Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) No 1322/2014 of 19 September 2014 supplementing and amending Regulation (EU) No 167/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council with regard to vehicle construction and general requirements for the approval of agricultural and forestry vehicles Text with EEA relevance

Where the front part of the protective structure roof will not sustain the full crushing force, the force shall be applied until the roof is deflected to coincide with the plane joining the upper part of the protective structure with that part of the front of the tractor capable of supporting the tractor when overturned.

The force shall then be removed, and the crushing beam repositioned over that part of the protective structure which would support the tractor when completely overturned. The crushing force Fv shall then be applied again.

3.2.1.6.   Additional overload test (figures 7.5 to 7.7)

An overload test shall be carried out in all cases where the force decreases by more than 3 per cent during the last 5 per cent of the deflection reached when the energy required is absorbed by the structure (see figure 7.6).

The overload test involves the gradual increase of the horizontal load by increments of 5 per cent of the initial energy requirement up to a maximum of 20 per cent of energy added (see figure 7.7).

The overload test is satisfactory if, after each increase by 5, 10 or 15 per cent in the energy required, the force decreases by less than 3 per cent for a 5 per cent increment and remains greater than 0,8 Fmax.

The overload test is satisfactory if, after the structure has absorbed 20 per cent of the added energy, the force exceeds 0,8 Fmax.

Additional cracks or tears and/or entry into or lack of protective of the clearance zone due to elastic deflection are permitted during the overload test. However, after the removal of the load, the structure shall not enter the clearance zone, which shall be completely protected.

3.2.1.7.   Additional crushing tests

If cracks or tears which cannot be considered as negligible appear during a crushing test, a second, similar crushing, but with a force of 1,2 Fv shall be applied immediately after the crushing test which caused the cracks or tears to appear.

3.2.2.   Measurements to be made

3.2.2.1.   Fractures and cracks

After each test all structural members, joints and attachment systems shall be visually examined for fractures or cracks, any small cracks in unimportant parts being ignored.

3.2.2.2.   Entry into the clearance zone

During each test the protective structure shall be examined to see whether any part of it has entered a clearance zone as defined in 1.6 above.

Furthermore, the clearance zone shall not be outside the protection of the protective structure. For this purpose it is considered to be outside the protection of the roll-over protective structure if any part of it would have come in contact with the ground plane if the tractor had overturned in the direction from which the impact came. For this purpose the front and rear tyres and track setting are assumed to be the smallest specified by the manufacturer.

3.2.2.3.   Elastic deflection under side loading

The elastic deflection shall be measured (810 + av) mm above the Seat Index Point, in the vertical plane in which the load is applied. For this measurement, any apparatus similar to that illustrated in figure 7.4 may be used.

3.2.2.4.   Permanent deflection

After the final crushing test, the permanent deflection of the protective structure shall be recorded. For this purpose, before the start of the test, the position of the main roll-over protective structure members in relation to the Seat Index Point shall be used.

3.3.   Extension to other tractor models

3.3.1.   [Not applicable]

3.3.2.   Technical extension

When technical modifications occur on the tractor, the protective structure or the method of attachment of the protective structure to the tractor, the testing station that has carried out the original test can issue a ‘technical extension report’ in the following cases:

• 3.3.2.1. Extension of the structural test results to other models of tractors

Loading and crushing tests need not be carried out on each model of tractor, provided that the protective structure and tractor comply with the conditions referred to hereunder 3.3.2.1.1 to 3.3.2.1.5.

• 3.3.2.1.1. The structure shall be identical to the one tested;

• 3.3.2.1.2. The required energy shall not exceed the energy calculated for the original test by more than 5 per cent; the 5 % limit shall also apply to extensions in the case of substituting tracks for wheels on the same tractor;

• 3.3.2.1.3. The method of attachment and the tractor components to which the attachment is made shall be identical;

• 3.3.2.1.4. Any components such as mud-guards and bonnet that may provide support for the protective structure shall be identical;

• 3.3.2.1.5. The position and critical dimensions of the seat in the protective structure and the relative position of the protective structure on the tractor shall be such that the clearance zone would have remained within the protection of the deflected structure throughout all tests (this shall be checked by using the same reference of clearance zone as in the original test report, respectively Seat Reference Point [SRP] or Seat Index Point [SIP]).

• 3.3.2.2. Extension of the structural test results to modified models of the protective structure

This procedure has to be followed when the provisions of paragraph 3.3.2.1 are not fulfilled, it may not be used when the method of attachment of the protective structure to the tractor does not remain of the same principle (e.g. rubber supports replaced by a suspension device):

• 3.3.2.2.1. Modifications having no impact on the results of the initial test (e.g. weld attachment of the mounting plate of an accessory in a non-critical location on the structure), addition of seats with different SIP location in the protective structure (subject to checking that the new clearance zone(s) remain(s) within the protection of the deflected structure throughout all tests).

• 3.3.2.2.2. Modifications having a possible impact on the results of the original test without calling into question the acceptability of the protective structure (e.g. modification of a structural component, modification of the method of attachment of the protective structure to the tractor). A validation test can be carried out and the test results will be drafted in the extension report. The following limits for this type extension are fixed:
• 3.3.2.2.2.1. no more than 5 extension may be accepted without a validation test;
• 3.3.2.2.2.2. the results of the validation test will be accepted for extension if all the acceptance conditions of this Annex are fulfilled and:
• — if the deflection measured after each impact test does not deviate from the deflection measured after each impact test in the original test report by more than ± 7 % (in case of a dynamic test);
• — if the force measured when the required energy level has been reached in the various horizontal load tests does not deviate from the force measured when the required energy has been reached in the original test by more than ± 7 % and the deflection measured⁽³⁾ when the required energy level has been reached in the various horizontal load tests does not deviate from the deflection measured when the required energy has been reached in the original test by more than ± 7 % (in case of a static test).
• 3.3.2.2.2.3. more than one protective structure modifications may be included in a single extension report if they represent different options of the same protective structure, but only one validation test can be accepted in a single extension report. The options not tested shall be described in a specific section of the extension report.

• 3.3.2.2.3. Increase of the reference mass declared by the manufacturer for a protective structure already tested. If the manufacturer wants to keep the same approval number it is possible to issue an extension report after having carried out a validation test (the limits of ± 7 % specified in 3.3.2.2.2.2 are not applicable in such a case).

3.4.   [Not applicable]

3.5.   Cold weather performance of protective structures

• 3.5.1. If the protective structure is claimed to have properties resistant to cold weather embrittlement, the manufacturer shall give details that shall be included in the report.

• 3.5.2. The following requirements and procedures are intended to provide strength and resistance to brittle fracture at reduced temperatures. It is suggested that the following minimum material requirements shall be met in judging the protective structure’s suitability at reduced operating temperatures in those countries requiring this additional operating protection.

• 3.5.2.1. Bolts and Nuts used to attach the protective structure to the tractor and used to connect structural parts of the protective structure shall exhibit suitable controlled reduced temperature toughness properties.

• 3.5.2.2. All welding electrodes used in the fabrication of structural members and mounts shall be compatible with the protective structure material as given in 3.5.2.3 below.

• 3.5.2.3. Steel materials for structural members of the protective structure shall be of controlled toughness material exhibiting minimum Charpy V-Notch impact energy requirements as shown in Table 7.1. Steel grade and quality shall be specified in accordance with ISO 630:1995.

Steel with an as-rolled thickness less than 2.5 mm and with a carbon content less than 0,2 per cent is considered to meet this requirement.

Structural members of the protective structure made from materials other than steel shall have equivalent low temperature impact resistance.

• 3.5.2.4. When testing the Charpy V-Notch impact energy requirements, the specimen size shall be no less than the largest of the sizes stated in Table 7.1 that the material will permit.

• 3.5.2.5. The Charpy V-Notch tests shall be made in accordance with the procedure in ASTM A 370-1979, except for specimen sizes that shall be in accordance with the dimensions given in

Table 7.1

Minimum Charpy V-notch impact energies

Specimen size	Energy at	Energy at
	– 30 °C	– 20 °C
mm	J	J [^E0013]
10 × 10 [^E0012]	11	27,5
10 × 9	10	25
10 × 8	9,5	24
10 × 7,5 [^E0012]	9,5	24
10 × 7	9	22,5
10 × 6,7	8,5	21
10 × 6	8	20
10 × 5 [^E0012]	7,5	19
10 × 4	7	17,5
10 × 3,5	6	15
10 × 3	6	15
10 × 2,5 [^E0012]	5,5	14

Indicates preferred size. Specimen size shall be no less than largest preferred size that the material permits.

The energy requirement at – 20 °C is 2,5 times the value specified for – 30 °C. Other factors affect impact energy strength, i.e. direction of rolling, yield strength, grain orientation and welding. These factors shall be considered when selecting and using steel.

• 3.5.2.6. Alternatives to this procedure are the use of killed or semi-killed steel for which an adequate specification shall be provided. Steel grade and quality shall be specified in accordance with ISO 630:1995, Amd 1:2003.

• 3.5.2.7. Specimens are to be longitudinal and taken from flat stock, tubular or structural sections before forming or welding for use in the protective structure. Specimens from tubular or structural sections are to be taken from the middle of the side of greatest dimension and shall not include welds.

3.6.   [Not applicable]

Figure 7.1

Clearance zone

Dimensions in mm

Figure 7.1.a Side view Section in reference plan Image omitted; see official source	Figure 7.1.b Rear view Image omitted; see official source

Figure 7.1.c

Seen from above

Image omitted; see official source

1 – Seat index point

2 – Reference plane

Figure 7.2.a

Clearance zone for tractors with reversible seat position: two-post rollbar

Image omitted; see official source

Figure 7.2.b

Clearance zone for tractors with reversible seat position: other types of ROPS

Image omitted; see official source

Figure 7.3

Example of crushing rig of the tractor

Image omitted; see official source

Figure 7.4

Example of apparatus for measuring elastic deflection

Image omitted; see official source

1 – Permanent deflection

2 – Elastic deflection

3 – Total deflection (permanent plus elastic)

Figure 7.5

Force/deflection curve

Overload test not necessary

Image omitted; see official source

Notes:

• 1.Locate Fa in relation to 0,95 D’

• 2.Overload test not necessary as Fa ≤ 1,03 F’

Figure 7.6

Force / deflection curve

Overload test necessary

Image omitted; see official source

Notes:

• 1.Locate Fa in relation to 0,95 D’

• 2.Overload test necessary as Fa > 1,03 F’

• 3.Overload test performance satisfactory as Fb > 0,97 F’ and Fb > 0,8 Fmax.

Figure 7.7

Force/deflection curve

Overload test to be continued

Image omitted; see official source

Notes:

• 1.Locate Fa in relation to 0,95 D’

• 2.Overload test necessary as Fa > 1,03 F’

• 3.Fb < 0,97 F’ therefore further overload necessary

• 4.Fc < 0,97 Fb therefore further overload necessary

• 5.Fd < 0,97 Fc therefore further overload necessary

• 6.Overload test performance satisfactory, if Fe > 0,8 Fmax

• 7.Failure at any stage when load drops below 0,8 Fmax.

B2.   ALTERNATIVE DYNAMIC TEST PROCEDURE

This section sets out the dynamic testing procedure alternative to the static test procedure set out in section B1.

4. Rules and directions

4.1.   Conditions for testing the strength of protective structures and of their attachment to tractors

4.1.1.   General requirements

See requirements stated for static testing in section B1

4.1.2.   Tests

4.1.2.1.   Sequence of tests according to the Dynamic Procedure

The sequence of tests, without prejudice to the additional tests mentioned in sections 4.2.1.6 and 4.2.1.7 is as follows:

• (1) impact at the rear of the structure (see 4.2.1.1);

• (2) rear crushing test (see 4.2.1.4);

• (3) impact at the front of the structure (see 4.2.1.2);

• (4) impact at the side of the structure (see 4.2.1.3);

• (5) crushing at the front of the structure (see 4.2.1.5).

4.1.2.2.   General requirements

• 4.1.2.2.1.If, during the test, any part of the tractor restraining equipment breaks or moves, the test shall be restarted.

• 4.1.2.2.2.No repairs or adjustments of the tractor or protective structure may be carried out during the tests.

• 4.1.2.2.3.The tractor gear box shall be in neutral and the brakes off during the tests.

• 4.1.2.2.4.If the tractor is fitted with a suspension system between the tractor body and the wheels, it shall be blocked during the tests.

• 4.1.2.2.5.The side chosen for application of the first impact on the rear of the structure shall be that which, in the opinion of the testing authorities, will result in the application of the series of impacts or loads under the most unfavourable conditions for the structure. The lateral impact and the rear impact shall be applied on both sides of the longitudinal median plane of the protective structure. The front impact shall be applied on the same side of the longitudinal median plane of the protective structure as the lateral impact.

4.1.3.   Acceptance conditions

• 4.1.3.1. A protective structure is regarded as having satisfied the strength requirements if it fulfils the following conditions:

• 4.1.3.1.1. after each test it shall be free from tears or cracks, as defined in 4.2.1.2.1. If significant tears or cracks appear during the test, an additional impact test or crushing test as defined in 4.2.1.6 or 4.2.1.7 must be performed immediately after the test which caused these tears or cracks to appear;

• 4.1.3.1.2. during the tests other than the overload test, no part of the protective structure must enter the clearance zone as defined in 1.6;

• 4.1.3.1.3. during the tests other than the overload test, all parts of the clearance zone shall be secured by the structure, in accordance with 4.2.2.2;

• 4.1.3.1.4. during the tests the protective structure must not impose any constraints on the seat structure;

• 4.1.3.1.5. the elastic deflection, measured in accordance with 4.2.2.3 shall be less than 250 mm.

• 4.1.3.2. There shall be no accessories presenting a hazard for the driver. There shall be no projecting part or accessory which is liable to injure the driver should the tractor overturn, or any accessory or part which is liable to trap him — for example by the leg or the foot — as a result of the deflections of the structure.

4.1.4.   [Not applicable]

4.1.5.   Apparatus and equipment for dynamic tests

4.1.5.1.   Pendulum block

• 4.1.5.1.1.A block acting as a pendulum must be suspended by two chains or wire ropes from pivot points not less than 6 m above the ground. Means must be provided for adjusting independently the suspended height of the block and the angle between the block and the supporting chains or wire ropes.

• 4.1.5.1.2.The mass of the pendulum block must be 2 000 ± 20 kg excluding the mass of the chains or wire ropes which themselves must not exceed 100 kg. The length of the sides of the impact face must be 680 ± 20 mm (see figure 7.18). The block must be filled in such a way that the position of its centre of gravity is constant and coincides with the geometrical centre of the parallelepiped.

• 4.1.5.1.3.The parallelepiped must be connected to the system which pulls it backwards by an instantaneous release mechanism which is so designed and located as to enable the pendulum block to be released without causing the parallelepiped to oscillate about its horizontal axis perpendicular to the pendulum’s plane of oscillation.

4.1.5.2.   Pendulum supports

The pendulum pivot points must be rigidly fixed so that their displacement in any direction does not exceed 1 per cent of the height of fall.

4.1.5.3.   Lashings

• 4.1.5.3.1.Anchoring rails with the requisite track width and covering the necessary area for lashing the tractor in all the cases illustrated (see figures 7.19, 7.20 and 7.21) must be rigidly attached to a non-yielding base beneath the pendulum.

• 4.1.5.3.2.The tractor shall be lashed to the rails by means of wire rope with round strand, fibre core, construction 6 × 19 in accordance with ISO 2408:2004 and a nominal diameter of 13 mm. The metal strands must have an ultimate tensile strength of 1 770 MPa.

• 4.1.5.3.3.The central pivot of an articulated tractor shall be supported and lashed down as appropriate for all tests. For the lateral impact test, the pivot shall also be propped from the side opposite the impact. The front and rear wheels or tracks need not be in line if this facilitates the attachment of the wire ropes in the appropriate manner.

4.1.5.4.   Wheel prop and beam

• 4.1.5.4.1.A softwood beam of 150 mm square shall be used as a prop for the wheels during the impact tests (see figures 7.19, 7.20 and 7.21).

• 4.1.5.4.2.During the lateral impact tests, a softwood beam shall be clamped to the floor to brace the rim of the wheel opposite the side of impact (see figure 7.21).

4.1.5.5.   Props and lashings for articulated tractors

• 4.1.5.5.1.Additional props and lashings must be used for articulated tractors. Their purpose is to ensure that the section of the tractor on which the protective structure is fitted is as rigid as that of a non-articulated tractor.

• 4.1.5.5.2.Additional specific details are given in section 4.2.1 for the impact and crushing tests.

4.1.5.6.   Tyre pressures and deflections

• 4.1.5.6.1.The tractor tyres shall not be liquid-ballasted and shall be inflated to the pressures prescribed by the tractor manufacturer for field work.

• 4.1.5.6.2.The lashings shall be tensioned in each particular case such that the tyres undergo a deflection equal to 12 per cent of the tyre wall height (distance between the ground and the lowest point of the rim) before tensioning.

4.1.5.7.   Crushing rig

A rig as shown in figure 7.3 shall be capable of exerting a downward force on a protective structure through a rigid beam approximately 250 mm wide connected to the load-applying mechanism by means of universal joints. Suitable axle stands shall be provided so that the tractor tyres do not bear the crushing force.

4.1.5.8.   Measuring apparatus

The following measuring apparatus is needed:

• 4.1.5.8.1. device for measuring the elastic deflection (the difference between the maximum momentary deflection and the permanent deflection, see figure 7.4).

• 4.1.5.8.2. device for checking that the protective structure has not entered the clearance zone and that the latter has remained within the structure’s protective during the test (see section 4.2.2.2).

4.2.   Dynamic test procedure

4.2.1.   Impact and crushing tests

4.2.1.1.   Impact at the rear

• 4.2.1.1.1.The tractor shall be so placed in relation to the pendulum block that the block will strike the protective structure when the impact face of the block and the supporting chains or wire ropes are at an angle with the vertical plane A equal to M/100 with a 20° maximum, unless, during deflection, the protective structure at the point of contact forms a greater angle to the vertical. In this case the impact face of the block shall be adjusted by means of an additional support so that it is parallel to the protective structure at the point of impact at the moment of maximum deflection, the supporting chains or wire ropes remaining at the angle defined above.

• The suspended height of the block shall be adjusted and necessary steps taken so as to prevent the block from turning about the point of impact.

• The point of impact is that part of the protective structure likely to hit the ground first in a rearward overturning accident, normally the upper edge. The position of the centre of gravity of the block is 1/6 of the width of the top of the protective structure inwards from a vertical plane parallel to the median plane of the tractor touching the outside extremity of the top of the protective structure.

• If the structure is curved or protruding at this point, wedges enabling the impact to be applied thereon must be added, without thereby reinforcing the structure.

• 4.2.1.1.2.The tractor must be lashed to the ground by means of four wire ropes, one at each end of both axles, arranged as indicated in figure 7.19. The spacing between the front and rear lashing points must be such that the wire ropes make an angle of less than 30° with the ground. The rear lashings must in addition be so arranged that the point of convergence of the two wire ropes is located in the vertical plane in which the centre of gravity of the pendulum block travels.

• The wire ropes must be tensioned so that the tyres undergo the deflections given in 4.1.5.6.2. With the wire ropes tensioned, the wedging beam shall be placed in front of and tight against the rear wheels and then fixed to the ground.

• 4.2.1.1.3.If the tractor is of the articulated type, the point of articulation shall, in addition, be supported by a wooden block at least 100 mm square and firmly lashed to the ground.

• 4.2.1.1.4.The pendulum block shall be pulled back so that the height of its centre of gravity above that at the point of impact is given by one of the following two formulae:

Image omitted; see official source

• or

Image omitted; see official source

• The pendulum block is then released and strikes the protective structure.

• 4.2.1.1.5.For tractors with a reversible driver’s position (reversible seat and steering wheel), the height shall be whichever is greater of either of the above or either of the following:

Image omitted; see official source

• for tractor with a reference mass of less than 2 000 kg;

Image omitted; see official source

• for tractor with a reference mass of more than 2 000 kg.

4.2.1.2.   Impact at the front

• 4.2.1.2.1.The tractor shall be so placed in relation to the pendulum block that the block will strike the protective structure when the impact face of the block and the supporting chains or wire ropes are at an angle with the vertical plane A equal to M/100 with a 20° maximum, unless, during deflection, the protective structure at the point of contact forms a greater angle to the vertical. In this case the impact face of the block shall be adjusted by means of an additional support so that it is parallel to the protective structure at the point of impact at the moment of maximum deflection, the supporting chains or wire ropes remaining at the angle defined above.

• The suspended height of the pendulum block shall be adjusted and the necessary steps taken so as to prevent the block from turning about the point of impact.

• The point of impact is that part of the protective structure likely to hit the ground first if the tractor overturned sideways while travelling forward, normally the upper edge. The position of the centre of gravity of the block is 1/6 of the width of the top of the protective structure inwards from a vertical plane parallel to the median plane of the tractor touching the outside extremity of the top of the protective structure.

• If the structure is curved or protruding at this point, wedges enabling the impact to be applied thereon must be added, without thereby reinforcing the structure.

• 4.2.1.2.2.The tractor must be lashed to the ground by means of four wire ropes, one at each end of both axles, arranged as indicated in figure 7.20. The spacing between the front and rear lashing points must be such that the wire ropes make an angle of less than 30° with the ground. The rear lashings must in addition be so arranged that the point of convergence of the two wire ropes is located in the vertical plane in which the centre of gravity of the pendulum block travels.

• The wire ropes must be tensioned so that the tyres undergo the deflections given in 4.1.5.6.2. With the wire ropes tensioned, the wedging beam shall be placed behind and tight against the rear wheels and then fixed to the ground.

• 4.2.1.2.3.If the tractor is of the articulated type, the point of articulation shall, in addition, be supported by a wooden block at least 100 mm square and firmly lashed to the ground.

• 4.2.1.2.4.The pendulum block shall be pulled back so that the height of its centre of gravity above that at the point of impact is given by one of the following two formulae, to be chosen according to the reference mass of the assembly subjected to the tests:

Image omitted; see official source

• for tractor with a reference mass of less than 2 000 kg;

Image omitted; see official source

• for tractor with a reference mass of more than 2 000 kg.

• The pendulum block is then released and strikes the protective structure.

• 4.2.1.2.5.In case of tractors with a reversible driver’s position (reversible seat and steering wheel):

• — if the protective structure is a rear two-post rollbar, the above formula shall apply;

• — for other types of protective structure, the height shall be whichever is greater from the formula applied above and that selected below: Image omitted; see official source or Image omitted; see official source The pendulum block is then released and strikes the protective structure.

4.2.1.3.   Impact from the side

• 4.2.1.3.1.The tractor shall be so placed in relation to the pendulum block that the block will strike the protective structure when the impact face of the block and the supporting chains or wire ropes are vertical unless, during deflection, the protective structure at the point of contact forms an angle of less than 20° to the vertical. In this case the impact face of the block shall be adjusted by means of an additional support so that it is parallel to the protective structure at the point of impact at the moment of maximum deflection, the supporting chains or wire ropes remaining vertical on impact.

• 4.2.1.3.2.The suspended height of the pendulum block shall be adjusted and necessary steps taken so as to prevent the block from turning about the point of impact.

• 4.2.1.3.3.The point of impact shall be that part of the protective structure likely to hit the ground first in a sideways overturning accident, normally the upper edge. Unless it is certain that another part of this edge would hit ground first, the point of impact shall be in the plane at right angles to the median plane and passing 60 mm in front of the Seat Index Point, the seat being set at the mid position of longitudinal adjustment.

• 4.2.1.3.4.For tractors with a reversible driver’s position (reversible seat and steering wheel), the point of impact shall be in the plane at right angles to the median plane and passing at the midpoint of the segment joining the two Seat Index Points defined by joining the two different positions of the seat. For protective structures having a two-post system, the impact shall be located on one of the two posts.

• 4.2.1.3.5.The tractor wheels on the side which is to receive the impact must be lashed to the ground by means of wire ropes passing over the corresponding ends of the front and rear axles. The wire ropes must be tensioned to produce the tyre deflection values given in 4.1.5.6.2.

• With the wire ropes tensioned, the wedging beam shall be placed on the ground, pushed tight against the tyres on the side opposite that which is to receive the impact and then fixed to the ground. It may be necessary to use two beams or wedges if the outer sides of the front and rear tyres are not in the same vertical plane. The prop shall then be placed as indicated in figure 7.21 against the rim of the most heavily loaded wheel opposite to the point of impact, pushed firmly against the rim and then fixed at its base. The length of the prop shall be such that it makes an angle of 30° ± 3° with the ground when in position against the rim. In addition, its thickness shall, if possible, be between 20 and 25 times less than its length and between 2 and 3 times less than its width. The props shall be shaped at both ends as shown in the details on figure 7.21.

• 4.2.1.3.6.If the tractor is of the articulated type, the point of articulation shall in addition be supported by a wooden block at least 100 mm square and laterally supported by a device similar to the prop pushed against the rear wheel as in 4.2.1.3.5. The point of articulation shall then be lashed firmly to the ground.

• 4.2.1.3.7.The pendulum block shall be pulled back so that the height of its centre of gravity above that at the point of impact is given by one of the following two formulae, to be chosen according to the reference mass of the assembly subjected to the tests:

Image omitted; see official source

• for tractors with a reference mass of less than 2 000 kg;

Image omitted; see official source

• for tractors with a reference mass of more than 2 000 kg.

• 4.2.1.3.8.In case of tractors with a reversible driver’s position (reversible seat and steering wheel):

• — if the protective structure is a rear two-post rollbar, the selected height shall be whichever is greater from the formulae applicable above and below: Image omitted; see official source for tractor with a reference mass of less than 2 000 kg; Image omitted; see official source for tractor with a reference mass of more than 2 000 kg.

• — for other types of protective structures, the selected height shall be whichever is greater from the formulae applicable above and below: Image omitted; see official source for tractor with a reference mass less than 2 000 kg; Image omitted; see official source for tractor with a reference mass of more than 2 000 kg. The pendulum block is then released and strikes the protective structure.

4.2.1.4.   Crushing at the rear

All provisions are identical to those given in point 3.2.1.4 of section B1 to this Annex.

4.2.1.5.   Crushing at the front

All provisions are identical to those given in section 3.2.1.5 of section B1 to this Annex.

4.2.1.6.   Additional impact tests

If cracks or tears which cannot be considered negligible appear during an impact test, a second, similar test, but with a height of fall of:

Image omitted; see official source

shall be performed immediately after the impact tests causing these tears or cracks to appear, ‘a’ being the ratio of the permanent deformation (Dp) to the elastic deformation (De):

Image omitted; see official source

as measured at the point of impact. The additional permanent deformation due to the second impact shall not exceed 30 per cent of the permanent deformation due to the first impact.

In order to be able to carry out the additional test, it is necessary to measure the elastic deformation during all the impact tests.

4.2.1.7.   Additional crushing tests

If during a crushing test, significant cracks or tears appear, a second, similar, crushing test, but with a force equal to 1,2 Fv shall be performed immediately after the crushing tests which caused these tears or cracks to appear.

4.2.2.   Measurements to be made

4.2.2.1.   Fractures and cracks

After each test all structural members, joints and fastening systems shall be visually examined for fractures or cracks, any small cracks in unimportant parts being ignored.

Any tears caused by the edges of the pendulum weight are to be ignored.

4.2.2.2.   Entry into the clearance zone

During each test the protective structure shall be examined to see whether any part it has entered a clearance zone round the driving seat as defined in 1.6.

Furthermore, the clearance zone shall not be outside the protection of the protective structure. For this purpose, it shall be considered to be outside the protection of the structure if any part of it would come in contact with flat ground if the tractor overturned towards the direction from which the test load is applied. For estimating this, the front and rear tyres and track width setting shall be the smallest standard fitting specified by the manufacturer.

4.2.2.3.   Elastic deflection (under side impact)

The elastic deflection shall be measured (810 + av) mm above the Seat Index Point, in the vertical plane in which the load is applied. For this measurement, any apparatus similar to that illustrated in figure 7.4 may be used.

4.2.2.4.   Permanent deflection

After the final crushing test, the permanent deflection of the protective structure shall be recorded. For this purpose, before the start of the test, the position of the main roll-over protective structure members in relation to the Seat Index Point shall be used.

4.3.   Extension to other tractor models

All provisions are identical to those given in section 3.3 of section B1 to this Annex.

4.4.   [Not applicable]

4.5.   Cold weather performance of protective structures

All provisions are identical to those given in section 3.5 of section B1 to this Annex.

Figure 7.18

Pendulum block and its suspending chains or wire ropes

Image omitted; see official source

Figure 7.19

Example of tractor lashing (rear impact)

Image omitted; see official source

Figure 7.20

Example of tractor lashing (front impact)

Image omitted; see official source

Figure 7.21

Example of tractor lashing (side impact)

Image omitted; see official source

B3   PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR FOLDABLE ROLL-OVER PROTECTION STRUCTURES

5.1.   Scope

This Section provides minimum performance and tests requirements for rear mounted foldable ROPS which are raised and/or lowered manually by a standing operator (with or without partial assistance) and locked manually or automatically.

• 5.2. For the purposes of this section, the following definitions shall apply:

• 5.2.1. ‘hand-operated foldable ROPS’ is a rear-mounted dual pillar protective structure with hand raising/lowering directly managed by the operator (with or without partial assistance);

• 5.2.2. ‘automatic foldable ROPS’ is a rear-mounted dual pillar protective structure with full assisted raising/lowering operations;

• 5.2.3. ‘locking system’ is a device fitted to lock, by hand or automatically, the ROPS in the raised or lowered positions;

• 5.2.4. ‘grasping area’ is an area defined by the manufacturer as a portion of the ROPS and/or additional handle fitted to the ROPS where the operator is allowed to carry out the raising/lowering operations;

• 5.2.5. ‘accessible part of the grasping area’ is the area where the ROPS is handled by the operator during the raising/lowering operations; this area shall be defined with regard to the geometric centre of cross sections of the grasping area;

• 5.2.6. ‘accessible zone’ is the volume where a standing operator can apply a force in order to raise/lower the ROPS;

• 5.2.7. ‘pinching point’ is a point where parts move in relation to each other or to fixed parts in such a way as may cause persons or certain parts of their bodies to be pinched;

• 5.2.8. ‘shear point’ is a point where parts move along each other or along other parts in such a way as may cause persons or certain parts of their bodies to be pinched or shorn;

• 5.2.9. ‘place to stand’ is a place on the tractor platform accessible from the driving position main access with sufficient space for a standing operator.

• 5.3. Hand-operated foldable ROPS

5.3.1.   Prior conditions for the test

5.3.1.1.   Grasping area

The manual handling shall be done by a standing operator with one or more grasps on grasping area of the roll-bar.

The roll-bar can be handled from the ground or from a place to stand on the platform (Figures 7.8a and 7.8b).

The operator can handle the roll-bar in parallel with or in front of its trajectory.

A multiple step process with multiple operator positions and multiple defined grasping areas is allowed.

The grasping area shall be clearly and permanently identified (Figure 7.9).

This area has to be designed without sharp edges, sharp angles and rough surfaces likely to cause injury to the operator.

This area could be on one or both sides of the tractor and could be a structural part of the roll-bar or additional handles. In this grasping area the manual handling to raise or lower the roll-bar shall not create shearing, pinching or uncontrollable movement hazards to the operator.

5.3.1.2.   Accessible zones

Three accessible zones with different amount of allowed force are defined with respect to horizontal plane of the ground and the vertical planes tangent to the outer parts of the tractor that limit the position or the displacement of the operator (Figure 7.10).

Zone I: comfort zone

Zone II: accessible zone without forward leaning of the body

Zone III: accessible zone with forward leaning of the body

Handling of the roll-bar in parallel with its trajectory

The position and the movement of the operator are limited by obstacles. These are parts of the tractor and are defined by vertical planes tangent to the external edges of the obstacle.

If the operator needs to move the feet during the manual handling of the roll-bar a displacement is allowed either within a parallel plane to the roll-bar trajectory or within just one more parallel plane to the previous one so as to overcome an obstacle. The overall displacement shall be considered as a combination of straight lines parallel and perpendicular to the roll-bar trajectory. A perpendicular displacement is accepted provided that the operator comes closer to the roll-bar. The accessible area shall be considered as the envelope of the different accessible zones (Figure 7.11).

Handling of the roll-bar in front of its trajectory:

Only for handling of the roll-bar in front of its trajectory are considered as accessible extensions of the zone II and zone III (Figure 7.12). In these extensions the acceptable actuation forces are the same ones as respectively in zone II and in the zone III.

If the operator needs to move during the manual handling of the roll-bar it must be done so by a displacement without any obstacle within a plane parallel to the roll-bar trajectory.

In this case the accessible area shall be considered as the envelope of the different accessible zones.

5.3.1.3.   Place to stand

Any place to stand on the platform declared by the manufacturer shall be accessible from the main access to the driving position and fulfil the following requirements:

• — A place provided for standing shall have sufficient space for both of the operator's feet, be flat and have a slip-resistant surface. Depending on the machine configuration, it may consist of two separate surfaces and may use machine components. It shall be positioned so that the operator can maintain stability while carrying out the service required and be on the same height level with a tolerance of ± 50 mm.

• — Handhold(s) and/or railings shall be provided in order to allow three-point contact. Parts of the machine can be considered to fulfil this requirement.

It is considered that a place for standing has sufficient space if its surface is at least a square in cross section of 400 mm per side (Figure 7.13).

Alternatively the place to stand requirement may be met by providing sufficient space for one foot on a flat surface and one knee on the seat.

5.3.1.4.   Test conditions

The tractor must be fitted with tyres having the greatest diameter indicated by the manufacturer and the smallest cross-section for tyres of that diameter. The tyres must be inflated to the pressure recommended for field work.

The rear wheels must be set to the narrowest track width; the front wheels must be set as closely as possible to the same track width. If it is possible to have two front track settings which differ equally from the narrowest rear track setting, the wider of these two front track settings must be selected.

5.3.2.   Test procedure

The aim of the test is to measure the force necessary to raise or lower the roll-bar. The test will be carried out in static condition: no initial movement of the roll-bar. Each measurement of the force necessary to raise or lower the roll-bar shall be made in a direction tangent to the trajectory of the roll-bar and passing through the geometric centre of cross sections of the grasping area.

The grasping area is considered accessible when located within the accessible zones or the envelope of different accessible zones (Figure 7.14).

The force necessary to raise and lower the roll-bar shall be measured in different points that are within the accessible part of the grasping area (Figure 7.15).

The first measure is carried out at the extremity of the accessible part of the grasping area when the roll-bar is fully lowered (Point 1 in Figure 7.15).

The second measure is defined according to the position of Point 1 after rotation of the roll-bar up to the point where the perpendicular to the trajectory of the roll-bar is vertical (Point 2 in Figure 7.15).

The third measure is carried out after rotation of the roll-bar up to the top of the accessible part of the grasping area (Point 3 in Figure 7.15).

If in this third measure the roll-bar is not fully raised, a point shall be measured at the extremity of the accessible part of the grasping area when the roll bar is fully raised (Point 4 in Figure 7.15).

If between point 1 and point 3 the trajectory of extremity of the accessible part of the grasping area crosses the limit between Zone I and Zone II an additional measurement shall be made at this point (Figure 7.16).

The maximum forces in these points shall not exceed the acceptable force of the zone (I, II or III).

In order to measure the force in the required points, it is possible either to measure directly the value or to measure the torque needed to raise or lower the roll-bar so as to calculate the force.

5.3.3.   Condition of acceptance

5.3.3.1.   Force requirement

The force acceptable for the actuation of the ROPS depends on the accessible zone as shown in Table 7.2.

Table 7.2

Allowed forces

Zone	I	II	III
Acceptable force (N)	100	75	50

An increase of no more than 25 % of these acceptable forces is allowed when the roll-bar is fully lowered and fully raised.

An increase of no more than 25 % of these acceptable forces is allowed if the roll-bar is handled in front of its trajectory.

An increase of no more than 50 % of these acceptable forces is allowed in the lowering operation.

5.3.3.2.   Additional requirements

The manual handling to raise or lower the roll-bar shall not create shearing, pinching or uncontrollable movement hazards to the operator.

A pinching point is not considered dangerous for the operator hands part if in the grasping area the safety distances between the roll-bar and fixed parts of the tractor are no less than 100 mm for hand, wrist, fist and 25 mm for finger (ISO 13854:1996). The safety distances shall be checked with respect to the mode of handling foreseen by the manufacturer in the operator's manual.

• 5.4. Hand locking system

The device fitted to lock the ROPS in the upright/lowered position must be designed:

• — to be handled by one standing operator and located in one of the accessible zones;

• — to be hardly separated from the ROPS (for example captive pins as locking pins or retaining pins);

• — to avoid any confusion in the locking operation (the proper location of the pins shall be indicated);

• — to avoid unintentional removing or losing of parts.

If the devices employed to lock the ROPS in the upright/lowered position are pins they shall be inserted or removed freely. If to do so there is a need to apply a force on the roll-bar this shall comply with the requirements of points 1 and 3 or 4 (see point 5.3).

For all other locking devices, they shall be engineered according to an ergonomic approach for what concerns the shape and the force especially avoiding pinching or shearing hazards.

• 5.5. Preliminary test of automatic locking system

An automatic locking system fitted on hand-operated foldable ROPS has to be submitted to a preliminary test before the ROPS strength test.

The roll-bar shall be moved from the lower position to the upright locked position and back. These operations correspond to one cycle. 500 cycles shall be completed.

This could be done manually or with the use of external energy (hydraulic, pneumatic or electric actuators). In both cases the force shall be applied within a plane parallel to the trajectory of the roll-bar and passing through the grasping area, the angular speed of the roll-bar shall be roughly constant and less than 20 deg/s.

After the 500 cycles, the force applied when the roll-bar is in the upright position shall not exceed by more than 50 % the allowed force (Table 7.2).

The unlocking of the roll-bar shall be done following the operator manual.

After the completion of the 500 cycles there shall be no maintenance or adjustment on the locking system.

Note 1: The preliminary test could be applied to automatic foldable ROPS systems as well. The test should be carried out before the ROPS strength test.

Note 2: The preliminary test could be carried out by the manufacturer. In such a case the manufacturer shall provide the test station with a certificate stating that the test has been done according the test procedure and that there was no maintenance or adjustment on the locking system after the completion of the 500 cycles. The test station will check the performance of the device with one cycle from the lower position to the upright locked position and back.

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Image omitted; see official source

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Image omitted; see official source

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Explanatory notes to Annex X

• ⁽¹⁾ Unless the numbering of sections B2 and B3 which has been harmonised with the whole Annex, the text of the requirements and the numbering set out in point B are identical with the text and numbering of the OECD standard Code for the official testing of rear mounted roll-over protective structures on narrow-track wheeled agricultural and forestry tractors, OECD standard Code 7, Edition 2017 of February 2017.

• ⁽²⁾ Users are reminded that the seat index point is determined according to ISO 5353:1995 and is a fixed point with respect to the tractor that does not move as the seat is adjusted away from the mid-position. For purposes of determining the clearance zone, the seat shall be placed in the rear and uppermost position.

• ⁽³⁾ Permanent + elastic deflection measured at the point when the required energy level is obtained.

ANNEX XI

Requirements applying to falling objects protection structures

A. GENERAL PROVISION

• 1.The Union requirements applying to falling objects protection structures are set out in sections B and C.

• 2.Vehicles of categories T and C equipped for forestry applications shall comply with the requirements laid down in section B.

• 3.All other vehicles of categories T and C, if equipped with falling objects protection structures, shall comply with the requirements laid down in section B or C.

B. REQUIREMENTS APPLYING TO FALLING OBJECTS PROTECTION STRUCTURES FOR VEHICLES OF CATEGORIES T AND C EQUIPPED FOR FORESTRY APPLICATIONS

Vehicles of categories T and C equipped for forestry applications shall comply with the requirements laid down in ISO 8083:2006 (level I or level II).

C. REQUIREMENTS APPLYING TO FALLING OBJECTS PROTECTION STRUCTURES FOR ALL OTHER VEHICLES OF CATEGORIES T AND C FITTED WITH SUCH STRUCTURES ⁽¹⁾

1. Definitions

1.1.   [Not applicable]

1.2.   Falling Object Protective Structure (FOPS)

Assembly providing reasonable overhead protection to an operator in driving position from falling objects.

1.3.   Safety zone

1.3.1.   Clearance zone

For tractors equipped with ROPS tested in accordance with Annexes VI, VIII, IX and X to this Regulation the safety zone shall comply with the specifications of the Clearance Zone as described in point 1.6 of each of these Annexes.

1.3.2.   Deflection-Limiting Volume (DLV)

For tractors equipped with ROPS tested in accordance with Annex VII to this Regulation the safety zone shall comply with the Deflection-Limiting Volume (DLV), as described in ISO 3164:1995.

In the event the tractor has a reversible driver’s position (reversible seat and steering wheel), the safety zone shall be the combined envelope of the two DLVs defined by the two different positions of the steering wheel and the seat.

1.3.3.   Top area of the safety zone

Respectively the top plane of the DLV or the surface defined by points I1, A1, B1, C1, C2, B2, A2, I2 of clearance zone for Annexes VI and VIII to this Regulation; the plane described in 1.6.2.3 and 1.6.2.4 of Annex IX to this Regulation; and the surface defined by points H1, A1, B1, C1, C2, B2, A2, H2 for Annex X to this Regulation.

1.4.   Permissible measurement tolerances

• Distance ± 5 % of maximum deflection measured, or ± 1 mm

• Mass ± 0,5 %

2. Field of application

• 2.1.This section is applicable to agricultural tractors having at least two axles for pneumatic tyred wheels or having tracks instead of wheels.

• 2.2.This Annex establishes test procedures and performance requirements for those tractors exposed to potential hazards of falling objects encountered carrying out some agricultural tasks during their normal operation.

3. Rules and directions

3.1.   General regulations

• 3.1.1. The protective structure may be manufactured either by the tractor manufacturer or by an independent firm. In either case the test is only valid for the model of tractor on which the test is carried out. The protective structure must be retested for each model of tractor to which it is to be fitted. However, testing stations may certify that the strength tests are also valid for tractor models derived from the original model by modifications to the engine, transmission and steering and front suspension (see below 3.4: Extension to other tractor models). On the other hand, more than one protective structure may be tested for any one model of tractor.

• 3.1.2. The protective structure submitted for test shall include at least all components which transfer loading from the impact location of the drop test object to the safety zone. The protective structure submitted for test shall be either (i) rigidly attached to the test bench at its normal mounting locations (see Figure 10.3 — Minimum Test Configuration), or (ii) attached to the tractor chassis in the normal manner, by means of any brackets, mountings or suspension components used in normal production, and to other parts of the tractor that may be affected by loads imposed by the protective structure (see Figures 10.4(a) & 10.4(b)). The vehicle chassis shall be mounted rigidly to the test bay floor.

• 3.1.3. A protective structure may be designed solely to protect the driver in the event of an object falling. Onto this structure it may be possible to fit weather protection for the driver, of a more or less temporary nature. The driver will usually remove this in warm weather. There are protective structures, however, in which the cladding is permanent and warm weather ventilation provided by windows or flaps. As the cladding may add to the strength of the structure and if removable may well be absent when an accident occurs, all parts that can be so taken away by the driver shall be removed for the purpose of the test. Doors and windows that can be opened shall be either removed or fixed in the open position for the test, so that they do not add to the strength of the protective structure.

• 3.1.3.1. In case of an openable roof hatch on the vertical projection of the safety zone, on request of the manufacturer, under his responsibility and in accordance with his instructions, the test can be either performed with the roof hatch:

• — in the closed — locked position,

• — in the open position,

• — removed.

In any case, the requirements of point 3.3. shall be fulfilled and a description of the test condition shall be stated in the test report.

Throughout the remainder of these rules, reference will only be made to testing the protective structure. It must be understood that this includes cladding not of a temporary nature.

A description of any temporary cladding supplied is to be included in the specifications. All glass or similar brittle material shall be removed prior to the test. Tractor and protective structure components which might sustain needless damage during the test and which do not affect the strength of the protective structure or its dimensions may be removed prior to the test if the manufacturer wishes. No repairs or adjustment may be carried out during the test. Several identical samples can be provided by the manufacturer if several drop tests are required.

• 3.1.4. Should the same structure be used for FOPS and ROPS evaluations the FOPS test shall precede the ROPS tests (according to Annexes VI, VII, VIII, IX, or X to this Regulation), the removal of impact dents or replacement of the FOPS cover is permitted.

3.2.   Apparatus and procedures

3.2.1.   Apparatus

3.2.1.1.   Drop test object

The drop test object shall be a spherical object dropped from a height sufficient to develop the energy of 1 365 J, the drop height being defined as a function of its mass. The test object, whose impact surface shall have properties to protect against deformation during testing, shall be a solid steel or ductile iron sphere with a typical mass of 45 ± 2 kg and a diameter between 200 and 250 mm (Table 10.1).

Table 10.1

Energy level, safety zone and drop test object selection

Energy level (J)	Safety zone	Drop object	Dimensions (mm)	Mass (kg)
1 365	Clearance zone [^E0014]	Sphere	200 ≤ Diameter ≤ 250	45 ± 2
1 365	DLV [^E0015]	Sphere	200 ≤ Diameter ≤ 250	45 ± 2

For tractors the ROPS of which is to be tested according to Annexes VI, VIII IX or X to this Regulation.

For tractors the ROPS of which is to be tested according to Annex VII to this Regulation.

Test Facility apparatus is also required to provide:

• 3.2.1.2. Means of raising the drop test object to the required height;

• 3.2.1.3. Means of releasing the drop test object so that it drops without restrain;

• 3.2.1.4. Surface of such firmness that it is not penetrated by the machine or test bed under the loading of the drop test;

• 3.2.1.5. Means of determining whether the FOPS enters the safety zone during the drop test. This may be either of the following:

• — a safety zone template, placed upright, made of a material which will indicate any penetration by the FOPS; grease or other suitable material may be put on the lower surface of the FOPS cover to indicate such penetration;

• — a dynamic instrumentation system of sufficient frequency response to indicate the expected deflection of the FOPS with respect to the safety zone.

• 3.2.1.6. Safety zone requirements:

The safety zone template, if any, shall be fixed firmly to the same part of the tractor as the operator’s seat and shall remain there during the entire formal test period.

3.2.2.   Procedure

The drop test procedure shall consist of the following operations, in the order listed.

• 3.2.2.1. Place the drop test object (3.2.1.1) on the top of the FOPS, at the location designated in 3.2.2.2.

• 3.2.2.2. When the safety zone is represented by the clearance zone the point of impact shall be at a location which is within the vertical projection of the clearance zone and is furthest removed from major structural members (Figure 10.1).

When the safety zone is represented by the DLV, the impact location shall be entirely within the vertical projection of the safety zone, in that volume’s upright position, on to the top of the FOPS. It is intended that the selection of impact location shall include at least one within the vertical projection of the top plane area of the safety zone.

Two cases have to be considered:

• 3.2.2.2.1. Case 1: Where major, upper, horizontal members of the FOPS do not enter the vertical projection of the safety zone on to the top of the FOPS. The impact location shall be as close as possible to the centroid of the upper FOPS structure (Figure 10.2 — Case 1).

• 3.2.2.2.2. Case 2: Where major, upper, horizontal members of the FOPS enter the vertical projection of the safety zone on to the top of the FOPS. When the covering material of all the surface areas above the safety zone is of uniform thickness, the impact location shall be in the surface of greatest area, this being the largest section of vertical projected area of the safety zone which does not include major, upper, horizontal members. The impact location shall be at that point, within the surface of greatest area, which has the least possible distance from the centroid of the top of the FOPS (Figure 10.2 — Case 2).

• 3.2.2.3. Irrespective of whether the safety zone is represented by the clearance zone or the DLV, where different materials or different thicknesses are used in different areas above the safety zone, each area shall be subjected to a drop test. If several drop tests are required, several identical samples of the FOPS (or parts of it) could be provided by the manufacturer (one for each drop test). If design features, such as openings for windows or equipment, or variations in cover material or thickness, indicate a more vulnerable location within the vertical projection of the safety zone, the drop location should be adjusted to that location. In addition, if openings in the FOPS cover are intended to be filled with devices or equipment to provide adequate protection, those devices or equipment shall be in place during the drop test.

• 3.2.2.4. Raise the drop test object vertically to a height above the position indicated in 3.2.2.1 and 3.2.2.2 to develop the energy of 1 365 J.

• 3.2.2.5. Release the drop object so that it falls without restraint onto the FOPS.

• 3.2.2.6. As it is unlikely that the free fall will result in the drop test object hitting at the location as specified in 3.2.2.1 and 3.2.2.2, the following limits are placed on deviations.

• 3.2.2.7. The impact point of the drop test object shall be entirely within a circle of 100 mm radius whose centre shall coincide with the vertical centre line of the drop test object as positioned according to 3.2.2.1 and 3.2.2.2).

• 3.2.2.8. There is no limitation on location or attitude of subsequent impacts due to rebound.

3.3.   Performance requirements

The safety zone shall not be entered into by any part of the protective structure under the first or subsequent impacts of the drop test object. Should the drop test object penetrate the FOPS, it shall be considered to have failed that test.

• Note 1:In the case of multilayer protective structure all the layers including the innermost layer shall be considered.

• Note 2:The drop test object is considered to have penetrated the protective structure when at least half of the sphere volume has penetrated the innermost layer.

The FOPS shall completely cover and overlap the vertical projection of the safety zone.

If the tractor is to be equipped with a FOPS fitted on an approved ROPS, the testing station which performed the ROPS test will normally be the only one allowed to carry out the FOPS test and to require for the approval.

3.4.   Extension to other tractor models

3.4.1.   [Not applicable]

3.4.2.   Technical extension

If the test was carried out with the minimum components required (as in Figure 10.3), then the testing station that has carried out the original test can issue a ‘technical extension report’ in the following cases: [see 3.4.2.1]

If the test was carried out including the attachments / mountings of the protective structure to the tractor/chassis (as in Figure 10.4), then when technical modifications occur on the tractor, to the protective structure or to the method of attachment of the protective structure to the vehicle chassis, the testing station that has carried out the original test can issue a ‘technical extension report’ in the following cases: [see 3.4.2.1]

3.4.2.1.   Extension of the structural test results to other models of tractors

The impact test needs not to be carried out on each model of tractor, provided that the protective structure and tractor comply with the conditions referred to hereunder 3.4.2.1.1 to 3.4.2.1.3.

• 3.4.2.1.1. The structure shall be identical to the one tested;

• 3.4.2.1.2. If the test carried out included the method of attachment to the vehicle chassis, the tractor attachment components/ protective structure mountings shall be identical;

• 3.4.2.1.3. The position and critical dimensions of the seat in the protective structure and the relative position of the protective structure on the tractor shall be such that the safety zone would have remained within the protection of the deflected structure throughout all tests (this shall be checked by using the same reference of clearance zone as in the original test report, respectively Seat Reference Point [SRP] or Seat Index Point [SIP]).

3.4.2.2.   Extension of the structural test results to modified models of the protective structure

This procedure has to be followed when the provisions of paragraph 3.4.2.1 are not fulfilled, it shall not be used when the method of attachment of the protective structure to the tractor does not remain of the same principle (e.g. rubber supports replaced by a suspension device):

Modifications having no impact on the results of the initial test (e.g. weld attachment of the mounting plate of an accessory in a non-critical location on the structure), addition of seats with different SRP or SIP location in the protective structure (subject to checking that the new safety zone(s) remain(s) within the protection of the deflected structure throughout all tests).

More than one protective structure modifications may be included in a single extension report if they represent different options of the same protective structure. The options not tested shall be described in a specific section of the extension report.

• 3.4.3. In any case the test report shall contain a reference to the original test report.

3.5.   [Not applicable]

3.6.   Cold weather performance of protective structures

• 3.6.1. If the protective structure is claimed to have properties resistant to cold weather embrittlement, the manufacturer shall give details that shall be included in the report.

• 3.6.2. The following requirements and procedures are intended to provide strength and resistance to brittle fracture at reduced temperatures. It is suggested that the following minimum material requirements shall be met in judging the protective structure’s suitability at reduced operating temperatures in those countries requiring this additional operating protection:

• 3.6.2.1. Bolts and nuts used to attach the protective structure to the tractor and used to connect structural parts of the protective structure shall exhibit suitable controlled reduced temperature toughness properties.

• 3.6.2.2. All welding electrodes used in the fabrication of structural members and mounts shall be compatible with the protective structure material as given in 3.8.2.3 below.

• 3.6.2.3. Steel materials for structural members of the protective structure shall be of controlled toughness material exhibiting minimum Charpy V-Notch impact requirements as shown in Table 10.2. Steel grade and quality shall be specified in accordance with ISO 630:1995, Amd 1:2003.

Steel with an as-rolled thickness less than 2,5 mm and with a carbon content less than 0,2 per cent is considered to meet this requirement.

Structural members of the protective structure made from materials other than steel shall have an impact resistance equivalent to the one required for steel materials

• 3.6.2.4. When testing the Charpy V-Notch impact energy requirements, the specimen size shall be no less than the largest of the sizes stated in Table 1 that the material will permit

• 3.6.2.5. The Charpy V-Notch tests shall be made in accordance with the procedure in ASTM A 370-1979, except for specimen sizes that shall be in accordance with the dimensions given in Table 10.2.

• 3.6.2.6. Alternatives to this procedure are the use of killed or semi-killed steel for which an adequate specification shall be provided. Steel grade and quality shall be specified in accordance with ISO 630:1995, Amd 1:2003.