Standard Test Methods for Determining the Flammability Characteristics of Nonrigid Solid Plastics

1.1 These test methods cover small-scale laboratory procedures for determining the comparative extinguishing characteristics (Test Method A) and the relative rate of burning (Test Method B) of solid plastic materials that, due to specimen thinness and nonrigidity, may distort or sag when tested using Test Method D3801 or Test Method D635. In Test Method A, a flame is applied to the base of specimens held in a vertical position and the extinguishing times are determined upon removal of the test flame. In Test Method B, a flame is applied to the free end of specimens held in a horizontal position and the rate of burning is determined as the flame front progresses between two benchmarks.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values in parentheses are given for information only.

1.3 This standard should be used to measure and describe the properties of materials, products, or assemblies in response to heat and flame under controlled laboratory conditions and should not be used to describe or appraise the fire hazard or fire risk of materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions. However, results of this test may be used as elements of a fire risk assessment which takes into account all of the factors which are pertinent to an assessment of the fire hazard of a particular end use.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, 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. For specific hazard statements, see Note 1.