electricity. Domestic shipments of electrical products within the NEMA scope exceed $100 billion.