New Test Methods for Flammability of Rigid Plastic Materials Used for Electrical Insulation
1. Scope
1. Scope
1.1 This is a fire-test-response standard.
1.2 This standard involves two flammability test methods to assess fire properties of rigid plastic materials used for electrical insulation.
1.2.1 Both test methods were originally contained with test methods D229 and were applied to those rigid electrical insulation materials that are manufactured in flat sheet or plate form and are used as terminal boards, spacers, voltage barriers, and circuit boards.
1.3 The two test methods expose materials to an ignition source and assess the time to ignition and, if ignition occurs, the time during which there is continued flaming after ignition. Test method I is a screening and classification test following gas flame ignition. Test method II provides a more comprehensive approach for assessing the same fire properties, following electrical ignition.
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.5 These test methods are not applicable to vulcanized fiber materials.
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 employed 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.
Keywords
burning time, electrical insulating material, fire test, flaming time, time to ignition
Rationale
The test methods are now contained within an omnibus standard with multiple test methods but their applicability goes beyond those particular materials.
