Fire Test Standards - Panelling
The current classification for wall panelling is BS 476 Part 7 “Class 1” and BS 476 Part 6 “Class 0”
BS 476 Part 7 specifies a method of test for measuring the lateral spread of flame along the surface of a specimen of a product orientated in a vertical position, and a classification system based on the rate and the extent of flame spread. It provides data suitable for comparing the performances of essentially flat materials, composites or assemblies, which are used primarily as the exposed surfaces of walls or ceilings.
The test to Class 1 a sample of the product is set at right angles to a radiant panel. This looks much like a 1M square gas block fire. A small pilot burner is brought in contact with the panel being tested and the test commences. In order to receive a successful result the flame must not travel more than 305 mm in a horizontal direction for the period of the test, which is 10 minutes. The purpose of this test is to establish how a product would react when exposed to fire conditions and more specifically, if, and how the product would assist in the passage of the fire and allow or assist as a conduit for the fire to move through a building or area. If a product meets the criterion of class 1, it may then but only then, be tested to class 0.
BS 476 Part 6 specifies a method of test, the results being expressed as a fire propagation index, which provides a comparative measure of the contribution to the growth of a fire made by an essentially flat material, composite or assembly. It is primarily intended for the assessment of the fire performance of internal wall and ceiling linings.
The test to class “O” uses a small burning chamber, typically powered by gas, which is first calibrated without the test specimen. A constant ignited gas supply is applied. The exhaust gas temperature is measured over a given period. These temperatures are then taken as the calibrated measurements. Once this has been done, a sample of the panel or product is inserted and the exhaust gasses are again measured over the same period. The results of these temperature measurements are compared with the earlier calibration measurements and if within the parameter and guidelines of the test standard, the product either satisfies the criterion of the test and results in a pass, or does not which results in a fail. The purpose of this test is to establish how the product will act as a fuel sustaining a fire if one was to become established in the area or building where it is used.
