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D6231 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📐 Scope and Overview
This specification covers the requirements for HFC-125 (Pentafluoroethane, C2HF5) as a fire-fighting medium under the designation D6231/D6231M-21. It does not address the equipment or conditions of use, nor storage or transportation, which are covered in Practice D6268. The values stated in SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard, and they should not be combined. This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization.
⚙️ Key Terminology and References
The standard defines halogenated hydrocarbons as saturated hydrocarbons where hydrogen atoms are replaced by halogens. It provides a coding system with abbreviations like CFC, HCFC, HFC, FC, and R. Referenced documents include ASTM D6268 for handling and storage, ASTM D6806 for gas chromatography analysis, 49 CFR Part 172 for hazardous materials, AHRI Standard 2008 Appendix C for analytical procedures, and ASHRAE Standard 34 for refrigerant classification.
📊 Halogenated Hydrocarbon Classifications
Table 1 below summarizes the common abbreviations used in the standard for halogenated hydrocarbons:
| 🟦 Abbreviation | 📏 Full Name | 📐 Description |
|---|---|---|
| CFC | Chlorofluorocarbon | Contains chlorine, fluorine, and carbon |
| HCFC | Hydrochlorofluorocarbon | Contains hydrogen, chlorine, fluorine, and carbon |
| HFC | Hydrofluorocarbon | Contains hydrogen, fluorine, and carbon |
| FC | Fluorocarbon | Contains only fluorine and carbon |
| R | Refrigerant | General prefix for refrigerants |
💡 Tip: Always refer to the latest version of ASTM D6231/D6231M for updated requirements. The current edition was approved in 2021, superseding previous versions.
⚠️ Warning: Safety hazards are associated with the test methods in Section 6. Users must establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices before use. Specific hazard statements are provided in Section 4.3.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the primary purpose of ASTM D6231/D6231M?
The standard specifies the requirements for HFC-125 (Pentafluoroethane, C2HF5) as a fire-fighting medium, ensuring its quality and consistency for use in suppression systems.
💡 How is HFC-125 classified according to this standard?
HFC-125 is classified as a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC), indicating it contains hydrogen, fluorine, and carbon, and is part of the halogenated hydrocarbon family.
⚡ Which documents are referenced in ASTM D6231/D6231M for handling and analysis?
Key referenced documents include ASTM D6268 for handling, transportation, and storage, ASTM D6806 for gas chromatography analysis, and ASHRAE Standard 34 for refrigerant classification.
📌 Does the standard address safety concerns related to HFC-125?
The standard includes a safety hazards caveat for test methods in Section 6, but users are responsible for establishing appropriate safety practices. Specific hazards are detailed in Section 4.3.