IEC 61340-2-1:2015 describes test methods for measuring the rate of dissipation of static charge of insulating and static dissipative materials and products. It includes a generic description of test methods and detailed test procedures for specific applications. The two test methods for measuring charge decay time, one using corona charging and one using a charged metal plate are different and may not give equivalent results. Nevertheless, each method has a range of applications for which it is best suited. The corona charging method is suitable for evaluating the ability of materials, e.g. textiles, packaging, etc., to dissipate charge from their own surfaces. The charged metal plate method is suitable for evaluating the ability of materials and objects such as gloves, finger cots, hand tools, etc. to dissipate charge from conductive objects placed on or in contact with them. The charged plate method may not be suitable for evaluating the ability of materials to dissipate charge from their own surfaces. In addition to its general application, this horizontal standard is also intended for use by technical committees in the preparation of standards in accordance with the principles laid down in IEC Guide 108. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
a) the first edition supported requirements in IEC TR 61340-5-1, but with the revision of IEC TR 61340-5-1 into an International Standard, this support is no longer required; references to IEC 61340-5-1 have been removed;
b) the introduction gives additional information on when charge decay time measurements are appropriate, and the applications for which each of the two test methods are best suited;
c) procedures for performance verification of measuring instruments for the corona charging method have been added. It has the status of a horizontal standard in accordance with IEC Guide 108.