Work Item
ASTM WK81658
New Test Method for Ignitability of plastics using a Tube Furnace with a Cone-shaped Airflow Stabilizer
1. Scope
1 Scope
1.1 This document specifies a laboratory method for determining the flash-ignition temperature and spontaneous-ignition temperature of plastics using a tube furnace with a cone-shaped airflow stabilizer. It is one of a number of methods in use for evaluating the reaction of plastics to the effects of ignition sources.
1.2 This method does not give a direct measure of the combustibility or rate of burning of a material or any definition of the safe upper limit of temperature for the plastics in use. 1.3 The use of this test method is inappropriate for fire safety engineering calculations.
1.4 Tests made under conditions of this method are potentially of considerable value in comparing the relative ignition characteristics of different plastic materials. Values obtained represent the lowest ambient air temperature that has the potential to cause ignition of the material under the conditions of this test. Test values are expected to rank materials according to ignition susceptibility under actual use conditions.
1.5 This test method 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.
1.6 Fire testing of products and materials is inherently hazardous, and adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests. 1.7 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.
1.8 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.
Note: This standard is technically equivalent to the Option 2 of ISO 871 (Plastics — Determination of ignition temperature using a hot-air furnace), 2022 edition.
Keywords
fire test, ignition, flash ignition, self-ignition, plastics
Rationale
There is a need to provide an ignitability test for plastics as an option to ASTM D1929.
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.
Work Item Status
Date Initiated: 04-27-2022
Technical Contact: Marcelo Hirschler
Item: 001
Ballot: D20.30 (22-03)
Status: Will Reballot Item