Flammability Tests
Overview of Flammability Tests
Ignition and Flame – Measurement of Horizontal Burning Rate
Automotive manufacturers must ensure that materials installed in vehicles ideally do not burn at all, or at most at a defined speed. To guarantee this, the determination of the horizontal burning rate is often included in the scope of automotive approval tests.
Test Chamber for Flammability Testing
Common standards include, for example, ISO 3795, DIN 75200, GMW 3232, GB 8410, for VW the TL 1010, the BMW GS 97038, or the DBL 5307 from Mercedes Benz. These standards are largely based on the American regulation FMVSS 302. Differences lie in the subtleties of evaluation, the permissible minimum sample size, or the pre-conditioning or aging of the sample. The design of the horizontal test chamber to be used, however, is always the same (see figure on the right).
Procedure for Flammability Testing
In the horizontal flammability test, the test specimen is exposed to a defined ignition flame, and the progression of the flame front is then observed under precisely defined airflow conditions. The burning distance and the temporal course of the burning process are evaluated. The intensity of flame development is not decisive. Typically, the fire test is considered passed if the material does not ignite, extinguishes itself, or the burning rate is less than 100 mm/min. Individual specifications in the standards must be observed here.
Pre-treatment of Samples and Test Specimen Preparation
In addition to the actual flammability test, standards such as VW TL 1010 often require pre-conditioning, and sometimes artificial aging, of the samples. Thanks to our extensive equipment, we are well-prepared for these eventualities. Furthermore, in addition to performing the actual test, we offer test specimen preparation from your raw material (for common thermoplastics). This is an important service, as the extraction of the required flat and large-format test specimens from many components is often not possible.
Need more Flammability Tests?
ASO can offer you both consulting services and testing services regarding flammability tests. Accreditation according to ISO 17025, approval by Daimler AG, and participation in round robin tests ensure that the tests are fully recognized. We would be pleased to provide you with a customized offer.