Significance and Use
5.1 The test results present afterflame plus afterglow times, in seconds, for a material under the conditions of the test. The test results for plaques also indicate whether or not the specified flame will burn through a material.
5.2 The test is capable of assessing the effects of material thickness, colors, additives, deterioration, and possible loss of volatile components on afterflame and afterglow.
5.3 The burning characteristics is found to vary with thickness. Test data shall be compared only with data for material of the same thickness.
5.4 The results serve as a reference for comparing the relative performance of materials and can be an aid in material selection.
5.5 In this test method, the specimens are subjected to one or more specific laboratory test conditions. If different test conditions are substituted or the end-use conditions are changed, it will not always be possible by or from this test method to predict changes in the fire-test-response characteristics measured. Therefore, the results are valid only for the fire-test-exposure conditions described in this test method.
Scope
1.1 This fire-test-response standard contains a test method for small-scale laboratory procedures to be used to determine the relative burning characteristics and the resistance to burn-through of plastics using small bar and plaque specimens exposed to a 125-mm (500-W nominal) flame.
1.1.1 Use Test Method D3801 for assessing comparative burning characteristics of solid plastics in a vertical position.
Note 1: This test method is equivalent to IEC 60695-11-20 and UL 94 (Section 9).
1.2 The results are intended to serve as a preliminary indication of their acceptability with respect to flammability for a particular application. The final acceptance of the material is dependent upon its use in the end-product that conforms with the standards applicable to such end-product.
1.3 The classification system described in Appendix X1 is intended for quality assurance and the preselection of component materials for products.
1.4 If found to be appropriate, it is suitable to apply the requirements to other nonmetallic materials. Such application is outside the scope of this technical committee.
1.5 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests.
1.6 This standard is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under controlled conditions, but does not by itself incorporate all factors required for fire hazards or fire risk assessment of materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. See 6.1.1 for a specific hazard statement.
1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
