ST/SG/AC. 10/R.525

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Two tests were candidates for further development:

a) Modified Thermal Explosion Vessel Test (formerly UN test B.5);

b) Modified Closed Pressure Vessel Test (Japan).

The Sub-Committee at its eleventh session 'was informed about the progress via an informal document (INF.24). The document has been distributed again by the secretariat to the twelfth session as ST/SG/AC. 10/C.3/R.706. However, this document is now out of date because of the latest developments.

In February 1996, the ad-hoc working group met for the first time. The outcome of this meeting was reported to the Sub-Committee in the Japanese/Netherlands document ST/SG/AC. 10/C.3/R.758.

The experts from Japan and the Netherlands greatly appreciate the preparedness of all members of the working group to work towards one harmonized UNPVT.

During the first meeting, a list of merits and drawbacks of both methods was produced, and all members were invited to have a closer look to all relevant features.

In May 1996, the working group met for a second time, in combination with a regular meeting of OECD-IGUS-EOS. This time, some more results were available, as the members had the opportunity to have a closer look to both methods and to the list of features.

Unfortunately, different problems were encountered. For instance, no agreement could be reached on the question whether the test should be run in a closed version only, or also in an open version. Both options have considerable advantages and disadvantages. Also the heating system is still a matter of concern.

It was therefore decided not the hurry the work and to allow the members of the working group some time for doing individual studies on all relevant features and for bilateral discussions, e.g. on the heating system.

The working group will meet again in conjunction with the regular OECD-IGUS-EOS meeting in March 1997 in the USA.

Despite the problems which were encountered, it is still believed that it is possible to end up with one harmonized UNPVT.

Proposal

The experts from Japan and the Netherlands propose to include the development of a new harmonized UN Pressure Vessel Test in the working programme for the 1997/98 biennium.

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