Significance and Use
5.1 This test method is intended for the determination of the heat transfer performance value of a material, a combination of materials, or a comparison of different materials used in flame-resistant clothing for workers exposed to combined convective and radiant thermal hazards.
5.2 This test method evaluates a material’s unsteady-state heat transfer properties when exposed to a continuous and constant heat source. Air movement at the face of the specimen and around the calorimeter can affect the measured heat transferred due to forced convective heat losses. Minimizing air movement around the specimen and test apparatus will aid in the repeatability of the results.
5.3 This test method maintains the specimen in a static, horizontal position and does not involve movement except that resulting from the exposure.
5.4 This test method specifies a standardized 84 ± 2 kW/m2 (2 ± 0.05 cal/cm2s) exposure condition. Different exposure conditions have the potential to produce different results. Use of other exposure conditions that are representative of the expected hazard are allowed but shall be reported with the results along with a determination of the exposure energy level stability.
5.5 This test method does not predict skin burn injury from the heat exposure.
Note 4: See Appendix X4 for additional information regarding this test method and predicted skin burn injury.
Scope
1.1 This test method measures the non-steady state heat transfer through flame-resistant materials for clothing subjected to a continuous, combined convective and radiant heat exposure.
1.1.1 This test method is not applicable to materials that are not flame resistant.
Note 1: The determination of a material’s flame resistance shall be made prior to testing and done according to the applicable performance or specification standard, or both, for the material’s end-use.
1.1.2 This test method does not predict a material’s skin burn injury performance from the specified thermal energy exposure. It does not account for the thermal energy contained in the test specimen after the exposure has ceased.
Note 2: See Appendix X4 for additional information regarding this test method and predicted skin burn injury.
1.2 This test method is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat 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.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to inch-pound or other units that are commonly used for thermal testing.
1.4 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.
1.5 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.
