ASTM E2748-23
(Guide)Standard Guide for Fire-Resistance Experiments
Standard Guide for Fire-Resistance Experiments
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The methods and procedures set forth in this guide relate to the conduct and reporting of fire-resistance tests obtained from particular fire-resistance tested specimens tested using conditions different than those addressed by Test Methods E119.
4.2 Data derived from fire tests conducted and reported under this guide are useful for general fire research and as potential input data for use in fire models.
4.3 It is necessary that users of this guide have knowledge and understanding of the provisions of Test Methods E119, including those pertaining to conditions of acceptance in order to understand how the alternative test conditions relate to those specified in Test Methods E119.
4.4 Users of this guide should be aware that tests conducted using exposure conditions different than those specified in Test Methods E119 do not provide or generate fire resistance ratings suitable for determining compliance with code or regulatory requirements.
4.4.1 In Test Methods E119, standard test specimens are subjected to specific exposure conditions. Substitution of different exposure conditions can change the measured fire-test-response characteristics of a test specimen. Therefore, the data are valid for only the alternative exposure conditions used.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide covers the conduct of fire-resistance tests using conditions different than those addressed in Test Methods E119. This guide also addresses the reporting of data derived from those tests.
1.2 This guide does not provide or generate fire-resistance ratings suitable for determining compliance with code or regulatory requirements comparable to those resulting from tests conducted in accordance with Test Methods E119.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 This guide 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.
1.5 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests.
1.6 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.
1.7 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
- 28-Feb-2023
- Technical Committee
- E05 - Fire Standards
- Drafting Committee
- E05.11 - Fire Resistance
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2019
- Effective Date
- 15-Dec-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Aug-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-Aug-2015
Overview
ASTM E2748-23, Standard Guide for Fire-Resistance Experiments, provides a framework for conducting and reporting fire-resistance tests on building materials, components, and assemblies under conditions that differ from those specified in ASTM E119. This guide is particularly valuable for fire research, the development of fire models, and engineering studies that require alternative exposure scenarios, instrumentation, or specimen configurations. While the results generated using this guide inform fire science and engineering efforts, they are not intended for compliance with regulatory codes.
Key Topics
Alternative Testing Conditions
- Permits test conditions that deviate from the standard time-temperature and pressure profiles of ASTM E119.
- Addresses alternative timing curves, furnace pressures, and specimen configurations.
Instrumentation and Measurement
- Accommodates the use of diverse instruments such as directional flame thermometers, plate thermometers, and heat flux gauges.
- Requires detailed reporting of measurement locations, mounting methods, and device types.
Test Specimen Requirements
- Supports evaluation of non-standard or innovative materials, designs, and assemblies.
- Requires full documentation of specimen size, configuration, and any variations from standard test setups.
Reporting and Data Collection
- Mandates comprehensive documentation including test setup, loading application, measurement data, and photographs.
- Enforces traceability and reproducibility for use in fire research and model validation.
Safety and Limitations
- Stresses the hazardous nature of fire testing and necessity for appropriate safety protocols.
- Confirms that fire resistance ratings obtained are not valid for code compliance, only under the specified alternative test conditions.
Applications
Fire Research and Development
- Enables researchers to study the performance of building products and systems under a broader range of fire exposure scenarios than covered by ASTM E119.
- Facilitates the exploration of new materials, construction techniques, and design innovations.
Fire Modeling Input
- Provides empirical data for fire modeling and engineering analyses, such as computer-based simulations and fire safety engineering calculations.
- Supports the validation and refinement of fire models by documenting results of non-standard exposures.
Innovative Construction Testing
- Offers flexibility for manufacturers, researchers, and engineers to investigate the fire performance of non-traditional assemblies or geometries.
- Allows for the testing of materials or products that may not fit within existing standard test protocols.
International and Comparative Studies
- Supports comparisons with international standards and helps harmonize research methods across regions by referencing ISO and UL fire test standards.
Related Standards
- ASTM E119 - Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials. Core reference for standard fire-exposure conditions.
- ASTM E176 - Terminology of Fire Standards. Provides definitions relevant to fire testing.
- ASTM E603 - Guide for Room Fire Experiments.
- ASTM E3057 - Method for Measuring Heat Flux Using Directional Flame Thermometers.
- ISO 834-1 - Fire Resistance Tests – Elements of Building Construction: General Requirements.
- UL 263 - Standard for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials.
Practical Value
ASTM E2748-23 empowers fire researchers and engineers by offering a consistent approach to non-standard fire testing. By requiring thorough documentation and methodological transparency, it ensures that experimental data can be reliably used for scientific progress, fire model development, and the assessment of innovative designs. However, users must understand that results produced under this guide do not constitute code-compliant fire resistance ratings; they are strictly for research, modeling, and exploratory analysis under the reported conditions.
Keywords: fire-resistance experiments, alternative test conditions, fire modeling, ASTM E2748-23, building material fire testing, experimental fire research, non-standard fire exposure, alternative instrumentation, test reporting, fire safety engineering
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM E2748-23 is a guide published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Guide for Fire-Resistance Experiments". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 The methods and procedures set forth in this guide relate to the conduct and reporting of fire-resistance tests obtained from particular fire-resistance tested specimens tested using conditions different than those addressed by Test Methods E119. 4.2 Data derived from fire tests conducted and reported under this guide are useful for general fire research and as potential input data for use in fire models. 4.3 It is necessary that users of this guide have knowledge and understanding of the provisions of Test Methods E119, including those pertaining to conditions of acceptance in order to understand how the alternative test conditions relate to those specified in Test Methods E119. 4.4 Users of this guide should be aware that tests conducted using exposure conditions different than those specified in Test Methods E119 do not provide or generate fire resistance ratings suitable for determining compliance with code or regulatory requirements. 4.4.1 In Test Methods E119, standard test specimens are subjected to specific exposure conditions. Substitution of different exposure conditions can change the measured fire-test-response characteristics of a test specimen. Therefore, the data are valid for only the alternative exposure conditions used. SCOPE 1.1 This guide covers the conduct of fire-resistance tests using conditions different than those addressed in Test Methods E119. This guide also addresses the reporting of data derived from those tests. 1.2 This guide does not provide or generate fire-resistance ratings suitable for determining compliance with code or regulatory requirements comparable to those resulting from tests conducted in accordance with Test Methods E119. 1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values in parentheses are for information only. 1.4 This guide 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. 1.5 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests. 1.6 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. 1.7 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.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 The methods and procedures set forth in this guide relate to the conduct and reporting of fire-resistance tests obtained from particular fire-resistance tested specimens tested using conditions different than those addressed by Test Methods E119. 4.2 Data derived from fire tests conducted and reported under this guide are useful for general fire research and as potential input data for use in fire models. 4.3 It is necessary that users of this guide have knowledge and understanding of the provisions of Test Methods E119, including those pertaining to conditions of acceptance in order to understand how the alternative test conditions relate to those specified in Test Methods E119. 4.4 Users of this guide should be aware that tests conducted using exposure conditions different than those specified in Test Methods E119 do not provide or generate fire resistance ratings suitable for determining compliance with code or regulatory requirements. 4.4.1 In Test Methods E119, standard test specimens are subjected to specific exposure conditions. Substitution of different exposure conditions can change the measured fire-test-response characteristics of a test specimen. Therefore, the data are valid for only the alternative exposure conditions used. SCOPE 1.1 This guide covers the conduct of fire-resistance tests using conditions different than those addressed in Test Methods E119. This guide also addresses the reporting of data derived from those tests. 1.2 This guide does not provide or generate fire-resistance ratings suitable for determining compliance with code or regulatory requirements comparable to those resulting from tests conducted in accordance with Test Methods E119. 1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values in parentheses are for information only. 1.4 This guide 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. 1.5 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests. 1.6 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. 1.7 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.
ASTM E2748-23 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 13.220.40 - Ignitability and burning behaviour of materials and products. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM E2748-23 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM E176-24, ASTM E119-19, ASTM E3057-19, ASTM E176-18a, ASTM E119-18c, ASTM E119-18ce1, ASTM E119-18b, ASTM E119-18a, ASTM E176-18, ASTM E119-18, ASTM E119-16a, ASTM E119-16, ASTM E3057-16, ASTM E176-15a, ASTM E176-15ae1. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM E2748-23 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
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: E2748 − 23 An American National Standard
Standard Guide for
Fire-Resistance Experiments
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E2748; 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.
INTRODUCTION
This guide provides a means for ensuring comparability of findings among different researchers
conducting fire-resistance experiments employing innovative and creative variations to standard test
methods. This guide is intended to bring uniformity and consistency to tests and reports covering
fire-resistance research that is generally conducted as a variation of Test Methods E119. Its provisions
are voluntary and users are free to pick and choose from the provisions herein provided. The
overriding goal is to make it possible to begin to provide data that ultimately can be used in fire safety
engineering and fire-resistance modeling as those fields evolve. When the purpose of the research is
to study the effect of changing specific individual variables on the outcome of Test Methods E119
fire-resistance tests, sound research practices dictate that only one variable should be changed at a
time.
1. Scope* 1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
1.1 This guide covers the conduct of fire-resistance tests
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
using conditions different than those addressed in Test Methods
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
E119. This guide also addresses the reporting of data derived
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
from those tests.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
1.2 This guide does not provide or generate fire-resistance
2. Referenced Documents
ratings suitable for determining compliance with code or
regulatory requirements comparable to those resulting from
2.1 ASTM Standards:
tests conducted in accordance with Test Methods E119.
E119 Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction
and Materials
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
E176 Terminology of Fire Standards
standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.
E603 Guide for Room Fire Experiments
1.4 This guide is used to measure and describe the response
E3057 Test Method for Measuring Heat Flux Using Direc-
of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under
tional Flame Thermometers with Advanced Data Analysis
controlled conditions, but does not by itself incorporate all
Techniques
factors required for fire hazard or fire risk assessment of the
2.2 Other Standards:
materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.
ISO 834-1 Fire Resistance Tests – Elements of Building
1.5 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safe-
Construction – Part 1: General Requirements
guards for personnel and property shall be employed in
UL 263 Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
conducting these tests.
3. Terminology
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
3.1 For definitions of terms used in this guide, refer to
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
Terminology E176.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E05 on Fire Standards the ASTM website.
and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E05.11 on Fire Resistance. Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO
Current edition approved March 1, 2023. Published March 2023. Originally Central Secretariat, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva,
approved in 2010. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as E2748 – 12a(2017). Switzerland, https://www.iso.org.
DOI: 10.1520/E2748-23. Available from UL, Comm 2000, 151 Eastern Avenue, Bensenville, IL 60106.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E2748 − 23
4. Significance and Use 7. Alternative Pressure Differentials
4.1 The methods and procedures set forth in this guide relate 7.1 The provisions in this section are applicable to the use of
to the conduct and reporting of fire-resistance tests obtained specific furnace pressure differentials.
NOTE 2—There are a number of recognized or published furnace
from particular fire-resistance tested specimens tested using
pressure differentials in use in fire test standards around the world.
conditions different than those addressed by Test Methods
E119. 7.2 When a recognized or published furnace pressure dif-
ferential is used, the reference in which the pressure differential
4.2 Data derived from fire tests conducted and reported
is described should be cited and the pressures should be
under this guide are useful for general fire research and as
reported.
potential input data for use in fire models.
7.3 When other pressure differentials are used for explor-
4.3 It is necessary that users of this guide have knowledge
atory research or to replicate actual fire conditions, or for any
and understanding of the provisions of Test Methods E119,
other reason, they should be described and should be reported.
including those pertaining to conditions of acceptance in order
to understand how the alternative test conditions relate to those 7.4 Furnace pressure differentials should be measured as
specified in Test Methods E119. described in UL 263.
4.4 Users of this guide should be aware that tests conducted
8. Alternative Test Specimens
using exposure conditions different than those specified in Test
Methods E119 do not provide or generate fire resistance ratings 8.1 The provisions in this section are applicable to the use of
suitable for determining compliance with code or regulatory alternative test specimens that are different from the test
requirements. specimens specified in Test Methods E119.
4.4.1 In Test Methods E119, standard test specimens are
8.2 Test specimen dimensions, that is, height and width for
subjected to specific exposure conditions. Substitution of
walls, length and width for horizontal specimens, or lengths for
different exposure conditions can change the measured fire-
columns or beams, should be reported and the method used to
test-response characteristics of a test specimen. Therefore, the
modify the furnace opening to accommodate the specimen size
data are valid for only the alternative exposure conditions used.
should be reported.
8.3 When test specimens having exposed and unexposed
5. General Principles
surfaces that are not parallel to each other or that are not flat
5.1 Except as specifically modified herein, fire-resistance
(planar) are tested, their maximum and minimum thicknesses,
tests should be conducted using the test furnaces, exposure
and radii, if curved, should be reported.
conditions, test specimens, instrumentation, and acceptance
8.4 When test specimens having one or more designed
criteria set forth in Test Methods E119.
protrusions or indentations (pilasters, alcoves, etc.) either on
5.2 Although it is possible to vary many variables at one
the fire side, the unexposed side, or both, are tested, the size,
time, and it may be desirable to do so when evaluating the
shape, location, and dimensions of each protrusion or indenta-
response of a specimen to specific design fire conditions, it is
tion should be described and reported.
usually desirable to vary only one parameter at a time when
8.5 When test specimens exceeding the depth of the speci-
comparing results from two or more tests or when evaluating
men mounting frame are tested, the method(s) of protecting the
the effect on fire resistance of changing a specific variable.
portion of the test specimen extending beyond the frame should
5.3 Limitations—The test data is valid for only the specimen
be described and reported.
and parameters used in the test.
9. Alternative Instrumentation – Furnace Environment
6. Alternative Time-Temperature Curves
9.1 When alternative instrumentation is used in addition to
6.1 The provisions in this section are applicable to the use of
the standard instrumentation specified in Test Methods E119,
alternative time-temperature curves that are different from the
the alternative instrumentation should be spaced and mounted
time-temperature curve specified in Test Methods E119.
so as to not interfere with the standard instrumentation.
6.1.1 When the time-temperature curve specified in Test
Methods E119 is used, it should be so stated in the report. 9.2 Furnace Temperature Measurement:
NOTE 1—There are a number of recognized time-temperature curves in
9.2.1 When the furnace control temperature measurement
use in fire-resistance test standards around the world.
method (that is, shielded thermocouples) specified in Test
6.2 When a recognized or published time-temperature curve Methods E119 is used it should be so stated in the report.
is used, the reference in which the curve is described should be 9.2.2 When Directional Flame Thermometers or plate ther-
cited and the time-temperature curve should be reported. mometers are used they should be spaced as described in
9.2.2.1 through 9.2.2.2.
6.3 Fire safety engineering and computer modeling are
methods whereby non-standard time-temperature curves can be
NOTE 3—Directional Flame Thermometers are described in Test
Method E3057. Specifications for plate thermometers are provided in ISO
derived to represent specific design conditions.
834-1.
6.3.1 When these design fires are used as the basis of a
time-temperature curve, a table or equation representing the 9.2.2.1 There should be nine plate thermometers equally
curve should be reported. distributed across the test specimen surface.
E2748 − 23
9.2.2.2 Directional Flame Thermometers and Plate ther- 10. Alternative Instrumentation – Specimen
mometers should be located 4 6 0.2 in. (100 6 5 mm) from the
10.1 When alternative instrumentation is used in addition to
exposed surface of the test specimen at the beginning of the
the standard instrumentation specified in Test Methods E119,
test.
the alternative instrumentation should be spaced and mounted
9.2.3 Other methods, sensors, or measurement devices for
so as to not interfere with the standard instrumentation.
monitoring the furnace temperature should be described and
10.2 Unexposed Surface Temperature Measurement for
reported.
Walls and Floor/Ceilings:
9.2.4 Any special mounting methods used for plate ther-
10.2.1 When the unexposed surface temperature measure-
mometers or other temperature measuring devices should be
ment methods specified in Test Methods E119 are used, it
described and reported.
should be so stated in the report.
9.2.5 The locations of furnace temperature measuring de-
10.2.2 Other methods, sensors, or measurement devices
vices should be reported.
used for monitoring the unexposed surface temperature should
9.3 Heat Flux Measurement: be
...
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: E2748 − 12a (Reapproved 2017) E2748 − 23 An American National Standard
Standard Guide for
Fire-Resistance Experiments
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E2748; 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.
INTRODUCTION
This guide provides a means for ensuring comparability of findings among different researchers
conducting fire-resistance experiments employing innovative and creative variations to standard test
methods. This guide is intended to bring uniformity and consistency to tests and reports covering
fire-resistance research that is generally conducted as a variation of Test Methods E119. Its provisions
are voluntary and users are free to pick and choose from the provisions herein provided. The
overriding goal is to make it possible to begin to provide data that ultimately can be used in fire safety
engineering and fire-resistance modeling as those fields evolve. When the purpose of the research is
to study the effect of changing specific individual variables on the outcome of Test Methods E119
fire-resistance tests, sound research practices dictate that only one variable should be changed at a
time.
1. Scope Scope*
1.1 This guide covers the conduct of fire-resistance tests using conditions different than those addressed in Test Methods E119.
This guide also addresses the reporting of data derived from those tests.
1.2 This guide does not provide or generate fire-resistance ratings suitable for determining compliance with code or regulatory
requirements comparable to those resulting from tests conducted in accordance with Test Methods E119.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 This guide 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.
1.5 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these
tests.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and healthsafety, health, and environmental practices and determine
the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.7 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.
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E05 on Fire Standards and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E05.11 on Fire Resistance.
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2017March 1, 2023. Published February 2017March 2023. Originally approved in 2010 as 2010. E2748–10. Last previous edition
approved in 20122017 as E2748E2748 – 12a–12a. DOI: 10.1520/E2748-12AR17.(2017). DOI: 10.1520/E2748-23.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E2748 − 23
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
E119 Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
E176 Terminology of Fire Standards
E603 Guide for Room Fire Experiments
E1529E3057 Test Methods for Determining Effects of Large Hydrocarbon Pool Fires on Structural Members and Assemblies-
Method for Measuring Heat Flux Using Directional Flame Thermometers with Advanced Data Analysis Techniques
2.2 Other Standards:
ISO 834-1 Fire Resistance Tests – Elements of Building Construction – Part 1: General Requirements
NFPA 251UL 263 Standard Methods of Fire Tests of Fire Resistance of Building Construction and Materials
3. Terminology
3.1 For definitions of terms used in this guide, refer to Terminology E176.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 The methods and procedures set forth in this guide relate to the conduct and reporting of fire-resistance tests obtained from
particular fire-resistance tested specimens tested using conditions different than those addressed by Test Methods E119.
4.2 Data derived from fire tests conducted and reported under this guide are useful for general fire research and as potential input
data for use in fire models.
4.3 It is necessary that users of this guide have knowledge and understanding of the provisions of Test Methods E119, including
those pertaining to conditions of acceptance in order to understand how the alternative test conditions relate to those specified in
Test Methods E119.
4.4 Users of this guide should be aware that tests conducted using exposure conditions different than those specified in Test
Methods E119 do not provide or generate fire resistance ratings suitable for determining compliance with code or regulatory
requirements.
4.4.1 In Test Methods E119, standard test specimens are subjected to specific exposure conditions. Substitution of different
exposure conditions can change the measured fire-test-response characteristics of a test specimen. Therefore, the data are valid for
only the alternative exposure conditions used.
5. General Principles
5.1 Except as specifically modified herein, fire-resistance tests should be conducted using the test furnaces, exposure conditions,
test specimens, instrumentation, and acceptance criteria set forth in Test Methods E119.
5.2 Although it is possible to vary many variables at one time, and it may be desirable to do so when evaluating the response of
a specimen to specific design fire conditions, it is usually desirable to vary only one parameter at a time when comparing results
from two or more tests or when evaluating the effect on fire resistance of changing a specific variable.
5.3 Limitations—The test data is valid for only the specimen and parameters used in the test.
6. Alternative Time-Temperature Curves
6.1 The provisions in this section are applicable to the use of alternative time-temperature curves that are different from the
time-temperature curve specified in Test Methods E119.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Available from International Organization for Standardization, P.O. Box 56, CH-1211, Geneva 20, Switzerland.Standardization (ISO), ISO Central Secretariat, Chemin
de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland, https://www.iso.org.
Available from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, http://www.nfpa.org.UL, Comm 2000, 151 Eastern Avenue,
Bensenville, IL 60106.
E2748 − 23
6.1.1 When the time-temperature curve specified in Test Methods E119 is used, it should be so stated in the report.
NOTE 1—There are a number of recognized time-temperature curves in use in fire-resistance test standards around the world.
6.2 When a recognized or published time-temperature curve is used, the reference in which the curve is described should be cited
and the time-temperature curve should be reported.
6.3 Fire safety engineering and computer modeling are methods whereby non-standard time-temperature curves can be derived
to represent specific design conditions.
6.3.1 When these design fires are used as the basis of a time-temperature curve, a table or equation representing the curve should
be reported.
7. Alternative Pressure Differentials
7.1 The provisions in this section are applicable to the use of specific furnace pressure differentials.
NOTE 2—There are a number of recognized or published furnace pressure differentials in use in fire test standards around the world.
7.2 When a recognized or published furnace pressure differential is used, the reference in which the pressure differential is
described should be cited and the pressures should be reported.
7.3 When other pressure differentials are used for exploratory research or to replicate actual fire conditions, or for any other reason,
they should be described and should be reported.
7.4 Furnace pressure differentials should be measured as described in NFPA 251.UL 263.
8. Alternative Test Specimens
8.1 The provisions in this section are applicable to the use of alternative test specimens that are different from the test specimens
specified in Test Methods E119.
8.2 Test specimen dimensions, that is, height and width for walls, length and width for horizontal specimens, or lengths for
columns or beams, should be reported and the method used to modify the furnace opening to accommodate the specimen size
should be reported.
8.3 When test specimens having exposed and unexposed surfaces that are not parallel to each other or that are not flat (planar)
are tested, their maximum and minimum thicknesses, and radii, if curved, should be reported.
8.4 When test specimens having one or more designed protrusions or indentations (pilasters, alcoves, etc.) either on the fire side,
the unexposed side, or both, are tested, the size, shape, location, and dimensions of each protrusion or indentation should be
described and reported.
8.5 When test specimens exceeding the depth of the specimen mounting frame are tested, the method(s) of protecting the portion
of the test specimen extending beyond the frame should be described and reported.
9. Alternative Instrumentation – Furnace Environment
9.1 When alternative instrumentation is used in addition to the standard instrumentation specified in Test Methods E119, the
alternative instrumentation should be spaced and mounted so as to not interfere with the standard instrumentation.
9.2 Furnace Temperature Measurement:
9.2.1 When the furnace control temperature measurement method (that is, shielded thermocouples) specified in Test Methods E119
is used it should be so stated in the report.
E2748 − 23
9.2.2 When Directional Flame Thermometers or plate thermometers are used they should be spaced as described in 9.2.2.1 through
9.2.2.2.
NOTE 3—Directional Flame Thermometers are described in Test MethodsMethod E1529E3057. Specifications for plate thermometers are provided in ISO
834-1.
9.2.2.1 There should be nine plate thermometers equally distributed across the test specimen surface.
9.2.2.2 Directional Flame Thermometers and Plate thermometers should be located 4 6 0.2 in. (100 6 5 mm) from the exposed
surface of the test specimen at the beginning of the test.
9.2.3 Other methods, sensors, or measurement devices for monitoring the furnace temperature should be described and reported.
9.2.4 Any special mounting methods used for plate thermometers or other temperature measuring devices should be described and
reported.
9.2.5 The locations of furnace temperature measuring devices should be reported.
9.3 Heat Flux Measurement:
9.3.1 When heat flux measurements are taken in addition to furnace temperature control measurements, the methods,
instrumentation, and heat flux profile should be described and reported.
9.3.1.1 Any special mounting methods should be described and reported.
9.3.2 The locations of heat flux measurement devices should be reported.
9.4 Pressure Measurement:
9.4.1 Whe
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