Flammability Test Methods

Flammability testing is a critical part of ensuring safe and trustworthy consumer products. Industry applications for flammability test methods include textiles and consumer goods, aerospace and transportation, bedding, and furniture materials.

Consumer products must satisfy safety requirements and regulations before being brought to market, including the rate of burning, heat and smoke release criteria. Our experts are dedicated to providing you with a thorough and accurate flammability test program that limits risk for your business and your customers.

Vertical and Horizontal Flammability Testing

Flammability test methods measure how easily materials ignite, how quickly they burn and how they react when burned. The materials are placed over a Bunsen burner either vertically or horizontally, depending on the specification. During a vertical flammability test, a material is observed for the length of time it burns after the igniting flame is removed, how much of the specimen burns and whether or not it drips flaming particles. In contrast, horizontal flammability tests observe if the material continues to burn after the test flame is removed and then calculate the rate at which the specimen burns.

Flammability of Mattresses and Furniture

Flammability testing of mattresses and furniture is an essential part of ensuring fire safety for consumers. These flammability tests occur in a burn room which contributes to the measurement of heat release, smoke release and opacity, combustive gas release and total mass loss. This type of flammability test ignites mattresses or furniture with a lit cigarette or a large open flame to determine how a product will react in cases of accidental and intentional fires.

Flammability Testing Standards 

Our team of experts serve a wide range of industries, offering a large scope of test standards including: 

Clothing, Furniture and Bedding Materials 

• 16 CFR Part 1610; 16 CFR Part 1615; 16 CFR Part 1616; 16 CFR Part 1632; 16 CFR Part 1633 

• ASTM D635; ASTM D1230; ASTM D6413 

• CA TB 117; CA TB 121; CA TB 129; CA TB 133 

• BFD IX-11 Open-flame mattress

• BS 5852; BS 6807; BS 7176; BS 7177

• BS EN 597; BS EN 1021

• BS EN ISO 9773

• CAN/CGSB 4.2 No. 27.5

• NAVSEA 05Z6 PD 5-04A

• SAE J369

• UL 94

Automotive 

• 49 CFR Part 571.302 (DOT/FMVSS 302)

• General Motors GMW 3232 

• Honda HES D6003

• ISO 3795

• Nissan NES M0094 

• Toyota TSM 0500G; TSM 0504G  

The element Advantage

Our experienced experts conduct flammability test methods to evaluate materials during research and development stages or to meet industry, commercial, or regulatory standards. As a recognized leader in materials testing, Element has laboratories throughout the United States and Europe ready to assist with your toughest testing challenges.

For more information about our flammability test methods or to request a quote, contact us today.