This specification covers the performance requirements for four types (Types IA, IB, IIA, and IIB) of general-purpose air ovens of the gravity-convection and forced-ventilation types ordinarily used in testing operations. The temperature within the testing chamber shall be controllable by an automatic device and, when examined with appropriate test methods provided herein, shall be uniform within the tolerances for temperature uniformity, time constant, and rate of ventilation requirements for the particular type of oven.

1.1 This specification covers the performance requirements for general-purpose air ovens ordinarily used in testing operations, which have a testing chamber up to 0.6 m³ (25 ft³) in volume. It is applicable to gravity-convection ovens designed to operate over all or part of the temperature range from 20 °C above ambient temperature to 200 °C and to forced-ventilation ovens designed to operate over all or part of the temperature range from 20 °C above ambient temperature to 500 °C.

Note 1: Ovens are designed for maximum operating temperatures of about 200 °C, 300 °C, and 500 °C, the thermal insulation and cost of the oven being dependent on the maximum temperature required.

1.2 This specification does not include safety requirements that are essential for ovens used in the presence of combustible vapors or gases.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.