Significance and Use
This test method is used primarily to determine time-to-ignition, vertical flame spread rate, and lateral flame spread rate of materials, products and assemblies in a vertical orientation when exposed to a graduated radiant heat flux.
Optionally, this test method is suitable to measure the heat release rate and smoke development rate of materials, products and assemblies in a vertical orientation when exposed to a graduated radiant heat flux.
This test method is suitable to test materials that have a planar or nearly planar exposed surface. This test method is not intended to test materials with surface cracks, fissures or holes exceeding 8 mm in width or 10 mm in depth. Also, the total area of such cracks, fissures or holes at the surface shall not exceed 30 % of the exposed surface area of the specimen.
Scope
1.1 This fire-test-response standard determines fire properties related to piloted ignition of a vertically oriented specimen exposed to an external graduated radiant heat flux as shown in . This test method provides data suitable for comparing the performance of materials, which are used as the exposed surfaces of walls or other vertically orientated products in construction applications.
Note 1This test method has been prepared to closely follow the test procedure of ISO 5658-4, however with additional provisions for heat release and smoke development measurements that are optional.
1.2 The fire characteristics determined by this test method include time-to-ignition, vertical flame spread rate and lateral flame spread rate. Optional measurements include heat release rates and visible smoke development rates.
1.3 The optional heat release rate is determined by the principle of oxygen consumption calorimetry, via measurement of the oxygen consumption as determined by the oxygen concentration and flow rate in the exhaust product stream (exhaust duct).
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.
1.5 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 hazard or fire risk assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.
1.6 Fire testing of products and materials is inherently hazardous, and adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests. This test method may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. Specific information about hazard is given in Section .
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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
