Appendix 1 – Fire Resistance Test Procedures for “A”, “B” and “F” Class Divisions
Clasification Society 2024 - Version 9.40
Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - International Codes - 2010 FTP Code – International Code for Application of Fire Test Procedures, 20101 – Resolution MSC.307(88) - Annex 1 – Fire Test Procedures - Part 3 – Test for “A”, “B” and “F” Class Divisions - Appendix 1 – Fire Resistance Test Procedures for “A”, “B” and “F” Class Divisions

Appendix 1 – Fire Resistance Test Procedures for “A”, “B” and “F” Class Divisions

1 General

  1.1 Approval of constructions will be restricted to the orientation in which they have been tested; therefore, bulkheads, linings and doors shall be tested vertically mounted and decks and ceilings shall be tested horizontally mounted. It is only necessary to test decks with the underside exposed to the heating conditions, and "B" and "F" class ceilings and linings are required only to be tested from the side incorporating the ceiling or the lining.

  1.2 For "A" class bulkheads and doors for "general application", i.e. for use of the insulation material on either side of the structural core, and also for "B" class bulkheads and doors, approval usually requires that the construction has been tested from each side separately, using two separate specimens, unless the Administration considers that only a single test to one side, that being the side expected to provide a performance inferior to the other side, is appropriate.

  1.3 In tests for "A" class bulkheads for "general application" it may be possible for approval to be granted on the basis of a single test only, provided that the bulkhead has been tested in the most onerous manner, which is considered to be with the insulation on the unexposed face and the stiffeners also on that side.

  1.4 In tests for "A" class bulkheads for "restricted application", i.e. where the fire hazard has been identified as being from the insulated side only, the bulkhead can be tested with the insulation on the exposed face and with the stiffeners also on that side.

  1.5 If approval of an "A" class bulkhead is being sought involving the use of "double-sided application" of the insulation, the thickness of the insulation being equal on both sides of the structural core, it shall be tested with the stiffeners on the unexposed side of the bulkhead, otherwise it shall be tested with the side with the thinnest thickness of insulation on the exposed face.

  1.6 The thickness of insulation on the stiffeners need not be same as that of the steel plate.

  1.7 If insulation of an "A" class division is to be provided by membrane protection, i.e. by a "B" class ceiling to a structural steel core or a "B" class lining to a structural steel core, the distance between the membrane, i.e. the ceiling or the lining, and the structural core shall be the minimum for which approval is being sought. For "A" class bulkheads, the division is required to be tested both from the structural core side, and from the "B" class lining side. For both ceilings and linings which may form part of such deck or bulkhead constructions, they shall satisfy at least "B-0" classification.

  1.8 When the insulation of an "A" class division is provided by membrane protection, the stiffeners of the structural core shall be positioned in the cavity between the steel plate of the structural core and the membrane protection. For an "A" class bulkhead the Administration may accept or require the stiffeners to be on the opposite side of the steel plate of the structural core to enable the distance between the membrane protection and the structural core to be reduced to a minimum.

  1.9 The dimensions of the structural cores of the test specimens given in paragraph 2 are intended for structural cores of stiffened flat plates of steel or aluminium alloy.

 The Administration may require tests to be carried out on specimens having structural cores of materials other than steel or aluminium alloy if such materials are more representative of the construction to be used on board ships.

  1.10 "A" class divisions which consist of an uninsulated steel bulkhead or deck of suitable scantlings and without openings can be deemed to satisfy the requirements for class "A-0" divisions, i.e. to satisfy the requirements for the passage of smoke and flame, without the need for testing. All other divisions, including class "A-0" divisions with a structural core of aluminium, are required to be tested.

  1.11 Results obtained on an insulating material used in conjunction with an "A" class division may be applied to constructions incorporating heavier scantlings than those tested and providing the orientation of the construction is the same, i.e. results from bulkhead tests shall not be applied to decks and vice versa.

  1.12 The construction to be tested shall be, as far as possible, representative of that to be used on board ships, including the materials and method of assembly.

  1.13 The designs of the specimens proposed in this appendix are considered to reflect the worst case situations in order to provide maximum usefulness of the classifications to end-use applications. However, the Administration may accept or request special test arrangements which provide additional information required for approval, especially of those types of constructions which do not utilize the conventional components of horizontal and vertical divisions, e.g., where cabins may be of a modular type construction involving continuous connections between bulkheads, decks and ceilings.

  1.14 Doors, windows and other division penetrations intended to be installed in fire divisions made of material other than steel shall correspond to prototype(s) tested on a division made of such material, unless the Administration is satisfied that the construction, as approved, does not impair the fire resistance of the division regardless of the division construction.

  1.15 Constructions shall be tested without paint or other superimposed finish, provided that where they are only produced with a superimposed finish, and subject to the agreement of the Administration, they may be tested as produced. Such constructions may be required to be tested with a superimposed finish if such a finish is considered by the Administration to have a detrimental effect on the performance of the construction in the test.

  1.16 "B" class constructions shall be tested without finishes. For constructions where this is not possible, the finishes may be included in the "B" class test specimen, and shall be included in the non-combustibility test of the construction.

2 Nature of Test Specimens

2.1 “A” class bulkheads

  2.1.1 Dimensions

  2.1.1.1 The minimum overall dimensions of the test specimen, including the perimeter details at the top, bottom and vertical edges, are 2,440 mm width and 2,500 mm height. When the maximum overall height in practice is less than that given above, then the test specimen shall be of the maximum height to be used in practice.

  2.1.1.2 The minimum bulkhead panel height shall be a standard height of the manufactured panel with a dimension of 2,400 mm.

  2.1.1.3 The overall dimensions of the structural core shall be 20 mm less in both the width and the height than the overall dimensions of the specimen, and the other dimensions of the structural core shall be as follows:

– thickness of plating: steel 4.5 ± 0.5 mm
  aluminium 6.0 ± 0.5 mm
– stiffeners spaced at 600 mm: steel (65 ± 5) x (65 ± 5) x (6 ± 1) mm
  aluminium (100 ± 5) x (75 ± 5) x (9 ± 1) mm

  2.1.1.4 The width of the structural core may be greater than the specified dimensions providing that the additional width is in increments of 600 mm to maintain the stiffener centres and the relationship between the stiffeners and the perimeter detail.

  2.1.1.5 Any joints in the plating shall be fully welded, at least from one side.

  2.1.1.6 The construction of a structural steel core having the recommended dimensions is shown in figure 1; the thickness of the plating and dimensions of the stiffeners shown are nominal dimensions. Irrespective of the dimensions of the structural core and the material of manufacture, the details around the perimeter shall be as illustrated in figure 3.

  2.1.2 Design

  2.1.2.1 Where insulation is provided by panels (e.g., a "B" class lining), then the test specimen shall be such that at least one of the panels is of full width and this, or these, shall be positioned such that both its/their longitudinal edges are jointed to an adjacent panel and are not secured to the restraint frame.

  2.1.2.2 The overall dimensions of the panel insulation system, including the perimeter details at all the edges, shall be 20 mm greater in each direction than the equivalent dimensions of the structural core.

  2.1.2.3 If the insulation system is a lining which may incorporate electrical fittings, e.g., light fittings and/or ventilation units, it is necessary that initially a test is performed on a specimen of the lining itself, without the incorporation of these units, to establish the basic performance. A separate test(s) shall be performed on a specimen(s) with the units incorporated to ascertain their influence on the performance of the lining.

  2.1.2.4 Where the insulation consists of blankets, the blankets shall be arranged so that not less than two transverse joints between blankets are included. The joints shall be located not less than 600 mm from the edges of the bulkhead.

  2.1.3 Description

  2.1.3.1 The applicant shall provide full constructional details of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a detailed schedule of components) and method of assembly, such that the laboratory is able to confirm agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and specifications prior to the test. The drawings shall include dimensions and details of the thicknesses of insulation used in way of the plating and the stiffeners, the method of securing the insulation system and details of the components used for this purpose, details of joints, connections, air gaps and all other details.

  2.1.3.2 Where insulation is provided by panels, the manufacturer shall provide the information required in paragraphs 2.4.3 (bulkheads), 2.7.3 (linings) or 2.8.3 (ceilings). The distance between the steel bulkhead/deck and the insulating membrane shall be stated.

2.2 “A” class decks

  2.2.1 Dimensions

  2.2.1.1 The minimum overall dimensions of the test specimen, including the perimeter details at all the edges, are 2,440 mm width and 3,040 mm length.

  2.2.1.2 The overall dimensions of the structural core shall be 20 mm less in both the width and length than the overall dimensions of the specimen, and the other dimensions of the structural core shall be as follows:

– thickness of plating: steel 4.5 ± 0.5 mm
  aluminium 6 ± 0.5 mm
– stiffeners spaced at 600 mm: steel (100 ± 5) x (70 ± 5) x (8 ± 1) mm
  aluminium (150 ± 5) x (100 ± 5) x (9 ± 1) mm

  2.2.1.3 The width of the structural core may be greater than the specified dimensions providing that the additional width is in increments of 600 mm to maintain the stiffener centres and the relationship between the stiffeners and the perimeter detail.

  2.2.1.4 Any joints in the plating shall be fully welded, at least from one side.

  2.2.1.5 The construction of a structural steel core having the recommended dimensions is shown in figure 2; the thickness of the plating and dimensions of the stiffeners shown are nominal dimensions. Irrespective of the dimensions of the structural core and the material of manufacture, the details around the perimeter shall be as illustrated in figure 3.

  2.2.2 Design

  2.2.2.1 Where insulation is provided by panels (e.g., a "B" class ceiling), then the test specimen shall be designed such that at least one of the panels is of full width and this, or these, shall be positioned such that both its/their longitudinal edges are jointed to an adjacent panel and are not secured to the restraint frame. The overall dimensions of the panel insulation system, including the perimeter details at all the edges, shall be 20 mm greater in each direction than the equivalent dimensions of the structural core.

  2.2.2.2 If the ceiling incorporates panels, the specimen shall include examples of both the lateral and longitudinal joints between the panels. If the specimen is to simulate a ceiling where the maximum length of the panels is greater than the length of the specimen, then a joint shall be positioned at a distance of approximately 600 mm from one of the shorter ends of the test specimen.

  2.2.2.3 If the insulation system is a ceiling which may incorporate electrical fittings, e.g., light fittings and/or ventilation units, it is necessary that initially a test is performed on a specimen of the ceiling itself, without the incorporation of these units, to establish the basic performance. A separate test(s) shall be performed on a specimen(s) with the units incorporated to ascertain their influence on the performance of the ceiling.

  2.2.2.4 Where the insulation consists of blankets, the blankets shall be arranged so that not less than two transverse joints between blankets are included. The joints shall be located not less than 600 mm from the edges of the deck.

  2.2.3 Description

  2.2.3.1 The applicant shall provide full constructional details of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a detailed schedule of components) and method of assembly, such that the laboratory is able to confirm agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and specifications prior to the test. The drawings shall include dimensions and details of the thicknesses of insulation used in way of the plating and the stiffeners, the method of securing the insulation system and details of the components used for this purpose, details of joints, connections, air gaps and all other details.

  2.2.3.2 Where insulation is provided by panels, the manufacturer shall provide the information required in paragraph 2.8.3 (ceilings). The distance between the steel deck and the insulating membrane shall be stated.

2.3 “A” class doors

  2.3.1 Dimensions

 The test specimen shall incorporate the maximum size (in terms of both the width and the height) of door leaf or leaves for which approval is to be sought. The maximum size of a door which can be tested will be determined by the requirement to retain certain dimensions of the structural core (see paragraph 2.3.2.4 below).

  2.3.2 Design

  2.3.2.1 The door leaf and frame shall be constructed of steel or other equivalent material and insulated as necessary to achieve the desired standard of insulation.

  2.3.2.2 Door furniture such as hinges, locks, latches, shoot bolts, handles, etc., shall be constructed of materials having melting points of not less than 950°C unless it can be shown by the fire test that materials having melting points below 950°C do not adversely affect the performance of the door.

  2.3.2.3 The door leaf and frame shall be mounted into a structural core constructed in accordance with paragraph 2.1.1.

  2.3.2.4 An opening to accommodate the door assembly shall be provided in the structural core; the maximum dimensions of the opening will be determined by a requirement to retain a minimum width of the structural core of 300 mm to each vertical side of the opening and a minimum distance of 100 mm from the top edge of the structural core.

  2.3.2.5 No additional stiffening shall be provided to the structural core unless provided as part of the door frame.

  2.3.2.6 The method of fixing the door frame into the opening in the structural core shall be as used in practice. If the method of fixing the door frame in a test is made by bolts, the Administration may also accept welding as a method of fixing the door frame without further tests.

  2.3.2.7 For doors mounted in a three-sided frame, the door shall be mounted with a bottom gap of between 12 mm and 25 mm between the bottom of the door and the test frame.

  2.3.2.8 The structural core shall be mounted such that the stiffeners are on the unexposed face and the insulating system shall be on the exposed face.

  2.3.2.9 The insulation system shall be approved by the Administration to at least the same standard as that which the door is intended to achieve. If the insulation performance of the door is unknown the structural core shall be insulated to "A-60" standard. The insulation of the structural core shall not be extended beyond the outer web of the door frame.

  2.3.2.10 The door shall be mounted into the structural core such that the side expected to give the inferior performance will be exposed to the heating conditions of the test.

  2.3.2.11 A hinged door shall be tested with the door leaf opening away from the heating conditions unless the Administration deems otherwise.

  2.3.2.12 For sliding doors it is not possible to state generally from which side the door shall be tested to give the inferior performance. It will, therefore, be necessary to conduct two separate tests, one with the door mounted to the exposed face and one with the door mounted to the unexposed face of the bulkhead. If, for practical reasons, a sliding door cannot be fixed to the stiffened face of the structural core, then, subject to the agreement of the Administration, the stiffeners may be positioned on the exposed face.

  2.3.2.13 Lift landing doors can be expected to be exposed to fire from the corridor side only, and they shall be exposed to fire test heating conditions from that side only.

  2.3.2.14 Tests performed with double leaf doors will not be accepted as approval documentation for single leaf doors.

  2.3.2.15 Double leaf doors should be tested with equally sized door leaves unless the door is intended to have unequally sized leaves.

  2.3.3 Description

 The applicant shall provide full constructional details of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a detailed schedule of components) and method of assembly, such that the laboratory is able to confirm agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and specifications prior to the test. The drawings shall include dimensions and details of the following:

  • .1 the bulkhead;

  • .2 the door leaf and frame construction, including the clearances between the door leaf and the frame;

  • .3 the connection of the door frame to the bulkhead;

  • .4 the method of securing insulation and details of components used for this purpose (e.g., the type and rate of application of any adhesive); and

  • .5 fittings such as hinges, shoot bolts, latches, locks, etc.

2.4 "B" and "F" class bulkheads

  2.4.1 Dimensions

  2.4.1.1 The minimum overall dimensions of the test specimen, including the perimeter details at the top, bottom and vertical edges, are 2,440 mm width and 2,500 mm height. When the maximum overall height in practice is to be less than that given above, then the test specimen shall be of the maximum height to be used in practice.

  2.4.1.2 The minimum bulkhead panel height shall be a standard height of the manufactured panel with a dimension of 2,400 mm.

  2.4.2 Design

  2.4.2.1 Where the construction incorporates panels, the specimen shall be constructed such that at least one of the panels is of full width and this, or these, shall be positioned such that both its/their longitudinal edges are jointed to an adjacent panel and are not secured to the restraint frame.

  2.4.2.2 If the bulkhead may incorporate electrical fittings, e.g., light fittings and/or ventilation units, it is necessary that initially a test is performed on a specimen of the bulkhead itself, without the incorporation of these units, to establish the basic performance. A separate test(s) shall be performed on a specimen(s) with the units incorporated to ascertain their influence on the performance of the bulkhead.

  2.4.3 Description

 The applicant shall provide full constructional details of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a detailed schedule of components) and method of assembly, such that the laboratory is able to confirm agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and specifications prior to the test. The drawings shall include dimensions and details of the thicknesses of materials used in the insulation system (e.g., of any panels), the method of securing the panels and details of the components used for this purpose, details of joints, connections, air gaps and all other details.

2.5 "B" and "F" class decks

  2.5.1 Dimensions

  2.5.1.1 The minimum overall dimensions of the test specimen, including the perimeter details at all the edges, are 2,440 mm width and 3,040 mm length.

  2.5.1.2 When the maximum dimensions in practice are less than that given above, the test specimen shall be of the maximum size to be used in practice and the tested width shall be reported.

  2.5.2 Design

 Where the construction incorporates panels, the specimen shall be constructed such that at least one of the panels is of full width and this, or these, shall be positioned such that both its/their longitudinal edges are jointed to an adjacent panel and are not secured to the restraint frame.

  2.5.3 Description

 The applicant shall provide full constructional details of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a detailed schedule of components) and method of assembly, such that the laboratory is able to confirm agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and specifications prior to the test. The drawings shall include dimensions and details of the thicknesses of materials used in the insulation system (e.g., of any panels), the method of securing the insulation system and details of the components used for this purpose, details of joints, connections, air gaps and all other details.

2.6 "B" and "F" class doors

  2.6.1 Dimensions

 The test specimen shall incorporate the maximum size (in terms of both the width and the height) of the door leaf or leaves for which approval is to be sought. The maximum size of a door which can be tested will be determined by the requirement to retain certain dimensions of the bulkhead (see paragraph 2.6.2.6).

  2.6.2 Design

  2.6.2.1 Door furniture such as hinges, locks, latches, shoot bolts, handles, etc., shall be constructed of materials having melting points of not less than 850°C unless it can be shown by the fire test that materials having melting points below 850°C do not adversely affect the performance of the door.

  2.6.2.2 The door leaf and frame shall be mounted as appropriate into a "B" or "F" class bulkhead of compatible construction, thereby reflecting an actual end-use situation. The bulkhead shall have dimensions as prescribed in paragraph 2.4.1.

  2.6.2.3 The bulkhead shall be of a construction approved by the Administration as having at least a similar classification to that required by the door, and approval shall be limited to the type of construction in which the door was tested.

  2.6.2.4 The method of fixing the door frame to the bulkhead shall be as used in practice. If the method of fixing the door frame in a test is made by bolts, the Administration may also accept welding as a method of fixing the door frame without further tests.

  2.6.2.5 For doors mounted in a three-sided frame, the door shall be mounted with a bottom gap of between 12 mm and 25 mm between the bottom of the door and the test frame.

  2.6.2.6 The door shall be positioned such that there is a minimum width of the bulkhead of 300 mm to each vertical side of the door and a minimum distance of 100 mm from the top edge of the bulkhead.

  2.6.2.7 The door shall be mounted into the bulkhead such that the side expected to give the inferior performance will be exposed to the heating conditions of the test.

  2.6.2.8 A hinged door shall be tested with the door leaf opening away from the heating conditions unless the Administration deems otherwise.

  2.6.2.9 For sliding doors it is not possible to state generally from which side the door shall be tested to give the inferior performance. It will, therefore, be necessary to conduct two separate tests, one with the door mounted to the exposed face and one with the door mounted to the unexposed face of the bulkhead.

  2.6.2.10 For a door which incorporates a ventilation opening within its construction, the ventilation grille(s) shall be open at the commencement of the test.

  2.6.3 Description

 The applicant shall provide full constructional details of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a detailed schedule of components) and method of assembly, such that the laboratory is able to confirm agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and specifications prior to the test. The drawings shall include dimensions and details as follows:

  • .1 the bulkhead;

  • .2 the door leaf and frame construction, including the clearances between the door leaf and the frame;

  • .3 the connection of the door frame to the bulkhead;

  • .4 the method of securing insulation and details of components used for this purpose (e.g., the type and rate of application of any adhesive); and

  • .5 fittings such as hinges, shoot bolts, latches, locks, handles, ventilation louvres, escape panels, etc.

2.7 "B" and "F" class linings

 Linings shall be tested as bulkheads and they shall be exposed to the fire test heating conditions from the side intended to face the cabin.

  2.7.1 Dimensions

  2.7.1.1 The minimum overall dimensions of the test specimen, including the perimeter details at the top, bottom and vertical edges, are 2,440 mm width and 2,500 mm height. When the maximum overall height in practice is to be less than that given above, then the test specimen shall be of the maximum height to be used in practice.

  2.7.1.2 The minimum bulkhead panel height shall be a standard height of the manufactured panel with a dimension of 2,400 mm.

  2.7.2 Design

  2.7.2.1 The lining shall be positioned alongside a structural core constructed in accordance with paragraph 2.1.1. The design of the lining shall be such that it facilitates its assembly with the limited access provided by the proximity of the structural core, i.e. it shall be mounted with the structural core in place.

  • Note: Viewing and access openings on an "A" class bulkhead may be provided for the determination of the integrity of the lining, and they should be located corresponding to joints of panels of the lining and away from thermocouples on an "A" class bulkhead. They should normally be sealed with mineral wool insulation slabs except when viewing or access to the lining is needed.

  2.7.2.2 During a test on an "A" class bulkhead which utilizes membrane protection along its exposed side, e.g., a "B" class lining, it is possible also to evaluate the performance of the lining with a view to classification providing that the necessary thermocouples are attached to the lining and providing that the necessary integrity measurements are made.

  2.7.2.3 The specimen shall be constructed such that at least one of the panels is of full width and this, or these, shall be positioned such that both its/their longitudinal edges are jointed to an adjacent panel and are not secured to the restraint frame.

  2.7.2.4 If the lining may incorporate electrical fittings, e.g., light fittings and/or ventilation units, it is necessary that initially a test is performed on a specimen of the lining itself, without the incorporation of these units, to establish the basic performance. A separate test(s) shall be performed on a specimen(s) with the units incorporated to ascertain their influence on the performance of the lining.

  2.7.3 Description

 The applicant shall provide full constructional details of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a detailed schedule of components) and method of assembly, such that the laboratory is able to confirm agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and specifications prior to the test. The drawings shall include dimensions and details of the thicknesses of materials used in the insulation system (e.g., of any panels), the method of securing the insulation system and details of the components used for this purpose, details of joints, connections, air gaps and all other details.

2.8 "B" and "F" class ceilings

  2.8.1 Dimensions

  2.8.1.1 The minimum overall dimensions of the test specimen, including the perimeter details at all the edges, are 2,440 mm width and 3,040 mm length.

  2.8.1.2 When the maximum dimensions in practice are less than those given above then the test specimen shall be of the maximum size to be used in practice, and the tested width shall be reported.

  2.8.2 Design

  2.8.2.1 The ceiling shall be positioned below a structural core constructed in accordance with paragraph 2.2.1. The design of the ceiling shall be such that it facilitates its assembly with the limited access provided by the proximity of the structural core, i.e. it shall be mounted with the structural core in place.

  • Note: Viewing and access openings on an "A" class deck may be provided for the determination of the integrity of the ceiling, and they should be located corresponding to joints of panels of the ceiling and away from thermocouples on an "A" class deck. They should normally be sealed with mineral wool insulation slabs except when viewing or access to the ceiling is needed.

  2.8.2.2 During a test on an "A" class deck which utilizes membrane protection along its underside, e.g., a "B" class ceiling, it is possible also to evaluate the performance of the ceiling with a view to classification providing that the necessary thermocouples are attached to the ceiling and providing that the necessary integrity measurements are made.

  2.8.2.3 If the ceiling incorporates panels, the specimen shall include examples of both the lateral and longitudinal joints between the panels. If the specimen is to simulate a ceiling where the maximum length of the panels is greater than the length of the specimen, then a joint shall be positioned at a distance of approximately 600 mm from one of the shorter ends of the test specimen.

  2.8.2.4 The specimen shall be constructed such that at least one of the panels is of full width and this, or these, shall be positioned such that both its/their longitudinal edges are jointed to an adjacent panel and are not secured to the restraint frame.

  2.8.2.5 If the ceiling may incorporate electrical fittings, e.g., light fittings and/or ventilation units, it is necessary that initially a test is performed on a specimen of the ceiling itself, without the incorporation of these units, to establish the basic performance. A separate test(s) shall be performed on a specimen(s) with the units incorporated to ascertain their influence on the performance of the ceiling.

  2.8.2.6 Where testing is conducted on a perforated ceiling system, equally constructed non-perforated ceilings and ceilings with a lesser degree of perforations (in terms of size, shape, and perforations per unit area) may be approved without further testing.

  2.8.3 Description

 The applicant shall provide full constructional details of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a detailed schedule of components) and method of assembly, such that the laboratory is able to confirm agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and specifications prior to the test. The drawings shall include dimensions and details of the thicknesses of materials used in the insulation system (e.g., of any panels), the method of securing the insulation system and all relevant details including, in particular, the components used for this purpose, joints, connections and air gaps.

3 Materials for Test Specimens

3.1 Specifications

 Prior to the test, the following information, if applicable, shall be submitted to the laboratory by the applicant for each of the materials used in the construction:

  • .1 the identification mark and trade name;

  • .2 principal details of composition

  • .3 nominal thickness;

  • .4 nominal density (for compressible materials this shall be related to the nominal thickness);

  • .5 nominal equilibrium moisture content (at relative humidity of 50% and a temperature of 23°C);

  • .6 nominal organic content;

  • .7 specific heat at ambient temperature; and

  • .8 thermal conductivity at ambient temperature.

3.2 Control measurements

  3.2.1 General

  3.2.1.1 The testing laboratory shall take reference specimens of all those materials whose characteristics are important to the performance of the specimen (excluding steel and equivalent material). The reference specimens shall be used for the non-combustibility test, if appropriate, and for the determination of the thickness, the density and, where appropriate, the moisture and/or organic content.

  3.2.1.2 The reference specimens for sprayed materials shall be made when the material is sprayed on the structural core and they shall be sprayed in a similar manner and in the same orientation.

  3.2.1.3 The laboratory shall conduct the following control tests, as appropriate to the type of material and the proposed classification, on the reference specimens after they have been conditioned as specified in paragraph 4.

  3.2.1.4 For the determination of the thickness, the density and the moisture and/or organic content three specimens shall be used, and the value quoted as the mean of the three measurements.

  3.2.2 Encapsulated materials

  3.2.2.1 When an insulation material is encapsulated within the construction and it is not possible for the laboratory to take specimens of the material prior to the test for conducting the control measurements, the applicant shall be requested to provide the requisite samples of the material. In these cases it shall be clearly stated in the test report that the measured properties were determined from samples of the material provided by the applicant for the test.

  3.2.2.2 Notwithstanding the above, the laboratory shall attempt, wherever possible, to verify the properties by using samples which may be cut from the specimen before test or by checking against similar properties determined after test. When samples of the material are cut from the test specimen before test, the specimen shall be repaired in a manner such that its performance in the fire test is not impaired.

  3.2.3 Non-combustibility

 Where materials used in the construction of the specimen are required to be non-combustible, i.e. for "A" and "B" classes, evidence in the form of test reports in accordance with the test method in part 1 of this annex, and from a testing laboratory recognized by the Administration and independent of the manufacturer of the material shall be provided. These test reports shall indicate that the non-combustibility tests were conducted not more than 24 months prior to the date of the performance of the fire resistance test. If such reports cannot be provided then tests in accordance with part 1 of annex 1 to the Code shall be conducted. When the material has a type approval certificate for non-combustible material valid at the performance of the fire resistance test, non-combustibility test reports may not be required.

  3.2.4 Low flame-spread characteristics

  3.2.4.1 Where materials used in the construction of the specimen are required to have low flame-spread characteristics, evidence in the form of test reports in accordance with part 5 of this annex, and from a testing laboratory recognized by the Administration and independent of the manufacturer of the material shall be provided. These test reports shall indicate that the low flame-spread tests were conducted not more than 24 months prior to the date of the performance of the fire resistance test. If such reports cannot be provided then tests in accordance with part 5 of this annex shall be conducted. When the material has a type approval certificate for low flame-spread characteristics valid at the performance of the fire resistance test, low flame-spread test reports may not be required.

  3.2.4.2 Adhesives used in the construction of the specimen are not required to be non-combustible; however, they shall have low flame-spread characteristics.

  3.2.5 Thickness

  3.2.5.1 The thickness of each material and combination of materials shall be ± 10% of the value stated as the nominal thickness when measured by using a suitable gauge or callipers.

  3.2.5.2 The thickness of a sprayed insulation material shall be measured using a suitable probe at positions adjacent to each of the unexposed-face thermocouples.

  3.2.6 Density

  3.2.6.1 The density of each material shall be determined from measurement of the weight and the dimensions.

  3.2.6.2 The density of mineral wool or any similar compressible material shall be related to the nominal thickness and the density of each material used in the test specimen shall be ± 10% of the value stated as the nominal density.

  3.2.7 Moisture content

  3.2.7.1 The moisture content (W1-W2) of each non-combustible material used in the specimen shall be calculated using the following method, and indicate a percentage of the dry weight (W2), and which information is required.

  3.2.7.2 In the following, W1, W2 and W3 are mean values of three weight measurements. W1 shall be higher than 25 g. Three specimens of each material, taken in the width of the production's direction and measuring width x minimum 20 mm x thickness of the material, shall be weighed (initial conditioned weight W1) and then heated in a ventilated oven at a temperature of 105 ± 2°C for 24 h and reweighed when cooled (W2). However, gypsum-based, cementations and similar materials should be dried at a temperature of 55 ± 5°C to constant weight (W2).

  3.2.7.3 The moisture content (W1-W2) of each specimen shall be calculated as a percentage of the dry weight (W2).

  3.2.8 Organic content

  3.2.8.1 The information of organic content of non-combustible materials used in the specimen is required. After the percentage moisture contents have been calculated as specified in paragraph 3.2.7, the three specimens should be further heated in an oven at a temperature of 500 ± 20°C for 2 h and again weighed (W3). The organic content (W2-W3) shall be calculated as a percentage of the dry weight (W2).

  • Note: A bigger tolerance can be accepted as long as the tested specimen represents the upper limit of the tolerance. In this case, it should be specified in the test report and in the type approval certificate.

  3.2.8.2 The organic content of each material used in the test specimen should be within ± 0.3% absolute of the value stated as the nominal organic content.

4 Conditioning of the Test Specimens

4.1 General

  4.1.1 The test specimen should be protected against adverse environmental conditions until the time of the test. The test specimen shall not be tested until it has reached an equilibrium (constant weight), air-dry condition under the laboratory's normal ambient condition. The equilibrium condition shall be obtained according to paragraph 4.2 below.

  4.1.2 Accelerated conditioning is permissible provided the method does not alter the properties of component materials. In general, high-temperature conditioning shall be below temperatures critical for the materials.

4.2 Verification

  4.2.1 The condition of the test specimen can be monitored and verified by use of special samples for the determination of moisture content of constituent materials, as appropriate. These samples shall be so constructed as to represent the loss of water vapour from the specimen by having similar thicknesses and exposed faces. They shall have minimum linear dimensions of 300 mm by 300 mm and a minimum mass of 100 g. Constant weight shall be considered to be reached when two successive weighing operations, carried out at an interval of 24 h, do not differ by more than 0.3% of the mass of the reference specimen or 0.3 g, whichever is the greater.

  4.2.2 Other reliable methods of verifying that the material has reached equilibrium moisture content may be used by the testing laboratory.

4.3 Encapsulated materials

  4.3.1 When the test specimen incorporates encapsulated materials it is important to ensure that these materials have reached an equilibrium moisture content prior to assembly, and special arrangements shall be made with the applicant for the test to ensure that this is so.

  4.3.2 When the test specimen, such as doors, incorporates encapsulated materials, the requirement relevant to equilibrium moisture in paragraph 4.2 shall apply.

5 Mounting of the Test Specimens

5.1 Restraint and support frames

  5.1.1 All test specimens shall be mounted within substantial concrete, or concrete- or masonry-lined frames, which are capable of providing a high degree of restraint to the expansion forces generated during the tests. The concrete or the masonry shall have a density between 1,600 kg/m3 and 2,400 kg/m3. The concrete or masonry lining to a steel frame shall have a thickness of at least 50 mm.

  5.1.2 The rigidity of the restraint frames shall be evaluated by applying an expansion force of 100 kN within the frame at mid-width between two opposite members of the frame and measuring the increase in the internal dimensions at these positions. This evaluation shall be conducted in the direction of the bulkhead or deck stiffeners, and the increase of the internal dimension shall not exceed 2 mm.

  5.1.3 For frames which are to be used to evaluate "A" class divisions which incorporate "B" class ceilings or linings, the frames shall be provided with at least four viewing and access openings, notionally one to each quarter of the test specimen. These openings shall facilitate access to the cavity for the determination of the integrity of the ceiling or lining during the test on the deck or bulkhead. The access/viewing openings shall normally be sealed with mineral wool insulation slabs except when viewing or accessing to the ceiling or lining is needed.

5.2 "A" class divisions

  5.2.1 The structural core to an "A" class division shall be fixed into the restraint frame and sealed around its perimeter as shown in figure 3. Steel spacers, with an approximate thickness of 5 mm, may be inserted between the fixing cleats and the restraint frame if the laboratory finds this necessary.

  5.2.2 When the structural core of an "A" class division is to be exposed to the heating conditions of the test, i.e. when the fixing cleats are on the exposed side of the structural core, then a 100 mm wide perimeter margin adjacent to the restraint frame shall be insulated such that the fixing cleats and the edges of the structural core are protected from direct exposure to the heating conditions. In no other situations, irrespective of the type of test specimen, shall the perimeter edges be protected from direct exposure to the heating conditions.

5.3 "B" and "F" class divisions

  5.3.1 For a "B" or "F" class bulkhead or lining, the specimen shall be supported at the top and secured on the vertical sides and at the bottom in a manner representative of the conditions in service. The support provided at the top of a bulkhead or lining shall allow for the appropriate expansion or clearance to be used as in practice. At the vertical edges lateral expansion towards the vertical edges of the restraint frame shall be prevented by ensuring a tight fit of the specimen within the frame which may be achieved by inserting a rigid packing between the vertical edges and the frame. If provision for movement at the edges of a bulkhead or lining is made for a particular construction in service, the specimen shall simulate these conditions.

  5.3.2 For a "B" or "F" class ceiling, expansion of the ceiling members shall be prevented at the perimeter edges since the specimen is intended to simulate a part of a ceiling removed from a much greater area. Expansion shall be prevented by ensuring a tight fit of the specimen within the frame which may be achieved by inserting a rigid packing between the ends or edges of ceiling members and the restraint frame. Only if the ceiling is being tested at full size in one or more directions is it allowed to incorporate the expansion allowance at the perimeter edges in the appropriate direction or directions.

6 Examination of the Test Specimens

6.1 Conformity

  6.1.1 The laboratory shall verify the conformity of the test specimen with the drawings and method of assembly provided by the applicant (see paragraph 2), and any area of discrepancy shall be resolved prior to commencement of the test.

  6.1.2 On occasion it may not be possible to verify the conformity of all aspects of the specimen construction prior to the test and adequate evidence may not be available after test. When it is necessary to rely on information provided by the applicant then this shall be clearly stated in the test report. The laboratory shall nevertheless ensure that it fully appreciates the design of the test specimen and shall be confident that it is able to accurately record the constructional details in the test report.

6.2 Door clearances

 Following mounting of the door and immediately prior to test, the laboratory shall measure the actual clearances between the door leaf and the door frame, and additionally for a double leaf door between the adjacent door leaves. The clearances shall be measured for each door leaf at two positions along the top and bottom edges and at three positions along each vertical edge.

6.3 Door operation

 Similarly, immediately prior to test, the laboratory shall check the operability of the door by opening the door leaf by a distance of at least 300 mm. The door leaf shall then be closed, either automatically, if such a closing device is provided, or manually. The door may be latched for the test but shall not be locked, and no devices for latching or locking shall be included which are not normally incorporated in practice.

7 Instrumentation

7.1 General

  7.1.1 The furnace

 The instrumentation of the furnace and the instrumentation of the test specimen shall generally be in accordance with the standard ISO 834-1, Fire resistance tests – Elements of building construction – Part 1: General requirements; except where amended by this section. The details given in the following paragraphs are supplementary to, an elaboration of, or a deviation from the ISO requirements.

7.2 Ambient temperature thermocouple

 A thermocouple shall be used to indicate the ambient temperature within the laboratory in the vicinity of the test specimen both prior to and during the test period. The thermocouple shall be nominally of 3 mm diameter, mineral insulated, stainless steel type K. The measuring junction shall be protected from radiated heat and draught. The ambient temperature shall be monitored at a distance of between 1 m and 3 m horizontally away from the unexposed face of the test specimen.

7.3 Furnace temperature thermocouples

  7.3.1 Design

  7.3.1.1 The furnace thermocouples shall be plate thermometers, which comprise an assembly of a folded steel plate, a thermocouple fixed to it and containing insulation material as described in standard ISO 834-1.

  7.3.1.2 The plate part shall be constructed from 150 ± 1 mm long by 100 ± 1 mm wide by 0.7 ± 0.1 mm thick nickel alloy sheet strips folded to the design as shown in figure 4

  7.3.1.3 The measuring junction shall consist of nickel chromium/nickel aluminium (type K) wire as defined in standard IEC 60584-1, contained within mineral insulation in a heat-resisting steel alloy sheath of nominal diameter 1 mm, the hot junctions being electrically insulated from the sheath. The thermocouple hot junction shall be fixed to the geometric centre of the plate in the position shown in figure 4 by a small steel strip made from the same material as the plate. The steel strip can be welded to the plate or may be screwed to it to facilitate replacement of the thermocouple. The strip shall be approximately 18 mm by 6 mm if it is spot welded to the plate, and nominally 25 mm by 6 mm if it is to be screwed to the plate. The screws shall be 2 mm in diameter.

  7.3.1.4 The assembly of plate and thermocouple shall be fitted with a pad of inorganic insulation material nominally 97 ± 1 mm by 97 ± 1 mm by 10 ± 1 mm thick, density 280 ± 30 kg/m3.

  7.3.1.5 Before the plate thermometers are first used, the complete plate thermometer shall be aged by immersing in a pre-heated oven at 1,000°C for 1 h.

  • Note: Exposure in a fire-resistance test furnace for 90 min under the standard temperature/time curve is considered to be an acceptable alternative to using an oven.

  7.3.1.6 When a plate thermometer is used more than once, a log of its use shall be maintained indicating, for each use, the checks made and duration of use. The thermocouple and the insulation pad shall be replaced after 50 h exposure in the furnace.

  7.3.2 Number

 At least six furnace thermocouples shall be provided for the specimens given in paragraph 2. For specimens larger than those specified in paragraph 2, additional thermocouples shall be provided in the proportion of one per 1.5 m2 of the specimen area. In case of a door assembly, specimen area refers to the entire bulkhead construction with the door fitted. This principle shall be used also for the other assemblies (e.g., windows, ducts and penetrations) installed in bulkheads or decks.

  7.3.3 Positioning

  7.3.3.1 The thermocouples employed to measure the temperature of the furnace shall be uniformly distributed so as to give a reliable indication of the average temperature in the vicinity of the specimen. At the commencement of the test the measuring junctions shall be 100 mm from the face of the specimen and they shall be maintained at a distance of 50 mm to 150 mm during the test. The method of support shall ensure that thermocouples do not fall away or become dislodged during the test. Where it is convenient to pass thermocouple wires through the test construction, then the steel support tube shall not be used. The plate thermometers shall not be located at positions within the furnace where they are subject to direct flame impingement.

  7.3.3.2 The plate thermometer shall be orientated so that side A faces the back wall of the wall furnace and the floor of the horizontal furnace.

  7.3.4 Connection

 The thermocouple wire shall be either continuous to the recording instrument or suitable compensating wire shall be used with all junctions maintained as near as possible at ambient temperature conditions

7.4 Furnace pressure sensors

 The mean value of the furnace pressure shall be measured using one of the designs of sensing heads described in figure 5.

7.5 Unexposed-face temperature thermocouples

  7.5.1 Design

 The temperature of the unexposed surface shall be measured by means of disc thermocouples of the type shown in figure 6. Thermocouple wires, 0.5 mm in diameter, shall be soldered to a 0.2 mm thick by 12 mm diameter copper disc. Each thermocouple shall be covered with a 30 mm square x 2.0 ± 0.5 mm thick non-combustible insulating pad. The pad material shall have a density of 900 ± 100 kg/m3.

  7.5.2 Connection

 Connection to the recording instrument shall be by wires of similar or appropriate compensating type.

  7.5.3 Preparation of surfaces to receive thermocouples

  7.5.3.1 Steel – Surface finishes shall be removed and the surface cleaned with a solvent. Loose rust and scale shall be removed by wire brush.

  7.5.3.2 Irregular surfaces – A smooth surface, not greater than 2,500 mm2, to provide adequate adhesive bond shall be made for each thermocouple by smoothing the existing surface with a suitable abrasive paper. The material removed shall be the minimum to provide an adequate bonding surface. Where the surface cannot be smoothed, fillings shall be used of minimum quantity to provide a suitable surface. The filling shall comprise a ceramic cement and when the filled surface is dry it shall be smoothed, if necessary, with abrasive paper.

  7.5.4 Fixing of thermocouples

  7.5.4.1 Steel – The insulating pad with the thermocouple fitted shall be bonded to the cleaned surface of the steel using a "water-based ceramic cement" produced by integrating the components to form a high-temperature-resistant adhesive. The adhesive shall be of such a consistency that no mechanical aid is necessary for retention purposes during the drying process, but, where difficulty in bonding is experienced, retention by adhesive tape may be employed provided that the tape is removed sufficiently long in advance of the test to allow complete drying of the adhesive. Care is required in the removal of the tape to ensure that the insulating pad is not damaged. If the thermocouple pad is damaged when the tape is removed then the thermocouple shall be replaced.

  7.5.4.2 Mineral wool – The thermocouples with insulating pads fitted shall be arranged in such a way that if a surface wire mesh is present it may aid retention, and in all cases the bond to the fibrous surface shall be made using a "contact adhesive". The nature of the adhesive necessitates a drying time before mating surfaces are put together, thus obviating the need for external pressure.

  7.5.4.3 Where gluing is not possible, pins, screws or clips which are only in contact with those parts of the pad which are not over the (copper) disc shall be used. (Example: U-shaped clips approximately 30 x 15 x 30 x 0.5 mm, which are in contact only with the extreme corners of the pad. Heat transfer to the copper disc is negligible.)

  7.5.4.4 Mineral fibre spray – Thermocouples shall not be fitted until the insulation has reached a stable moisture condition. In all cases the bonding technique for steel shall be used and where a surface wire mesh is present the thermocouples shall be affixed to the insulation in such a way that the wire mesh aids retention.

  7.5.4.5 Vermiculite/cement type spray – The technique specified for wet fibrous spray shall be employed.

  7.5.4.6 Boards of fibrous or mineral aggregate composition – The bonding technique for steel shall be used.

  7.5.4.7 In all cases of adhesive bonding, the adhesive shall be applied in a thin film sufficient to give an adequate bond and there shall be a sufficient lapse of time between the bonding of the thermocouples and the test for stable moisture conditions to be attained in the case of the ceramic adhesive and evaporation of the solvent in the case of the "contact adhesive".

  7.5.4.8 For "A" and "B" class divisions the insulation performance of a construction shall be given by that part of the construction which is manufactured from non-combustible materials only. However, if a material or panel is only produced with a superimposed finish, or if the Administration considers that the addition of a superimposed finish may be detrimental to the performance of the division, the Administration may allow, or may require, the finish to be incorporated during the test. In these cases, the superimposed finish shall be removed locally over an area as small as possible to allow fixing of the thermocouples to the non-combustible part, e.g., a deck provided with overlaid non-combustible insulation (a floating floor) shall have any combustible top surface finish removed locally to the thermocouples to allow them to be fixed to the insulation material.

7.6 Positioning of thermocouples on the specimen

  7.6.1 "A" class divisions, excluding doors

 The surface temperatures on the unexposed face of the test specimen shall be measured by thermocouples located as shown in figures 7 and 8:

  • .1 five thermocouples, one at the centre of the test specimen and one at the centre of each of the four quarters, all positioned at least 100 mm away from the nearest part of any joints and/or at least 100 mm away from the welds to any stiffeners;

  • .2 two thermocouples, one placed over each of the central stiffeners and for a bulkhead at 0.75 height of the specimen and for a deck at mid-length of the deck;

  • .3 two thermocouples, each placed over a vertical (longitudinal) joint, if any, in the insulation system and positioned for a bulkhead at 0.75 height of the specimen and for a deck at mid-length of the deck;

  • .4 when a construction has two differently orientated joint details, for example normal to each other, then two thermocouples additional to those already described in paragraph 7.6.1.3 above shall be used, one on each of two intersections;

  • .5 when a construction has two different types of joint detail, then two thermocouples shall be used for each type of joint;

  • .6 additional thermocouples, at the discretion of the testing laboratory or Administration, may be fixed over special features or specific construction details if it is considered that temperatures higher than those measured by the thermocouples listed above may result; and

  • .7 the thermocouples specified in subparagraphs .4 to .6 above for measurements on bulkheads, e.g., over different joint types or over joint intersections, shall, where possible, be positioned in the upper half of the specimen.

  7.6.2 "B" and "F" class divisions, excluding doors

 The surface temperatures on the unexposed face of the test specimen shall be measured by thermocouples located as shown in figure 9:

  • .1 five thermocouples, one at the centre of the test specimen and one at the centre of each of the four quarters, all positioned at least 100 mm away from the nearest part of any joints;

  • .2 two thermocouples, each placed over a vertical (longitudinal) joint, if any, in the division/insulation system and positioned for a bulkhead at 0.75 height of the specimen and for a deck/ceiling at mid-length of the deck/ceiling; and

  • .3 additional thermocouples, as required by paragraphs 7.6.1.4 to 7.6.1.7 above.

  7.6.3 "A", "B" and "F" class doors

 The surface temperatures on the unexposed face of the test specimen shall be measured by:

  • .1 five thermocouples, one at the centre of the door leaf and one at the centre of each of the four quarters of the door leaf, all positioned at least 100 mm away from the edge of the door leaf, from any stiffeners, from any door furniture and from any special features or specific constructional details;

  • .2 if the door leaf incorporates stiffeners, two additional thermocouples, one placed over each of two stiffeners in the central portion of the door;

  • .3 additional thermocouples, at the discretion of the testing laboratory or Administration, may be fixed over special features or specific constructional details if it is considered that temperatures higher than those measured by the thermocouples listed above may result. Any additional thermocouples fixed to the door frame, or to any part of the door leaf, which is closer than a distance of 100 mm from the gap between the edge of the door leaf and the frame shall not be used for the purpose of classification of the test specimen, and if provided are for information only;

  • .4 the thermocouples specified in paragraphs 7.6.3.2 and 7.6.3.3 above shall, where possible, be positioned in the upper half of the specimen;

  • .5 additional thermocouples on the grille of a "B" class door are not to be placed over the perforated area and in a 100 mm wide zone around it;

  • .6 temperature measurements on a door which incorporates a ventilation opening within its construction shall not be made over the face of the ventilation grille(s);

  • .7 the door constructions, which incorporate a top panel, shall always be tested with thermocouples on the unexposed face of the top panel and on the joints and/or joining profiles at a level 125 mm above the top of the door leaf. Height of the top panel in the test specimen should be equal or greater than 225 mm; and

  • .8 when testing double-leaf door assemblies, the requirements shall be applied to each door leaf separately.

7.7 Structural core temperature thermocouples

  7.7.1 When testing a specimen with a structural core other than steel, thermocouples shall be fixed to the core material in positions corresponding to the surface thermocouples mentioned in paragraph 7.6.1.1.

  7.7.2 The thermocouples shall be fixed so that their hot junctions are attached to the appropriate positions by suitable means, including peening into the structural core. The wires shall be prevented from becoming hotter than the junction. The first 50 mm shall be in an isothermal plane.

7.8 Measuring and recording equipment for thermocouples

 The measuring and recording equipment shall be capable of operating within the limits specified in standard ISO 834-1.

7.9 Cotton-wool pads

 The cotton-wool pad employed in the measurement of integrity shall consist of new, undyed and soft cotton fibres, 20 mm thick x 100 mm square, and shall weigh between 3 g and 4 g. It shall be conditioned prior to use by drying in an oven at 100 ± 5°C for at least 30 min. After drying, it shall be allowed to cool to ambient temperature within a desiccator, where it may be stored until needed to be used. For use it shall be mounted in a wire frame, as shown in figure 10, provided with a handle.

7.10 Gap gauges

 Three types of gap gauge, as shown in figure 11, shall be available for the measurement of integrity. They shall be made of stainless steel of the diameter specified to an accuracy of ± 0.5 mm. They shall be provided with appropriate handles.

8 Method of Test

8.1 General

 The test shall be carried out generally in accordance with the standard ISO 834-1, except where amended by this section. The procedures given in the following sections are supplementary to, an elaboration of, or a deviation from the ISO requirements.

8.2 Commencement of test

  8.2.1 Not more than 5 min before the commencement of the test, the initial temperatures recorded by all thermocouples shall be checked to ensure consistency and the datum values shall be noted. Similar datum values shall be obtained for deformation, and the initial condition of the test specimen shall be noted.

  8.2.2 At the time of the test, the initial average internal temperature and unexposed surface temperature of the specimen shall be from 10°C to 35°C and shall be within 5°C of the initial ambient temperature.

  8.2.3 Prior to the commencement of the test the furnace temperature shall be less than 50°C. The commencement of the test shall be considered to be the moment when the programme to follow the standard heating curve has been initiated.

  8.2.4 Ambient conditions

 The laboratory shall be virtually draught free during the test. The ambient temperature shall be from 10°C to 35°C at the commencement of the test and during the test the temperature shall not decrease more than 5°C or increase more than 20°C for all insulated separating elements while they are still satisfying the insulation criterion.

8.3 Furnace control

  8.3.1 Furnace temperature

  8.3.1.1 The average temperature of the furnace as derived from the furnace thermocouples specified in paragraph 7.3 shall be monitored and controlled such that it follows the relationship (i.e. the standard heating curve):

where:

  • T is the average furnace temperature (°C),

  • t is the time (min).

  8.3.1.2 The following points are defined by the above relationship:

  • .1 at the end of the first 5 min 576°C;

  • .2 at the end of the first 10 min 679°C;

  • .3 at the end of the first 15 min 738°C;

  • .4 at the end of the first 30 min 841°C; and

  • .5 at the end of the first 60 min 945°C.

  8.3.1.3 The percentage deviation 'd' in the area of the curve of the average temperature recorded by the specified furnace thermocouples versus time from the area of the standard heating curve shall be within:

± 15% from t = 0 to 10 (1)
± (15-0.5(t-10))% from t = 10 to 30 (2)
± (5-0.083(t-30))% from t = 30 to 60 (3)
± 2.5% from t = 60 and over (4)

 where:

d = (AAs ) x 1/As x 100, and
  • A is the area under the actual average furnace time-temperature curve; and

  • As is the area under the standard time-temperature curve.

 All areas shall be computed by the same method, i.e. by the summation of areas at intervals not exceeding 1 min.

  8.3.1.4 At any time after the first 10 min of test, the temperature recorded by any thermocouple shall not differ from the corresponding temperature of the standard time-temperature curve by more than ± 100°C.

  8.3.2 Furnace pressure

  8.3.2.1 A linear pressure gradient exists over the height of a furnace, and although the gradient will vary slightly as a function of the furnace temperature, a mean value of 8 Pa per metre height may be assumed in assessing the furnace pressure conditions. The value of the furnace pressure shall be the nominal mean value, disregarding rapid fluctuations of pressure associated with turbulence, etc., and shall be established relative to the pressure outside the furnace at the same height. It shall be monitored and controlled continuously and by 5 min from the commencement of the test shall be achieved within ± 5 Pa and by 10 min from the commencement of the test shall be achieved and maintained within ± 3 Pa.

  8.3.2.2 For vertically orientated specimens the furnace shall be operated such that a pressure of zero is established at a height of 500 mm above the notional floor level to the test specimen. However, for specimens with a height greater than 3 m, the pressure at the top of the test specimen shall not be greater than 20 Pa, and the height of the neutral pressure axis shall be adjusted accordingly.

  8.3.2.3 For horizontally orientated specimens the furnace shall be operated such that a pressure of 20 Pa is established at a position 100 mm below the underside of the specimen.

8.4 Measurements and observations on the test specimen

  8.4.1 Temperature

  8.4.1.1 All temperature measurements shall be recorded at intervals not exceeding 1 min.

  8.4.1.2 When calculating temperature rise on the unexposed surface of the test specimen, this shall be done on an individual thermocouple-by-thermocouple basis. The average temperature rise on the unexposed surface shall be calculated as the average of the rises recorded by the individual thermocouples used to determine the average temperature.

  8.4.1.3 For "A" class divisions, excluding doors, the average temperature rise on the unexposed face of the specimen shall be calculated from the thermocouples specified in paragraph 7.6.1.1 only.

  8.4.1.4 For "B" and "F" class divisions, excluding doors, the average temperature rise on the unexposed face of the specimen shall be calculated from the thermocouples specified in paragraph 7.6.2.1 only.

  8.4.1.5 For "A", "B" and "F" class doors, the average temperature rise on the unexposed face of the specimen shall be calculated from the thermocouples specified in paragraph 7.6.3.1 only. For a double-leaf door, all ten thermocouples used on both door leaves shall be used for this calculation.

  8.4. Flaming on unexposed face

 The occurrence and duration of any flaming on the unexposed surface, together with the location of the flaming, shall be recorded. In cases where it is difficult to identify whether or not there are flames then the cotton-wool pad shall be applied to the area of such disputed flaming to establish whether ignition of the pad can be initiated.

  8.4.3 Cotton-wool pad

  8.4.3.1 Tests with the cotton-wool pad are used to indicate whether cracks and openings in the test specimen are such that they could lead to the passage of hot gases sufficient to cause ignition of combustible materials.

  8.4.3.2 A cotton-wool pad is employed by placing the frame within which it is mounted against the surface of the test specimen, adjacent to the opening or flaming under examination, for a period of 30 s, or until ignition (defined as glowing or flaming ) of the cotton-wool pad occurs (if this happens before the elapse of the 30 s period). Small adjustments in position may be made so as to achieve the maximum effect from the hot gases. A cotton-wool pad shall be used only once.

  8.4.3.3 The cotton-wool pad need not be used on the unexposed face after the period relevant to the insulation classification of the product.

  8.4.3.4 Where there are irregularities in the surface of the test specimen in the area of the opening, care shall be taken to ensure that the legs of the support frame are placed so that clearance between the pad and any part of the test specimen surface is maintained during the measurements.

  8.4.3.5 The cotton-wool pad shall be applied freely and not necessarily parallel to the surface of the specimen, and not always such that the crack or opening is central to the pad. The pad shall be positioned in the flow of hot gases but shall never be positioned such that any part of the pad is closer than approximately 25 mm from any point of the test specimen. For example, to adequately evaluate the hot gas leakage around a door it may be necessary to use the pad both parallel and normal to the face of the door or possibly at an oblique angle within the confines of the door frame.

  8.4.3.6 The operator may make "screening tests" to evaluate the integrity of the test specimen. Such screening may involve selective short duration applications of the cotton-wool pad to areas of potential failure and/or the movement of a single pad over and around such areas. Charring of the pad may provide an indication of imminent failure, but an unused pad shall be employed in the prescribed manner for an integrity failure to be confirmed.

  8.4.4 Gap gauges

  8.4.4.1 Tests with the gap gauges are used to indicate whether cracks and openings in the test specimen are of such dimensions that they could lead to the passage of hot gases sufficient to cause ignition of combustible materials.

  8.4.4.2 The gap gauges shall be used at intervals which will be determined by the apparent rate of the specimen deterioration. Two gap gauges shall be employed, in turn, and without undue force to determine:

  • .1 whether the 6 mm gap gauge can be passed through the specimen such that the gauge projects into the furnace, and can be moved a distance of 150 mm along the gap; or

  • .2 whether the 25 mm gap gauge can be passed through the specimen such that the gauge projects into the furnace.

 Any small interruption to the passage of the gauge that would have little or no effect upon the transmission of hot gases through the opening shall not be taken into account, e.g., small fastening across a construction joint that has opened up due to distortion.

  8.4.4.3 If gaps in "A" or "B" class divisions are fully or partly sealed by intumescent materials, the gap gauge test shall be performed as if no intumescent material is present.

  8.4.4.4 For doors mounted in a three-sided frame, the change of gap at the bottom of the door as measured by a horizontally-held gap gauge shall not increase by more than 12 mm along the bottom edge of the door. 12 mm gap gauge can be used for the purpose of examining the increase of such gap. The edges of the door above the horizontal plane along the bottom of the door should be checked in the same manner as the four-sided framed door.

  • Note: If the door is mounted with a 13 mm gap, the 25 mm gap gauge may be used to determine an unacceptable change in gap.

  8.4.5 Deformation

 The deflection of an "A", "B" or "F" class test specimen, and additionally in the case of a door the maximum displacement of each corner of the door leaf relative to the door frame, shall be recorded during the test. These deflections and displacements shall be measured with an accuracy of ± 2 mm.

  8.4.6 General behaviour

 Observations shall be made of the general behaviour of the specimen during the course of the test and notes concerning the phenomena such as cracking, melting or softening of the materials, spalling or charring, etc., of materials of construction of the test specimen shall be made. If quantities of smoke are emitted from the unexposed face this shall be noted in the report. However, the test is not designed to indicate the possible extent of hazard due to these factors.

8.5 Duration of testing

  8.5.1 "A" class divisions

 For all "A" class divisions, including those with doors, the test shall continue for a minimum of 60 min. However, when the specimen is of an "A" class division, with a structural steel core which is imperforate (e.g., without a door), and where insulation is provided to the exposed face only (i.e. the structural steel core is the unexposed face of the construction), it is permitted to terminate the test prior to 60 min once the unexposed-face temperature-rise limits have been exceeded.

  8.5.2 "B" and "F" class divisions

 For all "B" and "F" class divisions, including those with doors, the test shall continue for a minimum of 30 min.

  8.5.3 Termination of the test

 The test may be terminated for one or more of the following reasons:

  • .1 safety of personnel or impending damage to equipment;

  • .2 attainment of selected criteria; or

  • .3 request of the sponsor.

 The test may be continued after failure under subparagraph .2 above to obtain additional data.

9 Test Report

 The test report shall include the following information as a minimum. A clear distinction shall be made between the data provided by the sponsor and the data determined by the test:

  • .1 reference that the test was carried out in accordance with part 3 of the 2010 FTP Code (see also subparagraph .2 below);

  • .2 any deviations from the test method;

  • .3 name and address of the testing laboratory;

  • .4 date and identification number of the report;

  • .5 name and address of the sponsor;

  • .6 name and/or identification of the product tested;

  • .7 the name of the manufacturer of the test specimen and of the products and components used in the construction;

  • .8 type of the product, e.g., bulkhead, ceiling, door, window, duct penetration, etc.;

  • .9 fire-resistant class of the test, e.g., "A" class, "B" class, "F" class;

  • .10 the constructional details of the test specimen, including description and drawing and principal details of components. All the details requested in paragraph 2 shall be given. The description and the drawings which are included in the test report shall, as far as practicable, be based on information derived from a survey of the test specimen. When full and detailed drawings are not included in the report, then the applicant's drawing(s) of the test specimen shall be authenticated by the laboratory and at least one copy of the authenticated drawing(s) shall be retained by the laboratory; in this case reference to the applicant's drawing(s) shall be given in the report together with a statement indicating the method of endorsing the drawings;

  • .11 all properties of materials used that have a bearing on the fire performance of the test specimen together with measurements of thickness, density and, where applicable, the moisture and/or organic content of the insulation material(s) as determined by the test laboratory;

  • .12 date of the test specimen arrival;

  • .13 details of specimen conditioning;

  • .14 date of test;

  • .15 test results:

    • .1 information concerning the location of all thermocouples fixed to the specimen, together with tabulated data obtained from each thermocouple during the test. Additionally, a graphical depiction of the data obtained may be included. A drawing shall be included which clearly illustrates the positions of the various thermocouples and identifies them relative to the temperature-time data;

    • .2 the average and the maximum temperature rises and the average core temperature rise, when applicable, recorded at the end of the period of time appropriate to the insulation performance criteria for the relevant classification (see paragraph 3 of part 3) or, if the test is terminated due to the insulation criteria having been exceeded, the times at which limiting temperatures were exceeded; and

    • .3 the maximum deflection of the specimen. In case of doors, the maximum deflection at the centre of the door specimen and the maximum displacement of each corner of the door leaf relative to the door frame;

  .16 the classification attained by the test specimen shall be expressed in the form of "class "A-60" deck", i.e. including the qualification on orientation of the division.

 The result shall be presented in the test report in the following manner, which includes provision regarding non-combustibility, under the heading "Classification":

  • "A deck constructed as described in this report may be regarded as an "A-60" class deck according to part 3 of annex 1 to the FTP Code if all the materials comply with paragraph 3.5.1 of part 3 of annex 1 to the 2010 FTP Code.";

  .17 the name of the representative of the Administration present at the test. If the Administration requires prior notification of test and a representative does not witness the test, a note to this effect shall be made in the report in the following form:

  • "The … (name of the Administration) … was notified of the intention to conduct the test detailed in this report and did not consider it necessary to send a representative to witness it."; and

  .18 the statement:

 "The test results relate to the behaviour of the test specimens of a product under the particular conditions of the test; they are not intended to be the sole criterion for assessing the potential fire hazard of the product in use.".


Copyright 2022 Clasifications Register Group Limited, International Maritime Organization, International Labour Organization or Maritime and Coastguard Agency. All rights reserved. Clasifications Register Group Limited, its affiliates and subsidiaries and their respective officers, employees or agents are, individually and collectively, referred to in this clause as 'Clasifications Register'. Clasifications Register assumes no responsibility and shall not be liable to any person for any loss, damage or expense caused by reliance on the information or advice in this document or howsoever provided, unless that person has signed a contract with the relevant Clasifications Register entity for the provision of this information or advice and in that case any responsibility or liability is exclusively on the terms and conditions set out in that contract.