1. Scope
1.1 This is a fire-test-response standard. 1.2 This test method assesses the burning behavior of materials that, as a result of melting behavior when exposed to heat, are unable to obtain a valid result when tested to Test Method E162. 1.3 This test method uses a furniture calorimeter. 1.4 This test method does not provide information on the fire performance of materials in fire conditions other than those conditions specified. 1.5 The system of units to be used in referee decisions is the SI system of units; see IEEE/ASTM SI-10 for further details. The units given in parentheses are for information only. 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 hazard or fire risk assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions. 1.7 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be used in conducting these tests. 1.8 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.
Many codes and regulations require that materials intended to be used in transportation applications be tested to Test Method E162. Paragraph 11.11 of E162 states that, if a material melts during the test, no radiant panel index shall be reported and another test shall be performed. If the melting behavior continues, the tests are considered invalid. As a result, thermoplastic materials cannot be tested to E162. Thus, a new test is required for thermoplastic materials intended for use in transportation applications.
Keywords
calorimetry; carbon monoxide; carbon dioxide; fire; fire test response; heat release rate; mass loss; mass loss rate; medium scale tests; oxygen consumption; smoke obscuration
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.
Citing ASTM Standards
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