ASTM D5537-99

1.1 This is a fire-test-response standard.

1.2 This test method provides a means to measure the heat released by burning the electrical insulating materials contained in electrical or optical fiber cables when the cable specimens, excluding accessories, are subjected to a specified flaming ignition source and burn freely under well ventilated conditions. Flame propagation cable damage, by char length, and mass loss are also measured.

1.3 This standard provides two different protocols for exposing the materials, when made into cable specimens, to an ignition source (approximately 20 kW), for a 20 min test duration. Use it to determine the heat release, flame propagation and mass loss characteristics of the materials contained in single and multiconductor electrical or optical fiber cables.

1.4 This test method does not provide information on the fire performance of materials insulating electrical or optical fiber cables in fire conditions other than the ones specifically used in this standard nor does it measure the contribution of the materials in those cables to a developing fire condition.

1.5 Data describing the burning behavior from ignition to the end of the test are obtained.

1.6 This test equipment is suitable for making other measurements, including the smoke released by the burning specimen (Test Method D5424) and the concentrations of certain toxic gas species in the combustion gases (see Appendix X4).

1.7 The values stated in SI units are the standard (see Practice E380); the values stated in parentheses are for information only.

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

1.9 Fire testing of products and materials is inherently hazardous. Employ adequate safeguards for personnel and property in conducting these tests.

1.10 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.