ASTM E3020-22

Standard Practice for Ignition Sources

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 A variety of standard test methods, specifications, and regulations have been issued by a number of different standards developing organizations and regulatory authorities that contain ignition sources used to assess fire-test-response characteristics associated with flaming and non-flaming ignition. This practice describes such ignition sources and provides information on the standard method in which they are described.  
5.2 The ignition source to be chosen for any specific use needs to be relevant to the fire hazard associated with the intended application. Neither the scope of the standard containing the ignition source nor any other aspect of the standard has any bearing on the use of the ignition source for another application.  
5.3 This practice is not expected to be a fully comprehensive list of ignition sources. If additional ignition sources are identified they can be added to the practice.  
5.4 This practice does not describe test specimen preparation or detailed testing procedures for the materials or products.  
5.5 This practice does not address limitations associated with the ignition sources described in this practice.  
5.6 This practice does not necessarily address the latest edition of any standard referenced.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes a series of ignition sources that have been used and that are potentially applicable to assessing fire-test-response characteristics resulting from the ignition of materials, products, or assemblies.  
1.2 This practice does not identify which of the ignition sources described is applicable to any specific use since that is a function of the associated fire hazard (see also 5.2).  
1.3 This practice is not necessarily comprehensive and it is possible that other applicable ignition sources exist (see also 5.3).  
1.4 This practice describes both flaming and non-flaming ignition sources, since the outcome of a non-flaming ignition can be the eventual flaming ignition of these materials or products (see also 4.2).  
1.5 This practice does not provide pass/fail criteria that can be used as a regulatory tool.  
1.6 This fire standard cannot be used to provide quantitative measures.  
1.7 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests.  
1.8 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.  
1.9 This practice contains notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered requirements of the standard.  
1.10 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard in referee decisions. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. See IEEE/ASTM SI 10 for further details.  
1.11 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.12 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Jan-2022
• ICS: 13.220.40 - Ignitability and burning behaviour of materials and products
• Technical Committee: E05 - Fire Standards
• Drafting Committee: E05.33 - Fire Safety Engineering

Relations

• Refers: ASTM E136-24a - Standard Test Method for Assessing Combustibility of Materials Using a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750 °C
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM E136-24 - Standard Test Method for Assessing Combustibility of Materials Using a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750 °C
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM E176-24 - Standard Terminology of Fire Standards
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM E84-23d - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM E648-23 - Standard Test Method for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor-Covering Systems Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM E84-23c - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2023
• Refers: ASTM E2187-20a - Standard Test Method for Measuring the Ignition Strength of Cigarettes
• Effective Date: 01-May-2020
• Refers: ASTM E108-20a - Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Roof Coverings
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM E108-20 - Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Roof Coverings
• Effective Date: 15-Mar-2020
• Refers: ASTM D3874-20 - Standard Test Method for Ignition of Materials by Hot Wire Sources
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2020
• Refers: ASTM D5025-20a - Standard Specification for Laboratory Burner Used for Small-Scale Burning Tests on Plastic Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2020
• Refers: ASTM E2187-20 - Standard Test Method for Measuring the Ignition Strength of Cigarettes
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2020
• Refers: ASTM D5025-20 - Standard Specification for Laboratory Burner Used for Small-Scale Burning Tests on Plastic Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2020
• Refers: ASTM D1929-19 - Standard Test Method for Determining Ignition Temperature of Plastics
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2019
• Refers: ASTM E648-19ae1 - Standard Test Method for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor-Covering Systems Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2019

Overview

ASTM E3020-22, Standard Practice for Ignition Sources, is a key reference developed by ASTM International that provides a comprehensive overview of various ignition sources used in fire testing of materials, products, and assemblies. This standard is designed for use in conjunction with other fire-test-response methods and regulations, describing both flaming and non-flaming ignition sources. It serves as a resource for laboratories, manufacturers, and regulatory authorities to understand and select relevant ignition sources during the assessment of fire hazards associated with materials and products. Importantly, ASTM E3020-22 does not prescribe which ignition source to use for a specific application, nor does it provide pass/fail criteria or quantitative measures.

Key Topics

• Ignition Sources for Fire Testing
  Describes a range of ignition sources commonly used in standardized test methods, including both flaming and non-flaming methods.

• Flaming Ignition Sources

  • Diffusion flame sources: simulate natural gas flames (propane, methane, butane).
  • Premixed flame sources: provide higher intensity and directionality, useful for specific test configurations.

• Non-Flaming Ignition Sources

  • Smoldering cigarettes: assess susceptibility to ignition by smoldering, especially for furniture and bedding.
  • Glow wires and hot wires: simulate electrical faults or overheating in materials.
  • Radiant heat sources: evaluate response to heat without direct flame, often with supplementary igniters.

• Classification and Application
  The standard explains how ignition sources are classified, the physical principles behind ignition, and key parameters such as duration, location, orientation, and ventilation during testing.

• Significance and Use
  Emphasizes the importance of choosing ignition sources relevant to specific fire hazards, while also noting that the standard does not attempt to list all possible ignition sources or address specimen preparation and detailed test protocols.

• Safety
  Fire testing is inherently hazardous, and proper measures must be taken to protect personnel and property during the use of ignition sources.

Applications

• Fire Testing Laboratories
  Provides guidance on selecting standard ignition sources for evaluating the fire-test-response of materials according to relevant regulations.

• Product Development and Safety Assessment
  Supports manufacturers in assessing fire safety of materials, components, and assemblies, guiding risk management and regulatory compliance.

• Regulatory Authorities and Certification Bodies
  Offers a reference for approving testing protocols and verifying that ignition sources align with fire hazard scenarios during material and product certification.

• Cross-Referencing with Related Standards
  Helps users connect ignition source requirements with specific fire test standards, ensuring consistency in fire testing across industries such as building materials, cables, furniture, and electronics.

Related Standards

Many major fire test standards reference or specify ignition sources described in ASTM E3020-22. Key related documents include:

• ASTM Standards:

  • ASTM E1354 (Cone Calorimeter), ASTM D6194 (Glow-Wire Ignition), ASTM D3874 (Hot Wire Ignition), ASTM E84 (Surface Burning of Building Materials), ASTM E1352/E1353 (Cigarette Ignition Resistance).

• NFPA Standards:

  • NFPA 260/261 (Upholstered Furniture Ignition Tests), NFPA 262 (Flame Travel in Cables), NFPA 701 (Flammability of Textiles).

• ISO and IEC Standards:

  • ISO 5660-1 (Heat Release - Cone Calorimeter), ISO 8191 (Furniture Ignitability), IEC 60695-2-10/-2-11 (Glow-Wire Tests), ISO 9705 (Full-Scale Room Tests).

• UL and Other International Standards:

  • UL 94 (Flammability of Plastics), UL 1715 (Fire Test of Interior Finishes), various IEC and BSI (British Standards Institution) standards for fire hazard testing.

Conclusion

ASTM E3020-22 is an essential resource for those involved in material fire safety, product development, and regulatory compliance. By standardizing the practice for describing and selecting ignition sources, it supports consistent, relevant, and meaningful fire-test-response assessments, thus helping enhance fire safety across multiple industries.

Keywords: ASTM E3020-22, ignition sources, fire testing, fire-test-response, flaming ignition, non-flaming ignition, glow wire, hot wire, radiant heat, smoldering cigarette, fire safety, material testing, standard practice, regulatory compliance.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: E3020 − 22 An American National Standard
Standard Practice for
Ignition Sources
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E3020; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.11 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
1.1 This practice describes a series of ignition sources that
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
have been used and that are potentially applicable to assessing
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
fire-test-response characteristics resulting from the ignition of
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
materials, products, or assemblies.
1.12 This international standard was developed in accor-
1.2 This practice does not identify which of the ignition
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
sources described is applicable to any specific use since that is
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
a function of the associated fire hazard (see also 5.2).
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
1.3 This practice is not necessarily comprehensive and it is
possible that other applicable ignition sources exist (see also Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
5.3).
2. Referenced Documents
1.4 This practice describes both flaming and non-flaming
2.1 ASTM Standards:
ignition sources, since the outcome of a non-flaming ignition
D635Test Method for Rate of Burning and/or Extent and
can be the eventual flaming ignition of these materials or
Time of Burning of Plastics in a Horizontal Position
products (see also 4.2).
D1929Test Method for Determining Ignition Temperature
1.5 This practice does not provide pass/fail criteria that can
of Plastics
be used as a regulatory tool.
D3675Test Method for Surface Flammability of Flexible
1.6 Thisfirestandardcannotbeusedtoprovidequantitative
Cellular Materials Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
measures.
D3874Test Method for Ignition of Materials by Hot Wire
Sources
1.7 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safe-
D5025Specification for Laboratory Burner Used for Small-
guards for personnel and property shall be employed in
Scale Burning Tests on Plastic Materials
conducting these tests.
D5207Practice for Confirmation of 20-mm (50-W) and
1.8 This standard is used to measure and describe the
125-mm (500-W) Test Flames for Small-Scale Burning
responseofmaterials,products,orassembliestoheatandflame
Tests on Plastic Materials
under controlled conditions, but does not by itself incorporate
D5424Test Method for Smoke Obscuration of Insulating
allfactorsrequiredforfirehazardorfireriskassessmentofthe
Materials Contained in Electrical or Optical Fiber Cables
materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.
When Burning in a Vertical Cable Tray Configuration
1.9 This practice contains notes and footnotes which pro-
D5537TestMethodforHeatRelease,FlameSpread,Smoke
vide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (exclud-
Obscuration, and Mass Loss Testing of Insulating Mate-
ing those in tables and figures) shall not be considered
rialsContainedinElectricalorOpticalFiberCablesWhen
requirements of the standard.
Burning in a Vertical Cable Tray Configuration
D6194Test Method for Glow-Wire Ignition of Materials
1.10 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
E84Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of
standard in referee decisions. No other units of measurement
Building Materials
areincludedinthisstandard.SeeIEEE/ASTMSI10forfurther
E108Test Methods for Fire Tests of Roof Coverings
details.
E136TestMethodforAssessingCombustibilityofMaterials
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E05 on Fire
Standards and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E05.33 on Fire Safety
Engineering. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2022. Published March 2022. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 2015. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as E3020-16a. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/E3020–22. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E3020 − 22
Using a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C ISO 5659-2Plastics—Smoke Generation Part 2: Determina-
E162Test Method for Surface Flammability of Materials tion of Optical Density by a Single-Chamber Test
Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
ISO 5660-1Reaction to Fire Tests—Heat Release, Smoke
E176Terminology of Fire Standards
Production and Mass Loss Rate—Part 1: Heat Release
E648Test Method for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor-
(Cone Calorimeter Method)
Covering Systems Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
ISO 8191-1Furniture—Assessment of the Ignitability of
E662Test Method for Specific Optical Density of Smoke
Upholstered Furniture—Part 1: Ignition Source: Smoul-
Generated by Solid Materials
dering Cigarette
E906/E906MTest Method for Heat and Visible Smoke
ISO 8191-2Furniture—Assessment of the Ignitability of
Release Rates for Materials and Products Using a Ther-
Upholstered Furniture—Part 2: Ignition Source: Match
mopile Method
Flame Equivalent
E1321Test Method for Determining Material Ignition and
ISO 9705Reaction to Fire Tests—Full-Scale Room Test for
Flame Spread Properties
Surface Products
E1352Test Method for Cigarette Ignition Resistance of
ISO 12863Standard Test Method forAssessing the Ignition
Mock-Up Upholstered Furniture Assemblies
Propensity of Cigarettes
E1353Test Methods for Cigarette Ignition Resistance of
ISO 12949Standard Test Method for Measuring the Heat
Components of Upholstered Furniture
Release Rate of Low Flammability Mattresses and Mat-
E1354Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release
tress Sets
Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Con-
ISO 13943Fire Safety—Vocabulary
sumption Calorimeter
E1537Test Method for Fire Testing of Upholstered Furni-
2.4 International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Stan-
ture 5
dards:
E1590Test Method for Fire Testing of Mattresses
IEC 60332-1-2Tests on Electric and Optical Fibre Cables
E1623Test Method for Determination of Fire and Thermal
Under Fire Conditions—Part 1-2: Test for Vertical Flame
Parameters of Materials, Products, and Systems Using an
Propagation for a Single Insulated Wire or Cable—
Intermediate Scale Calorimeter (ICAL)
Procedure for 1 kW Pre-mixed Flame
E1822Test Method for Fire Testing of Stacked Chairs
IEC 60332-2-1Tests on Electric and Optical Fibre Cables
E1995TestMethodforMeasurementofSmokeObscuration
Under Fire Conditions—Part 2-1: Test for Vertical Flame
Using a Conical Radiant Source in a Single Closed
Propagation for a Single Small Insulated Wire or Cable –
Chamber, With the Test Specimen Oriented Horizontally
Apparatus
E2058Test Methods for Measurement of Material Flamma-
IEC 60332-3-10Tests on Electric and Optical Fibre Cables
bility Using a Fire Propagation Apparatus (FPA)
UnderFireConditions—Part3-10:TestforVerticalFlame
E2187Test Method for Measuring the Ignition Strength of
SpreadofVertically-mountedBunchedWiresorCables—
Cigarettes
Apparatus
E2574/E2574MTest Method for Fire Testing of School Bus
IEC 60695-2-10Fire Hazard Testing—Part 2-10: Glowing/
Seat Assemblies
IEEE/ASTM SI 10American National Standard for Use of Hot-Wire Based Test Methods—Glow-Wire Apparatus
theInternationalSystemofUnits(SI):TheModernMetric and Common Test Procedure
System
IEC 60695-2-11Fire Hazard Testing—Part 2-11: Glowing/
Hot-WireBasedTestMethods—Glow-WireFlammability
2.2 Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE)
Test Method for End-Products
Standards:
IEEE 383IEEE Standard for Qualifying Class 1E Electric IEC/TS 60695-2-20 Fire Hazard Testing—Part 2-20:
Cables and Field Splices for Nuclear Power Generating Glowing/Hot-Wire Based Test Methods—Hot Wire Igni-
Stations tion Test—Apparatus, Confirmatory Test Arrangement
IEEE 1202IEEE Standard for Flame Testing of Cables for and Guidance
Use in Cable Tray in Industrial and Commercial Occu-
IEC TS 60695-11-2Fire Hazard Testing—Part 11-2: Test
pancies
Flames—1 kW Nominal Pre-Mixed Flame—Apparatus,
Confirmatory Test Arrangement and Guidance
2.3 International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
Standards: IEC TS 60695-11-3Fire Hazard Testing—Part 11-3: Test
ISO 871Plastics—Determination of Ignition Temperature Flames—50 W Flame—Apparatus and Confirmational
Using a Hot-Air Furnace
Test Methods
ISO 5657Reaction to Fire Tests—Ignitability of Building
IEC TS 60695-11-4Fire Hazard Testing—Part 11-4: Test
Products Using a Radiant Heat Source
Flames—50 W Flame—Apparatus and Confirmational
Test Methods
Available from Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE),
445 Hoes Ln., Piscataway, NJ 08854-4141, http://www.ieee.org.
4 5
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 1, ch. de Available from International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), 3, rue de
la Voie-Creuse, CP 56, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland, http://www.iso.org. Varembé, P.O. Box 131, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland, http://www.iec.ch.
E3020 − 22
2.5 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Stan- 2.11 California Technical Bulletins:
dards: CALTB121FlammabilityTestProcedureforMattressesfor
NFPA 260Methods of Tests and Classification System for Use in High Risk Occupancies (1980)
Cigarette Ignition Resistance of Components of Uphol- CAL TB 133Flammability Test Procedure for Seating Fur-
stered Furniture niture for Use in Public Occupancies (1991)
NFPA 261Method of Test for Determining Resistance of
3. Terminology
Mock-Up Upholstered Furniture Material Assemblies to
Ignition by Smoldering Cigarettes
3.1 Use Terminology E176 or ISO 13943 for definitions of
NFPA 262Method of Test for Flame Travel and Smoke of
terms used in this test method and associated with fire issues.
Wires and Cables for Use in Air-Handling Spaces
Where differences exist in definitions, those contained in
NFPA 265Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Room Fire
Terminology E176 shall be used.
Growth Contribution of Textile or Expanded Vinyl Wall
3.2 Definitions:
Coverings on Full Height Panels and Walls
3.2.1 ignition, n—the initiation of combustion.
NFPA 270Test Method for Measurement of Smoke Obscu-
3.2.1.1 Discussion—The combustion may be evidenced by
ration Using a Conical Radiant Source in a Single Closed
glow, flame, detonation, or explosion. The combustion may be
Chamber
sustained or transient. E176
NFPA 286Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Contribu-
3.2.2 piloted ignition, n—ignition of combustible gases or
tion of Wall and Ceiling Interior Finish to Room Fire
vapors by a pilot source of ignition (compare spontaneous
Growth
ignition, unpiloted ignition). E176
NFPA 287Test Methods for Measurement of Flammability
of Materials in Cleanrooms Using a Fire Propagation 3.2.3 pilot source of ignition, n—adiscretesourceofenergy,
Apparatus (FPA)
such as, for example, a flame, spark, electrical arc, or glowing
NFPA289Method of FireTest for Individual Fuel Packages wire (compare piloted ignition, unpiloted ignition). E176
NFPA 701Methods of Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of
3.2.4 smoldering, n—combustion of a solid without flame,
Textiles and Films
often evidenced by visible smoke.
2.6 Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Standards:
3.2.4.1 Discussion—Smoldering can be initiated by small
UL 94Tests for Flammability of Plastic Materials for Parts
sources of ignition, especially in dusts or fibrous or porous
in Devices and Appliances
materials, and may persist for an extended period of time after
UL 1040Fire Test of Insulated Wall Construction
which a flame may be produced. E176
UL 1666Test for Flame Propagation Height of Electrical
3.2.5 spontaneous ignition, n—unpiloted ignition caused by
and Optical-Fiber Cables Installed Vertically in Shafts
an internal exothermic reaction (compare piloted ignition).
UL1685Vertical-TrayFire-PropagationandSmoke-Release
E176
Test for Electrical and Optical-Fiber Cables
3.2.6 sustained flaming, n—flame on or over the surface of
UL 1715Standard for Fire Test of Interior Finish Material
8 a test specimen that lasts longer than a defined period of time
2.7 Federal Aviation Administration Standard:
(contrast transitory flaming).
Aircraft Material Fire Test HandbookDOT/FAA/AR-00/12,
3.2.6.1 Discussion—Typically, the same defined period is
FAA Technical Center, April 2000
9 used to define “transitory flaming.” See the specific standard
2.8 FM Global Standard:
test method for applicable defined period of time. E176
FM 4880Approval Standard for Class 1 Fire Rating of
3.2.7 transitory flaming, n—flame on or over the surface of
Insulated Wall or Wall and Roof/Ceiling Panels—Interior
a test specimen that does not last longer than a defined period
Finish Materials or Coatings and Exterior Wall Systems
of time (contrast sustained flaming).
2.9 U.S. Department of Commerce Standard:
3.2.7.1 Discussion—Typically, the same defined period of
16 CFR 1633Standard for the Flammability (Open-Flame)
time is used to define “sustained flaming.” See the specific
of Mattresses and Mattress and Foundation Sets
11 standard test method for applicable defined period of time.
2.10 British Standards Institution Standard:
E176
BS5852Methodsoftestforassessmentoftheignitabilityof
3.2.8 unpiloted ignition, n—ignition caused by one or more
upholstered seating by smouldering and flaming ignition
sources of energy without the presence of a pilot source of
sources
ignition(comparepilotedignition,spontaneousignition). E176
Available from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch
4. Summary of Practice
Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, http://www.nfpa.org.
4.1 This practice describes a series of standard ignition
Available from Underwriters Laboratories (UL), 2600 N.W. Lake Rd., Camas,
WA 98607-8542, http://www.ul.com.
sources used in test methods, specifications, or regulations to
Available from Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), 800 Independence
assess fire-test-response characteristics of materials, products,
Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20591, http://www.faa.gov.
or assemblies.
Available from FM Global, Norwood, MA, www.fmglobal.com.
Available from U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission,Washington, DC,
4.2 These ignition sources include those that assess the
20207.
responsetonon-flamingignitionsources,includingsmoldering
Available from British Standards Institution (BSI), 389 Chiswick High Rd.,
London W4 4AL, U.K., http://www.bsigroup.com. cigarettes, glow wires, hot wires, and radiant heat sources.
E3020 − 22
4.3 These ignition sources include those that assess the 6.2.4 After ignition has occurred, some burning materials
response to flaming ignition sources, including both premixed have the potential to generate additional issues by forming
flames and diffusion flames. flaming debris or molten drops. If this flaming debris spreads
flame so as to ignite alternate combustible materials, this will
4.4 This practice does not offer pass/fail criteria.
accelerate flame spread.
4.5 The information included in this practice is representa-
6.2.5 The localized application of a heat source to some
tive of the ignition sources in the various standards at the time
materials, products, or assemblies will result in glowing
this practice was written. Users of this practice are encouraged
combustion. This can be evidenced by the formation of a
to consult the latest edition of any standard at the time of
carbonaceous char.
proposed use of an ignition source.
6.3 Overall characteristics of ignition sources follow.
5. Significance and Use 6.3.1 The intensity of the ignition source. This is a measure
of the thermal insult onto the test specimen resulting from the
5.1 A variety of standard test methods, specifications, and
combined conduction, convection, and radiation effects caused
regulationshavebeenissuedbyanumberofdifferentstandards
by the ignition source.
developing organizations and regulatory authorities that con-
6.3.2 Thelocationoftheimpingementoftheignitionsource
tain ignition sources used to assess fire-test-response charac-
on the test specimen.
teristicsassociatedwithflamingandnon-flamingignition.This
6.3.3 The duration of exposure of the test specimen and
practice describes such ignition sources and provides informa-
whether it is continuous or intermittent.
tion on the standard method in which they are described.
6.3.4 The orientation of the test specimen in relation to the
5.2 The ignition source to be chosen for any specific use
ignition source.
needs to be relevant to the fire hazard associated with the
6.3.5 The ventilation conditions in the vicinity of the
intended application. Neither the scope of the standard con-
ignition source and exposed surface of the test specimen.
taining the ignition source nor any other aspect of the standard
6.4 Diffusion Flame Ignition Sources—In these ignition
has any bearing on the use of the ignition source for another
sources, a diffusion flame source, normally gas (typically
application.
propane, methane, or butane) flows through tubing without
5.3 This practice is not expected to be a fully comprehen-
ingress of air prior to the base of the flame. These flames
sive list of ignition sources. If additional ignition sources are
simulate natural flames and are particularly suitable for low
identified they can be added to the practice.
intensity ignition sources and for horizontal or vertical expo-
sures.
5.4 This practice does not describe test specimen prepara-
tionordetailedtestingproceduresforthematerialsorproducts.
6.5 Premixed Flame Ignition Sources—In these ignition
5.5 This practice does not address limitations associated sources, a premixed flame source, normally gas (typically
propane, methane, or butane) flows through a gas burner fitted
with the ignition sources described in this practice.
with air inlet ports or an air intake manifold. Premixed flame
5.6 This practice does not necessarily address the latest
sources are more directional than diffusion flame sources and
edition of any standard referenced.
can be used at higher intensities than diffusion flame sources.
6. Classification of Ignition Sources
7. Smoldering Cigarettes
6.1 Ignition sources can be classified into the following two
major categories: (a) flaming, which can be based on diffusion 7.1 Suchignitionsourcesareincludedherebecausetheyare
important.There are multiple regional and national differences
flames or premixed flames (typically gas burners) and (b)
non-flaming, which can be based on smoldering ignition, glow between the various kinds of cigarettes used as ignition
sources, including their mass and smoldering rates, and many
wires,hotwires,andradiantheatsources.Radiantheatsources
are often accompanied by a supplementary igniter, which can of such differences have the potential to affect results. Two
basic types of cigarettes are described here.
be a pilot flame.
6.2 General Principles: 7.2 Reduced Ignition Propensity Cigarettes—Test Method
6.2.1 When materials, products, or assemblies are exposed E2187 (and ISO 12863) is a test used by regulators as a means
to thermal energy, once thermal decomposition has occurred, of assessing whether any cigarette can be classified as a
vapors and gases, potentially including flammable and com- “reduced ignition propensity cigarette.” In a number of
bustible vapors, are generated. If the concentration of combus- countries, including the United States, Canada, and several
tible or flammable vapors, or both, in the atmosphere falls European countries, commercial cigarettes need to comply
between the lower and upper flammability limits, ignition will with the regulatory requirements based on testing with one of
potentially result. Flammability limits are normally expressed these test methods. These cigarettes are being used as ignition
as the percentage of fuel, by volume, in the fuel/air mixture. sources in some testing.
6.2.2 If there is no external ignition source, other than 7.2.1 Test Methods E1352 and E1353 are performed with
radiant heat, this ignition represents spontaneous ignition. commercial cigarettes (which are reduced ignition propensity
6.2.3 If an external flame is present as the ignition energy cigarettes) as ignition sources. In these test methods the
source, even as a supplementary source, the ignition is known cigarettes are described as cigarettes without filter tips, made
as piloted ignition. from natural tobacco 85 mm 6 2 mm long with a tobacco
E3020 − 22
3 3 12
packing density of 0.270 g/cm 6 0.020 g/cm and a total 7.3.1 The cigarettes, described as NIST SRM 1196
weight of 1.1 g 6 0.1g. The smoldering rate of this cigarette cigarettes, are cigarettes without filter tips, made from natural
is 0.10 mm/s 6 0.01 mm/s when the cigarette is allowed to tobacco, 83 mm 6 2 mm long with a tobacco packing density
3 3
burn downward in a draft-protected area. With the cigarette of0.270g/cm 60.020g/cm andatotalweightof1.1g 60.1
g. These cigarettes are used in NFPA 260 and NFPA 261.
supported at the bottom in a vertical position, the burning rate
is determined in the region from 10 mm to 50 mm, measured
8. Non-Flaming Ignition Sources
from the top.
8.1 Glow Wires:
7.2.2 ISO 8191-1 is another test method that is performed
8.1.1 This ignition source simulates overheating of materi-
using reduced ignition propensity cigarettes as ignition
als by heating the glow-wire to an elevated temperature,
sources. In this test method, the cigarettes are described as
normally a temperature in the range of 550 to 960 °C.
cigaretteswithoutfiltertips,madefromnaturaltobacco70mm
8.1.2 The glow-wire apparatus and ignition source are
64mmlongwithadiameterof8.0mm 60.5mmandatotal
shown in Fig. 1 (Test Method D6194).
weightof1.0g 60.1g.Thesmolderingrateofthesecigarettes
8.1.3 The glow-wire itself consists of a loop of Nichrome
is 0.07 mm/s 6 0.02 mm/s when the cigarette is allowed to
(nickel/chromium) (80% nickel and 20% chromium, iron-free)
burn downward in a draft-protected area. With the cigarette
wire, 4 mm in nominal diameter.
supported at the bottom in a vertical position, the burning rate
8.1.4 The temperature of the glow-wire is measured by the
is determined in the region from 5 mm to 55 mm, measured
use of a Type K sheathed fine-wire thermocouple having a
from the top.
maximum nominal overall diameter of 1.0 mm. and wires
7.3 Standard Reference Material Cigarettes (SRM 1196)—
suitableforcontinuousoperationattemperaturesupto960°C,
Thesecigarettesweredesignedtosimulatetheignitionstrength
with the welded point located inside the sheath, for measuring
of those cigarettes that were in commercial use in the United
the temperature of the glow-wire. Examples of suitable wire
States before the development of Test Method E2187 and that
compositions are Nickel-Chromium (NiCr) and Nickel-
had been identified as having the strongest ignition strength.
Aluminum (NiAl). The thermocouple sheath is constructed of
Thus, these cigarettes do not comply with the requirements of
“reducedignitionpropensitycigarettes”astestedinaccordance 12
Available from National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST), http://
with Test Method E2187 or ISO 12863. www.nist.gov/srm/index.cfm.
FIG. 1 Glow Wire Apparatus from Test Method D6194, Including Positioning of the Thermocouple
E3020 − 22
ametalthatwillallowthethermocoupletoperformitsfunction 8.2.3.1 The circuit has sufficient capacity to maintain a
in air at sheath temperatures of at least 1050 °C. The thermo- continuous linear 50 to 60 Hz power density of at least
couple is arranged in a pocket hole, drilled in the tip of the 0.31W⁄mm over the length of the heater wire at or near unity
glow-wire,asshowninFig.1.Thethermalcontactbetweenthe power factor. With the supply circuit operating at a current of
walls of the bored hole in the glow-wire is maintained by 60Awith a voltage of 1.5V, the approximate power density is
pinningthesheathedthermocoupleinplace.Thethermocouple 0.3W⁄mm.
follows the movement of the tip of the glow-wire resulting
8.2.3.2 There needs to be a means for adjustment of voltage
from elongation caused by thermal heating. A temperature
to achieve the desired current and to provide a smooth and
indicator for Type K thermocouples capable of reading up to
continuous adjustment of the power level.
1000 °C is used. The supply circuit needs to be capable of
8.2.3.3 There needs to be a means of measuring the power
supplying up to 150 A at 2.1V, with smooth continuous
to within 62%.
adjustmentofvoltagetoprovidetherequiredcurrentasneeded
8.2.3.4 The test circuit is provided with an easily actuated
to maintain the desired glow-wire tip temperature.
on-off switch for the test power, and timers to record the
8.1.5 The test apparatus holds the glow-wire in a horizontal
duration of the application of test power.
plane and moves it against the vertical test specimen, main-
8.2.4 Each test uses a length of previously calibrated wire
taining a force of 1.0 6 0.2 N over a distance of at least 7 mm
measuring approximately 250 mm. Before testing, each
(seeFig.2).SimilarequipmentisdescribedinIEC60695-2-10
straight length of wire is annealed by energizing the wire to
and IEC 60695-2-11.
dissipate 0.26 W/mm of length for 8 to 12 s to relieve the
8.2 Hot Wires:
internal stresses within the wire. Similar equipment is de-
8.2.1 This ignition source is an electrically heated hot wire
scribed in IEC/TS 60695-2-20.
thatsimulatestheoverloadingofanelectricallylivematerialin
8.3 Conical Radiant Ignition Sources:
direct contact with a test specimen. A schematic of the
apparatus is shown in Fig. 3 (Test Method D3874). 8.3.1 Cone Calorimeter—This ignition source is described
8.2.2 The heater wire itself consists of a loop of Nichrome in Test Method E1354 and in ISO 5660-1. The ignition source
(nickel/chromium) (80 % nickel and 20 % chromium, iron- consists essentially of the following components: a conical
free) wire, 0.05 mm in nominal diameter. The wire has a radiant electric heater, capable of horizontal or vertical
nominal cold resistance of 5.28Ω/m and has a length-to-mass orientation, a temperature controller, a radiation shield, test
ratio of 580 m/kg. specimen holders (different for the two orientations), and an
8.2.3 The supply circuit, used as a means for electrically electricignitionsparkplug.Thetestspecimenis100×100mm
energizing the heater wire, needs to have the following and the heat flux ranges up to 100 kW/m , with a spark igniter
capabilities. and no pilot flame.Across section through the heater is shown
FIG. 2 Example of Glow Wire Apparatus from Test Method D6194
E3020 − 22
FIG. 3 Schematic of Hot Wire Apparatus from Test Method D3874
in Fig. 4, and exploded views of horizontal and vertical but not welded to, the heater element (see Fig. 4). The
orientations are shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6. thermocouples are of equal length and wired in parallel to the
8.3.1.1 Conical Heater: temperature controller.
(1)Theactiveelementoftheheaterconsistsofanelectrical 8.3.1.2 Temperature Controller:
heater rod, rated at 5000 W at 240 V, tightly wound into the (1)The temperature controller for the heater needs to be
shape of a truncated cone (Fig. 5 and Fig. 6). The heater is capable of holding the element temperature steady to within
encased on the outside with a double-wall stainless steel cone, 62 °C. A suitable system is a 3-term controller (proportional,
packed with a refractory fiber material of approximately integral, and derivative) and a thyristor unit capable of switch-
100kg⁄m density. ing currents up to 25 A at 240 V.
(2)The heater is hinged so it can be swung into either a (2)The controller needs to have a temperature input range
horizontal or a vertical orientation. The heater needs to be of 0 to 1000 °C; a set scale capable of being read to 2 °C or
capable of producing irradiances on the surface of the test better;andautomaticcoldjunctioncompensation.Thecontrol-
specimen of up to 100 kW/m . The irradiance needs to be lerisequippedwithasafetyfeaturesuchthatintheeventofan
uniform within the central 50 mm by 50 mm area of the test open circuit in the thermocouple line, it will cause the
specimen to within 62 % in the horizontal orientation and to temperature to fall to near the bottom of its range.
within 610 % in the vertical orientation. The geometry of the (3)The thyristor unit is of the zero crossing and not of the
heater is critical and so are the dimensions on Fig. 4. phase angle type.
(3)The irradiance from the heater needs to be capable of (4)Theheatertemperatureismonitoredbyametercapable
being held at a preset level by means of a temperature of being read to 62 °C, or better. It is permitted to be
controller and three type K stainless steel sheathed incorporated into the temperature controller.
thermocouples, symmetrically disposed and in contact with, 8.3.1.3 Test Specimen Holder:
NOTE 1—All dimensions are in millmetres.
NOTE 2—* indicates a critical dimension.
FIG. 4 Cross-Section View of Cone Calorimeter Cone through the Heater (Test Method E1354)
E3020 − 22
FIG. 5 Exploded View of Cone Calorimeter Ignition System, Horizontal Orientation (Test Method E1354)
FIG. 6 Exploded View of Cone Calorimeter Ignition System, Vertical Orientation (Test Method E1354)
(1) Horizontal Test Specimen Holder—The bottom of the 8.3.1.4 Radiation Shield—The cone heater is provided with
horizontal test specimen holder is lined with a layer of low a removable radiation shield to protect the test specimen from
density (nominal density 65 kg/m ) refractory fiber blanket the heat flux prior to the start of a test. The shield is made of
with a thickness of at least 13 mm. The distance between the noncombustible material with a total thickness not to exceed
bottom surface of the cone heater and the top of the test 12mm. The shield is one of the following:
specimen is adjusted to be 25 mm. (a)Awater-cooledshieldcoatedwithadurablematteblack
(2) Vertical Test Specimen Holder—The vertical test speci- finish of surface emissivity, e = 0.95 6 0.05.
men holder includes a small drip tray to contain a limited (b)Ashield that is not water-cooled but is provided with a
amount of molten material. A test specimen is installed in the metallic reflective top surface to minimize radiation transfer.
vertical test specimen holder by backing it with a layer of (c)Ashield that is not water-cooled but is provided with a
refractory fiber blanket (nominal density 65 kg/m ), the thick- ceramic,non-metallic,surfacethatminimizesradiationtransfer
nessofwhichdependsontestspecimenthickness,butneedsto to the test specimen surface. The shield is equipped with a
be at least 13 mm thick. A layer of rigid, ceramic fiber handleorothersuitablemeansforquickinsertionandremoval.
millboard is placed behind the fiber blanket layer. The mill- The cone heater base plate is equipped with the means for
board thickness is such that the entire assembly is rigidly holding the shield in position and allowing its easy and quick
boundtogetheroncetheretainingspringclipisinsertedbehind removal.
themillboard.Intheverticalorientation,theconeheaterheight 8.3.1.5 Ignition Circuit—External ignition is accomplished
is set so the center lines up with the test specimen center. by a 10-kV discharge acrossa3mm spark gap located 13 mm
E3020 − 22
abovethecenterofthetestspecimeninthehorizontallocation; (3)The irradiance from the heater needs to be capable of
in the vertical orientation, the gap is located in the test being held at a preset level (25 and 50 kW/m ) by means of a
specimen face plane and 5 mm above the top of the holder.A
temperaturecontrollerandthreetypeKstainlesssteelsheathed
suitable power source is a transformer designed for spark-
thermocouples, symmetrically disposed and in contact with,
ignitionuseorasparkgenerator.Thehighvoltageconnections
but not welded to, the heater element.The thermocouples need
to the spark electrodes are not grounded to the chassis in order
to be of equal length and wired in parallel to the temperature
to minimize interference with the data-transmission lines. For
controller.
testingwithelectricsparkignition,sparkdischargeneedstobe
8.3.2.2 Temperature Controller:
continuously operating at 50 to 60 Hz until sustained flaming
(1)The temperature controller for the heater needs to be
is achieved. The ignitor needs to be removed when sustained
capable of holding the element temperature steady to within
flaming is achieved.
62 °C. A suitable system is a 3-term controller (proportional,
8.3.1.6 Ignition Timer—The timing device for measuring
integral, and derivative) and a thyristor unit capable of switch-
time to sustained flaming needs to be capable of recording
ing currents up to 25 A at 240 V.
elapsed time to the nearest second and needs to be accurate to
(2)The controller needs to have a temperature input range
within1sin1h.
of 0 to 1000 °C; a set scale capable of being read to 2 °C or
8.3.2 Conical Smoke Chamber Heater—This ignition
better;andautomaticcoldjunctioncompensation.Thecontrol-
sourceisdescribedinTestMethodE1995,inNFPA270andin
ler needs to be equipped with a safety feature such that in the
ISO 5659-2. The ignition source consists essentially of the
event of an open circuit in the thermocouple line, it will cause
following components: a conical radiant electric heater, a test
the temperature to fall to near the bottom of its range.
specimenholder,aradiationshield,andapilotburner.Thetest
(3)The thyristor unit needs to be of the zero crossing and
specimen is 75 mm × 75 mm and the heat flux range is 25 or
not of the phase angle type.
50 kW/m , either with or without an external pilot flame. A
(4)The cone heater temperature needs to be monitored by
cross-section through the heater is shown in Fig. 7.
ametercapableofbeingreadto 62°C,orbetter.Itistypically
NOTE1—Thisignitionsourceisdifferentfromtheoneinthetraditional
incorporated into the temperature controller.
smoke chamber described in Test Method E662.
8.3.2.3 The cone heater needs to be secured from the
8.3.2.1 Conical Heater:
vertical rods of the support framework and located so that the
(1)Theactiveelementoftheheaterconsistsofanelectrical
lowerrimoftheconeheateris25mm 61mmabovetheupper
heater rod, rated at 450 W at 240 V, tightly wound into the
surface of the test specimen.
shape of a truncated cone. The heater needs to be encased on
8.3.2.4 Radiation Shield—The cone heater needs to be
theoutsidewithadouble-wallstainlesssteelcone,packedwith
provided with a removable radiation shield to protect the test
a refractory fiber material of approximately 100 kg/m density.
specimen from the irradiance prior to the start of the test. The
(2)Theheaterneedstobecapableofproducingirradiances
radiationshieldneedstobemadeofanoncombustiblematerial
on the surface of the test specimen of 10 to 50 kW/m,atthe
with a total thickness not to exceed 12 mm. The radiation
centerofthesurfaceofthetestspecimen.Theirradianceneeds
to also be determined at a position of 25 mm 6 2 mm to each shield needs to comply with either 8.3.2.4(1) or 8.3.2.4(2) and
needs to be kept in place for a maximum period of 10 s.
sideofthetestspecimencenter,andtheirradianceatthesetwo
positions needs to be not less than 85 %, and not more than (1)A water-cooled radiation shield coated with a durable
115%, of the irradiance at the center of the test specimen. matte black finish of surface emissivity e = 0.95 6 0.05.
FIG. 7 Cross-Section View of Smoke Chamber Cone Heater (dimensions in mm) (Test Method E1995)
E3020 − 22
(2)Aradiation shield with a reflective top surface in order tobesuchthat:(a)thevariationoftheirradiancewithinacircle
to minimize radiation transfer but not water-cooled. of50mmdiameter,drawnfromthecenterofthemaskingplate
(3)Theradiationshieldneedstobeequippedwithahandle aperture, needs to be not more than 6 3% of that at the center
or other suitable means for quick insertion and removal. The and that (b) the variation of the irradiance within a circle of
coneheaterbaseplateneedstobeequippedwiththemeansfor
100mm diameter, drawn from the center of the masking plate
holding the radiation shield in position and allowing its easy aperture, needs to be not more than 65 % of that at the center.
and quick removal.
(2)The irradiance from the heater needs to be capable of
8.3.2.5 Pilot Burner—The flame from the associated re- being held at a preset level by means of a temperature
quired single-flame burner needs to have a length of 30 mm 6
controller and three type K stainless steel sheathed
5mm and needs to be positioned horizontally 10 mm 61mm thermocouples, symmetrically disposed and in contact with,
above the top face of the test specimen.The color of the flame
but not welded to, the heater element.The thermocouples need
needs to be blue, with a yellow tip. Ensure that the tip of the
to be of equal length and wired in parallel to the temperature
burner is aligned with the edge of the test specimen, as shown
controller.
in Fig. 8.
8.3.3.3 Pilot Flame—The apparatus needs to be provided
8.3.2.6 Spark Igniter—A small spark ignition device is
with a pilot flame and a secondary ignition source.
placed next to the outlet tube of the burner, for the operator to
(1)The pilot flame stainless steel nozzle tube needs to be
cause reignition of the flame without opening the door of the
fed with a mixture of propane and air that is achieved by
chamber. A suitable system is a spark plug witha3mm gap,
regulating the propane flow rate to 19 – 20 mL/min and the air
poweredfroma10kVtransformer.Asuitabletransformerisof
flow rate to 160 – 180 mL/min. The flow rates are fed directly
a type specifically designed for spark-ignition use, with an
into the pilot flame from the flow meters.
isolated(ungrounded)secondarytominimizeinterferencewith
(2)The apparatus needs to have a mechanism capable of
thedata-transmissionlines.Anacceptableelectrodelengthand
bringing the pilot flame from its “off” position outside and
sparkpluglocationissuchthatthesparkgapislocated13mm
abovetheconeheater(ataheightof10mm 61mmabovethe
above the test specimen, close to the pilot burner.
underside of the masking plate) to its “test” position within the
8.3.3 Periodic Flaming Ignition Test:
cone(atadistanceof10mmabovethetestspecimen),through
8.3.3.1 This ignition source is described in ISO 5657. The
the cone and through the aperture in the masking plate. When
ignition source is a conical radiant heater similar to those
the flame is in the “off” position, it issues horizontally over the
described in 8.3.1 and in 8.3.2 but with somewhat different
center point of the aperture in the masking plate and perpen-
characteristics, both with respect to the heater itself and with
dicular to the plane of the movement of the pilot arm, with the
respect to the test specimen. The test specimen is 165 mm ×
center of the orifice in the nozzle positioned at the indicated
165 mm and the heat flux range is 10 to 50 kW/m . Details are
height. The mechanism needs to have the pilot flame move
shown in Fig. 9.
every4s(+0.4–0s) from the “off” position to the test
8.3.3.2 The active element of the heater consists of an
position in no more than 0.5 s, stay there for1s(+0.1–0s)
electrical heater rod, rated at 3000 W at 240 V, tightly wound
and return in a time of no more than 0.5 s.
intotheshapeofatruncatedcone.Theheaterisencasedonthe
(3)The secondary ignition source needs to be one of the
outside with a double-wall stainless steel cone, packed with a
following:apropanegasflame15mmlong,fromanozzlewith
refractory fiber material of approximately 100 kg/m density.
an internal diameter of 1 mm–2mm(50Win heat output); a
(1)Theheaterneedstobecapableofproducingirradiances
hot wire; or a spark igniter.
on the surface of the test specimen of 10 to 50 kW/m,atthe
(4)The dipping of the pilot flame needs to be continuous
apertureofamaskingplateandinareferenceplanecoinciding
until ignition of the test specimen.
withtheundersideofthemaskingplate.Thedistributionofthe
irradiance provided by the heater at the reference plane needs 8.4 Other Radiant Ignition Sources:
FIG. 8 Location of Pilot Burner for Smoke Chamber Cone Heater (Test Method E1995)
E3020 − 22
FIG. 9 Conical Heater of ISO 5657 Ignitability Apparatus
8.4.1 OSU (Ohio State University Rate of Heat Release different positions relative to the sample surface so that the
Apparatus) Radiant Heater—This ignition source is described flamewillorwillnotimpingeonthetestspecimensurface(see
in Test Method E906/E906M, Configuration B. Fig.11andFig.12).Thelocationchosendependsonthenature
8.4.1.1 Radiation Source—A radiant heat source for gener- of ignition to be simulated by the test. In all piloted ignitions,
ating a heat flux of up to 100 kW/m , uses four silicon carbide the lower pilot flame size needs to be in accordance with
elements,TypeLL,508mm 63mmby16mm 61mm,with 8.4.1.3(1). Pilot positions are described in 8.4.1.3(1) and
a nominal resistance of 1.6 V, as shown in Figs. 10-12. The 8.4.1.3(2). Pilot ignition by an impinging flame is required
silicon carbide elements are mounted in the stainless steel when information is wanted at a heat flux below which the
panel box by inserting them through 15.9 mm holes in 0.8 mm pyrolysis rate of the test specimen can maintain a combustible
thick ceramic fiber. Locations of the holes in the pads and gas phase. At heat fluxes above that producing a combustible
stainless steel cover plates are shown in Fig. 11.The diamond- gasmixtureoverthesurfaceofthesample,usepilotedignition.
shaped mask of 24-gauge stainless steel is added to provide (1) Piloted Ignition—Vertical Test Specimen Without Im-
uniformheatfluxovertheareaoccupiedbythe150mmby150 pinging Flame—The pilot burner is a straight length of
mm vertical sample. A power supply of 16.5 kVA, adjustable nominally 6.3 mm outside diameter, nominally 0.8 mm wall,
from 0 to 270 V is required. The normal orientation of the test and stainless steel tubing nominally 360 mm long. One end of
specimenisverticalandthisisthesoleorientationdescribedin the tubing needs to be closed, and three 2.5 mm 6 0.1 mm
8.4.1. diameter drill holes (ANSI No. 40 drill holes), 60 mm apart,
8.4.1.2 Piloted Ignition—The radiant source has a lower drilled into the tubing for gas ports, all radiating in the same
pilot burner. The pilot flame tubing has a nominally 11.3 mm direction. The first hole needs to be 5 mm from the closed end
outside diameter, a nominally 0.8 mm wall, and stainless steel of the tubing. The tube is inserted into the environmental
tubing.The fuel is methane or natural gas having 90% or more chamberthrougha6.6mmholedrilled10mmabovetheupper
methane. A methane-air mixture, 120 cm /min gas, and 850 edge of the window frame. The tube is supported and posi-
cm /min air needs to be the fuel mixture fed to the lower pilot tioned by an adjustable Z-shaped support mounted outside the
flame burner. For the pilot flame described in 8.4.1.3(2),noair environmentalchamberabovetheviewingwindow.Thetubeis
is used. positionedaboveand20mmbehindtheexposedupperedgeof
8.4.1.3 Pilot-Flame Positions—In addition to piloted and the test specimen. The middle hole needs to be in the vertical
non-piloted mode of operation, it is possible to accomplish planeperpendiculartotheexposedsurfaceofthetestspecimen
pilot ignition of a test specimen by locating the pilot flame at that passes through its vertical centerline and needs to be
E3020 − 22
FIG. 10 Ohio State University Heat Release Rate Apparatus, per Test Method E906/E906M, Configuration B
FIG. 11 Ohio State University Heat Release Rate Apparatus Configuration B (Test Method E906/E906M): Globar Radiant Panel
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: E3020 − 16a E3020 − 22 An American National Standard
Standard Practice for
Ignition Sources
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E3020; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This practice describes a series of ignition sources that have been used and that are potentially applicable to assessing
fire-test-response characteristics resulting from the ignition of materials, products, or assemblies.
1.2 This practice does not identify which of the ignition sources described is applicable to any specific use since that is a function
of the associated fire hazard (see also 5.2).
1.3 This practice is not necessarily comprehensive and it is possible that other applicable ignition sources exist (see also 5.3).
1.4 This practice describes both flaming and non-flaming ignition sources, since the outcome of a non-flaming ignition can be the
eventual flaming ignition of these materials or products (see also 4.2).
1.5 This practice does not provide pass/fail criteria that can be used as a regulatory tool.
1.6 This fire standard cannot be used to provide quantitative measures.
1.7 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these
tests.
1.8 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.
1.9 This practice contains notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in
tables and figures) shall not be considered requirements of the standard.
1.10 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard in referee decisions. No other units of measurement are included
in this standard. See IEEE/ASTM SI 10 for further details.
1.11 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E05 on Fire Standards and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E05.33 on Fire Safety Engineering.
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2016Feb. 1, 2022. Published October 2016March 2022. Originally approved in 2015. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as
E3020-16.-16a. DOI: 10.1520/E3020–16A.10.1520/E3020–22.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E3020 − 22
1.12 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D635 Test Method for Rate of Burning and/or Extent and Time of Burning of Plastics in a Horizontal Position
D1929 Test Method for Determining Ignition Temperature of Plastics
D3675 Test Method for Surface Flammability of Flexible Cellular Materials Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
D3874 Test Method for Ignition of Materials by Hot Wire Sources
D5025 Specification for Laboratory Burner Used for Small-Scale Burning Tests on Plastic Materials
D5207 Practice for Confirmation of 20-mm (50-W) and 125-mm (500-W) Test Flames for Small-Scale Burning Tests on Plastic
Materials
D5424 Test Method for Smoke Obscuration of Insulating Materials Contained in Electrical or Optical Fiber Cables When
Burning in a Vertical Cable Tray Configuration
D5537 Test Method for Heat Release, Flame Spread, Smoke Obscuration, and Mass Loss Testing of Insulating Materials
Contained in Electrical or Optical Fiber Cables When Burning in a Vertical Cable Tray Configuration
D6194 Test Method for Glow-Wire Ignition of Materials
E84 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
E108 Test Methods for Fire Tests of Roof Coverings
E136 Test Method for Assessing Combustibility of Materials Using a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C
E162 Test Method for Surface Flammability of Materials Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
E176 Terminology of Fire Standards
E648 Test Method for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor-Covering Systems Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source
E662 Test Method for Specific Optical Density of Smoke Generated by Solid Materials
E906/E906M Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Materials and Products Using a Thermopile Method
E1321 Test Method for Determining Material Ignition and Flame Spread Properties
E1352 Test Method for Cigarette Ignition Resistance of Mock-Up Upholstered Furniture Assemblies
E1353 Test Methods for Cigarette Ignition Resistance of Components of Upholstered Furniture
E1354 Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Consumption
Calorimeter
E1537 Test Method for Fire Testing of Upholstered Furniture
E1590 Test Method for Fire Testing of Mattresses
E1623 Test Method for Determination of Fire and Thermal Parameters of Materials, Products, and Systems Using an
Intermediate Scale Calorimeter (ICAL)
E1822 Test Method for Fire Testing of Stacked Chairs
E1995 Test Method for Measurement of Smoke Obscuration Using a Conical Radiant Source in a Single Closed Chamber, With
the Test Specimen Oriented Horizontally
E2058 Test Methods for Measurement of Material Flammability Using a Fire Propagation Apparatus (FPA)
E2187 Test Method for Measuring the Ignition Strength of Cigarettes
E2574/E2574M Test Method for Fire Testing of School Bus Seat Assemblies
IEEE/ASTM SI 10 American National Standard for Use of the International System of Units (SI): The Modern Metric System
2.2 Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) Standards:
IEEE 383 IEEE Standard for Qualifying Class 1E Electric Cables and Field Splices for Nuclear Power Generating Stations
IEEE 1202 IEEE Standard for Flame Testing of Cables for Use in Cable Tray in Industrial and Commercial Occupancies
2.3 International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Standards:
ISO 871 Plastics—Determination of Ignition Temperature Using a Hot-Air Furnace
ISO 5657 Reaction to Fire Tests—Ignitability of Building Products Using a Radiant Heat Source
ISO 5659-2 Plastics—Smoke Generation Part 2: Determination of Optical Density by a Single-Chamber Test
ISO 5660-1 Reaction to Fire Tests—Heat Release, Smoke Production and Mass Loss Rate—Part 1: Heat Release (Cone
Calorimeter Method)
ISO 8191-1 Furniture—Assessment of the Ignitability of Upholstered Furniture—Part 1: Ignition Source: Smouldering Cigarette
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Available from Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE), 445 Hoes Ln., Piscataway, NJ 08854-4141, http://www.ieee.org.
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 1, ch. de la Voie-Creuse, CP 56, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland, http://www.iso.org.
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ISO 8191-2 Furniture—Assessment of the Ignitability of Upholstered Furniture—Part 2: Ignition Source: Match Flame
Equivalent
ISO 9705 Reaction to Fire Tests—Full-Scale Room Test for Surface Products
ISO 12863 Standard Test Method for Assessing the Ignition Propensity of Cigarettes
ISO 12949 Standard Test Method for Measuring the Heat Release Rate of Low Flammability Mattresses and Mattress Sets
ISO 13943 Fire Safety—Vocabulary
2.4 International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standards:
IEC 60332-1-2 Tests on Electric and Optical Fibre Cables Under Fire Conditions—Part 1-2: Test for Vertical Flame Propagation
for a Single Insulated Wire or Cable—Procedure for 1 kW Pre-mixed Flame
IEC 60332-2-1 Tests on Electric and Optical Fibre Cables Under Fire Conditions—Part 2-1: Test for Vertical Flame Propagation
for a Single Small Insulated Wire or Cable – Apparatus
IEC 60332-3-10 Tests on Electric and Optical Fibre Cables Under Fire Conditions—Part 3-10: Test for Vertical Flame Spread
of Vertically-mounted Bunched Wires or Cables—Apparatus
IEC 60695-2-10 Fire Hazard Testing—Part 2-10: Glowing/Hot-Wire Based Test Methods—Glow-Wire Apparatus and Common
Test Procedure
IEC 60695-2-11 Fire Hazard Testing—Part 2-11: Glowing/Hot-Wire Based Test Methods—Glow-Wire Flammability Test
Method for End-Products
IEC/TS 60695-2-20 Fire Hazard Testing—Part 2-20: Glowing/Hot-Wire Based Test Methods—Hot Wire Ignition Test—
Apparatus, Confirmatory Test Arrangement and Guidance
IEC TS 60695-11-2 Fire Hazard Testing—Part 11-2: Test Flames—1 kW Nominal Pre-Mixed Flame—Apparatus, Confirmatory
Test Arrangement and Guidance
IEC TS 60695-11-3 Fire Hazard Testing—Part 11-3: Test Flames—50 W Flame—Apparatus and Confirmational Test Methods
IEC TS 60695-11-4 Fire Hazard Testing—Part 11-4: Test Flames—50 W Flame—Apparatus and Confirmational Test Methods
2.5 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standards:
NFPA 260 Methods of Tests and Classification System for Cigarette Ignition Resistance of Components of Upholstered Furniture
NFPA 261 Method of Test for Determining Resistance of Mock-Up Upholstered Furniture Material Assemblies to Ignition by
Smoldering Cigarettes
NFPA 262 Method of Test for Flame Travel and Smoke of Wires and Cables for Use in Air-Handling Spaces
NFPA 265 Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Room Fire Growth Contribution of Textile or Expanded Vinyl Wall Coverings
on Full Height Panels and Walls
NFPA 270 Test Method for Measurement of Smoke Obscuration Using a Conical Radiant Source in a Single Closed Chamber
NFPA 286 Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Contribution of Wall and Ceiling Interior Finish to Room Fire Growth
NFPA 287 Test Methods for Measurement of Flammability of Materials in Cleanrooms Using a Fire Propagation Apparatus
(FPA)
NFPA 289 Method of Fire Test for Individual Fuel Packages
NFPA 701 Methods of Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of Textiles and Films
2.6 Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Standards:
UL 94 Tests for Flammability of Plastic Materials for Parts in Devices and Appliances
UL 1040 Fire Test of Insulated Wall Construction
UL 1666 Test for Flame Propagation Height of Electrical and Optical-Fiber Cables Installed Vertically in Shafts
UL 1685 Vertical-Tray Fire-Propagation and Smoke-Release Test for Electrical and Optical-Fiber Cables
UL 1715 Standard for Fire Test of Interior Finish Material
2.7 Federal Aviation Administration Standard:
Aircraft Material Fire Test Handbook DOT/FAA/AR-00/12, FAA Technical Center, April 2000
2.8 FM Global Standard:
FM 4880 Approval Standard for Class 1 Fire Rating of Insulated Wall or Wall and Roof/Ceiling Panels—Interior Finish
Materials or Coatings and Exterior Wall Systems
2.9 U.S. Department of Commerce Standard:
16 CFR 1633 Standard for the Flammability (Open-Flame) of Mattresses and Mattress and Foundation Sets
2.10 British Standards Institution Standard:
BS 5852 Methods of test for assessment of the ignitability of upholstered seating by smouldering and flaming ignition sources
Available from International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), 3, rue de Varembé, P.O. Box 131, CH-1211 Geneva 20, Switzerland, http://www.iec.ch.
Available from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, http://www.nfpa.org.
Available from Underwriters Laboratories (UL), 2600 N.W. Lake Rd., Camas, WA 98607-8542, http://www.ul.com.
Available from Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), 800 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20591, http://www.faa.gov.
Available from FM Global, Norwood, MA, www.fmglobal.com.
Available from U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Washington, DC, 20207.
Available from British Standards Institution (BSI), 389 Chiswick High Rd., London W4 4AL, U.K., http://www.bsigroup.com.
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2.11 California Technical Bulletins:
CAL TB 121 Flammability Test Procedure for Mattresses for Use in High Risk Occupancies (1980)
CAL TB 133 Flammability Test Procedure for Seating Furniture for Use in Public Occupancies (1991)
3. Terminology
3.1 Use Terminology E176 or ISO 13943 for definitions of terms used in this test method and associated with fire issues. Where
differences exist in definitions, those contained in Terminology E176 shall be used.
3.2 Definitions:
3.2.1 ignition, n—the initiation of combustion.
3.2.1.1 Discussion—
The combustion may be evidenced by glow, flame, detonation, or explosion. The combustion may be sustained or transient. E176
3.2.2 piloted ignition, n—ignition of combustible gases or vapors by a pilot source of ignition (compare spontaneous ignition,
unpiloted ignition). E176
3.2.3 pilot source of ignition, n—a discrete source of energy, such as, for example, a flame, spark, electrical arc, or glowing wire
(compare piloted ignition, unpiloted ignition). E176
3.2.4 smoldering, n—combustion of a solid without flame, often evidenced by visible smoke.
3.2.4.1 Discussion—
Smoldering can be initiated by small sources of ignition, especially in dusts or fibrous or porous materials, and may persist for an
extended period of time after which a flame may be produced. E176
3.2.5 spontaneous ignition, n—unpiloted ignition caused by an internal exothermic reaction (compare piloted ignition). E176
3.2.6 sustained flaming, n—flame on or over the surface of a test specimen that lasts longer than a defined period of time (contrast
transitory flaming).
3.2.6.1 Discussion—
Typically, the same defined period is used to define “transitory flaming.” See the specific standard test method for applicable
defined period of time. E176
3.2.7 transitory flaming, n—flame on or over the surface of a test specimen that does not last longer than a defined period of time
(contrast sustained flaming).
3.2.7.1 Discussion—
Typically, the same defined period of time is used to define “sustained flaming.” See the specific standard test method for applicable
defined period of time. E176
3.2.8 unpiloted ignition, n—ignition caused by one or more sources of energy without the presence of a pilot source of ignition
(compare piloted ignition, spontaneous ignition). E176
4. Summary of Practice
4.1 This practice describes a series of standard ignition sources used in test methods, specifications, or regulations to assess
fire-test-response characteristics of materials, products, or assemblies.
4.2 These ignition sources include those that assess the response to non-flaming ignition sources, including smoldering cigarettes,
glow wires, hot wires, and radiant heat sources.
4.3 These ignition sources include those that assess the response to flaming ignition sources, including both premixed flames and
diffusion flames.
4.4 This practice does not offer pass/fail criteria.
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4.5 The information included in this practice is representative of the ignition sources in the various standards at the time this
practice was written. Users of this practice are encouraged to consult the latest edition of any standard at the time of proposed use
of an ignition source.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 A variety of standard test methods, specifications, and regulations have been issued by a number of different standards
developing organizations and regulatory authorities that contain ignition sources used to assess fire-test-response characteristics
associated with flaming and non-flaming ignition. This practice describes such ignition sources and provides information on the
standard method in which they are described.
5.2 The ignition source to be chosen for any specific use needs to be relevant to the fire hazard associated with the intended
application. Neither the scope of the standard containing the ignition source nor any other aspect of the standard has any bearing
on the use of the ignition source for another application.
5.3 This practice is not expected to be a fully comprehensive list of ignition sources. If additional ignition sources are identified
they can be added to the practice.
5.4 This practice does not describe test specimen preparation or detailed testing procedures for the materials or products.
5.5 This practice does not address limitations associated with the ignition sources described in this practice.
5.6 This practice does not necessarily address the latest edition of any standard referenced.
6. Classification of Ignition Sources
6.1 Ignition sources can be classified into the following two major categories: (a) flaming, which can be based on diffusion flames
or premixed flames (typically gas burners) and (b) non-flaming, which can be based on smoldering ignition, glow wires, hot wires,
and radiant heat sources. Radiant heat sources are often accompanied by a supplementary igniter, which can be a pilot flame.
6.2 General Principles:
6.2.1 When materials, products, or assemblies are exposed to thermal energy, once thermal decomposition has occurred, vapors
and gases, potentially including flammable and combustible vapors, are generated. If the concentration of combustible or
flammable vapors, or both, in the atmosphere falls between the lower and upper flammability limits, ignition will potentially result.
Flammability limits are normally expressed as the percentage of fuel, by volume, in the fuel/air mixture.
6.2.2 If there is no external ignition source, other than radiant heat, this ignition represents spontaneous ignition.
6.2.3 If an external flame is present as the ignition energy source, even as a supplementary source, the ignition is known as piloted
ignition.
6.2.4 After ignition has occurred, some burning materials have the potential to generate additional issues by forming flaming
debris or molten drops. If this flaming debris spreads flame so as to ignite alternate combustible materials, this will accelerate flame
spread.
6.2.5 The localized application of a heat source to some materials, products, or assemblies will result in glowing combustion. This
can be evidenced by the formation of a carbonaceous char.
6.3 Overall characteristics of ignition sources follow.
6.3.1 The intensity of the ignition source. This is a measure of the thermal insult onto the test specimen resulting from the
combined conduction, convection, and radiation effects caused by the ignition source.
6.3.2 The location of the impingement of the ignition source on the test specimen.
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6.3.3 The duration of exposure of the test specimen and whether it is continuous or intermittent.
6.3.4 The orientation of the test specimen in relation to the ignition source.
6.3.5 The ventilation conditions in the vicinity of the ignition source and exposed surface of the test specimen.
6.4 Diffusion Flame Ignition Sources—In these ignition sources, a diffusion flame source, normally gas (typically propane,
methane, or butane) flows through tubing without ingress of air prior to the base of the flame. These flames simulate natural flames
and are particularly suitable for low intensity ignition sources and for horizontal or vertical exposures.
6.5 Premixed Flame Ignition Sources—In these ignition sources, a premixed flame source, normally gas (typically propane,
methane, or butane) flows through a gas burner fitted with air inlet ports or an air intake manifold. Premixed flame sources are more
directional than diffusion flame sources and can be used at higher intensities than diffusion flame sources.
7. Smoldering Cigarettes
7.1 Such ignition sources are included here because they are important. There are multiple regional and national differences
between the various kinds of cigarettes used as ignition sources, including their mass and smoldering rates, and many of such
differences have the potential to affect results. Two basic types of cigarettes are described here.
7.2 Reduced Ignition Propensity Cigarettes—Test Method E2187 (and ISO 12863) is a test used by regulators as a means of
assessing whether any cigarette can be classified as a “reduced ignition propensity cigarette.” In a number of countries, including
the United States, Canada, and several European countries, commercial cigarettes need to comply with the regulatory requirements
based on testing with one of these test methods. These cigarettes are being used as ignition sources in some testing.
7.2.1 Test Methods E1352 and E1353 are performed with commercial cigarettes (which are reduced ignition propensity cigarettes)
as ignition sources. In these test methods the cigarettes are described as cigarettes without filter tips, made from natural tobacco
3 3
85 mm 6 2 mm long with a tobacco packing density of 0.270 g/cm 6 0.020 g/cm and a total weight of 1.1 g 6 0.1 g. The
smoldering rate of this cigarette is 0.10 mm/s 6 0.01 mm/s when the cigarette is allowed to burn downward in a draft-protected
area. With the cigarette supported at the bottom in a vertical position, the burning rate is determined in the region from 10 mm
to 50 mm, measured from the top.
7.2.2 ISO 8191-1 is another test method that is performed using reduced ignition propensity cigarettes as ignition sources. In this
test method, the cigarettes are described as cigarettes without filter tips, made from natural tobacco 70 mm 6 4 mm long with a
diameter of 8.0 mm 6 0.5 mm and a total weight of 1.0 g 6 0.1 g. The smoldering rate of these cigarettes is 0.07 mm/s 6 0.02
mm/s when the cigarette is allowed to burn downward in a draft-protected area. With the cigarette supported at the bottom in a
vertical position, the burning rate is determined in the region from 5 mm to 55 mm, measured from the top.
7.3 Standard Reference Material Cigarettes (SRM 1196)—These cigarettes were designed to simulate the ignition strength of those
cigarettes that were in commercial use in the United States before the development of Test Method E2187 and that had been
identified as having the strongest ignition strength. Thus, these cigarettes do not comply with the requirements of “reduced ignition
propensity cigarettes” as tested in accordance with Test Method E2187 or ISO 12863.
7.3.1 The cigarettes, described as NIST SRM 1196 cigarettes, are cigarettes without filter tips, made from natural tobacco, 83
3 3
mm 6 2 mm long with a tobacco packing density of 0.270 g/cm 6 0.020 g/cm and a total weight of 1.1 g 6 0.1 g. These
cigarettes are used in NFPA 260 and NFPA 261.
8. Non-Flaming Ignition Sources
8.1 Glow Wires:
8.1.1 This ignition source simulates overheating of materials by heating the glow-wire to an elevated temperature, normally a
temperature in the range of 550 to 960 °C.
Available from National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST), http://www.nist.gov/srm/index.cfm.
E3020 − 22
8.1.2 The glow-wire apparatus and ignition source are shown in Fig. 1 (Test Method D6194).
8.1.3 The glow-wire itself consists of a loop of Nichrome (nickel/chromium) (80% nickel and 20% chromium, iron-free) wire, 4
mm in nominal diameter.
8.1.4 The temperature of the glow-wire is measured by the use of a Type K sheathed fine-wire thermocouple having a maximum
nominal overall diameter of 1.0 mm. and wires suitable for continuous operation at temperatures up to 960 °C, with the welded
point located inside the sheath, for measuring the temperature of the glow-wire. Examples of suitable wire compositions are
Nickel-Chromium (NiCr) and Nickel-Aluminum (NiAl). The thermocouple sheath is constructed of a metal that will allow the
thermocouple to perform its function in air at sheath temperatures of at least 1050 °C. The thermocouple is arranged in a pocket
hole, drilled in the tip of the glow-wire, as shown in Fig. 1. The thermal contact between the walls of the bored hole in the
glow-wire is maintained by pinning the sheathed thermocouple in place. The thermocouple follows the movement of the tip of the
glow-wire resulting from elongation caused by thermal heating. A temperature indicator for Type K thermocouples capable of
reading up to 1000 °C is used. The supply circuit needs to be capable of supplying up to 150 A at 2.1V, with smooth continuous
adjustment of voltage to provide the required current as needed to maintain the desired glow-wire tip temperature.
8.1.5 The test apparatus holds the glow-wire in a horizontal plane and moves it against the vertical test specimen, maintaining a
force of 1.0 6 0.2 N over a distance of at least 7 mm (see Fig. 2). Similar equipment is described in IEC 60695-2-10 and IEC
60695-2-11.
8.2 Hot Wires:
8.2.1 This ignition source is an electrically heated hot wire that simulates the overloading of an electrically live material in direct
contact with a test specimen. A schematic of the apparatus is shown in Fig. 3 (Test Method D3874).
FIG. 1 Glow Wire Apparatus from Test Method D6194, Including Positioning of the Thermocouple
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FIG. 2 Example of Glow Wire Apparatus from Test Method D6194
FIG. 3 Schematic of Hot Wire Apparatus from Test Method D3874
8.2.2 The heater wire itself consists of a loop of Nichrome (nickel/chromium) (80% (80 % nickel and 20% 20 % chromium,
iron-free) wire, 0.05 mm in nominal diameter. The wire has a nominal cold resistance of 5.28 Ω/m and has a length-to-mass ratio
of 580 m/kg.
8.2.3 The supply circuit, used as a means for electrically energizing the heater wire, needs to have the following capabilities.
8.2.3.1 The circuit has sufficient capacity to maintain a continuous linear 50 to 60 Hz power density of at least 0.31 W ⁄mm over
the length of the heater wire at or near unity power factor. With the supply circuit operating at a current of 60 A with a voltage
of 1.5 V, the approximate power density is 0.3 W ⁄mm.
8.2.3.2 There needs to be a means for adjustment of voltage to achieve the desired current and to provide a smooth and continuous
adjustment of the power level.
8.2.3.3 There needs to be a means of measuring the power to within 62 %.
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8.2.3.4 The test circuit is provided with an easily actuated on-off switch for the test power, and timers to record the duration of
the application of test power.
8.2.4 Each test uses a length of previously calibrated wire measuring approximately 250 mm. Before testing, each straight length
of wire is annealed by energizing the wire to dissipate 0.26 W/mm of length for 8 to 12 s to relieve the internal stresses within
the wire. Similar equipment is described in IEC/TS 60695-2-20.
8.3 Conical Radiant Ignition Sources:
8.3.1 Cone Calorimeter—This ignition source is described in Test Method E1354 and in ISO 5660-1. The ignition source consists
essentially of the following components: a conical radiant electric heater, capable of horizontal or vertical orientation, a
temperature controller, a radiation shield, test specimen holders (different for the two orientations), and an electric ignition spark
plug. The test specimen is 100 × 100 mm and the heat flux ranges up to 100 kW/m , with a spark igniter and no pilot flame. A
cross section through the heater is shown in Fig. 4, and exploded views of horizontal and vertical orientations are shown in Fig.
5 and Fig. 6.
8.3.1.1 Conical Heater:
(1) The active element of the heater consists of an electrical heater rod, rated at 5000 W at 240 V, tightly wound into the shape
of a truncated cone (Fig. 5 and Fig. 6). The heater is encased on the outside with a double-wall stainless steel cone, packed with
a refractory fiber material of approximately 100 kg ⁄m density.
(2) The heater is hinged so it can be swung into either a horizontal or a vertical orientation. The heater needs to be capable
of producing irradiances on the surface of the test specimen of up to 100 kW/m . The irradiance needs to be uniform within the
central 50 mm by 50-mm 50 mm area of the test specimen to within 62 % in the horizontal orientation and to within 610 % in
the vertical orientation. The geometry of the heater is critical and so are the dimensions on Fig. 4.
(3) The irradiance from the heater needs to be capable of being held at a preset level by means of a temperature controller and
three type K stainless steel sheathed thermocouples, symmetrically disposed and in contact with, but not welded to, the heater
element (see Fig. 4). The thermocouples are of equal length and wired in parallel to the temperature controller.
8.3.1.2 Temperature Controller:
(1) The temperature controller for the heater needs to be capable of holding the element temperature steady to within 62°C.
62 °C. A suitable system is a 3-term controller (proportional, integral, and derivative) and a thyristor unit capable of switching
currents up to 25 A at 240 V.
(2) The controller needs to have a temperature input range of 0 to 1000°C; 1000 °C; a set scale capable of being read to 2°C
2 °C or better; and automatic cold junction compensation. The controller is equipped with a safety feature such that in the event
of an open circuit in the thermocouple line, it will cause the temperature to fall to near the bottom of its range.
(3) The thyristor unit is of the zero crossing and not of the phase angle type.
NOTE 1—All dimensions are in millmetres.
NOTE 2—* indicates a critical dimension.
FIG. 4 Cross-Section View of Cone Calorimeter Cone through the Heater (Test Method E1354)
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FIG. 5 Exploded View of Cone Calorimeter Ignition System, Horizontal Orientation (Test Method E1354)
FIG. 6 Exploded View of Cone Calorimeter Ignition System, Vertical Orientation (Test Method E1354)
(4) The heater temperature is monitored by a meter capable of being read to 62°C, 62 °C, or better. It is permitted to be
incorporated into the temperature controller.
8.3.1.3 Test Specimen Holder:
(1) Horizontal Test Specimen Holder—The bottom of the horizontal test specimen holder is lined with a layer of low density
(nominal density 65 kg/m ) refractory fiber blanket with a thickness of at least 13 mm. The distance between the bottom surface
of the cone heater and the top of the test specimen is adjusted to be 25 mm.
(2) Vertical Test Specimen Holder—The vertical test specimen holder includes a small drip tray to contain a limited amount
of molten material. A test specimen is installed in the vertical test specimen holder by backing it with a layer of refractory fiber
blanket (nominal density 65 kg/m ), the thickness of which depends on test specimen thickness, but needs to be at least 13 mm
thick. A layer of rigid, ceramic fiber millboard is placed behind the fiber blanket layer. The millboard thickness is such that the
entire assembly is rigidly bound together once the retaining spring clip is inserted behind the millboard. In the vertical orientation,
the cone heater height is set so the center lines up with the test specimen center.
8.3.1.4 Radiation Shield—The cone heater is provided with a removable radiation shield to protect the test specimen from the heat
flux prior to the start of a test. The shield is made of noncombustible material with a total thickness not to exceed 12 mm. The shield
is one of the following:
(a) A water-cooled shield coated with a durable matte black finish of surface emissivity, e = 0.95 6 0.05.
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(b) A shield that is not water-cooled but is provided with a metallic reflective top surface to minimize radiation transfer.
(c) A shield that is not water-cooled but is provided with a ceramic, non-metallic, surface that minimizes radiation transfer to
the test specimen surface. The shield is equipped with a handle or other suitable means for quick insertion and removal. The cone
heater base plate is equipped with the means for holding the shield in position and allowing its easy and quick removal.
8.3.1.5 Ignition Circuit—External ignition is accomplished by a 10-kV discharge across a 3-mm 3 mm spark gap located 13 mm
above the center of the test specimen in the horizontal location; in the vertical orientation, the gap is located in the test specimen
face plane and 5 mm above the top of the holder. A suitable power source is a transformer designed for spark-ignition use or a
spark generator. The high voltage connections to the spark electrodes are not grounded to the chassis in order to minimize
interference with the data-transmission lines. For testing with electric spark ignition, spark discharge needs to be continuously
operating at 50 to 60 Hz until sustained flaming is achieved. The ignitor needs to be removed when sustained flaming is achieved.
8.3.1.6 Ignition Timer—The timing device for measuring time to sustained flaming needs to be capable of recording elapsed time
to the nearest second and needs to be accurate to within 1 s in 1 h.
8.3.2 Conical Smoke Chamber Heater—This ignition source is described in Test Method E1995, in NFPA 270 and in ISO 5659-2.
The ignition source consists essentially of the following components: a conical radiant electric heater, a test specimen holder, a
radiation shield, and a pilot burner. The test specimen is 75 mm × 75 mm and the heat flux range is 25 or 50 kW/m , either with
or without an external pilot flame. A cross-section through the heater is shown in Fig. 7.
NOTE 1—This ignition source is different from the one in the traditional smoke chamber described in Test Method E662.
8.3.2.1 Conical Heater:
(1) The active element of the heater consists of an electrical heater rod, rated at 450 W at 240 V, tightly wound into the shape
of a truncated cone. The heater needs to be encased on the outside with a double-wall stainless steel cone, packed with a refractory
fiber material of approximately 100 kg/m density.
(2) The heater needs to be capable of producing irradiances on the surface of the test specimen of 10 to 50 kW/m , at the center
of the surface of the test specimen. The irradiance needs to also be determined at a position of 25 mm 6 2 mm to each side of
the test specimen center, and the irradiance at these two positions needs to be not less than 85 %, and not more than 115 %, of
the irradiance at the center of the test specimen.
(3) The irradiance from the heater needs to be capable of being held at a preset level (25 and 50 kW/m ) by means of a
temperature controller and three type K stainless steel sheathed thermocouples, symmetrically disposed and in contact with, but
not welded to, the heater element. The thermocouples need to be of equal length and wired in parallel to the temperature controller.
8.3.2.2 Temperature Controller:
(1) The temperature controller for the heater needs to be capable of holding the element temperature steady to within 62°C.
62 °C. A suitable system is a 3-term controller (proportional, integral, and derivative) and a thyristor unit capable of switching
currents up to 25 A at 240 V.
FIG. 7 Cross-Section View of Smoke Chamber Cone Heater (dimensions in mm) (Test Method E1995)
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(2) The controller needs to have a temperature input range of 0 to 1000°C; 1000 °C; a set scale capable of being read to 2°C
2 °C or better; and automatic cold junction compensation. The controller needs to be equipped with a safety feature such that in
the event of an open circuit in the thermocouple line, it will cause the temperature to fall to near the bottom of its range.
(3) The thyristor unit needs to be of the zero crossing and not of the phase angle type.
(4) The cone heater temperature needs to be monitored by a meter capable of being read to 62°C, 62 °C, or better. It is
typically incorporated into the temperature controller.
8.3.2.3 The cone heater needs to be secured from the vertical rods of the support framework and located so that the lower rim of
the cone heater is 25 mm 6 1 mm above the upper surface of the test specimen.
8.3.2.4 Radiation Shield—The cone heater needs to be provided with a removable radiation shield to protect the test specimen
from the irradiance prior to the start of the test. The radiation shield needs to be made of a noncombustible material with a total
thickness not to exceed 12 mm. The radiation shield needs to comply with either 8.3.2.4(1) or 8.3.2.4(2) and needs to be kept in
place for a maximum period of 10 s.
(1) A water-cooled radiation shield coated with a durable matte black finish of surface emissivity e = 0.95 6 0.05.
(2) A radiation shield with a reflective top surface in order to minimize radiation transfer but not water-cooled.
(3) The radiation shield needs to be equipped with a handle or other suitable means for quick insertion and removal. The cone
heater base plate needs to be equipped with the means for holding the radiation shield in position and allowing its easy and quick
removal.
8.3.2.5 Pilot Burner—The flame from the associated required single-flame burner needs to have a length of 30 mm 6 5 mm and
needs to be positioned horizontally 10 mm 6 1 mm above the top face of the test specimen. The color of the flame needs to be
blue, with a yellow tip. Ensure that the tip of the burner is aligned with the edge of the test specimen, as shown in Fig. 8.
8.3.2.6 Spark Igniter—A small spark ignition device is placed next to the outlet tube of the burner, for the operator to cause
reignition of the flame without opening the door of the chamber. A suitable system is a spark plug with a 3 mm gap, powered from
a 10-kV 10 kV transformer. A suitable transformer is of a type specifically designed for spark-ignition use, with an isolated
(ungrounded) secondary to minimize interference with the data-transmission lines. An acceptable electrode length and spark plug
location is such that the spark gap is located 13 mm above the test specimen, close to the pilot burner.
8.3.3 Periodic Flaming Ignition Test:
8.3.3.1 This ignition source is described in ISO 5657. The ignition source is a conical radiant heater similar to those described in
8.3.1 and in 8.3.2 but with somewhat different characteristics, both with respect to the heater itself and with respect to the test
specimen. The test specimen is 165 mm × 165 mm and the heat flux range is 10 to 50 kW/m . Details are shown in Fig. 9.
8.3.3.2 The active element of the heater consists of an electrical heater rod, rated at 3000 W at 240 V, tightly wound into the shape
of a truncated cone. The heater is encased on the outside with a double-wall stainless steel cone, packed with a refractory fiber
material of approximately 100 kg/m density.
(1) The heater needs to be capable of producing irradiances on the surface of the test specimen of 10 to 50 kW/m , at the
aperture of a masking plate and in a reference plane coinciding with the underside of the masking plate. The distribution of the
irradiance provided by the heater at the reference plane needs to be such that: (a) the variation of the irradiance within a circle of
FIG. 8 Location of Pilot Burner for Smoke Chamber Cone Heater (Test Method E1995)
E3020 − 22
FIG. 9 Conical Heater of ISO 5657 Ignitability Apparatus
50 mm diameter, drawn from the center of the masking plate aperture, needs to be not more than 6 3% of that at the center and
that (b) the variation of the irradiance within a circle of 100 mm diameter, drawn from the center of the masking plate aperture,
needs to be not more than 6 5%65 % of that at the center.
(2) The irradiance from the heater needs to be capable of being held at a preset level by means of a temperature controller and
three type K stainless steel sheathed thermocouples, symmetrically disposed and in contact with, but not welded to, the heater
element. The thermocouples need to be of equal length and wired in parallel to the temperature controller.
8.3.3.3 Pilot Flame—The apparatus needs to be provided with a pilot flame and a secondary ignition source.
(1) The pilot flame stainless steel nozzle tube needs to be fed with a mixture of propane and air that is achieved by regulating
the propane flow rate to 19 – 20 mL/min and the air flow rate to 160 – 180 mL/min. The flow rates are fed directly into the pilot
flame from the flow meters.
(2) The apparatus needs to have a mechanism capable of bringing the pilot flame from its “off” position outside and above the
cone heater (at a height of 10 mm 6 1 mm above the underside of the masking plate) to its “test” position within the cone (at a
distance of 10 mm above the test specimen), through the cone and through the aperture in the masking plate. When the flame is
in the “off” position, it issues horizontally over the center point of the aperture in the masking plate and perpendicular to the plane
of the movement of the pilot arm, with the center of the orifice in the nozzle positioned at the indicated height. The mechanism
needs to have the pilot flame move every 4 s (+ 0.4 – 0 s) from the “off” position to the test position in no more than 0.5 s, stay
there for 1 s (+ 0.1 – 0 s) and return in a time of no more than 0.5 s.
(3) The secondary ignition source needs to be one of the following: a propane gas flame 15 mm long, from a nozzle with an
internal diameter of 1 mm – 2 mm (50 W in heat output); a hot wire; or a spark igniter.
(4) The dipping of the pilot flame needs to be continuous until ignition of the test specimen.
8.4 Other Radiant Ignition Sources:
8.4.1 OSU (Ohio State University Rate of Heat Release Apparatus) Radiant Heater—This ignition source is described in Test
Method E906/E906M, Configuration B.
8.4.1.1 Radiation Source—A radiant heat source for generating a heat flux of up to 100 kW/m , uses four silicon carbide elements,
Type LL, 508 mm 6 3 mm by 16 mm 6 1 mm, with a nominal resistance of 1.6 V, as shown in Figs. 10-12. The silicon carbide
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FIG. 10 Ohio State University Heat Release Rate Apparatus, per Test Method E906/E906M, Configuration B
FIG. 11 Ohio State University Heat Release Rate Apparatus Configuration B (Test Method E906/E906M): Globar Radiant Panel
E3020 − 22
FIG. 12 Ohio State University Heat Release Rate Apparatus Configuration B (Test Method E906/E906M): Location of Holes in Globar Ra-
diant Panel
elements are mounted in the stainless steel panel box by inserting them through 15.9 mm holes in 0.8 mm thick ceramic fiber.
Locations of the holes in the pads and stainless steel cover plates are shown in Fig. 11. The diamond-shaped mask of
24-gage24-gauge stainless steel is added to provide uniform heat flux over the area occupied by the 150 mm by 150 mm vertical
sample. A power supply of 16.5 kVA, adjustable from 0 to 270 V is required. The normal orientation of the test specimen is vertical
and this is the sole orientation described in 8.4.1.
8.4.1.2 Piloted Ignition—The radiant source has a lower pilot burner. The pilot flame tubing has a nominally 11.3 mm outside
diameter, a nominally 0.8 mm wall, and stainless steel tubing. The fuel is methane or natural gas having 90% or more methane.
3 3
A methane-air mixture, 120 cm /min gas, and 850 cm /min air needs to be the fuel mixture fed to the lower pilot flame burner.
For the pilot flame described in 8.4.1.3(2), no air is used.
8.4.1.3 Pilot-Flame Positions—In addition to piloted and non-piloted mode of operation, it is possible to accomplish pilot ignition
of a test specimen by locating the pilot flame at different positions relative to the sample surface so that the flame will or will not
impinge on the test specimen surface (see Fig. 11 and Fig. 12). The location chosen depends on the nature of ignition to be
simulated by the te
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