Title:

Licensee:

Date:

Conditions of use (Click here for full conditions of Licence)

WWWWEB EB EB EB SSSSEARCHEARCHEARCHEARCHCheck if current

StandardsWatch (Info and Login)

Find similar documents

Visit our website

Standards AustraliaLICENCE

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

Australian/New Zealand Standard™

Methods for fire tests on buildingmaterials, components and structures

Part 3: Simultaneous determinationof ignitability, flame propagation, heatrelease and smoke release

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

This Joint Australian/New Zealand Standard was prepared by Joint TechnicalCommittee BD/18, Fire Safety. It was approved on behalf of the Council of StandardsAustralia on 30 July 1999 and on behalf of the Council of Standards New Zealand on20 July 1999. It was published on 5 November 1999.

The following interests are represented on Committee BD/18:

Australasian Fire Authorities CouncilAustralian Building Codes BoardAustralian Chamber of Commerce and IndustryAustralian Institute of BuildingAustralian Wool Testing AuthorityBuilding Research Association of New ZealandBureau of Steel Manufacturers of AustraliaCement and Concrete Association of AustraliaCSIRO Building, Construction and EngineeringFPA AustraliaNew Zealand Fire Protection AssociationNew Zealand Manufacturers FederationPlastics and Chemicals Industries AssociationScientific Services Laboratory — A Business Unit of AGALSociety of Fire Protection Engineers, New ZealandTesting Interests (Australia)

Keeping Standards up-to-date

Standards are living documents which reflect progress in science, technology and systems.To maintain their currency, all Standards are periodically reviewed, and new editions arepublished. Between editions, amendments may be issued. Standards may also be withdrawn.It is important that readers assure themselves they are using a current Standard, whichshould include any amendments which may have been published since the Standard waspurchased.

Detailed information about joint Australian/New Zealand Standards can be found by visitingthe Standards Australia web site at www.standards.com.au or Standards New Zealand website at www.standard.co.nz and looking up the relevant Standard in the on-line catalogue.

Alternatively, both organizations publish an annual printed Catalogue with full details of allcurrent Standards. For more frequent listings or notification of revisions, amendments andwithdrawals, Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand offer a number of updateoptions. For information about these services, users should contact their respective nationalStandards organization.

We also welcome suggestions for the improvement in our Standards, and especiallyencourage readers to notify us immediately of any apparent inaccuracies or ambiguities.Please address your comments to the Chief Executive of either Standards AustraliaInternational or Standards New Zealand at the address shown on the back cover.

This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 98036.

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

Australian/New Zealand Standard™

Methods for fire tests on buildingmaterials, components and structures

Part 3: Simultaneous determinationof ignitability, flame propagation, heatrelease and smoke release

Originated as A30—1935 (being and endorsement of BS 476—1932).Previous edition AS 1530.3—1989.Jointly revised and designated as AS/NZS 1530.3:1999.

COPYRIGHT© Standards Australia/Standards New ZealandAll rights are reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or copied in any form or byany means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, without the writtenpermission of the publisher.

Jointly published by Standards Australia International Ltd, PO Box 1055, Strathfield, NSW2135 and Standards New Zealand, Private Bag 2439, Wellington 6020

ISBN 0 7337 2896 0

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 2

PREFACE

This Standard was prepared by the Joint Standards Australia /Standards New ZealandCommittee BD/18, Fire Safety.

The objective of this revision is to specify procedures for laboratories to adopt whenmounting specimen materials in the test apparatus. The basic method of test has not beenchanged.

The mounting procedures are specific for a range of materials being tested. The adoptionof these procedures is designed to improve the consistency of the test results.

The test provides data for assessing the potential hazard of wall linings during the earlygrowth of fire in a compartment. It also provides a discriminating assessment of the firebehaviour of different materials when subjected to the test method described.

Fire is a complex phenomenon and the fire hazard of a building material is a function ofthe characteristics of the material, how it is installed and used, and the environment inwhich it is present. No single test method can give a full assessment of fire hazard underall conditions of fire that may apply. There must be a constant awareness of the variablesapplicable when using this test method to assess the fire hazard of any particular materialor component under other fire exposure or when used in applications other than walls.

The terms ‘normative’ and ‘informative’ have been used in this Standard to define theapplication of the appendix to which they apply. A ‘normative’ appendix is an integralpart of a Standard, whereas an ‘informative’ appendix is only for information andguidance.

The use of Notes in this Standard are of an advisory nature only to give explanation orguidance to the user on recommended design considerations or technical procedures, or toprovide an informative cross-reference to other documents or publications. Notes toclauses on this Standard do not form a mandatory part for compliance with this Standard.

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

3 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

CONTENTS

Page

FOREWORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL1.1 SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61.2 OBJECTIVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61.3 APPLICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61.4 PRINCIPLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61.5 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61.6 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

SECTION 2 TEST PROCEDURE2.1 APPLICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82.2 SPECIMENS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82.3 TEST APPARATUS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82.4 CALIBRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102.5 TEST PROCEDURE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112.6 COMPUTATIONS FOR INDIVIDUAL SPECIMENS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122.7 COMPUTATION OF MEAN VALUES AND STANDARD ERRORS . . . . . 122.8 REQUIREMENTS FOR SUPPLEMENTARY TESTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

SECTION 3 COMPUTATION OF INDICES AND CLASSIFICATION FORREGULATORY PURPOSES

3.1 INDICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163.2 CLASSIFICATION FOR IGNITABILITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163.3 CLASSIFICATION FOR SPREAD OF FLAME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163.4 CLASSIFICATION FOR HEAT EVOLVED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163.5 CLASSIFICATION FOR SMOKE DEVELOPED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

SECTION 4 SPECIMEN MOUNTING PROCEDURES4.1 SCOPE OF SECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194.2 APPLICATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194.3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194.4 BASIC PROCEDURES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204.5 MATERIAL GROUPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214.6 FABRICS (CURTAINS, DRAPES AND AWNINGS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214.7 THERMOPLASTIC SHEETS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224.8 FOIL LAMINATES—REFLECTIVE (SARKING) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224.9 FLEXIBLE DUCTING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224.10 TEXTILE FLOOR COVERINGS AND UNDERLAYS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234.11 RESILIENT FLOOR COVERINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234.12 INSULATING MATERIALS—BATT, SHEET TYPE OR BLANKETS . . . . 234.13 INSULATION—LOOSE FILL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234.14 SOLIDS—RIGID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 244.15 THERMOPLASTIC GLAZING MATERIALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 244.16 APPLIED FINISHES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 4

PageSECTION 5 REPORTING OF RESULTS

5.1 DESCRIPTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 265.2 RESULTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 265.3 SUPPLEMENTARY OBSERVATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 265.4 INDICES FOR REGULATORY PURPOSES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275.5 APPLICATION TO FIRE HAZARD ASSESSMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275.6 REFERENCE IN OTHER AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275.7 COMMERCIAL LITERATURE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

APPENDICESA GUIDE TO THE INTERPRETATION OF RESULTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28B INTERLABORATORY TRIALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

5 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

FOREWORD

The results of this fire test may be used to directly assess fire hazard, but it should berecognized that a single test method will not provide a full assessment of fire hazardunder all fire conditions.

These results provide information on ignitability, flame propagation, heat release andsmoke release which are related to the performance of wall linings in simulated fires inthe corner of a compartment. A consumer or regulatory authority should consider therelevance of this information to the fire hazard represented by the intended application ofthe material or component. The performance in the test applies to the thickness of thespecimen in a flat panel shape. The results may not be valid for other shapes orassemblies unless verified by further tests.

The results may also provide a comparison of the fire behaviour of different materials andcomponents. The application of the information obtained from this test to the fire hazardrequires consideration of the form and fixing of the specimen as tested and the intendedbuilding use of the material or component.

The standard regime of increasing impressed radiant heat applied to the specimens in thistest method was originally defined following studies of experimental room fires. Theincreasing intensity of radiant heat simulates that which could be experienced during theearly development of a building fire. Early work was carried out by J.E. Ferris at theCommonwealth Experimental Building Station (now CSIRO) in Sydney in 1955.

Ignition is initiated by a pilot flame that is held near, but which does not touch thespecimen. A material that does not ignite during the standard test may ignite if contactedwith a pilot flame during the test.

The reaction of thin unsupported flexible materials to flame impingement can be assessedby testing in accordance with AS 1530.2. Materials of thickness less than 2 mm, whichare sufficiently flexible to be bent by hand around a mandrel of 2 mm diameter or less,are subjected to the test described herein, should also be subjected to the test inAS 1530.2.

Since the heat source for the test method is a radiator, a reduction in the reflectiveproperties of certain materials by the deposition of dust and soot, by surface damage andby the formation of surface corrosion products, may produce a significant change in theresults from those obtained when the materials were tested in a new and a clean condition.

Some materials are subjected to cleaning treatments throughout their useful life. Sometreatments could adversely affect the fire hazard indices by, for example, removal orredeposition of fire-retarding agents. It is advisable that testing also be performed after anumber of treatments, in accordance with commercial cleaning practice.

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 6

STANDARDS AUSTRALIA/STANDARDS NEW ZEALAND

Australian/New Zealand Standard

Methods for fire tests on building materials, components andstructures

Part 3: Simultaneous determination of ignitability, flame propagation,heat release and smoke release

S E C T I O N 1 S C O P E A N D G E N E R A L

1.1 SCOPE This Standard sets out a test method for the assessment of buildingmaterials and components according to—

(a) their tendency to ignite;

(b) their tendency to propagate flame;

(c) the heat they release once ignition has occurred; and

(d) their tendency to release smoke.

NOTE: A guide to the interpretation of the results of this test, together with a full list ofreferences, is given in Appendix A.

1.2 OBJECTIVES The objective this Standard is to establish a test method forassessing the potential fire hazard of wall linings during the early growth of fire in acompartment. The test method also provides a discriminating or ranking assessment ofpotential fire hazard between a range of materials used in buildings.

1.3 APPLICATION This Standard will be referenced in the Building Code ofAustralia (BCA) by way of BCA Amendment No. 6 to be published on 1 January 2000,thereby superseding the previous edition, AS 1530.3—1989, which will be withdrawn12 months from the date of publication of this edition.

1.4 PRINCIPLE The specimen is held in a vertical configuration in a plane parallel toa radiant heater and the specimen moved towards the heater, in steps, over a period of20 min or until ignition, induced by a pilot flame, occurs.

1.5 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS The following documents are referred to in thisStandard:

AS1530 Methods for fire tests on building materials, components and structures1530.1 Part 1: Combustibility test for materials1530.2 Part 2: Test for flammability of materials

AS/NZS2111 Textile floor coverings—Tests and measurements2111.18 Part 18: Burning behaviour—Tablet test at ambient temperature

ISO291 Plastics—Standard atmospheres for conditioning and testing

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

7 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

1.6 DEFINITIONS

1.6.1 Backing board—a support material onto which the specimen is mounted for thepurpose of the test (see Clause 4.3.1).

1.6.2 Sandwich panel—a building component comprising a core of expanded orextruded polystyrene, polyurethane foam, or similar core materials, faced on both sideswith aluminium, steel, plastic or similar type material, the sheeting being bonded to ormechanically fixed to the core.

1.6.3 Sponsor— the person or organization who authorizes the test.

1.6.4 Substrate—a material onto which a finish or a coating to be tested is applied inpractice.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 8

S E C T I O N 2 T E S T P R O C E D U R E

2.1 APPLICATION The test is applicable to building materials and components.

2.2 SPECIMENS

2.2.1 General All specimens shall be prepared to represent, as nearly as possible, thematerial or component for the use for which it is intended.

Thin surfacings and coatings that are usually applied to substrates shall be applied to theappropriate substrates and shall be fixed, where applicable, with the adhesive substanceused.

Where a result for a range of colours of a material or component is required, at least twospecimens of the lightest and darkest colours of the range shall be included in the first sixspecimens tested. If the variability of results exceeds that specified in Clause 2.8,additional specimens of the lightest and darkest shall be taken to determine the relevantindices for each colour.

A laminar component shall be tested in the form in which it is to be used. If the exposedsurfaces are of different materials, it may be necessary to test both surfaces. Where bothsurfaces are to be tested, a second set of specimens shall be required (see Clause 2.2.2).

2.2.2 Size and number Nine representative specimens each measuring 600 ±5 mm ×450 ±5 mm and of normal thickness shall comprise a test sample. Six of these specimensshall be tested initially (see Clause 2.5 and Section 4).

NOTES:

1 To obtain specimens suitable for the test it may be necessary to flatten, specially fabricate,or join pieces. Any mounting should be carried out in accordance with Section 4 (seeParagraph A6, Appendix A).

2 It is recommended that one additional specimen be retained by the testing laboratory forfuture reference in case of a dispute.

2.2.3 Conditioning Before testing, the specimens shall be conditioned to constant massat a temperature of 20 ±2°C and a relative humidity of 65 ±5%.

Constant mass is considered to be reached where after two successive weighingoperations, carried out at minimum intervals of 24 h, the mass of the test piece has notvaried by more than 0.1% or 0.1 g, whichever is the greater (see ISO 291).

2.2.4 Specimen mounting For procedures applying to the restraint and mounting ofspecimens, refer to Section 4.

2.3 TEST APPARATUS

2.3.1 General The apparatus shall be in accordance with Figure 2.1 and shall consistessentially of a specimen support of timber framing that is thermally insulated andarranged to be facing and parallel to a gas-fired radiant panel and mounted in suchmanner that it can be progressively moved toward the radiant panel during the course ofthe test. The specimen support frame shall have a nominal size of 710 mm × 610 mm ×50 mm and shall be constructed from 100 mm × 50 mm (nominal) timber battens. Theframe shall be fully sheeted with thermal insulation on the side furthest from the radiantpanel. The remaining face and edges of framing battens shall also be protected by coverstrips of thermal insulation.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

9 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

2.3.2 Thermal insulation The thermal insulation shall be 6 mm thick and shall have avalue of√(k c) not greater than 600 at 150°C, where—

k = thermal conductivity, in watts per metre kelvin

= density, in kilograms per cubic metre

c = specific heat capacity, in joules per kilogram kelvin.

2.3.3 Shields Lateral shields faced with thermal insulation complying withClause 2.3.2 shall be provided as shown in Figure 2.1. A second test specimen supportand set of lateral shields shall be provided for use with alternate specimens.

2.3.4 Hood and flue A hood and flue located so as to collect the products ofcombustion discharged from specimens under test shall be fixed over the apparatus asshown in Figure 2.1. The hood shall be lined with thermal insulation complying with therequirements of Clause 2.3.2. The flue shall terminate within the laboratory atmosphereunder a vent which safely discharges the combustion products from the laboratory. Thevent shall be no closer than 450 mm from the top of the flue and shall be designed tominimize the influence of external air movements on the draught in the flue.

WARNING: THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT TOXIC OR HARMFUL GASESMAY EVOLVE DURING COMBUSTION OF SPECIMENS. PRECAUTIONSSHOULD BE TAKEN TO ENSURE THAT PRODUCTS FROM THE FLUE AREDISCHARGED SAFELY TO OUTDOORS AND THAT OPERATORS AREPROTECTED BY PERSONAL AIR HOODS OR RESPIRATORS.

2.3.5 Radiant panel The face of the radiant panel shall measure 300 +3, −0 mmsquare and, together with its surround, shall not exceed 330 mm square. The radiant panelshall be supplied with a controllable gas/air mixture, which shall be burnt at the porousfire-brick surface of the panel, heating the latter to comply with the requirements ofClause 2.4.1.

2.3.6 Radiometer A radiometer fitted with a fluorite window and having an angle ofcomplete vision of 60 +10, −0° and a cut-off angle of 90 ±10° shall be mounted as shownin Figure 2.1, sighting on a point 50 mm vertically above the centre of the specimen facewhen the plane of the specimen face is 485 mm distant from the sensing element of theradiometer and the buffers are in contact. In order that the radiometer will be at a constantdistance from the face of the specimen throughout the period when ignition is to occur,the radiometer shall be mounted on slides in such a manner that it will move with thespecimen carriage once the buffers are in contact.

NOTE: A Land Type M/RAD/P/W miniature thermopile with a range of 0 to 10 Kw/m2 andfitted with a JRG fluorite window and water jacket is suitable.

2.3.7 Pilot flame A small pilot flame shall be located so that the centre-line of theorifice discharging gas is 15 ±1 mm from the front face of the specimen, and 50 mmabove the centre of the specimen as shown in Figure 2.1. A spacer shall be attached to thepilot flame tube so that the centre-line of the orifice discharging gas can be maintained at15 ±1 mm from specimens whose faces move or change during the test. The luminousportion of the pilot flame shall be set to be approximately 6 mm in diameter and 12 mmlong when the tube is vertical with the orifice uppermost. A second and similar pilotflame shall be provided which can be similarly positioned approximately 15 mm from thefront face of the specimen at any location judged to be evolving a significant quantity ofsmoke or vapours during a test.

NOTE: The pilot flame with town gas issuing from an orifice 4 mm in diameter at the end of atube not more than 8 mm in diameter is suitable. For propane gas, a Bray pilot jet catalogue 242size 00 is suitable.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 10

2.3.8 Smoke-monitoring system

2.3.8.1 General A photoelectric cell and a light source of stabilized output shall bemounted on the flue over the apparatus, as shown in Figure 2.1, to monitor the opticaldensity of products evolved from the specimen. The directly transmitted light shallilluminate all the sensing area of the photoelectric cell in such a way as not to adverselyinfluence the linearity of the detector.

2.3.8.2 Spectral response The spectral response distribution of the overallsmoke-monitoring system shall be similar to that of the human eye and have a peaksensitivity between 500 nm and 600 nm, with the spectral bandwidth at half-peaksensitivity not exceeding 150 nm and the response at wavelengths less than 400 nm andgreater than 700 nm not exceeding 10% of the peak sensitivity.

NOTE: Compliance with these requirements can be achieved by locating a tungsten-filamentlamp at the focus of a convergent lens in line with a photocell detector at the focus of a similarconvergent lens. The divergence of the light beams may be established by measuring the changein diameter of the beam within the same plane when it traverses a distance of 1 m. Thediameters of the lenses should be equal and within the range 20 mm to 75 mm.

The lamp may be an ordinary tungsten-filament lamp operated at an e.m.f. not less than 90% ofthe rated value, or a quartz-halogen lamp operated at an e.m.f. of not less than 80% of the ratedvalue.

The detector may be a selenium photocell, or a silicon photodiode with appropriate filters. Thesilicon photodiode is preferred for new equipment, having generally superior linearity andstability. The spectral response of the photodiode can be adjusted to the requirement by placingfilters made from 4 mm thickness of Schott type VG4 glass and 5 mm of Schott type KG3glass, or a combination of equivalent glass types, between the lens and the photodiode andnormal to the optic axis. A neutral density filter should be added to the other filters to set thedetector photocurrent for the completed assembly, with no absorption between the lenses, withinthe range 20 µA to 100 µA. The peak photocurrent density for selenium photocells should notexceed 0.1 µA/mm2 of surface area. The photocurrent should be measured using a circuit withan input impedance not exceeding 500 Ω. The detector and filters should be mounted in alight-tight tube or housing to minimize the response to stray light.

The lenses should be set back from the perimeter of the flue by a distance sufficient to allow astream of fresh air to be injected across their faces in order to prevent the deposition of solidsor condensation products. The airflow should be sufficient to prevent smoke entry into the sidetubes.

2.3.9 Recording devices The outputs from the radiometer and photoelectric detectorshall be monitored at intervals of not greater than 1 s for the duration of the test by meansof a suitable recording device.

2.4 CALIBRATION

2.4.1 Radiant panel The heat from the panel shall be controlled by adjusting the fueland air supply to the venturi air/gas mixer before each series of tests so that the radiationas recorded by the radiometer when positioned with its sensitive area 850 mm in front ofand on the centre-line of the panel, is 2.4 +0.1, −0 Kw/m2 without side shields in place.Calibration shall be carried out in essentially draught-free conditions.

The intensity of radiant heat received by the radiometer from sources other than the gaspanel shall not exceed 1% of the total intensity measured by the radiometer.

2.4.2 Radiometer The radiometer shall be recalibrated at intervals not exceeding2 years. For calibration purposes, a source of radiant heat within the limits of 800 ±20°Cblack-body temperature shall be used so that the accuracy is better than ±5%.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

11 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

2.4.3 Photometric system The linearity and stability of the photometric system shallbe checked at intervals not exceeding 6 months using calibrated glass neutral densityfilters of good optical quality with integrated transmittances for the lamp-detectorcombination of approximately 0.3 and 0.03; measured values shall be within 10% of thecalibration values. The reference filters shall be recalibrated at periods not exceeding10 years.

NOTE: The reproducibility of output from the smoke-monitoring system needs to be better than0.25% to resolve a smoke developed index of zero.

2.4.4 Recording devices The device used to record the output from the radiometershall be recalibrated at intervals not exceeding 12 months and shall have an accuracy ofbetter than ±1% of full scale.

2.5 TEST PROCEDURE

2.5.1 General The test shall be conducted under draught-protected laboratoryconditions.

NOTE: Draughts of the order of 1 m/s onto the face of the specimen have been demonstrated tocause variations of 0.5 min in the ignition time of hardboard specimens, with subsequentchanges in other measured properties.

2.5.2 Exposure of specimen to heat The specimen shall be positioned on and fixed tothe support frame with the longer dimensions vertical so that the centre of the specimen ison the centre-line of the radiant panel as shown in Figure 2.1.

Where a procedure for the mounting of specimen materials to be tested appears inSection 4, that specimen mounting shall be used.

Where a procedure for the mounting of specimens for materials to be tested does notappear in Section 4, the laboratory shall use its experience in selecting the most suitablespecimen mounting procedure based on the principles set out in Clause 4.3 and 4.4.

The specimen shall be exposed to the source of radiant heat and then moved to thepositions indicated at the times listed in Table 2.1.

After ignition is established in accordance with Clause 2.5.4, movement of the specimentowards the source of radiant heat shall cease.

The pilot flame shall be maintained 15 ±1 mm from the front face of the specimenthroughout the test. The second similar pilot flame shall be applied approximately 15 mmfrom the front face of the specimen at any location judged to be evolving a significantquantity of pyrolysis products during the test.

2.5.3 Recording of data and observations The following shall be recorded:

(a) Number of specimens that ignite and the time from the commencement of the test tothe ignition of each specimen, expressed as whole elapsed seconds only.

(b) Intensity of radiation from the surface of the specimen as indicated by theradiometer, at intervals not greater than 1 s for the duration of the test.

(c) Time, from the moment of ignition, for the radiation intensity recorded by theradiometer to increase by 1.4 Kw/m2.

(d) Percent transmission of light across the flue, as indicated by the photoelectricdetector, at intervals of not greater than 1 s for the duration of the test.

2.5.4 Ignition For the purpose of this test, ignition shall mean the onset of continuousflaming.

Intermittent flashes of flame or small isolated jets of flame shall not constitute ignition,but a single flash of flame for 10 s or more shall be considered as ignition.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 12

2.5.5 Duration of test The test shall be terminated—

(a) after 20 min, if no ignition occurs;

(b) 120 s after ignition, if the radiometer has registered a rise of 1.4 Kw/m2 during the120-second period;

(c) 203 s after ignition, if the radiometer has NOT registered a rise of 1.4 Kw/m2 duringthe 203-second period; or

(d) at the time between 120 s and 203 s after ignition when the rise of 1.4 Kw/m2 isrecorded.

2.6 COMPUTATIONS FOR INDIVIDUAL SPECIMENS The following shall bedetermined for each specimen tested:

(a) Ignition time, in minutes, for those specimens that have ignited.

(b) Flame propagation time, in seconds, defined as the time from the moment ofignition for the radiation intensity recorded by the radiometer to increase by1.4 Kw/m2.

(c) Heat release integral, being for a time period of 120 s after ignition, of thedifference between the instantaneous radiation intensity and the radiation intensityprior to ignition as recorded by the radiometer, in kilojoules per square metre, forthe specimens that ignited.

(d) Smoke release expressed in terms of the maximum optical density, using thefollowing equation:

D = 1L

log10

100100 R

where

D = maximum optical density, in reciprocal metres

L = effective smoke path, in metres

= 0.305 m

R = maximum value of the average reduction in percentage transmission oflight for any 1-minute period during the test as determined from theintegral of this percentage reduction transmission

2.7 COMPUTATION OF MEAN VALUES AND STANDARD ERRORS The meanvalues of the determinations of—

(a) ignition time in minutes for those specimens that have ignited;

(b) flame propagation time, in seconds, for those specimens that have registered anincrease of radiation intensity of 1.4 Kw/m2;

(c) the heat release integral, in kilojoules per square metre, for those specimens thathave ignited; and

(d) the smoke release expressed in terms of log10D determined from Clause 2.6(d);

shall be evaluated, and standard error (SE) for each determined using the followingequation:

SE =

n

i 1x 2

i

n(n 1)

n

i 1xi

2

n 2(n 1)

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

13 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

where

x = individual values of the various parameters

n = number of replicates tested

NOTE: Ignition times of 20 min or greater, and flame propagation times greater than 203 s, arenot included in the calculation of standard error.

2.8 REQUIREMENTS FOR SUPPLEMENTARY TESTING Where any of thefollowing criteria apply to the test results of the original six specimens, a further threespecimens shall be tested and the means, based on all of the specimens tested, determined,as in Clause 2.7:

(a) For ignitability—

(i) if there is inconsistent ignition, i.e. one or more, but less than six, specimensignite; and

(ii) if the standard error for ignition time exceeds 0.5 min.

(b) For flame propagation—

(i) if there is inconsistent flame propagation, i.e. the radiation intensity increaseis achieved by some but not all specimens; and

(ii) if the standard error for flame propagation time exceeds 11 s.

(c) For heat release— if the standard error for the heat release integral exceeds12.5 kJ/m2.

(d) For smoke release— if the standard error of log10D exceeds 0.15.

TABLE 2.1

TIMES AND DISTANCES

TimeDistance from radiant panel

to specimen faceTime

Distance from radiant panelto specimen face

min mm min mm

0.0 to 0.50.5 to 1.01.0 to 1.5

850650450

6.5 to 7.07.0 to 7.57.5 to 8.0

240230225

1.5 to 2.02.0 to 2.52.5 to 3.0

400350330

8.0 to 8.58.5 to 9.09.0 to 9.5

220215210

3.0 to 3.53.5 to 4.04.0 to 4.5

310300290

9.5 to 10.010.0 to 10.510.5 to 11.0

205200195

4.5 to 5.05.0 to 5.55.5 to 6.0

280270260

11.0 to 11.511.5 to 12.012.0 to 12.5

190185180

6.0 to 6.5 250 12.5 to 20.0 175

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 14

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 2.1 (in part) TYPICAL APPARATUS FOR TEST

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

15 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 2.1 (in part) TYPICAL APPARATUS FOR TEST

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 16

S E C T I O N 3 C O M P U T A T I O N O F I N D I C E SA N D C L A S S I F I C A T I O N F O R

R E G U L A T O R Y P U R P O S E S

3.1 INDICES Where required for regulatory purposes, materials or components shallbe classed for ignitability, heat evolved, spread of flame, and smoke developed, by usingthe appropriate indices. Where both sides of the material or component are tested, eachside shall be classified separately.

3.2 CLASSIFICATION FOR IGNITABILITY The ignitability index, expressed asthe nearest whole number, shall be 20 minus the mean ignition time in minutes (seeClause 2.6(a)). If fewer than three specimens ignite, the ignitability index shall be deemedto be zero.

3.3 CLASSIFICATION FOR SPREAD OF FLAME If the ignitability index is zerothe spread of flame index shall be deemed to be zero. If fewer than three specimensrecord a flame propagation time of less than 203 s, the spread of flame index shall bedeemed to be zero. In other cases the spread-of-flame index shall be allotted from themean flame propagation time (see Clause 2.6(b)), calculated for those specimens withmean flame propagation time of not greater than 203 s, in accordance with Table 3.1.

3.4 CLASSIFICATION FOR HEAT EVOLVED The heat evolved index shall beallotted from the mean value of the heat release integral in accordance with Table 3.2,except where the ignitability index is zero then the heat evolved index shall also bedeemed to be zero.

3.5 CLASSIFICATION FOR SMOKE DEVELOPED The mean of the maximumoptical density (D) (see Clause 2.6(d)) shall be used to determine smoke developed indexin accordance with Table 3.3. Where not all specimens ignite, indices for smokedeveloped shall be determined separately for those specimens that ignite and thosespecimens that do not ignite. The index allotted shall be based on the worst result.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

17 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

TABLE 3.1

INDICES FOR SPREAD OFFLAME

1.33 × mean flamepropagation time Index

s

≥ 270≥ 240≥ 210

< 270< 240

012

≥ 180≥ 150≥ 120

< 210< 180< 150

345

≥ 90≥ 60≥ 30

< 120< 90< 60

678

≥ 10 < 30< 10

910

TABLE 3.2

INDICES FOR HEAT EVOLVED

Mean value of theintegral from the

radiation intensitycurves

Index

Kj/m2

≥ 25≥ 50

< 25< 50< 75

012

≥ 75≥ 100≥ 125

< 100< 125< 150

345

≥ 150≥ 175≥ 200

< 175< 200< 225

678

≥ 225≥ 250

< 250 910

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 18

TABLE 3.3

INDICES FOR SMOKE DEVELOPED

Mean optical density, m−1

IndexExpressed interms of K*

Expressed numerically

≥ K≥ 2K

< K< 2K< 22K

≥ 0.0082≥ 0.0164

< 0.0082< 0.0164< 0.0328

0†12

≥ 22K≥ 23K≥ 24K

< 23K< 24K< 25K

≥ 0.0328≥ 0.0656≥ 0.131

< 0.0656< 0.131< 0.262

345

≥ 25K≥ 26K≥ 27K

< 26K< 27K< 28K

≥ 0.262≥ 0.525≥ 1.05

< 0.525< 1.05< 2.10

678

≥ 28K≥ 29K

< 29K ≥ 2.10≥ 4.20

< 4.20 910

* Where K is a constant = 0.0082† Where doubt exists in the resolving of optical

densities below 0.016 m−1 the index allotted should be‘ 0 to 1’ .

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

19 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

S E C T I O N 4 S P E C I M E N M O U N T I N GP R O C E D U R E S

4.1 SCOPE OF SECTION This Section sets out the mounting procedures to beadopted for the restraint and mounting of specimens referred to in Clause 2.2.4

The laboratory shall use its experience in ascertaining the most appropriate method to beapplied when testing materials. However, when the specimen does not fall into thematerial groups referred to in Clause 4.5, the mounting procedure shall be determinedfrom Clause 4.3.

The results of a test will vary depending on the material composition of the substrate; forexample, paint on a metal surface will perform differently to paint on timber a surfacebecause of the difference in conductivity of the substrates.

NOTE: Details of interlaboratory trials, conducted in Australia and New Zealand during 1998and 1999, are included in Appendix B.

4.2 APPLICATION The mounting procedures contained in Clause 4.6 to Clause 4.16are of a specific nature and shall be read in conjunction with the basic mountingprocedures common to all materials referred to in Clause 4.4.

4.3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

4.3.1 Backing board The backing-board, where specified, shall consists of a 4.5 mmthick non-combustible mineral board in accordance with AS 1530.1 or a 4.5 mm thickfibre cement board.

4.3.2 Restraint of specimens Where, due to the nature of some materials, the testspecimen collapses from the specimen holder, melts or tears at the clamping ring, it ispermissible to use a layer of welded wire mesh in contact with the exposed face, or tosandwich the specimen between wire mesh. The mesh shall not be reused after each test.

The welded wire mesh shall have square apertures of not less than 12 mm by 12 mmnominal aperture size and wire not thicker than 0.8 mm in diameter.

NOTE: The laboratory may need to conduct a preliminary test to establish whether the materialis unstable under test conditions, thereby moving from the field of impressed radiant heat whichwould require restraint.

4.3.3 Mechanical fastenings Where a material that has been restrained by the methoddescribed in Clause 4.3.2 melts away from the area of maximum radiant heat (at thecentre of the specimen), the wire mesh and material shall be securely fixed to a backingboard (as prescribed in Clause 4.3.1) at four points, using mechanical fastenings, such asnails, screws or wire staples.

Two of the points shall be 100 mm vertically above and below the centre of the specimenand the other two points shall be 100 mm horizontally each side of the centre, inaccordance with the arrangement shown in Figure 4.1.

The metal fastening technique shall not be used where a large change in the thickness ofthe specimen occurs requiring repositioning of the pilot flame.

4.3.4 Specimen clamping frame Where required, a rigid metal frame having outsidedimensions of 600 mm by 450 mm constructed of sufficiently rigid bar or rod shall beused to clamp the specimen along all four sides.

4.3.5 Mounting to the specimen holder Each specimen, including any wire mesh andclamping ring, shall be clamped to the specimen holder at four sites, within 50 mm of thecorners, so as to be centred on the radiator axis and with the plane of the unexposed facetest material.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 20

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 4.1 METHOD OF STAPLING A MATERIAL TO A BACKING BOARD

4.4 BASIC PROCEDURES

4.4.1 General All materials submitted for testing shall comply with the requirementsof this Clause in addition to the procedures contained in Clause 4.6 to Clause 4.16.

4.4.2 Air gap Where the product is used in service with an air gap on each side, itshall be mounted on the specimen holder with the air gap on the unexposed face providedby the recess in the required specimen holder.

4.4.3 Selection of substrate Materials or coatings that are usually applied to asubstrate shall be applied to the appropriate substrate. Where the substrate is unknown, orwhere the material may be applied to a variety of substrates, the substrate shall be onewhich represents the end use condition. The choice shall be based on Table 4.1.

A material tested on any one of the substrates shall apply to any substrate in the samegroup or a less reactive group.

TABLE 4.1

SELECTION OF SUBSTRATE

Group Substrate material

1(Most reactive)

Standard grade plywood, hardboard,fibre/particleboard (less than 12 mm thick)

2 (12 mm or greater thickness)

3 All paper face gypsum board products

4(Least reactive)

Concrete/masonry, fibre-reinforced cement-board, non-paper-faced gypsum boards

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

21 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

4.4.4 Specimen behaviour Where a preliminary test shows that the face of a specimenfalls away from the substrate, a layer of welded wire mesh shall be clamped over the faceof the specimen as referred to in Clause 4.3.2.

4.4.5 Mounting principle The specimen shall be mounted so as to ensure that theproduct remains in the area of maximum radiant heat until ignition is reached or the testhas been completed.

4.4.6 Preparation All specimens shall be prepared, as nearly as practicable, torepresent the material or component in the use for which it is intended.

4.4.7 Applied materials and coatings When testing a material or coating is usuallyapplied to a substrate, it shall be applied to the appropriate substrate and, whereapplicable, attached as specified by the sponsor of the test.

4.4.8 Specimen edge sealing Where the core or edge of the specimen may influencethe results of the test, the edges of the specimen shall be sealed with a suitable non-combustible material such as aluminium foil, metal or refractory cement.

4.4.9 Materials with dissimilar faces A full test shall be conducted on both faces of acomposite material where each face is different and the exposed face cannot be identified.

4.5 MATERIAL GROUPS The specimen mounting procedures shall apply to thefollowing materials:

(a) Fabrics (curtains, drapes and awnings) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clause 4.6.

(b) Thermoplastic sheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clause 4.7.

(c) Foil laminates— reflective (sarking) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clause 4.8.

(d) Flexible ducting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clause 4.9.

(e) Textile floor coverings and underlays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clause 4.10.

(f) Resilient floor coverings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clause 4.11.

(g) Insulating materials—batt, sheet type or blankets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clause 4.12.

(h) Insulation— loose fill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clause 4.13.

(i) Solids— rigid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clause 4.14.

(j) Thermoplastic glazing materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clause 4.15.

(k) Applied finishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Clause 4.16.

4.6 FABRICS (CURTAINS, DRAPES AND AWNINGS)

4.6.1 General This method applies to fabrics that are not bonded to a substrate innormal use, for example, curtains, drapes, including all free-hanging and unsupportedfabrics, and awning materials.

4.6.2 Procedure The mounting procedure for fabric materials, in addition to therequirements of Clause 4.4, where applicable, shall be as follows:

(a) Place the fabric between two layers of wire mesh, refer Clause 4.3.2.

(b) Remove portions of the fabric from beneath the clamps, before clamping thespecimen, to allow free movement of the specimen during testing.

(c) For vertical strip fabrics, cut the specimen into 600 mm lengths and staple together,side by side, to make up a specimen that is 600 mm by 450 mm.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 22

4.7 THERMOPLASTIC SHEETS

4.7.1 General This method applies to non-bonded thermoplastic flexible and rigidsheets. This also includes both solid and foam sheet materials.

4.7.2 Procedure The mounting procedure for thermoplastic foam sheet materials, inaddition to the requirements of Clause 4.4, where applicable, shall be as follows:

(a) Place the material against a backing board as prescribed in Clause 4.3.1 and a sheetof wire mesh over the face as prescribed in Clause 4.3.2.

(b) Hold the assembly against the specimen support frame using the specimen clampingframe prescribed in Clause 4.3.5.

(c) Should the material shrink away during the test, adjust the holding clamps andmaintain the correct radiant panel separation as nearly as practicable.

4.8 FOIL LAMINATES—REFLECTIVE (SARKING)

4.8.1 General This method applies to foil laminates (e.g. building paper/sarking)materials.

4.8.2 Procedure The mounting procedure for foil laminates material, in addition to therequirements of Clause 4.4, where applicable, shall be as follows:

(a) Test both faces unless specified by the sponsor and unless the testing laboratorydetermines that the side producing the worst or equal results has been tested.

(b) Mount the specimen in the required specimen holder and clamp the assembly alongall sides using a specimen-clamping frame.

4.9 FLEXIBLE DUCTING

4.9.1 General This method applies to flexible ducting.

4.9.2 Procedure The mounting procedure for flexible ducting, in addition to therequirements of Clause 4.4, where applicable, shall be as follows:

(a) Measure at least 50% of the specimens to be tested with a representative jointpresent in the specimen test area (where applicable).

(b) Select the largest diameter duct available for testing and use a minimum diameterof 250 mm.

(c) Test both the internal and external surfaces of the ducting if they are dissimilar.

(d) Cut a 600 mm length of ducting along its length. Take care to maintain the integrityof the layers of material in the ducting and ensure any ribs through the ducting arecut cleanly and not dislodged from their position on the membrane.

(e) Carefully open out and flatten the ducting by bending the ribbing evenly along itslength, where possible. Take care to minimize the number of sharp-angle bends inthe ribbing. Make all efforts to flatten the materials without physically damaging theproduct.

It may be necessary to cut the wire ribbing to adequately flatten the specimen and, ifundertaken, care should be taken to minimize damage to the fabric.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

23 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

4.10 TEXTILE FLOOR COVERINGS AND UNDERLAYS

4.10.1 General This method applies to carpets and underlay materials.

4.10.2 Procedure The mounting procedure is designed to ensure that the specimenremains in the areas of maximum radiant heat. The mounting procedure for carpets andunderlay material, in addition to the requirements of Clause 4.4, where applicable, shallbe as follows:

(a) Test the carpet that is not bonded to a substrate sandwiched between two sheets ofwire mesh and wired through. Clamp the assembly using a specimen clamping frameagainst a non-combustible substrate.

(b) Test the carpet that is normally installed by direct stick or double bonding methodswith a layer of wire mesh on the face and wired through to a substrate that isrepresentative of its end use. Bond the carpet to the substrate using an adhesive andapplication rate specified by the sponsor of the test.

(c) If the securing arrangement referred to in Step (b) above fails to restrain thespecimen during the test, discard the results for that specimen and test anotherspecimen.

4.11 RESILIENT FLOOR COVERINGS

4.11.1 General This method applies to resilient floor covering materials and includessheet vinyl, linoleum and vinyl tiles.

4.11.2 Procedure Bond the resilient floor covering materials to a substraterepresentative of its end use.

The adhesive used shall be as specified by the client and shall include the specifiedspreading rate.

4.12 INSULATING MATERIALS—BATT, SHEET TYPE OR BLANKETS

4.12.1 General This method applies to insulating materials and includes insulating battsheets or blanket materials.

4.12.2 Procedure The mounting procedure for insulating materials, in addition to therequirements of Clause 4.4, where applicable, shall be as follows:

(a) Place a sheet of welded wire mesh, as specified in Clause 4.3.2, over the exposedface of the specimen and hold in place using a clamping ring ensuring the specimenis compressed by not more than 10%.

(b) Where the insulation material is likely to melt away from the area of maximumradiation, secure the wire mesh and insulation material in accordance withClause 4.3.3.

(c) Where the product is faced with a reflective foil, incorporate a vertical joint in threetest specimens representative of that used in practice.

4.13 INSULATION—LOOSE FILL

4.13.1 General This method applies to loose-fill insulation material.

4.13.2 Procedure The mounting procedure for loose-fill insulation material, in additionto the requirements of Clause 4.4, where applicable, shall be as follows:

(a) Provide a framework in the specimen holder of nominal 6 mm diameter steel rodsforming a cuboid 600 × 450 × 100 mm as shown in Figure 4.2. The 100 mmdimension may be reduced to suit the in-use thickness, with a minimum thicknessallowed, of 50 mm.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 24

(b) Cover the entire framework with the wire mesh, as described in Clause 4.3.2, with aremovable rear face to allow insertion of the test material. Insert two nominal 3 mmdiameter steel rods at the third heights to hold the material in place.

(c) Clamp the holder in place with four clamps in accordance with Clause 4.3.5.

(d) Load the material into the holder to a density specified by the sponsor.

FIGURE 4.2 SPECIMEN HOLDER FOR LOOSE INSULATION

4.14 SOLIDS—RIGID

4.14.1 General This method applies to specimens consisting of thermally stablematerials.

NOTE: Examples of materials are wood and reconstituted wood panel products, fibre-reinforcedcement products, fibre-reinforced gypsum wallboard, paper-faced gypsum wallboard, rigid resin-bound glass and mineral fibre panels, metal and rigid plastics materials including rigid foamsand glass-fibre-reinforced plastics (GRP) and sandwich panels.

4.14.2 Procedure The mounting procedure for rigid solids, in addition to therequirements contained in Clause 4.4, where applicable, shall be as follows:

(a) Clamp the specimen on all four edges against the specimen support frame inaccordance with Clause 4.3.5.

(b) Conduct a full test on both faces of a sandwich panel where each face is different.

4.15 THERMOPLASTIC GLAZING MATERIALS

4.15.1 General This method applies to all free-hanging and unsupported thermoplasticglazing materials.

4.15.2 Procedure The mounting procedure for thermoplastic glazing materials, inaddition to the requirements of Clause 4.4, where applicable, shall be as follows:

(a) Sandwich the material between two sheets of wire mesh to meet the requirements ofClause 4.3.3 and securely wire through to hold the sandwich assembly together.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

25 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

(b) Clamp the assembly against the specimen support frame in accordance withClause 4.3.5.

(c) If the restraint fails and the material moves from the field of impressed radiant heatduring the test, discard the results for that specimen and test another specimen.

4.16 APPLIED FINISHES

4.16.1 General This method applies to materials or coatings applied to substrates.

NOTE: Examples of materials are bonded wood or plastics veneer, paint coating, vinyl wallcovering, wallpaper, fabric, textile or flexible foam insulation.

4.16.2 Procedure The mounting procedure for applied finishes, in addition to therequirements of Clause 4.4, where applicable, shall be as follows:

(a) Where the substrate is not specified, bond the specimen to a substrate selected inaccordance with Clause 4.4.3.

The adhesive and rate of application to bond the specimen to the substrate shall beas specified or agreed to by the sponsor requesting the test.

(b) Clamp the assembly against the specimen support frame in accordance withClause 4.3.5.

NOTE: The results produced from a given combination of substrate and material apply to thatcombination only and a variation in results may occur where a different substrate is used.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 26

S E C T I O N 5 R E P O R T I N G O F R E S U L T S

5.1 DESCRIPTION The test report shall contain:

(a) A description of the material or component.

(b) The construction and thickness of the material or component.

(c) The method of mounting or fixing.

(d) The identity of the face subjected to the test if the two faces differ.

(e) The colour or pattern tested, where only one colour or pattern was submitted fortest. Where a range of colours and patterns have been tested and have met therequirements of Clause 2.2.1, the results applicable to all colours and patterns in therange.

(f) Where applicable, the statement that each specimen was bonded to a substrate asspecified, using the adhesive specified by the sponsor of the test, and the applicationrate (g/m2).

(g) A statement that ‘ The results only apply to the specimen mounted as described inthis report’ .

5.2 RESULTS The report shall contain the means and standard errors, calculated as setout in Clause 2.7, for all the specimens tested for—

(a) ignition time;

(b) flame propagation time;

(c) heat release integral; and

(d) smoke release in terms of log10D.

Where some of the specimens do not ignite, means and standard errors for smoke releaseshall be reported separately for those specimens that ignite and those that do not ignite.The higher of the two values shall be reported as the smoke released for the material orcomponent. If the higher value applies to a non-ignition case, this fact shall be reported.

5.3 SUPPLEMENTARY OBSERVATIONS The following supplementaryobservations shall be reported:

(a) Number of specimens tested.

(b) Where all specimens did not ignite, the number of specimens that did ignite.

(c) Where flashing was encountered and ignition was based on a 10-second flash.

(d) Where all specimens did not emit a rise of 1.4 Kw/m2 during the prescribed period,the number of specimens for which such rise was recorded.

(e) Any observations of associated phenomena, such as transitory flaming, melting andproduction of flaming droplets, or inconsistent ignition behaviour.

(f) Where the test was performed on thin flexible materials, a statement that testingmaterials to the flammability test (see AS 1530.2) are also relevant to theassessment of fire hazard covering this type of material.

(g) Variable behaviour between different colours or patterns within a set of specimensof the same material or component.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

27 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

5.4 INDICES FOR REGULATORY PURPOSES Where required for regulatorypurposes the report shall include indices for the following:

(a) Ignitability (range 0 to 20).

(b) Spread of flame (range 0 to 10).

(c) Heat evolved (range 0 to 10).

(d) Smoke developed (range 0 to 10).

Where all specimens do not ignite, indices for smoke developed shall be reportedseparately for those specimens that ignite and those specimens that do not ignite. Thehigher of the two values shall be reported as the smoke developed index for the product.If the higher index applies to the non-ignition case, this fact shall be reported.

5.5 APPLICATION TO FIRE HAZARD ASSESSMENT The report shall include thefollowing statement:

‘ The results of this fire test may be used to directly assess fire hazard, but it shouldbe recognized that a single test method will not provide a full assessment of firehazard under all fire conditions.’

5.6 REFERENCE IN OTHER AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS Where a reference tothis Standard is incorporated in other Australian Standards for building materials,components, and the like, the form of the reference and the expression of criteria shall beas follows:

‘ The material or component shall be subjected to the test as specified in AS 1530.3,and the results determined in accordance with the provisions thereof shall complywith the following requirements:

(a) The mean ignition time shall be not less than ... minutes.

(b) The mean flame propagation time shall be not greater than ... seconds.

(c) The mean heat release integral shall be not greater than ... Kj/m2.

(d) The smoke release in terms of log10D shall be not greater than ....’

5.7 COMMERCIAL LITERATURE It is imperative in the interests of public safetyand consumer protection that reference to the results of fire test methods in commercialliterature follow the appropriate form set out in this Section.

NOTE: Reporting of results in the form of indices is acceptable.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 28

APPENDIX A

GUIDE TO THE INTERPRETATION OF RESULTS

(Informative)

A1 INTRODUCTION The test described in this Standard was developed from roomfire experiments to grade cellulosic wall linings according to their tendencies to ignite andpropagate flame vertically. Specimens are subjected to an increasing intensity of radiantheat simulating that which could be experienced during the early development of abuilding fire. Combustible volatile substances from the specimen are ignited by a pilotflame set close to that area of the specimen which is subjected to the maximum intensityof radiant heat.

Although the test did not originally provide for grading according to the smoke thespecimens released, it has been adapted for this purpose. Smoke released during the test iscollected by a hood and discharged through a flue in which its optical density ismeasured. Numerical values for the ‘ smoke developed index’ are equated to the maximumoptical density averaged over a period of 1 min (that is, the worst minute so far as smokeproduction is concerned) whether or not the test specimen is burning.

Specimens are freely ventilated as is the case in an occupied room prior to ‘ flashover’ ,that is, during the stage when the internal surfaces of the room are absorbing more heatenergy than they are releasing. (After flashover the combustible surfaces of the room areenveloped in flame and are emitting more heat energy than they are absorbing.)

It has been observed in experimental fires in rooms lined with combustible linings thatsurface burning rather than a burn-through of the cladding generally precedes flashover.The test examines smoke release associated with freely ventilated surface burning thatsimulates this situation. By examining the peak smoke evolution for 1 min, the hazard ofdense smoke release during early development of fire in a room is indicated.

A2 INDICES

A2.1 General For regulatory purposes the test results can be used to express firebehaviour under four headings in terms of separate numerical indices; however, it isimportant to note that these indices are interrelated, as they are obtained as a result of asingle fire test.

A2.2 Ignitability index The ignitability index relates to the time taken for the volatilesubstances from the specimens, irradiated at increasing intensity, to form an ignitable gasmixture and be ignited by a small flame. The index is zero if such ignition does not occurunder the maximum impressed radiation during the test.

A2.3 Spread of flame index The spread of flame index relates to the radiation emittedby a burning specimen under impressed radiation that varies according to the time ofignition of the specimen. The scale of the index is based on studies of actual rates offlame propagation on various wall linings in simulated corner wall and ceiling situations.(Ref. 1)

A2.4 Heat evolved index The heat evolved index relates to the amount of heatreleased by a burning material. Its linear scale allows distinctions to be drawn betweenmaterials on the basis of whether or not the amount of heat released would be likely tocause ignition of nearby combustibles. The higher the index, the more likely is the fireinvolvement of nearby combustible materials.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

29 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

A2.5 Smoke developed index The smoke developed index relates to the opticaldensity of smoke released under the conditions of the test. Doubling of the optical densityof the smoke increases the smoke developed index by unity. The higher the index, thegreater the hazard is likely to be from smoke.

A3 TYPICAL RESULTS Table A1 lists the range of results obtained in testsconducted by the Experimental Building Station. The listing includes a variety ofmaterials commonly used in buildings. Where the best performance has been achieved bythe use of fire-retardant additives, this is indicated in the table by an asterisk.

A4 FACTORS AFFECTING RESULTS

A4.1 Ignitability Where the test is applied to components comprising materials withdiffering ignition behaviours, the performance may be dominated by the more readilyignited material. Where a covering material shielding a readily ignited material breaksdown irregularly, scattered ignition performance may result in the test, but similarbehaviour has been seen in simulated corner-wall fires. The presence of fire-retardantadditives can significantly influence ignition behaviour and may cause intermittentflashing at the time of ignition.

A4.2 Flame propagation Where the test is applied to components formed fromlaminate of materials with differing ignition behaviour, a delayed ignition may result in amore rapid increase in emitted radiation once the specimen flames. Substrates canconsiderably affect the performance of thin films of combustible materials subjected to thetest depending on their thermal properties and combustibility. The presence offire-retardant additives can significantly reduce the spread of flame index, therebyindicating improved performance.

A4.3 Heat release The heat release can be affected by the thickness of components ormaterials and their mass-to-surface area ratio. Where materials of differing thermal andcombustion behaviour are in combination, the breakdown of individual materials mayaffect the overall heat released. As can be seen from Table A1, the heat release index canbe suppressed where fire-retardant additives are effectively applied to some materials.

A4.4 Smoke release The thickness of the material or component can affect the smokereleased as can the mass-to-surface area ratio. Where materials with different ignitionbehaviour are in combination, the smoke released can be affected by the ignitionbehaviour of individual materials. As can be seen from Table A1, the presence offire-retardant additives may increase the smoke released from specimens of cellulosicmaterials, but their presence usually reduces the smoke from burning plastics.

A5 VARIABILITY OF RESULTS The variability of the results on six replicates of arange of common linings is shown in Table A2. The influence that combinations ofdifferent materials may have, (see Paragraph A4) is also shown in Table A2.

The current standard procedure provides for supplementary testing if the standard errorsof the measurements exceed given values. Reporting of the standard errors of themeasurements is required in all cases.

A6 GRADING THE FIRE BEHAVIOUR OF MATERIALS ANDCOMPONENTS The procedure described in this standard test has been used to examinethe fire behaviour of a large number of materials and components since its developmentfor examination of flat cellulosic lining boards. The test of a flat standard-sized testspecimen allows comparison, on a similar basis, of new materials and components. Grosssurface shaping such as deep corrugations can alter the regime of impressed radiationduring the test and may also inhibit the rate of flame spread. Nominally flat specimens aretherefore required for grading.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 30

The interrelated data obtained during a single test provide valid information for theevaluation of the fire hazard of wall linings. While it is preferable to test flatstandard-size specimens wherever practicable, materials used in sizes and orientationsother than for wall linings can be graded. Useful information can also be obtained byadditionally testing components in their finished form.

Apart from determining the conditions for piloted ignition, exposure of specimens orcomponents of less than the full 600 mm × 450 mm specimen size does not establishuseful comparative data unless the full-size specimens are also tested. This fact can causeproblems in the testing of materials or components that move, melt or flow out of the pathof radiant heat and the test report provides for such factors to be reported. The use of wiremesh to support materials or components exhibiting such behaviour can be effective onlyin some cases. Further testing of such materials, or components, bonded tonon-combustible substrates may be needed to provide data on which a judgement of fireperformance may be made. Such bonding should be representative of commercial practice.

Reflecting lining materials that do not decompose when subjected to the levels of radiantheat applied in the test may do so when sooty or dirty. The blackening of a 100 mmsquare at the centre of the specimens of such reflective materials may therefore provideuseful supportive data for the assessing of fire hazard.

Physical damage to lining materials may affect their behaviour in fire. Surface damage bydiagonal scoring through the surface of the central area of specimens may provide usefulsupportive data.

Care needs to be exercised with material combinations and jointed components whereirregular ignition and variable flame propagation behaviour may occur and, similarly, withmaterials or components that, where aged or handled in service, may give differentperformance to the new condition. For instance, some paints with fire-retardant additiveslose their effectiveness after being weathered.

A7 REGULATING LINING MATERIALS AND SURFACE FINISHES

A7.1 Nature of the hazard Experience of fires in buildings has shown thatcombustible linings can serve as the means by which an initial small fire may propagatethroughout a compartment, along corridors to involve other compartments, and up verticalshafts to involve other storeys. While flame propagation to the ceiling is generally themechanism by which combustible linings promote the propagation of fire, an associatedhazard, and one that in many cases may be even more important than fire propagation, isthat of the smoke produced by the burning of the linings. This may create panic, reducevisibility along paths of escape, and generally increase the fire hazard.

It is clear from the foregoing that in areas where a special degree of safety from fire isessential, materials used as linings should be difficult to ignite, not propagate flamereadily, and should not release undue quantities of smoke or toxic gases when heated. Atthis time there is no generally accepted method of assessing materials according to thetoxicity of the gaseous products they release as they burn.

A7.2 Reasons and objectives of regulations The use of lining materials that aredifficult to ignite and have low rates of flame propagation will help to restrict, at leastinitially, the area involved in the fire, and thus reduce the fire damage. However, thereason for seeking to control the use of lining materials is primarily to ensure thatoccupants are likely to be afforded adequate time to use safely the paths of egress.

It would seem reasonable to grade performance requirements for lining materialsaccording to their position along escape routes if it is accepted that for most buildings thefollowing situations apply:

(a) The occupants of a small compartment in which the fire originates will have time toleave the compartment before the fire develops beyond the small-fire state; in thissituation, the time to ignition of wall linings and for flame to propagate to theceiling indicates the time likely to be available for egress and fire suppression.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

31 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

(b) The occupants of the adjoining compartment may become aware of the fire before itdevelops beyond the small-fire state and, in such a situation, the time for flames toreach the ceiling indicates the time likely to be available for egress and firesuppression.

(c) The occupants of the remainder of the storey and of upper storeys in the building,which might be polluted by smoke from the fire, will be seeking to escape at stilllater stages and by that time the fire will have developed to major proportions, andthe linings of corridors within the affected storey and the linings of escape stairsfrom upper storeys may have had considerable preheating.

Where materials having very slow flame-propagation characteristics are required in escapecorridors, and where similar or non-combustible materials are required in fire-isolatedstairs, the propagation of the actual fire should be controlled for surfacing materials to asafe level for the escape of occupants.

Although the control of lining materials according to their smoke release characteristicscan be regulated on the same basis, it must be admitted that this is only a partial solution,in that the smoke released by the burning contents of the compartment involved originallyin the fire could well be sufficient to make corridors and stair shafts very difficult tonegotiate once the fire has developed to major proportions.

Rigorous control of linings and finishes to be used within individual tenancies may not bewarranted because contents can exercise an overriding influence on fire propagation. It islogical, however, to recommend provisions that seek to ensure reasonable safety to life inauditoria and public halls and, for all buildings, in corridors connecting requiredalternative means of escape and dead-end corridors connecting to such corridors, and instairs in fire-resisting shafts.

A8 OTHER MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS The outbreak of fire generally occursin chattels, furnishings, paper or rubbish owing to the careless handling of matches andcigarettes or from electrical faults or some cooking or space heating incident. The hazardto occupants at such occurrences generally becomes critical when the fire propagates upwall linings to ignite gaseous pyrolysis products that collect beneath the ceiling when fullroom involvement or flashover may occur.

Therefore, it is logical to limit the hazard to occupants by selecting wall linings that willnot rapidly propagate fire to the ceiling, particularly in escape ways. The test may also beapplied to floor coverings and ceiling linings to give a general ranking of behaviour.However, care should be taken when such data is being interpreted for a different end useorientation to that in the test method. A specific test for assessing the fire hazards forfloor coverings under impressed radiant heat is under development. (AS/NZS 2111.18provides a measure of likely initial involvement in fire of the surface of textile floorcoverings, from a small flame source).

Where the test is applied to materials generally, consideration should also be given to thearea of the material exposed and the situation in which it is used. For instance, smallisolated areas, such as switches and hardware, are unlikely to propagate a small fire to theceiling and flame propagation assessment is not relevant. In general, it is not appropriateto use this test for small areas that are for the most part smaller than the size of thespecimen.

Particular consideration is appropriate for combustible pipes where small areas areinvolved. Such pipes may propagate fire if fixed vertically, but are unlikely to propagatefire if fixed horizontally. On the other hand, some components introduce additionalhazards because of the way they are used. Plastics diffusers in recessed light fittings inceilings need particular attention especially in escape ways, because some types may meltand cause burning drops to fall onto occupants seeking escape, as well as propagate thefire.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 32

TABLE A1

RANGES OF TYPICAL INDICES

Material tested

Bottom of range Top of range

I S H Sm I S H Sm

Glass fibre insulationMineral fibre insulation battsAsbestos cellulose board

000

000

000

000

000

000

000

330

Glass-reinforced plasterHardboardWood fibre insulating board*

01411

070

060

034

01416

079

07

10

052

Plywood (interior)*Particleboard

00

00

00

47

1415

88

107

33

— radiata pine— jarrah— Queensland hoop pine*

1513

0

530

540

322

141314

858

946

321

Plasterboard 12 0 2 3 13 0 3 2

Melamine laminate— bonded to non-combustible substrate*— bonded to combustible substrate*Acrylic sheet

00

14

007

006

334

141415

888

54

10

345

Glass-fibre-reinforced polyester sheet*Polystyrene foam*Polyurethane foam*

81015

000

020

455

151518

109

10

101010

989

Rigid uPVC sheet*PVC floor covering — bonded to non-combustible substrateRubber floor covering — bonded to non-combustible substrate*

01415

000

002

547

131714

298

15

10

878

LinoleumAcrylic carpet*

1416

76

88

45

1617

910

1010

67

Carpet— 100% wool— 80% wool, 20% nylon— tiles, 100% wool— tiles, 80% wool, 20% nylon— tiles, 100% nylon

1616161414

00007

00009

33357

1516161516

00078

1115

10

55577

* Bottom of range specimens incorporated fire-retardant additives

LEGEND:I = ignitability index (0–20)S = spread of flame index (0–10)H = heat evolved index (0–10)Sm = smoke developed index (0–10)

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

33 AS/NZS 1530.3:1999

TABLE A2

VARIABILITY OF TYPICAL INDICES

No. Material tested

Ignitability Spread of flame Heat evolved Smoke developed

Index(0–20)

Standarddeviation

Index(0–10)

Standarddeviation

Index(0–10)

Standarddeviation

Index(0–10)

Standarddeviation

123

Hardboard, 4.6 mm thick— bare— coated with acrylic paint— coated with enamel paint

141313

0.10.10.2

799

0.20.50.3

710

8

0.40.40.6

345

0.30.20.3

4567

Plywood, clear polyurethane finishVinyl wallpaper on plasterboardPlasterboard finished with acrylic paintMelamine-faced particleboard

15131311

0.30.70.91.4

9007

0.5001.0

10224

0.50.80.22.8

4425

0.40.50.40.4

8 Glass fibre reinforced polyester flat sheetHardboard, 6 mm thick

15 0.8 10 0.1 10 N/A 9 0.2

910111213141516

—bare— coated with fire retardant— coated with vinyl— coated with vinyl cloth— coated with melamine— coated with fire-retardant melamine— coated with vinyl paint— coated with fire-retardant vinyl paint

1414151314

61210

0.30.30.10.71.63.50.20.8

77778696

0.20.70.61.6—

2.60.22.4

77664685

0.51.30.93.43.23.92.02.1

25664536

0.20.40.40.60.60.50.30.7

NOTE: The performance data on hardboard are included to indicate the effect of coatings on a wood-based substrate.

REFERENCES

1 FERRIS, J.E. Fire hazard of combustible wallboards, Special Report No 18,Commonwealth Experimental Building Station. Sydney, 1955.

2 MARTIN, K.G. and DOWLING, V.P. ‘ Australian studies on fire hazard tests oninternal linings of buildings’ . Fire and Materials, Vol 3 No 4, 1979 (9 pages).

3 MOULEN, A.W. et al. ‘ Early fire behaviour of combustible wall lining materials’ .Fire and Materials, Vol 4 No 4, 1980 (8 pages).

4 GARDNER, W.D. and THOMSON, C.R. Flame spread properties of forestproducts–Comparison and validation of Australian and American test methods.Technical Paper No 36, Forestry Commission of N.S.W., 1987 (33 pages).

5 TROTTER, K. and TROTTER, A.B. An experimental investigation of therepeatability of smoke indices determined by the Early Fire Hazard Test AS 1530Part 3–1976. Research Report R41 Building Research Association of New Zealand,1984 (23 pages).

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.

AS/NZS 1530.3:1999 34

APPENDIX B

INTERLABORATORY TRIALS

(Informative)

An interlaboratory trial, round robin, was conducted at two laboratories in Australia andone laboratory in New Zealand during 1998.

The objectives of the round robin were as follows:

(a) Derive the repeatability — (r) (within a laboratory) and reproducibility — (R)(between different laboratories) of the test method using the specimen mountingprocedures.

(b) Provide laboratories working with the test method experience in using the revisedmounting methods.

(c) Provide data, on which to base the work being undertaken, in the next revision ofthe test method contained in this Standard.

The round robin identified areas of difference between laboratories consistent withexpectations. These will be addressed in the next revision of this Standard.

Details of the interlaboratory trial is contained in a report, see Reference to follow.

REFERENCE

DOYLE, R.T. A report dated August 1999 on Australia-New Zealand InterlaboratoryTrials for Tests on materials using AS 1530.3, Methods for fire tests on buildingmaterials, components and structures, Part 3: Simultaneous determination of ignitability,flame propagation, heat release and smoke release, using revised specimen mountingprocedures.

COPYRIGHT

Lice

nsed

to K

AU

KO

K S

AV

OLA

INE

N o

n 20

Aug

200

3. 1

use

r pe

rson

al u

ser

licen

ce o

nly.

Sto

rage

, dis

trib

utio

n or

use

on

netw

ork

proh

ibite

d.