Anyone comparing technical data sheets for cut resistant gloves will quickly come across terms such as 30 Newton, performance level F or EN ISO 13997. The highest classification level often raises questions. Why does the scale end at F? And why can two materials with different Newton values still receive the same classification?
The answer lies in the structure of the standard itself.
What Does EN ISO 13997 Measure?
EN ISO 13997 describes a test method for determining the cut resistance of materials. During the test, a straight blade is drawn across the sample until it cuts through the material. The force required is measured in Newtons (N).
The measured value is then assigned to one of six performance levels.
| Performance Level | Minimum Value |
|---|---|
| A | 2 N |
| B | 5 N |
| C | 10 N |
| D | 15 N |
| E | 22 N |
| F | 30 N |
This classification provides a consistent basis for comparing the cut resistance of different materials.
Why Does the Classification End at Level F?
This is where many misunderstandings arise. It is often assumed that a material achieving 40 or even 45 Newton should receive a higher classification.
However, this is not how the standard works.
EN ISO 13997 defines 30 Newton as the threshold for the highest performance level. Any material reaching or exceeding this value is classified as Level F. The standard does not include any classification above F.
Why Are Newton Values Still Important?
The performance level indicates which classification a material has achieved. The actual Newton value provides additional information about the measured cut resistance.
For example:
- Material A achieves 31 N.
- Material B achieves 42 N.
Both materials are classified as Level F. Nevertheless, the measured cut resistance differs significantly. This is why many manufacturers publish both the performance level and the actual Newton value.
Where Is EN ISO 13997 Relevant?
The test method is used wherever materials are exposed to high cut hazards, including metalworking, glass processing, food production and recycling industries. It provides an objective basis for comparing the cut resistance of protective materials.
Two examples from the niroflex product range illustrate this principle: The BlueCut advance cc achieves a cut resistance value of 35.4 N according to EN ISO 13997. The WhiteCut x-treme reaches an impressive 75.4 N according to EN ISO 13997. Despite the different test results, both gloves are classified as Performance Level F, demonstrating that considerable differences in Newton values can exist within the highest classification.
Conclusion
EN ISO 13997 classifies materials according to their measured cut resistance into performance levels A to F. The highest level begins at 30 Newton. Higher test results do not create a new classification but provide additional information about the actual cut resistance of the material.
When comparing cut resistant gloves, it is therefore worth considering not only the performance level but also the measured Newton value.