ASTM D5048

ASTM D5048 – Standard Test Method for Measuring the Comparative Burning Characteristics and Resistance to Burn-Through of Solid Plastics Using a 125-mm Flame

Description:

Significance and Use

5.1 The test results present afterflame plus afterglow times, in seconds, for a material under the conditions of the test. The test results for plaques also indicate whether or not the specified flame will burn through a material.

5.2 The test is capable of assessing the effects of material thickness, colors, additives, deterioration, and possible loss of volatile components on afterflame and afterglow.

5.3 The burning characteristics is found to vary with thickness. Test data shall be compared only with data for material of the same thickness.

5.4 The results serve as a reference for comparing the relative performance of materials and can be an aid in material selection.

5.5 In this test method, the specimens are subjected to one or more specific laboratory test conditions. If different test conditions are substituted or the end-use conditions are changed, it will not always be possible by or from this test method to predict changes in the fire-test-response characteristics measured. Therefore, the results are valid only for the fire-test-exposure conditions described in this test method.

Scope

1.1 This fire-test-response standard contains a test method for small-scale laboratory procedures to be used to determine the relative burning characteristics and the resistance to burn-through of plastics using small bar and plaque specimens exposed to a 125-mm (500-W nominal) flame.

1.1.1 Use Test Method D3801 for assessing comparative burning characteristics of solid plastics in a vertical position.

Note 1: This test method is equivalent to IEC 60695-11-20 and UL 94 (Section 9).

1.2 The results are intended to serve as a preliminary indication of their acceptability with respect to flammability for a particular application. The final acceptance of the material is dependent upon its use in the end-product that conforms with the standards applicable to such end-product.

1.3 The classification system described in Appendix X1 is intended for quality assurance and the preselection of component materials for products.

1.4 If found to be appropriate, it is suitable to apply the requirements to other nonmetallic materials. Such application is outside the scope of this technical committee.