ASTM E1354 Heat Release Scope of Application:

This fire test application standard is used to measure the behavior of materials under controlled levels of radiant heat, with or without an external igniter.

ASTM E1354 Test Data:

This test method is used to determine the flammability, heat release rate, mass loss rate, effective heat of combustion, and visible smoke production of materials and products.

ASTM E1354 Data Influencing Factors:

The heat release rate is determined by measuring oxygen consumption based on oxygen concentration and exhaust flow rate.

The effective heat of combustion is determined by combining the measured specimen mass loss rate with the heat release rate.

Smoke obscuration is measured by the light blockage of combustion product streams.

ASTM E1354 Test Principle:

The specimen should be tested at an initial heat flux ranging from 0 to 100 kW/m2. When external ignition is used, an electric spark igniter should be employed. The value of the initial heat flux and the use of external ignition shall be in accordance with the relevant material or performance standards (see X1.2). The normal specimen orientation is horizontal, regardless of whether the end-use application is horizontal or vertical. The apparatus also includes provisions for vertical orientation testing; this is only for exploratory or diagnostic studies.

ASTM E1354 Standard Name:

ASTM E1354 Standard Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter

ASTM E1354 Method for Determining Heat and Smoke Release Rates of Materials by Oxygen Consumption

Significance of Determining Material Heat Release by Oxygen Consumption:

This test method is primarily used to determine the heat evolved or contributed by the tested material products in a fire. It also includes determining the effective heat of combustion, mass loss rate, duration of sustained flaming, and smoke production. These properties are determined on small-scale specimens that represent the intended end-use applications.