4. Summary of Test Method

4.2 Most commonly, the test voltage is applied using simple test electrodes on opposite faces of specimens. The options for the specimens are that they be molded or cast, or cut from flat sheet or plate. Other electrode and specimen configurations are also suitable for use to accommodate the geometry of the sample material, or to simulate a specific application for which the material is being evaluated.

4.1 Alternating voltage at a commercial power frequency （60 Hz, unless otherwise specified） is applied to a test specimen. The voltage is increased from zero or from a level well below the breakdown voltage, in one of three prescribed methods of voltage application, until dielectric failure of the test specimen occurs.