1.1This test method provides for determining the release rates of heat and visible smoke (Note 1) from materials, products, or assemblies when exposed to different levels of radiant heat.

1.2This fire-test-response method assesses heat release by a thermal method, thermopile, using a radiant heat source composed of an array of four electrical resistance elements.

1.3This test method provides for radiant thermal exposure of a specimen both with and without a pilot. Piloted ignition results from direct flame impingement on the specimen (piloted, point ignition) or from use of the pilot to ignite gases evolved by pyrolysis of the specimen.

1.4Heat and smoke release are measured from the moment the specimen is injected into a controlled exposure chamber. The measurements are continued during the period of ignition (and progressive flame involvement of the surface in the case of point ignition), and to such a time that the test is terminated.

1.5The apparatus described in this test method is often referred to as the Ohio State University (OSU) rate of heat release apparatus. Configurations A and B are variations on the original design.

1.6This test method is suitable for exposing essentially planar materials, products or assemblies to a constant, imposed external heat flux that ranges from 0 to 80 kW/m ².

1.7This test method is intended for use in research and development and not as a basis for rating, regulatory, or code purposes.

1.8The apparatus described in this test method has been used in two configurations. Configuration A is that which is used by the Federal Aviation Administration for assessing materials for aircraft use, at an external heat flux of 35 kW/m² (DOT/FAA/AR-00/12), while configuration B is suitable, at various incident heat fluxes, for research and development purposes.

1.9This test method does not provide information on the fire performance of the test specimens under fire conditions other than those conditions specified in this test method. Known limitations of this test method are described in 1.9.1 – 1.9.5.

1.10The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.11Fire testing involves hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. See Section 6.

1.12This standard is used to measure and describe the response or 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.

1.13This 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.

1.14Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests.