ASTM F1870-22

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.
Designation: F1870 − 22
Standard Guide for
Selection of Fire Test Methods for the Assessment of
Upholstered Furnishings in Detention and Correctional
Facilities
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1870; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.8 This guide measures and describes the response of
materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under
1.1 This is a fire-test-response guide.
controlled conditions, but does not by itself incorporate all
1.2 This guide is intended to provide guidance for the
factors required for fire hazard or fire risk assessment of the
selection of test methods that are applicable to determining
materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.
fire-test-response characteristics of upholstered furniture items
1.9 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safe-
contained within a detention cell.
guards for personnel and property shall be employed in
1.3 This guide is intended for use by those interested in
conducting these tests.
assessing the fire properties of the upholstery products and
1.10 This standard does not purport to address all of the
theircomponentmaterialsorcomposites,withincellsandother
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
areas (such as isolation lounges) of detention and correctional
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
occupancies.
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
1.4 This guide includes standard test methods promulgated
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
by ASTM, NFPA, Underwriters Laboratories, trade associa-
1.11 This international standard was developed in accor-
tions and government agencies and other proposed test meth-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ods. It does not include industrial materials specification tests.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
The guide indicates some means by which modifications of
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
standard test methods lead to potential achievement of certain
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
testing goals.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
1.5 ThevaluesstatedinSIunitsaretoregardedasstandard;
2. Referenced Documents
see IEEE/ASTM SI 10 for further details. The units given in
parentheses are for information only. Some individual stan- 2.1 ASTM Standards:
D123Terminology Relating to Textiles
dards referenced use inch-pound units for referee decisions.
D1929Test Method for Determining Ignition Temperature
1.6 This guide contains four types of test methods, namely:
of Plastics
(1) generic small-scale methods, (2) specific applications of
D2863Test Method for Measuring the Minimum Oxygen
small-scale test methods to particular products or composites
Concentration to Support Candle-Like Combustion of
ofproducts,associatedwithupholsteryitems,(3)real-scaletest
Plastics (Oxygen Index)
methods where actual upholstery products are exposed to heat
D3675Test Method for Surface Flammability of Flexible
or flame, and (4) guides explaining the concepts involved with
Cellular Materials Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
room-scale testing.
E162Test Method for Surface Flammability of Materials
1.7 The main fire-test-response characteristics investigated
Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
in this guide are: ignitability, ease of extinction, flame spread,
E176Terminology of Fire Standards
heat release, smoke obscuration and toxic potency of smoke.
E603Guide for Room Fire Experiments
E662Test Method for Specific Optical Density of Smoke
Generated by Solid Materials
ThisguideisunderthejurisdictionofASTMCommitteeF33onDetentionand
Correctional Facilities and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F33.05 on
Furnishings and Equipment. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved June 1, 2022. Published June 2022. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1999. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as F1870–16. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/F1870-22. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1870 − 22
E906Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release California Technical Bulletin 117–1980(CATB 117) (Janu-
Rates for Materials and Products Using a Thermopile ary 1980), “Requirements, Test Procedure and Apparatus
Method for Testing the Flame Retardance of Resilient Filling
E1321Test Method for Determining Material Ignition and Materials Used in Upholstered Furniture”
Flame Spread Properties California Technical Bulletin 117–2013(CATB 117-2013),
E1352Test Method for Cigarette Ignition Resistance of Requirements, Test Procedure and Apparatus for Testing
Mock-Up Upholstered Furniture Assemblies the Smoler Resistance of Materials Used in Upholstered
E1353Test Methods for Cigarette Ignition Resistance of Furniture
Components of Upholstered Furniture CaliforniaTechnicalBulletin121(CATB121)(April1980),
E1354Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Flammability Test Procedure for Mattresses for Use in
Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Con- Public Occupancies
sumption Calorimeter California Technical Bulletin 129(CA TB 129) (October
E1474Test Method for Determining the Heat Release Rate 1992), Flammability Test Procedure for Mattresses for
of Upholstered Furniture and Mattress Components or Use in Public Buildings
Composites Using a Bench Scale Oxygen Consumption California Technical Bulletin 133(CA TB 133) (January
Calorimeter 1991), Flammability Test Procedure for Seating Furniture
E1537Test Method for Fire Testing of Upholstered Furni- for Use in Public Occupancies
ture
2.4 CPSC Standards:
E1546Guide for Development of Fire-Hazard-Assessment
CFR Part 1610Standard for the Flammability of Clothing
Standards
Textiles (General Wearing Apparel)
E1590Test Method for Fire Testing of Mattresses
CFR Part 1632Standard for the Flammability of Mattresses
E1678Test Method for Measuring Smoke Toxicity for Use
and Mattress Pads (formerly DOC FF4-72, 40 FR 59940)
in Fire Hazard Analysis
2.5 Federal Standards:
E2187Test Method for Measuring the Ignition Strength of
Americans with Disabilities Act
Cigarettes
FED STD 191A Textile Test Method 5830 (July 20, 1978)
E2257Test Method for Room Fire Test of Wall and Ceiling
2.6 International Code Council Codes:
Materials and Assemblies
International Building Code
E3020Practice for Ignition Sources
International Fire Code
F1534Test Method for Determining Changes in Fire-Test-
2.7 ISO Standards:
Response Characteristics of Cushioning Materials After
ISO 3261Fire Tests–Vocabulary
Water Leaching
ISO 4880Burning Behaviour of Textiles and Textile Prod-
F1550TestMethodforDeterminationofFire-Test-Response
ucts–Vocabulary
Characteristics of Components or Composites of Mat-
ISO 5659-2Determination of Specific Optical Density by a
tresses or Furniture for Use in Correctional Facilities after
Single-Chamber Test
Exposure to Vandalism, by Employing a Bench Scale
ISO 9705Full Scale Room Fire Test for Surface Products
Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter
ISO 13943Fire Safety: Vocabulary
IEEE/ASTM SI 10International System of Units (SI): The
2.8 NFPA Standards:
Modern Metric System
NFPA 101Life Safety Code
2.2 BSI Standards:
NFPA 258Recommended Practice for Determining Smoke
BS 5852 Standard Methods of test for assessment of the
Generation of Solid Materials (withdrawn)
ignitability of upholstered seating by smouldering and
NFPA 260Methods of Test and Classification System for
flaming ignition sources
Cigarette Ignition Resistance of Components of Uphol-
BS 6807 Standard Methods of test for assessment of
stered Furniture
ignitability of mattresses, upholstered divans and uphol-
NFPA 261Method of Test for Determining Resistance of
stered bed bases with flaming types of primary and
Mock-Up Upholstered Furniture Material Assemblies to
secondary sources of ignition
Ignition by Smoldering Cigarettes
BS 7177 Standard Specification for resistance to ignition of
NFPA 265Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Room Fire
mattresses, mattress pads, divans and bed bases
Growth Contribution of Textile Wall Coverings
2.3 California Standards:
California Technical Bulletin 116(CA TB 116) (January
Available from US Consumer Product Safety Commission, Washington, DC,
1980), “Requirements, Test Procedure and Apparatus for
20207.
Testing the Flame Retardance of Upholstered Furniture” Available from General Services Administration, Specifications Activity,
Printed Materials Supply Division, Building 197, Naval Weapons Plant,
Washington, DC, 20407.
Available from International Code Council (ICC), 500 New Jersey Ave., NW,
Available from British Standards Institution (BSI), 389 Chiswick High Rd., 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20001, http://www.iccsafe.org.
London W4 4AL, U.K., http://www.bsigroup.com. Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 1 rue de
Available from California Bureau of Home Furnishings and Thermal Varembé, Case postale 56, CH-1211, Geneva 20, Switzerland.
Insulation, State of California, Department of Consumer Affairs, 3485 Orange Available from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch
Grove Avenue, North Highlands, CA, 95660-5595. Park, Quincy, MA 02269-9101.
F1870 − 22
NFPA269Test Method for Developing Toxic Potency Data intensity, ventilation, geometry of item or enclosure, humidity,
for Use in Fire Hazard Modeling or oxygen concentration. It is not an intrinsic property such as
NFPA 271Method of Test for Heat and Visible Smoke specific heat, thermal conductivity, or heat of combustion,
Release Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxy- where the value is independent of test variables. A fire-test-
gen Consumption Calorimeter (withdrawn) response characteristic may be described in one of several
NFPA 286Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating terms. Smoke generation, for example, may be described as
Contribution of Wall and Ceiling Interior Finish to Room smoke opacity, change of opacity with time, or smoke weight.
Fire Growth No quantitative correlation need exist between values of a
NFPA 701Methods of Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of response characteristic for two or more materials, products, or
Textiles and Films assemblies, as measured by two or more approaches, or tested
NFPA 5000Building Construction and Safety Code under two or more sets of conditions for a given method.
3.2.5 flashover, n—rapid transition to a state of total surface
3. Terminology
involvement in a fire of combustible materials within an
enclosure.
3.1 For definitions of terms used in this test method and
3.2.5.1 Discussion—Flashover occurs when the surface
associatedwithfireissuesrefertotheterminologycontainedin
temperatures of combustible contents rise, producing pyrolysis
Terminology E176, ISO 13943, and ISO 3261. In case of
gases, and the room heat flux becomes sufficient to heat all
conflict, the definitions given in Terminology E176 shall
such gases to their ignition temperatures. This commonly
prevail. For definitions of terms used in this guide and
occurs when the upper layer temperature reaches 600°C or a
associatedwithtextileissuesrefertotheterminologycontained
radiant heat flux at the floor of at least 20 kW/m .
in Terminology D123 and ISO 4880. In case of conflict, the
definitions given in Terminology D123 shall prevail.
3.2.6 heat release rate, n—calorific energy released per unit
time by the combustion of a material under specified test
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
conditions.
3.2.1 fire hazard, n—potential for harm associated with fire.
3.2.1.1 Discussion—A fire may pose one or more types of 3.2.7 smoke, n—airborne solid and liquid particulates and
hazard to people, animals, or property. These hazards are
gases evolved when a material undergoes pyrolysis and com-
associated with the environment and with a number of fire- bustion.
test-response characteristics of materials, products, or assem-
3.2.8 smoke toxicity, n—propensity of smoke to produce
bliesincludingbutnotlimitedtoeaseofignition,flamespread,
adverse biochemical or physiological effects.
rateofheatrelease,smokegenerationandobscuration,toxicity
3.2.9 toxic potency (as applied to inhalation of smoke or its
of combustion products and ease of extinguishment.
component gases), n—quantitative expression relating concen-
3.2.2 fire performance, n—response of a material, product,
tration and exposure time to a particular degree of adverse
or assembly in a specific fire, other than in a fire test involving
physiological response, for example, death, on exposure of
controlled conditions (different from fire-test-response
humans or animals.
characteristic, q.v.).
3.2.9.1 Discussion—The toxic potency of the smoke from
3.2.2.1 Discussion—The ASTM policy on fire standards
anymaterial,product,orassemblyisrelatedtothecomposition
distinguishes between the response of materials, products or
of that smoke which, in turn, is dependent upon the conditions
assemblies to heat and flame, “under controlled conditions,”
under which the smoke is generated.
whichisfire-test-responsecharacteristic,and“underactualfire
3.2.10 upholstered furniture, n—unit of interior furnishing
conditions,” which is fire performance. Fire performance
that(1)containsanysurfacethatiscovered,inwholeorinpart,
depends on the occasion or environment and may not be
with a fabric or other upholstery cover material, (2) contains
measurable. In view of the limited availability of fire-
upholstery padding or filling materials, and (3) is intended for
performance data, the response to one or more fire tests,
sitting or reclining upon.
appropriatelyrecognizedasrepresentingend-useconditions,is
3.2.11 upholstery cover fabric, n—outermost layer of fabric
generally used as a predictor of the fire performance of a
or other material used to enclose the main support system or
material, product, or assembly.
upholstery padding, or both, used in the furniture item.
3.2.3 fire scenario, n—detailed description of conditions,
3.2.12 upholstery padding, n—padding, stuffing, or filling
including environmental, of one or more of the stages from
materialsusedinafurnitureitem,whichmaybeeitherlooseor
before ignition to the completion of combustion in an actual
attached, enclosed by an upholstery fabric, or located between
fire at a specific location, or in a full-scale simulation.
the upholstery fabric and support system, if present.
3.2.4 fire-test-response characteristic, n—response charac-
3.2.12.1 Discussion—This includes, but is not limited to,
teristic of a material, product, or assembly, to a prescribed
materials such as foams, cotton batting, polyester fiberfill,
source of heat or flame, under controlled fire conditions; such
bonded cellulose or down.
responsecharacteristicsmayincludebutarenotlimitedtoease
of ignition, flame spread, heat release, mass loss, smoke
4. Summary of Guide
generation, fire endurance, and toxic potency of smoke.
3.2.4.1 Discussion—A fire-test-response characteristic can 4.1 The test methods identified in this guide can be subdi-
be influenced by variables of exposure such as ignition videdinfourgroups,namely:(1)genericsmall-scalemethods;
F1870 − 22
(2) specific applications of small-scale test methods applied to 5.2 The detention environment has some unique features
particular products or composites of products, associated with which potentially require the use of modifications of standard
upholstery items; (3) real-scale test methods where actual test methods or the application of particular techniques. Some
upholstery products (or full-scale mock-ups) are exposed to guidance to that effect is also presented.
heat or flame; and (4) guides which explain the concepts
6. Small Scale Generic Tests
required to conduct room-scale testing, or design specific test
methods.
6.1 Ignitability:
6.1.1 Ignitability can be assessed in various ways: ignition
4.2 The small-scale test methods relevant to upholstery
temperature, time to ignition and ignition flux. The traditional
materials or products for use in detention cells, determine the
method involved the ignition temperature, while more modern
following fire-test-response characteristics: ignitability, ease of
methods use the other ways.
extinction, flame spread, heat release (both amount and rate),
6.1.2 Fourtestmethodsareavailableforassessingignitabil-
smoke obscuration, and toxic potency of smoke.
ity: Test Methods D1929, E906, E1321 and E1354 (with the
4.3 Applicationssmallscaletestmethodsarethosedesigned
withdrawn test method NFPA 271 being equivalent to Test
specifically with upholstery products in mind and they assess
MethodE1354).Afairlycomprehensivelistofignitionsources
ignitability and heat release principally. However, of particular
has been developed by Committee E05 as Practice E3020.
interest are the tests designed to assess the effect of vandalism,
6.1.3 Test Method D1929 is used to determine the self
whichisaphenomenonspeciallyprevalent,evenifnotunique,
ignitiontemperatureortheflashignitiontemperature(ifapilot
in detention environments.
gas flame is lit) of materials. The specimens are small pieces,
4.4 Real-scale fire tests for upholstery products have, most or pellets, and weigh 3 g; they are exposed, inside a vertical
furnace tube, electrically-heated, to a pre-set temperature rise
often, not been specifically designed for the detention
environment, and are likely to be inappropriate for it. rate, with a slow air flow present. No repeatability or repro-
ducibility statement has been developed for this method in the
4.4.1 However, in some cases it is feasible to modify some
first 30 years after it was issued, and it has not been shown to
standard methods to make the procedures more relevant to a
be an adequate predictor of real scale fire performance. This
very high risk occupancy such as the detention environment.
apparatus is often referred to as the Setchkin furnace, and
4.4.2 Optional modifications include alterations to protec-
results from this test are frequently required in specifications
tive layers due to wear, tear, or abuse, characteristic of the
and quoted in data sheets. Test Method D1929 is mentioned
environment, which potentially affect the fire-test-response
because it was specifically designed for ignition temperature,
characteristics of the item.
but it has since been shown to be inappropriate for cellular
4.4.3 The special advantage of real-scale tests is that their
materials used as padding for cushioning. However, it is
use prevents the problem of trying to understand how fire
referenced in the International Building Code and in the
parameters scale up from smaller scale tests. Moreover, since
Building Construction and Safety Code (NFPA 5000) as a
the specimens used in real-scale tests can be identical to the
required test method for light transmitting plastics.
actual product they are intended to represent (unless mock-ups
6.1.4 Test Method E906 is used to determine time to
are used), such specimens incorporate all the peculiarities of
ignition.The specimen is a plaque 150 by 150 mm (6 by 6 in.)
actual products, including multiple layers of various
(with a maximum thickness of 45 mm (1.8 in.), which is
thicknesses, non-linear edges or seams.
exposed vertically (although horizontal exposure is also fea-
4.4.4 The major disadvantage of real-scale tests is their
sible)toapre-setincidentheatfluxresultingfromasetoffour
higher cost and the inherent inconvenience attached to manu-
radiantglobars,intheabsenceorpresenceofapilotgasflame,
facturing products for testing.
under a strong air flow. The primary objective of the test
4.5 Guidesexistwhichhelpforthedesignofad-hoctests,or
method is to determine heat release rate, but other fire-test-
room tests, in order to assess particular characteristics which
response characteristics are assessed simultaneously, including
cannot be determined with standardized methods. Such guides
smoke release rate as well as ignitability. The potential for
alsoexplainthepotentialpitfallsandtheadvantagesinherentin
varying the incident heat flux makes the test method very
this type of method.
versatile. Repeatability and reproducibility data suggest that
the precision is adequate. It has also been used for predictions
4.6 Ad-hoc tests exist which are peculiar to correction and
offullscalefireperformance(seealso6.4.2and6.5.3forother
detention occupancies.
uses of this test method). This apparatus is often referred to as
the Ohio State University rate of heat release apparatus (or
5. Significance and Use
OSU,forshort).Ithasbeenshownthatthecorrelationbetween
5.1 The information presented provides the user with guid-
time to ignition in this test method and in Test Method E1354
ance on identification of test methods, and related documents,
is good, except at very low incident heat fluxes, when the pilot
which are potentially useful to determine fire-test-response
flame in Test Method E906 causes high localized hot spots
characteristics of upholstery products, and the materials of 10
(1-2).
which they are made, present inside detention cells, in deten-
tion and correctional facilities. Some information is given
about every standard included, so as to allow a judgment as to
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to the list of references at the end
the potential usefulness of the original method. of this standard.
F1870 − 22
6.1.5 Test Method E1321 is used to determine various candle-like downward flaming combustion. It actually serves
ignition parameters, principally surface ignition temperature as a measure of the ease of extinction of the material. The
andcriticalheatfluxforignition.Thespecimenfortheignition specimen size depends on the application: cellular plastics
testisasheet155by155mm(6.1by6.1in.)(withamaximum (such as foams) use specimens 125 mm long, 12.5 mm wide
thickness of 50 mm (2 in.), which is exposed vertically to a and 12.5 mm thick (5 by 0.5 by 0.5 in.), while films or fabrics
pre-set incident heat flux resulting from a gas-fired radiant require specimens 140 by 52 mm (5.5 by 2.1 in.), and use
panel, in the absence or presence of a gas burner pilot, in the thickness. The specimen is placed vertically inside a glass
open.The primary objective of the test method is to determine column and ignited at the top with a small gas flame. The
fundamental thermophysical properties, such as the thermal repeatability and reproducibility of this test method are
inertia, as well as critical heat fluxes and surface temperatures excellent, and it is capable of generating numerical data
for ignitability and flame spread. One major disadvantage of covering a very broad range of responses (4-5). This test
the test method is that materials which melt and drip cannot be method is inappropriate as a predictor of real scale fire
easily tested with the apparatus, without making some signifi- performance, mainly because of the low heat input and the
cant modifications. The potential for varying the incident heat artificiality of the high oxygen environments used. However, it
makes the test method somewhat versatile, but its crucial is widely required in specifications and quoted in data sheets.
importanceisastheproviderofmaterialandcompositedatain The method is suitable as a quantitative quality control tool,
a form suitable for input into engineering fire safety or fire during manufacturing, and as a semi-qualitative indicator of
hazard assessment models. It has been developed as a result of the effectiveness of additives, during research and
attempts to improve on some of the shortcomings of the Test development, for low incident energy situations (6).
Method E162 apparatus (see 6.3.2). Repeatability and repro-
6.3 Flame Spread:
ducibility have not been developed in the first two years since
6.3.1 Two test apparatuses are suitable to assess flame
thetestmethodwasapprovedasastandard.However,prelimi-
spread of materials: the ones in Test Method E162 (and Test
nary indications suggest that the test method is well suited for
Method D3675) and in Test Method E1321.
materials(orcomposites)whicharenonmeltingandwhichcan
6.3.2 TestMethodE162isusedtodetermineaflamespread
be ignited without raising the incident flux to potentially
index.Itconsistsofagas-fedradiantpanelinfrontofwhichan
dangerous limits. It has been used for predictions of full scale
inclined (at a 30° angle) specimen (150 by 460 mm (12 by
flame performance (see also 6.3.3 for other uses of this test
18in.)) is exposed to a radiant flux equivalent to a black body
method). This apparatus is often referred to as the Lateral
temperature of 670 °C (1238 °F), namely approximately
Ignition and Flame Spread Test (or LIFT, for short).
45kW⁄m , in the presence of a small gas pilot flame. The
6.1.6 Test Method E1354 is also used to determine time to
maximum thickness that can be tested in the normal specimen
ignition.Thespecimenisaplaque100by100mm(4by4in.),
holder is 25 mm (1 in.), but alternative specimen holders can
with a maximum thickness of 50 mm (2 in.), which is exposed
accommodate thicker specimens. The ignition is forced near
horizontally (although vertical exposure is also feasible) to a
the upper edge of the specimen and the flame front progresses
pre-set incident heat flux resulting from an electrical heater
downward.Theflamespreadindexiscalculatedastheproduct
rod, tightly wound into the shape of a truncated cone, in the
of a flame spread factor, which results from the measurements
absence or presence of a spark igniter pilot, under a relatively
of flame front position and time, and a heat evolution factor,
strong air flow. The primary objective of the test method is to
which is proportional to the maximum temperature measured
determine heat release rate, but other fire-test-response char-
in the exhaust stack. Thus, this method also procures relative
acteristics are assessed simultaneously, including smoke re-
indication of heat release (see also 6.4.4). No repeatability or
leaserateandmasslossaswellasignitability.Thepotentialfor
reproducibility statement has been developed for this method
varying the incident heat flux makes the test method very
in the first 30 years after it was issued, and it has not been
versatile. It has been developed as a result of attempts to
shown to be an adequate predictor of real scale fire perfor-
improveonsomeoftheshortcomingsoftheTestMethodE906
mance. If the specimen melts or causes flaming drips, this is
apparatus (3). Repeatability and reproducibility data indicate
likelytoaffecttheflamespreadinawaythatisuneven;thetest
that the precision is very satisfactory. It has been extensively
method simply requires that such events be reported.
used for predictions of full scale fire performance and fire
Moreover, if flame spread is very rapid, the flame spread is
hazard (see also 6.4.3 and 6.5.4 for other uses of this test
potentially lost unless recording is continuous. This apparatus
method). This apparatus is often referred to as the cone
is often referred to as the radiant panel, and results from this
calorimeter rate of heat release apparatus (or cone, for short),
test are frequently required in regulations and detention envi-
and it is the most recently developed small scale test apparatus
ronment specifications and quoted in data sheets.
mentioned in this guide. It is widely acknowledged as a source
6.3.3 Test Method D3675 uses the same apparatus as Test
of important fire test data in engineering units.
Method E162, but is designed specifically for use with flexible
6.2 Ease of Extinction:
cellular materials only, up to a maximum thickness of 25 mm
6.2.1 Asingletestmethodexiststoassesseaseofextinction:
(1 in.). Thus, the method is particularly suitable for padding
Test Method D2863.
materials used in upholstery. The major differences with Test
6.2.2 Test Method D2863 is used to determine the oxygen Method E162 are the pilot burner, the times for measurement
index, which is the minimum oxygen concentration (in a and the calculation procedure. The repeatability and reproduc-
flowing mixture of oxygen and nitrogen) required to support ibility of this test method is such that the test method is able to
F1870 − 22
distinguish between the flame spread of materials which differ be tested horizontally, by using a specialized specimen holder,
by a large amount in their responses, which makes it adequate and a reflector screen), and (4) that continuous mass loss
for identifying poor performers. measurements are not available. This test method was pro-
posed (12) as a bench-scale mattress test for institutional
6.3.4 TestMethodE1321wasdevelopedasanimprovement
mattresses, and has been adopted by some hotel chains, and by
on the apparatus in Test Method E162 (7). The apparatus has
some correctional facilities. This test method, at an incident
been described in 6.1.5. The specimen size for flame spread
heat flux of 35 kW/m , is also being used for regulation by the
studies is 155 by 800 mm (6.1 by 31.5 in.) by a maximum
Federal Aviation Administration, for aircraft interiors (13).
thickness of 50 mm (2 in.). This test method determines the
6.4.3 Test Method E1354 is also used to determine heat
critical flux for flame spread, the surface temperature needed
for flame spread and the thermal inertia or thermal heating release;theapparatushasbeendescribedin6.1.6.Theprimary
property (product of the thermal conductivity, the density and objective of the test method is to determine heat release. This
the specific heat) of the material under test. These properties is done by using the oxygen consumption principle, which
aremainlyusedforassessmentoffirehazardandforinputinto shows that heat release rate is proportional to the difference
fire models. A flame spread parameter, φ, is also determined, between the oxygen concentration in the exhaust stream of
andthiscanbeusedasadirectwayofcomparingtheresponses combustion products and in the inlet air (14-15). This is done
of the specimens. Repeatability and reproducibility have not by using very accurate oxygen analyzers (normally of the
beendevelopedinthefirsttwoyearssincethetestmethodwas paramagnetic type), and alleviates the problem of heat losses
associated with lack of adiabaticity of Test Method E906. The
approved as a standard. However, preliminary indications
suggest that the test method is well suited for materials (or geometricalarrangementalsoresultsinhomogeneousheatflux
distribution on the specimen surface, and the normal specimen
composites) which are non melting and which can be ignited
without raising the incident flux to potentially dangerous orientation is horizontal (although provisions exist for vertical
testing). Measurements are made at intervals not exceeding 5 s
limits. It has been used for predictions of full scale flame
performance (see also 6.1.4 for other uses of this test method) (thisisalsoreferredtoasascanperiodof5sorless),andother
fire-test-response characteristics are assessed simultaneously
(8).
with heat release, including smoke release rate, mass loss and
6.4 Heat Release:
ignitability. The potential for varying the incident heat flux
6.4.1 Two generic small-scale test methods have been
makes the test method very versatile. Repeatability and repro-
designed to assess the heat release of materials: Test Method
ducibilitydataindicatethattheprecisionisverysatisfactory.It
E906andTestMethodE1354.TestMethodE162givesrelative
has been extensively used for predictions of full scale fire
information associated with heat release.
performance and fire hazard (see also 6.1.6 and 6.5.4 for other
6.4.2 The apparatus forTest Method E906 has already been
uses of this test method) and is starting to be adopted for
described in 6.1.3. The major purpose of this test method is to
specifications by some correctional facilities. It is widely
determine heat release, and this is done by measuring, with a
acknowledged as a source of important fire test data in
multiple thermocouple thermopile, the difference in tempera-
engineering units.
ture between the combustion products in the exhaust stream
6.4.4 The heat evolution factor in Test Method E162 (see
and the inlet air, and comparing with a calibration based on a
also 6.3.2) is a relative measure of heat release. It is calculated
measured flow rate of methane gas. Measurements are made at
as the product of the maximum temperature measured in the
intervals not exceeding 5 s (this is also referred to as a scan
stack and some apparatus-dependent constants. However, it is
period of5sor less). The method is based on the assumption
rarely used in detention environments.
that the system is functionally adiabatic, but this assumption is
6.5 Smoke Obscuration:
not fully accurate, so that absolute heat release results deter-
6.5.1 SmokeobscurationismeasuredinTestMethodsE662,
mined are somewhat low, although relative rankings of mate-
E906, and E1354 (or NFPA 271) and in the international
rialsarenotaffectedbythis (1-2).Theheatreleasemagnitudes
standard ISO 5659 Part 2. Withdrawn recommended practice
determinedaretheheatreleaserateperunitarea(ateveryscan)
NFPA 258 was technically equivalent to Test Method E662.
andthetotalheatreleasedperunitarea(whichistheintegrated
value of the heat release rate versus time curve). Heat release 6.5.2 Test Method E662 consists of a closed chamber,
rate has often been described as one of the most important 500dm in volume, wherein a 76 by 76 mm (3 by 3 in.), up to
fire-test-responsecharacteristics,becauseitsmaximumvalueis 25 mm (1 in.) thick is exposed vertically to an incident radiant
aquantitativemeasureofthepeakintensityofafire (9-11).The flux of 25kW⁄m , in the absence or presence of a small gas
potential for varying the incident heat flux makes the test pilot flame. The radiant heat source is a small electric furnace.
method very versatile. Repeatability and reproducibility data Lightobscurationismeasuredbyassessingthetransmissionof
suggest that the precision is adequate. It has also been used for light across a photometric system consisting of a light source
predictions of full scale fire performance (see also 6.1.4 and (white light) and a photodetector, oriented vertically, to reduce
6.5.3 for other uses of this test method). Some deficiencies measurement variations due to stratification of smoke. The
associated with this test method are: (1) lack of adiabaticity result obtained from this test method is a specific optical
(addressed above), (2) lack of homogeneity of the heat flux on density,characteristicoftheinstrument,andthevaluereported
thesurfaceofthetestspecimen,(3)thefactthatthenormaltest isusuallyeitherthemaximumorthevalueataparticulartime.
orientation is vertical,whichmeansthatspecimenswhichmelt The test method has no capability for assessing mass loss
and drip cannot be tested adequately (although specimens can continuously (16). The fact that the test orientation is vertical
F1870 − 22
means that specimens which melt and drip cannot be tested 6.6 Toxic Potency of Smoke:
adequately. Other limitations include: (1) the atmosphere
6.6.1 Toxic potency of smoke is measured in Test Method
inside the chamber becomes oxygen-deficient, for some tests,
E1678, NFPA 269 and in NASA CR-152056 (17). Test
before the end of the experiment; thus, combustion often
methodsmeasuretoxicpotencyofsmoke,butdonotdetermine
ceases when the oxygen concentration decreases and,
the actual smoke toxicity of the resulting fire atmosphere
therefore, for heavy composites, it is possible that the layers
(18-19). Moreover, it has been shown that the smoke toxicity
furthest away from the radiant source will not undergo com-
of a fire atmosphere is often controlled by the extent of
bustion; (2) the presence of walls causes losses through
burning, and consequently by the heat release rate (9, 11, 20).
depositionofcombustionparticulates;(3)thereare,frequently,
Anumberofcomparisonsoftheadvantagesanddisadvantages
extensivedepositsofsootandothercombustionparticulateson
ofvarioustestmethodshavebeenpublished (21-22),aswellas
the optical surfaces, resulting in incorrect measurements; and
analyses of the implications of smoke toxic potency measure-
(4) the test method does not carry out dynamic measurements:
ments to fire hazard assessment (23-26).
smokesimplycontinuesfillingaclosedchamber:therefore,the
6.6.2 In Test Method E1678 (NFPA269) a test specimen is
smoke obscuration values obtained do not represent conditions
subjectedtoignitionwhileexposedfor15mintoaradiantheat
of open fires. Moreover, it has been shown that results from 2
fluxof50kW/m .Thesmokeproducediscollectedfor30min
this test method do not correlate with those obtained in real
within a 200 L chamber communicating through a connecting
fires. The repeatability and reproducibility of the test method
chimney with the combustion assembly. Concentrations of the
have been determined in a round robin conducted by 20
major gaseous toxicants are monitored over the 30 min period,
laboratories with 25 materials, and managed by ASTM Sub-
with concentration-time products for each being determined
committeeE05.02shortlyaftertheinitialpublicationofthetest
from integration of the areas under the respective concentra-
method in 1979. The round robin suggested that the precision
tion–time plots. The concentration-time product data, along
of the method is lower than that of some more recent test
withthemasslossofthetestspecimenduringthetest,arethen
methods, but some technical improvements have since been
used in calculations to predict the preliminary 30 min smoke
made. However, irrespective of its precision, this test method,
toxic potency of the test specimen. Six rats are exposed to the
oftenknownastheNBSsmokedensitychamber,isextensively
combustion products for a period of 30 min, plus a post-
referred to in specifications and requirements, and is used in
exposure period of 14 days, to confirm the preliminary smoke
product data sheets.
toxicpotencyobtained.Thistestmethodisnotsuitableforfires
6.5.3 Test Method E906 (6.1.4 and 6.4.3) is used to assess
that reach flashover, because the carbon monoxide concentra-
smoke obscuration dynamically. The transmission of light
tion determined is not representative of the values obtained in
acrossaphotometricsystemconsistingofalightsource(white
such fires. The method also incorporates a correction of the
light) and a photodetector, oriented horizontally in the exhaust
carbon monoxide concentration to make it suitable for post-
stream is used to measure the rate of smoke release at every
flashover fires. The test method is not presently used for
scan and total smoke released (by integration of the rate of
requirements in the correctional industry.
smoke release versus time curve).
6.6.3 The National Aeronautics and Space Administration,
6.5.4 Test Method E1354 (6.1.6 and 6.4.4) is also used to
atitsAmesResearchCenter,commissionedatestmethodfrom
assess smoke obscuration dynamically. The transmission of
McDonnell Douglas, in the early 1980’s: NASA CR–152056
light across a photometric system consisting of a light source
(17).Inthismethodthetestspecimenispyrolyzedbyapplying
(monochromatic light from a laser beam) and a photodetector,
acurrentof3.5Afor200sthroughaheatingcoilwithinwhich
oriented horizontally in the exhaust stream is used to measure
1 g of the test specimen is placed. The heating coil is made of
extinction coefficients. By using a laser as light source the
24 gage Chromel A wire and is 546 mm (21.5 in.) long. It is
photometer has a smoke purging system which considerably
inserted inside a Vycor glass pyrolysis tube (13 mm (0.5 in.)
decreases soot deposits on the optics. The fire-test-response
diameter and 127 mm 5 in. long), which itself is placed inside
characteristic reported is the specific extinction area, which is
a 152 mm by 229 mm by 178 mm (6 in. by 9 in. by 7 in.)
calculated from the extinction coefficient, the volumetric flow
exposure chamber, which has a circulating fan and an exercise
rate and the mass loss rate. Withdrawn test method NFPA271
wheel. A mouse is placed inside the chamber on the exercise
was technically equivalent to Test Method E1354.
wheel.Themouseisexaminedat15minandat30min(endof
6.5.5 A modification of Test Method E662 has been stan-
test)todeterminewhetherithasbecomeincapacitated(ifheno
dardized internationally (ISO 5660, Part 2), which differs from
longer turns the wheel) or has died. Little published informa-
the original in that the heat source is a conical radiant heater,
tion exists about this test method, which has not been adopted
similar(butnotidentical)totheoneinTestMethodE1354,the
by a consensus standards organization. The use of mice as test
pilot ignition is achieved by means of a spark igniter, the
animals has been shown to be inadequate for materials which
specimen is oriented horizontally, and there is an optional
can release irritants, because mice are excessively sensitive to
capability for a load cell, which assesses mass loss continu-
irritants (20-22). This test method is required in some correc-
ously.Theincidentheatfluxcanbesetatanyvalue,butvalues
tional facility specifications for mattress cushioning materials.
of 25 and 50 kW/m are required in the standard. The
repeatability and reproducibility of this test method are better
7. Small Scale Applications Tests
than those ofTest Method E662, and it also solves some of the
limitations of that procedure. 7.1 Smoldering Ignition:
F1870 − 22
7.1.1 NFPA 260 and NFPA 261 are procedures designed to with 18 cigarettes, and none of the char lengths is allowed to
assess the ignitability of fabrics, paddings, and interliners to exceed 51 mm (2 in.). This is a mandatory federal standard.
smoldering ignition by cigarettes. 7.1.5 California Technical Bulletin 117-1980 contains a
section addressing smoldering ignition by cigarettes, for resil-
7.1.1.1 The test methods used to be equivalent to Test
ient filling materials. A distinction is made between cellular
Methods E1352 (NFPA 261) and Test Method E1353 (NFPA
260); however, the NFPA test methods have replaced the materials (such as foams) and others. The latter are made into
ignition source and use a cigarette (NIST SRM 1196) that specimens 305 by 305 mm (12 by 12 in.), and tested both
simulates the commercial cigarettes formerly used while Test uncovered and covered with one layer of sheeting material,
Methods E1352 and E1353 typically use modern commercial with a pass/fail criterion of 2 in. Cellular materials are tested
cigarettes. All commercial cigarettes sold in the US are using a mock-up test stand, and covered with a standard
required to comply with the requirements of Test Method
cellulosic fabric. The pass/fail criterion for the foam (cellular
E2187 and are, thus, “low ignition propensity cigarettes,”
material) is based on the weight loss: not more than one out of
which are likely to be much less effective in igniting fabrics.
six foams is permitted to lose 20 % or more of the initial
7.1.1.2 Mattresses are required by the Consumer Product weight.
Safety Commission to comply with 16 CFR Part 1632,
7.1.6 California Technical Bulletin 117-2013 requires that
StandardfortheFlammabilityofMattressesandMattressPads test specimens comply with the follow: (a) no smoldering at
(formerly DOC FF4-72, 40 FR 59940). The test has replaced the end of a 45 minute test; (b) a vertical char length not
the ignition source by the same one used in NFPA 260 and
exceeding a value of 1.8 in. for cover fabrics or of 2 in. for
NFPA261,namelyNISTSRM1196.Resilientfillingmaterials
barrier materials or of 1.5 in. for resilient filling materials or
wereformerlyalsotestedinCaliforniatoassesstheirignitabil-
decking materials; and (c) no transition to flaming during the
ity by cigarettes using Technical Bulletin 117-1980 (CA TB
test.
117-1980); the test method has been discontinued. In 2013, a
7.1.7 Smoldering ignition tests are designed to assess
n
...