ASTM E1740-22 Standard Test Method for Determining the Heat Release Rate and Other Fire-Test-Response Characteristics of Wall Covering or Ceiling Covering Composites Using a Cone Calorimeter

Scope:

ASTM E1740-22 is fire-test-response test method that covers determination of the ignitability and heat release rate of composites consisting of a wall covering or ceiling covering, a substrate, and all laminating adhesives, coatings, and finishes.

Test Procedure:  

The ASTM E1740-22 test method is based on the observation that generally the net heat of combustion is directly related to the amount of oxygen required for combustion. Specimens in the test are burned in ambient air conditions while subjected to a prescribed external initial test heat flux of 35 kW/m². The heat release is determined by measurement of the oxygen consumption, as determined by the oxygen concentration and flow rate in the combustion product stream. The primary measurements are oxygen concentration and exhaust gas flow rate. Additional measurements include the mass loss rate of the specimen, time to sustained flaming (or time to ignition), and effective heat of combustion.

Specimen size:

The test specimens are cut to an overall size of 100 by 100 mm and tested in the actual thickness, if a composite. The maximum thickness to be tested is 50 mm. Specimens shall be cured according to the manufacturer’s instructions and conditioned at an ambient temperature of 23±3°C and relative humidity of 50±5 % for a minimum of 48 h.

Conclusion:

ASTM E1740-22 provides detailed and thorough information about measuring the fire-test-response characteristics of wall coverings, ceiling coverings, wall covering composites, and ceiling covering composites.