Proficiency Testing Programs / Plastics Testing

Flammability Testing of Plastics

2013 Annual Fee: $594.00

Schedule: March/August

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

ASTM’s Proficiency Test Program provides laboratories with a testing program that enables labs to compare, improve and demonstrate their proficiency in performing a commonly used small scale laboratory flammability test on centrally prepared plastic test specimens.

Conducted twice a year, this program provides prepared test specimens fabricated from two different engineering resins for each test cycle, data recording forms and protocols for conducting each test. The test specimens will be centrally prepared in accord with specific ASTM requirements and distributed to all program participants by Plasticoncentrates, Inc of Trainer, PA.

Each laboratory electronically submits their completed test results to ASTM for use in generating statistical summary reports. Electronic final reports contain:

  • Coded laboratory test results
  • Statistical analysis of test data
  • Charts plotting test results versus lab code
  • Other information

Samples, test instructions and data report forms are distributed electronically to each participant on the date samples are distributed. Labs have approximately 8 weeks to submit test data with the final statistical summary reports being electronically distributed in approximately 25 days.


For more information, contact us.

TEST MATERIALS

Each lab will receive sufficient quantities of test specimens to conduct the program test each test cycle. Extra specimens are supplied for testing purposes as needed. Program registration fees include test specimen shipping costs to all registered participants.


TEST METHODS

D3801

Test for Measuring the Comparative Burning Characteristics of Solid Plastics in a Vertical Position

UL 94V

Tests for Flammability of Plastic Materials for Parts in Devices and Appliances Section 8-20 mm Vertical Burning Test for V0,V1, V2

IEC 60695-11-10

Fire hazard Testing-Part 11-10 Test Flames 50W Horizontal and Vertical Flame Test Method B Vertical Burning Test

NOTE: Additional ASTM Flammability Plastic Tests May Be Added in the Future.


DISTRIBUTION OF SAMPLES

Test samples are prepared and distributed by businesses hired for their expertise. Program registration fees include the cost of shipping the test samples.


WHY SHOULD YOUR LABORATORY PARTICIPATE?

ASTM's Proficiency Test Program provides you with:

  • A useful and meaningful statistical quality assurance tool to monitor the strengths and weaknesses of your laboratory's performance in conducting testing.
  • The resource you need to satisfy proficiency testing elements of laboratory accreditation.
  • A periodic comparison of test results with other participating laboratories.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

Participation is on an annual fee basis and open to all laboratories. Registration fees must be paid in advance to participate. Testing must be performed within the participant's laboratory facilities. A laboratory does not need to perform all the program tests to participate.


ABOUT ASTM INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE D20 ON PLASTICS

Committee D20 on Plastics, consisting of over 750 members, is a developer of 470 standards. The Committee provides the technical direction for the program. Test information from the program may be utilized by Committee D20 to determine if changes to the ASTM test methods are warranted. Data submitted to Committee D20 is coded by ASTM to maintain confidentiality.