Overview
ISO 13772:2018/Amd 1:2020 is an important amendment to the international standard governing forestry machinery, specifically focusing on portable chain-saws. This amendment deals with the performance requirements of the non-manually actuated chain brake, a critical safety feature designed to stop the saw chain automatically in hazardous situations. It ensures enhanced safety and reliability in modern portable chain-saws, incorporating updates for battery-powered models and detailed testing procedures.
Developed by ISO Technical Committee ISO/TC 23, Subcommittee SC 17, this amendment provides refinements to the test methods and performance criteria, reflecting technological advancements and practical user safety considerations. It is widely recognized across forestry equipment manufacturing and quality assurance sectors globally.
Key Topics
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Non-Manually Actuated Chain Brake Testing
Guidelines mandate testing on new chain-saws with both the shortest and longest guide bars specified (up to 500 mm). For saws without a guide bar under 500 mm, only the shortest bar is tested. This ensures the chain brake performs consistently across different configurations.
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Battery-Powered Chainsaws
With the rise of battery-operated portable chain-saws, the amendment requires testing with both the lightest and heaviest battery pack options, combined with the appropriate guide bar lengths. This accounts for variations in weight distribution and motor torque affecting brake performance.
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Impulse Spring Performance
The modification specifies the spring characteristics essential for simulating the impulse force that activates the brake. It highlights the use of conical disc springs with a precise spring constant (640 N/mm ± 20 N/mm) and proper assembly tolerances to maintain test accuracy and repeatability.
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Test Equipment Specifications
Detailed recommendations on spring positioning and the required diametrical play between components ensure that measurement devices replicate real-world braking forces effectively. This technical clarity benefits manufacturers and testing laboratories seeking compliance.
Applications
The ISO 13772:2018/Amd 1:2020 amendment is highly relevant to:
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Forestry Equipment Manufacturers: Helping designers and engineers meet international safety benchmarks for chain brake systems on portable chain-saws.
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Quality Assurance Teams: Providing standardized test procedures to ensure consistent brake performance during product development and final inspection.
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Safety Inspectors and Certification Bodies: Enabling reliable evaluation of chain brake safety features necessary for market approval and regulatory compliance.
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Forestry Professionals and End-Users: Indirectly ensuring safer chain-saw operation by supporting manufacturers who apply rigorous testing and performance criteria.
Related Standards
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ISO 13772:2018 - The base standard for portable chain-saws focusing on non-manually actuated chain brake performance.
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ISO 11681 Series - Standards addressing chain-saw safety requirements, including manual and automatic brake systems and guards.
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ISO/IEC Directives, Part 1 & Part 2 - Providing the framework for ISO standards development and editorial rules referenced in this amendment.
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ISO 16378 - Guidelines for testing hand-held forestry machinery, complementing procedures in chain-saw safety evaluation.
By adhering to ISO 13772:2018/Amd 1:2020, the forestry industry benefits from clearer, updated safety standards that enhance the overall reliability and protection offered by portable chain-saws. Manufacturers and users alike can trust in the effective performance of non-manually actuated chain brakes in various operating conditions.
For more information and access to the full document, visit the official ISO website at www.iso.org.
Open preview (PDF)Forestry machinery — Portable chain-saws — Non-manually actuated chain brake performance — Amendment 1