- Author
- Robertson, A. F. | Gross, D. | Loftus, J. J.
- Title
- Method for Measuring Surface Flammability of Materials Using a Radiant Energy Source.
- Coporate
- National Bureau of Standards, Gaithersburg, MD
- Book or Conf
- American Society for Testing and Materials. Annual Meeting, 59th. Volume 56. June 17-22, 1956., 1437-1453 p., 1956
- Keywords
- flammability | radiant energy | flame spread | test methods | measuring instruments
- Abstract
- There has been a need for a relatively simple yet sufficiently severe and reproducible method for measuring the surface flame spread properties of materials. The presen paper describes a test method which has been developed to meet this need. The method employs a radiant heat source consisting of a 12 by 18-in. panel in front of which a 6 by 18-in. specimen of the material being tested is mounted. The specimen orientation is such a{that ignition is forced near the top and the flame front progresses downward. The rate of progress of the flame front together with a factor involving the rate of heat generaion by the material under test are combined by means of an empirical relaionship to provide a flame spread index for the material. It is demonstrated that the test method is relatively insensitive to changes in ambient variables and modifications in mechanical adjustment. The classification of materials with respect to flammability follows an order which appears to be consistent with information currently available on their behavior during fires.