ASTM E2257-03

1.1 This is a fire-test-response standard.

1.2 This test method is intended to evaluate, under specified fire-exposure conditions, the contribution to room fire growth provided by wall or ceiling materials and assemblies, or both. The method is not intended to evaluate the fire endurance of assemblies or fires originating in the wall assembly. The method provides a means to evaluate the effectiveness of thermal barriers in restricting the contribution of combustible materials in the wall assembly to fire growth in a room fire.

1.3 This test method, simulating a fire in the corner of a 2420 by 3630 mm (8 by 12 ft) room containing a single open doorway, provides a means to evaluate the relative performance of specified wall and ceiling materials or assemblies when they are used together in the same relationship within an enclosure, and simulating the manner in which they will be used.

1.4 This test method is intended to evaluate the contribution to fire growth provided by a surface product using a specified ignition source. It shall, however, be noted that the type, position and heat output of the ignition source will considerably influence fire growth. The thermal exposure conditions from the ignition source specified in this method will result in flashover during the 20 min duration for many common finish materials, in particular if specimens are mounted on the walls and the ceiling (standard configuration).

1.5 This test method provides a means for evaluating wall and ceiling finish materials and assemblies, including panels, tiles, boards, sprayed or brushed coatings, etc. This test method is not intended to evaluate flooring materials or furnishings.

1.6 This method shall be used in conjunction with Guide E 603, which covers instrumentation and the general effect of various parameters, and Guide E 2067, which deals with full-scale oxygen consumption calorimetry.

1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The units given in parentheses are for information only.

1.8 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory information. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.

1.9 This standard is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under controlled conditions, but does not by itself incorporate all factors required for fire-hazard or fire-risk assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.

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.