What is BS EN 50399 - Flame spread test for cables about ?
BS EN 50399 is a European standard that discusses common test methods for cables under fire conditions.
BS EN 50399 specifies the apparatus and methods of test for the assessment of vertical flame spread, heat release, smoke production and occurrence of flaming droplets/particles of vertically-mounted bunched wires or cables, electrical or optical, under defined conditions.
Note: For the purpose of this standard the term "electric wire or cable" covers all insulated metallic conductor cables used for the conveyance of energy or signals.
Who is BS EN 50399 - Flame spread test for cables for?
BS EN 50399 on the flame spread test is relevant to:
- Manufacturers of electric wires and cables
- Product design engineers
- Electrical engineers
- Quality control and testing authorities
Why should you use BS EN 50399 - Flame spread test for cables ?
BS EN 50399 details the apparatus and the arrangement and calibration of the instrumentation to be installed in order to measure the heat release and the smoke production during the test. The combustion gases are collected in a hood above the test chamber and conveyed through an exhaust system, which allows the measurement of heat release rate and smoke production.
Test procedures to be used for type approval testing for classification of cables in Euroclasses B1ca, B2ca, Cca and Dca are given in BS EN 50399.
The test provides data for the early stages of a cable fire from ignition of cables. It addresses the hazard of propagation of flames along the cable, the potential, by the measurement of the heat release rate, for the fire to affect areas adjacent to the compartment of origin, and the hazard, by the measurement of production of light obstructing smoke, of reduced visibility in the room of origin and surrounding enclosures.
The following parameters may be determined under defined conditions during the test:
- Flame spread
- Heat release rate
- Total heat release
- Smoke production rate
- Total smoke production
- Fire growth rate index
- Occurrence of flaming droplets/particles
Overall, BS EN 50399 can help determine the ignitability and burning behaviour of materials and products. As a result, you can determine the performance and durability of your cables and their ability to withstand heat stress.
