Flammability Testing of Plastics

Element can test a wide range of plastic materials across various industries, from electronic device components to construction materials. Our laboratories evaluate everything from thin films to thick plastic sections, foamed plastics to composites. Whether you need testing for appliance housings, insulation materials, vehicle interiors, rail, marine or building products, we deliver precise data on flammability characteristics to support your compliance needs and help you meet safety requirements for your end application.

Our comprehensive testing capabilities assess the full spectrum of flammability characteristics your plastic materials need to succeed in the marketplace. We conduct vertical and horizontal testing to assess burning rates and test for ignition propensity, ignition temperature (in the air), and oxygen index. These evaluations provide critical insights into how your materials will respond in fire situations, helping you make more informed decisions about material selection and installation. 

• UL 94 vertical burn tests (V, 5VA, 5VB, VTM classifications) 

• UL 94 horizontal burn tests (HB, HBF classifications) 

• Oxygen Index Test (BS EN ISO 4589-2:2017 & BS EN ISO 4589-3:20) 

• Surface Spread of Flame Test (BS 476: Part 7:1997) 

• Ignitability Testing (BS 476 Part 12:1991, BS EN ISO 11925-2:2020, BS ISO 11925-3:1997) 

• Single Burning Item (SBI) Test (BS EN 13823:2020) 

• Rail Testing EN 45545-2 

• IMO Fire Test Procedures Code 

The information you gain from UL 94 tests provides: 

• An indication of the material's potential acceptance concerning a particular application 

• Material classification to relevant industry standards 

• Material development data 

• Quality control assurances 

Cone Calorimeter screening tests 
Gain valuable development insights with this advanced testing, which provides critical data on your material's heat release rate, smoke production, and ignition behavior during development phases. Testing plastics through the Cone Calorimeter delivers insights into flammability properties that are crucial for making informed material selection choices for your final application, helping you develop safer products that meet regulatory requirements from the earliest stages. 

• Early-stage material assessment 

• Comparative analysis of material alternatives 

• Detailed heat release characterization 

• Smoke production quantification 

• Material optimization guidance based on performance data 

Our approach to flammability testing combines technical precision with customer-focused service. We work with you to determine the most appropriate test methods based on your material type and end-use application. The information you gain from our testing provides an indication of your material's potential acceptance for particular applications, classification to relevant industry standards, and quality control assurances, helping you navigate regulatory requirements with confidence. 

• Material classification to relevant industry standards 

• Comprehensive data for R&D 

• Quality control assurance testing 

• Testing programs across multiple international standards 

• Customized testing protocols for specific applications 

• Standardized testing for regulatory compliance 

Oxygen Index Test (BS EN ISO 4589-2:2017 & BS EN ISO 4589-3:20) 
This test measures the minimum oxygen concentration needed to support sustained ignition, indicating how flammable a material is. A series of specimens are tested at different oxygen levels, and the lowest concentration that sustains burning is recorded as the oxygen index value. 

Surface Spread of Flame Test (BS 476: Part 7:1997) 
This test assesses how flames spread across the surface of a material without necessarily igniting its core. It is used to classify plastics and surface materials based on their flame spread performance, helping evaluate their potential behavior in real fire situations. The test is primarily used for wall and ceiling linings. 

Ignitability Testing (BS 476 Part 12:1991, BS EN ISO 11925-2:2020, BS ISO 11925-3:1997) 
These tests determine how easily a material, composite, or assembly ignites when exposed to direct flames. The test setup includes multiple ignition sources that simulate real-life fire scenarios. Observations include sustained ignition, flaming debris, and whether fire spreads to the edges of the specimen. However, this test does not assess flame spread. 

Single Burning Item (SBI) Test (BS EN 13823:2020) 
This test evaluates a material’s heat release, flame spread, and smoke production when exposed to a burning object. The results help determine how a material contributes to fire growth and how quickly it could cause a fire to spread. Understanding these properties is essential for ensuring fire safety in buildings. 

Access industry-leading testing capabilities with Element's state-of-the-art equipment. Our fire testing laboratories feature advanced Cone Calorimeters—the most widely used apparatus for determining potential heat evolution in a fire. As part of our flammability testing of plastics, we offer screening and material development tests through the Cone Calorimeter, providing critical insights into your material's flammability properties and helping you make more informed material selection decisions. 

• Cone Calorimeter testing apparatus 

• Vertical and horizontal burn test chambers 

• Oxygen index testing equipment 

• Specialized flammability assessment chambers 

• Heat and smoke measurement systems

Element's fire testing laboratories across North America provide accessible, local testing with consistent global standards. For European testing needs, our group company Warringtonfire are fire and flammability specialists offering reaction to fire testing such as oxygen index tests and Single Burning Item (SBI) tests. With our combined expert network across multiple continents, you get seamless access to flammability testing expertise wherever your business operates. 

• Multiple fire testing laboratories across North America 

• Facilities in Europe, including Warrington, UK 

• Global network of fire testing experts in The Middle East, Australia, Asia, and Africa 

• Local support with international capabilities 

• Consistent testing standards across all facilities