ASTM F1550-22

Standard Test Method for Determination of Fire-Test-Response Characteristics of Components or Composites of Mattresses or Furniture for Use in Correctional Facilities after Exposure to Vandalism, by Employing a Bench Scale Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method provides a means to determine various fire-test-response characteristics, including the time to sustained flaming and the heat release rate, of composites exposed to a prescribed initial test heat flux in the cone calorimeter apparatus, after they have been vandalized in a prescribed manner, to expose the filling material.  
5.2 It is clearly impossible to predict the manner in which a mattress or furniture will be vandalized. The objective of this test method is to develop data indicating the effect of violating the integrity of the fabric (or the fabric plus interliner composite) protection and exposing the padding to the source of heat (see Appendix X3).  
5.3 Quantitative heat release measurements provide information which is useful for product design and product development, for mattresses or furniture destined for correctional occupancies.  
5.4 Heat release measurements provide useful information for product development by giving a quantitative measure of specific changes in fire performance caused by component and composite modifications. Heat release data from this method will not be predictive of product behavior if the product will not spread flame over its surface under the fire exposure conditions of interest.  
5.5 The use of test specimens simulating vandalism allows the investigation of the variation in response between the system as designed by the manufacturer and the way the system is occasionally present in actual use, with the filling material exposed to the incident energy.  
5.6 This test method allows alternative strategies to be employed for producing a product (mattress or upholstered furniture) with the required fire-test-response characteristics for the scenario under consideration.  
5.7 Limitations:  
5.7.1 The test data are invalid if any of the events in 5.7.1.1 or 5.7.1.2 occur.
5.7.1.1 Explosive spalling.
5.7.1.2 The specimen swells sufficiently prior to ignition to touch the spark plug or swells up ...
SCOPE
1.1 This fire-test-response test method is designed for use to determine various fire-test-response characteristics, including ignitability and heat release rate, from composites of mattresses or furniture, or correctional facilities, which have been vandalized in a prescribed manner to expose the filling material, by using a bench scale oxygen consumption calorimeter.  
1.2 This test method provides for measurements of the time to sustained flaming, heat release rate, peak and total heat release, and effective heat of combustion at a constant radiant initial test heat flux of 35 kW/m2. See 5.7 for limitations.  
1.3 The apparatus used in this test method is also capable of determining heat release data at different initial test heat fluxes.  
1.4 The specimen is oriented horizontally and a spark ignition source is used.  
1.5 All fire-test-response characteristics are determined using the apparatus and the procedures described in Test Method E1354.  
1.6 The tests are done on bench-scale specimens combining the mattress or furniture outer layer components. Frame elements are not included.  
1.7 The vandalism is simulated by causing a prescribed cut on the outer layer of the composite, deep enough to expose the filling material to the incident radiation.  
1.8 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.9 This standard is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under controlled conditions, but does not by itself incorporate all factors required for fire hazard or fire risk assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.  
1.10 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental ...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-May-2022
• ICS: 13.220.40 - Ignitability and burning behaviour of materials and products
• ICS: 97.140 - Furniture
• Technical Committee: F33 - Detention and Correctional Facilities
• Drafting Committee: F33.05 - Furnishings and Equipment

Relations

• Refers: ASTM E176-24 - Standard Terminology of Fire Standards
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM E1474-20 - Standard Test Method for Determining the Heat Release Rate of Upholstered Furniture and Mattress Components or Composites Using a Bench Scale Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2020
• Refers: ASTM E176-18a - Standard Terminology of Fire Standards
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2018
• Refers: ASTM E176-18 - Standard Terminology of Fire Standards
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2018
• Refers: ASTM D123-17 - Standard Terminology Relating to Textiles
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2017
• Refers: ASTM E1590-16 - Standard Test Method for Fire Testing of Mattresses
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2016
• Refers: ASTM E1354-16a - Standard Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter
• Effective Date: 01-May-2016
• Refers: ASTM E1354-16 - Standard Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2016
• Refers: ASTM E1537-15 - Standard Test Method for Fire Testing of Upholstered Furniture
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2015
• Refers: ASTM D123-15b - Standard Terminology Relating to Textiles
• Effective Date: 15-Sep-2015
• Refers: ASTM D123-15a - Standard Terminology Relating to Textiles
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2015
• Refers: ASTM E1354-15a - Standard Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2015
• Refers: ASTM E176-15a - Standard Terminology of Fire Standards
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2015
• Refers: ASTM E176-15ae1 - Standard Terminology of Fire Standards
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2015
• Refers: ASTM E1354-15 - Standard Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter
• Effective Date: 15-May-2015

Overview

ASTM F1550-22: Standard Test Method for Determination of Fire-Test-Response Characteristics of Components or Composites of Mattresses or Furniture for Use in Correctional Facilities after Exposure to Vandalism, by Employing a Bench Scale Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter is a specialized fire performance test developed by ASTM International. This standard provides a controlled laboratory method for evaluating the fire-test-response characteristics-such as ignitability and heat release rate-of mattress or furniture composites intended for correctional facilities, after simulated vandalism exposes inner filling materials. Emphasis is placed on replicating realistic post-vandalism scenarios that are common in correctional occupancies.

Key Topics

• Fire-Test-Response Characteristics: The method measures important fire properties including time to sustained flaming, heat release rate, peak and total heat release, and effective heat of combustion.
• Simulated Vandalism: The test simulates vandalism by making a prescribed cut in the outer covering (fabric or fabric with interliner) to intentionally expose the interior padding, reflecting conditions likely to occur in correctional environments.
• Bench Scale Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter: The specimens are tested using a cone calorimeter at a specified radiant heat flux, typically 35 kW/m², using procedures closely aligned with ASTM E1354.
• Quantitative Heat Release Data: By quantifying heat release, manufacturers can evaluate how product modifications or different material composites affect fire performance, guiding safer product design.
• Standardized Test Specimens: Preparation of test specimens typically omits frame elements, focusing on fabric and padding layers. Different construction types and thicknesses are accommodated per the standard’s detailed preparation guidelines.
• Limitations:
  • The results are not necessarily predictive if the product will not propagate flame under real fire conditions.
  • The test is intended for flaming ignition scenarios and does not evaluate smoldering sources like cigarettes.
  • Data is invalid if explosive spalling or significant swelling of the specimen occurs, interfering with test conditions.

Applications

• Correctional Facility Furnishings: The standard is especially relevant for designers, manufacturers, and purchasers of mattresses and upholstered furniture for use in prisons and detention centers, where vandalism is a frequent concern.
• Fire Performance Evaluation: ASTM F1550-22 serves as a tool to assess and compare the fire response of different material composites or design changes, helping ensure compliance with regulatory or institutional requirements for flame resistance in high-risk environments.
• Product Development: Heat release rate data can inform engineering decisions, allowing manufacturers to test and iterate alternative construction strategies to meet fire safety targets, even after vandalism compromises the protective covering.
• Risk Mitigation: By simulating realistic post-vandalism conditions, the test generates critical safety data that facility managers can use to make informed choices regarding interior furnishings, minimizing fire hazard and improving occupant safety.

Related Standards

This test method references and aligns with several fire safety and testing standards to ensure robust and consistent results:

• ASTM E1354: Standard Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter
• ASTM E1474: Test Method for Determining the Heat Release Rate of Upholstered Furniture and Mattress Components or Composites Using a Bench Scale Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter
• ASTM E1537: Test Method for Fire Testing of Upholstered Furniture
• ASTM E1590: Test Method for Fire Testing of Mattresses
• ISO 13943: Fire Safety - Vocabulary
• ISO 4880: Burning Behavior of Textiles and Textile Products - Vocabulary
• California Technical Bulletin 129 & 133: Flammability Test Procedures for Mattresses and Seating Furniture for Public Occupancies

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ASTM F1550-22 is an essential fire safety standard for evaluating the real-world fire performance of correctional facility mattresses and furniture composites post-vandalism, guiding safety-focused design and procurement decisions in detention environments. For those seeking robust, quantitative fire-test-response measurements that closely reflect the unique risks of correctional settings, this standard offers a comprehensive, laboratory-based methodology.

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: F1550 − 22
Standard Test Method for
Determination of Fire-Test-Response Characteristics of
Components or Composites of Mattresses or Furniture for
Use in Correctional Facilities after Exposure to Vandalism,
by Employing a Bench Scale Oxygen Consumption
Calorimeter
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1550; 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.
INTRODUCTION
Incorrectionaloccupancies,vandalismofmattressesorfurnitureoccurswithsignificantfrequency.
After such vandalism, it is possible that the filling material (foam or other padding) of the mattress or
furniture becomes exposed. If the mattress or furniture filling material is exposed, it is possible for a
product which meets prescribed fire-test-response characteristics in its intact state to perform in a
decidedly less satisfactory manner. This standard test method provides a means for measuring, in
bench scale, fire-test-response characteristics of composite upholstered components of mattresses or
furniture, for use in correctional facilities, after having been vandalized in a prescribed manner so as
to expose the filling material, using an oxygen consumption calorimeter.
1. Scope 1.6 The tests are done on bench-scale specimens combining
the mattress or furniture outer layer components. Frame
1.1 Thisfire-test-responsetestmethodisdesignedforuseto
elements are not included.
determine various fire-test-response characteristics, including
ignitability and heat release rate, from composites of mat-
1.7 The vandalism is simulated by causing a prescribed cut
tresses or furniture, or correctional facilities, which have been
on the outer layer of the composite, deep enough to expose the
vandalized in a prescribed manner to expose the filling
filling material to the incident radiation.
material, by using a bench scale oxygen consumption calorim-
1.8 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
eter.
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
1.2 This test method provides for measurements of the time
standard.
to sustained flaming, heat release rate, peak and total heat
release, and effective heat of combustion at a constant radiant
1.9 This standard is used to measure and describe the
initial test heat flux of 35 kW/m . See 5.7 for limitations.
response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and
flame under controlled conditions, but does not by itself
1.3 Theapparatususedinthistestmethodisalsocapableof
determiningheatreleasedataatdifferentinitialtestheatfluxes. incorporate all factors required for fire hazard or fire risk
assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under
1.4 The specimen is oriented horizontally and a spark
actual fire conditions.
ignition source is used.
1.10 This standard does not purport to address all of the
1.5 All fire-test-response characteristics are determined us-
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
ing the apparatus and the procedures described inTest Method
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
E1354.
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F33 on
For specific safety precautions, see Section 7.
Detention and Correctional Facilities and is the direct responsibility of Subcommit-
tee F33.05 on Furnishings and Equipment.
1.11 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safe-
CurrenteditionapprovedJune1,2022.PublishedJuly2022.Originallyapproved
guards for personnel and property shall be employed in
in 1994. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as F1550–16. DOI: 10.1520/
F1550-22. conducting these tests.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1550 − 22
1.12 This international standard was developed in accor- 3.2.3 heat flux, n—heat transfer to a surface per unit area,
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- per unit time (see also initial test heat flux).
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the 3.2.3.1 Discussion—The heat flux from an energy source,
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- such as a radiant heater, can be measured at the initiation of a
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical test (such as Test Method E1354) and then reported as the
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. initial test heat flux, with the understanding that the burning of
the test specimen can generate additional heat flux to the
2. Referenced Documents
specimen surface. The heat flux can also be measured at any
time during a fire test, on any surface, and with measurement
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D123Terminology Relating to Textiles devices responding to radiative and convective fluxes. Typical
2 2 2
units are kW/m , W/cm , or BTU/(s ft ).
E176Terminology of Fire Standards
E1354Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release
3.2.4 ignitability,n—propensityforignition,asmeasuredby
Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Con-
the time to sustained flaming at a specified heating flux.
sumption Calorimeter
3.2.5 initial test heat flux, n—the heat flux set on the test
E1474Test Method for Determining the Heat Release Rate
apparatus at the initiation of the test (see also heat flux).
of Upholstered Furniture and Mattress Components or
3.2.6 mattress, n—mattress is a ticking (outermost layer of
Composites Using a Bench Scale Oxygen Consumption
fabric or related material) filled with a resilient material used
Calorimeter
alone or in combination with other products intended or
E1537Test Method for Fire Testing of Upholstered Furni-
promoted for sleeping upon.
ture
E1590Test Method for Fire Testing of Mattresses 3.2.7 net heat of combustion, n—oxygen bomb calorimeter
2.2 California Bureau of Home Furnishings and Thermal value for the heat of combustion, corrected for the gaseous
Insulation Standards: state of product water.
CA Technical Bulletin 129(October 1992), Flammability
3.2.8 orientation, n—planeinwhichtheexposedfaceofthe
Test Procedure for Mattresses for Use in Public Buildings
specimen is located during testing, which is horizontal facing
CA Technical Bulletin 133(January 1991). Flammability
up for this test.
Test Procedure for Seating Furniture for Use in Public
3.2.9 oxygen consumption principle, n—expression of the
Occupancies
relationship between the mass of oxygen consumed during
2.3 ISO Standards:
combustion and the heat released.
ISO 4880 Burning Behavior of Textiles and Textile
3.2.10 sustained flaming, n—existence of flame on or over
Products—Vocabulary
the surface of the specimen for periods of4sor more.
ISO 13943Fire Safety—Vocabulary
3.2.11 upholstered, n—covered with material (as fabric or
3. Terminology
padding) to provide a soft surface.
3.1 Definitions:
4. Summary of Test Method
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this test method and
associated with fire issues, refer to the terminology contained
4.1 This test method is based on the observation that,
inTerminologyE176andinISO13943.Incaseofconflict,the
generally, the net heat of combustion is directly related to the
terminology in Terminology E176 shall prevail.
amount of oxygen required for combustion (1). Approxi-
3.1.2 For definitions of terms used in this test method and
mately13.1×10 kJofenergyarereleasedasheatforeachkg
associated with textile issues, refer to the terminology con-
of oxygen consumed. Specimens in the test are burned in
tained in Terminology D123 and in ISO 4880. In case of
ambient air conditions, while being subjected to a prescribed
conflict, the terminology in Terminology D123 shall prevail.
external initial test heat flux of 35 kW/m .
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
4.2 The heat release is determined by the measurement of
3.2.1 effective heat of combustion, n—measuredheatrelease
the oxygen consumption, as determined by the oxygen con-
divided by the mass loss for a specified time period.
centration and the flow rate in the combustion product stream,
3.2.2 heat release rate, n—heat evolved from the specimen,
as described in Test Method E1354.
expressed per unit area of exposed specimen area per unit of
4.3 The primary measurements are oxygen concentration
time.
and exhaust gas flow rate, used to calculate heat release.
Additional measurements include the mass loss rate of the
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
specimen, the time to sustained flaming, and the effective heat
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
of combustion. Ignitability is determined by measuring the
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
time for initial exposure to time of sustained flaming of the
the ASTM website.
Available from California Bureau of Home Furnishings and Thermal
specimen.
Insulation, State of California, Department of Consumer Affairs, 3485 Orange
Grove Avenue, North Highlands, CA 95660-5595.
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO
Central Secretariat, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva, Theboldfacenumbersinparenthesesrefertothelistofreferencesattheendof
Switzerland, https://www.iso.org. this standard.
F1550 − 22
4.4 In order to simulate vandalism, the outer layers of the to flaming ignition sources, However, it is not known what
compositetobetestedarecutacrossthesurface,intheformof fraction of actual flaming mattress or furniture fires occur with
an X, to expose the interior filling material. ignitions more or less intense than the one modeled here.
5.7.4 It is not known whether the results of this test method
4.5 The procedure in this test method is identical to that in
will be equally valid when it is carried out under conditions
Test Method E1474, except for the slashing of the surface of
different from the specified ones. In particular, it is unclear
the specimen prior to testing.
whether the use of a different ignition source, or the same
ignition source but at a different initial test heat flux, will
5. Significance and Use
change relative results.
5.1 This test method provides a means to determine various
5.7.5 The value of heat release rate corresponding to the
fire-test-response characteristics, including the time to sus-
critical limit between propagating mattress fires and non-
tainedflamingandtheheatreleaserate,ofcompositesexposed
propagating mattress fires is not known.
to a prescribed initial test heat flux in the cone calorimeter
5.7.6 It is not known what fraction of the vandalism that
apparatus, after they have been vandalized in a prescribed
occurs is represented by the prescribed model used in this
manner, to expose the filling material.
standard. However, the method described here is adequate to
5.2 It is clearly impossible to predict the manner in which a
address one of the major objectives of the standard, namely
mattress or furniture will be vandalized. The objective of this investigate the effect of the exposed filling material on the
test method is to develop data indicating the effect of violating
fire-test-response characteristics of the composite.
the integrity of the fabric (or the fabric plus interliner compos-
ite) protection and exposing the padding to the source of heat
6. Apparatus
(see Appendix X3).
6.1 UsetheapparatusdescribedinTestMethodE1354,also
5.3 Quantitative heat release measurements provide infor-
known as the cone calorimeter, for this test.
mation which is useful for product design and product
development, for mattresses or furniture destined for correc-
7. Safety Precautions
tional occupancies.
7.1 These test procedures involve high temperatures and
5.4 Heat release measurements provide useful information
combustionprocesses.Therefore,thereisapotentialhazardfor
for product development by giving a quantitative measure of
burns, ignition of extraneous objects or clothing, and for
specific changes in fire performance caused by component and
inhalation of combustion products.
composite modifications. Heat release data from this method
7.2 The operator must use protective gloves for insertion
will not be predictive of product behavior if the product will
and removal of the test specimens. The operator must refrain
not spread flame over its surface under the fire exposure
from touching either the cone heater or the associated fixtures
conditions of interest.
while hot, except with the use of protective gloves.
5.5 The use of test specimens simulating vandalism allows
the investigation of the variation in response between the
8. Test Specimen Preparation (Method A)
system as designed by the manufacturer and the way the
8.1 Equipment and Supplies for Specimen Preparation (3):
system is occasionally present in actual use, with the filling
8.1.1 Cutting Equipment—Cut foams with a band saw. Use
material exposed to the incident energy.
a foam-cutting blade. This blade has no teeth. Instead, it has a
5.6 This test method allows alternative strategies to be
wavy scallop to the edge. Ensure that the blade is well
employed for producing a product (mattress or upholstered
sharpened, and make certain that no silicones or other oils are
furniture) with the required fire-test-response characteristics
applied to lubricate the blade. Lubrication must be solely with
for the scenario under consideration.
graphiteormolybdenumcompounds.Thebandsawblademust
make a straight and true cut of the foam; therefore, set the
5.7 Limitations:
5.7.1 The test data are invalid if any of the events in 5.7.1.1 blade guide no higher than 12 mm above the stock to be cut.
or 5.7.1.2 occur. 8.1.2 Forming Blocks—The specimen preparation rests cru-
5.7.1.1 Explosive spalling. cially upon the proper use of forming blocks.These blocks are
5.7.1.2 The specimen swells sufficiently prior to ignition to made in dimensions of 98mmby98mmby50mm. Each of
touchthesparkplugorswellsuptotheplaneoftheheaterbase these dimensions must be controlled to 60.5 mm. As the
during combustion. material for the forming blocks, use a dense wood, such as
5.7.2 This test method is not applicable to ignition by maple, which is minimally subject to dimensional changes
cigarettes, or by any other smoldering source. when the humidity is changed. Do not use pine. Use only fully
5.7.3 The ignition source in this test method is a radiant kiln-dried timber for making the forming blocks. Ensure that
energysourceofrelativelyhighintensity(35kW/m initialtest all surfaces are cut straight and true and are smooth. Do not
heat flux). It has been shown that this source models well, for round the edges but slightly round the corners. It is preferable
furniture composites, a full scale source equivalent to five to lacquer the blocks with an acrylic lacquer to ensure a hard,
sheets of newspaper (2). It has also been shown that uphol- smooth, stable surface. Make up a minimum of 12 blocks to
stered furniture and mattresses, particularly in public allow a reasonable number of specimens to be prepared at the
occupancies, are, on occasion, involved in fires after exposure same time.
F1550 − 22
8.1.3 Adhesive—Severaladhesiveshavebeenfoundsuitable single layer of resilient padding is the only padding material
for securing the fabrics. The adhesive must be low in flamma- usedinthecomposite.Withatypicalfabricthickness,thiswill
bilityandmusthavesuitableholdingpowertopermitinserting resultinatotalspecimenthicknessofapproximately50.9mm,
theresilientpadding,stayinplaceuntilthetestingisperformed which is acceptable. Cut square each resilient padding block
(that is, through the required conditioning) and during the with 90° corners and face dimensions of 102.5mm 6 0.5 mm
flammabilitytestprocedure.Forthelatter,thegluedportionsof by 102.5mm 6 0.5 mm. This size ensures that the resilient
the fabric must neither flame excessively nor retard burning. padding will be compressed during composite assembly, lead-
Adhesives that are based on polychloroprene (neoprene), ing to tight, well-formed specimens.
acrylic or water have been found suitable. 8.2.2.1 Some resilient paddings have a tendency for high
8.1.3.1 Adhesive Application—The method of adhesive ap- friction against the sawing table and the guide. To make a
plication depends on the particular adhesive selected. Water- smoothcutbyallowingtheresilientpaddingtoslideeasier,put
soluble adhesives are applied directly from the bottle, and a piece of paper between the resilient padding and the
therefore, do not require a brush. Likewise, any spillage is table/guide. Push the assembly of resilient padding and paper
readilycleanablewithwater.Thistypeofadhesivedoesnotset forward and allow the blade to cut through both the resilient
as quickly as the solvent-based adhesives, which permits padding and the paper.
shifting the fabric as necessary to create a neat, tight package.
8.2.3 Forming Resilient Padding Blocks—The cone calo-
Thegluedspecimenmustbeleftovernight,however,toensure rimeter test results will not be repeatable if the density of the
a good seal. On the other hand, polychloroprene-based adhe-
resilient padding tested is not controlled very closely. For this
sives are applied with a brush made of hog bristles or other purpose, each batch of resilient padding specimens prepared
stiff, course material. The brush must be flat and square cut
must be checked for mass. It is assumed here that three
with a width of 7mm to 8 mm.Asolvent compatible with the replicate tests will be performed for each specimen type. Once
adhesive must be used for cleanup and storage of the brush.
three blocks of resilient padding have been cut, the mass must
The solvent-based glues set up very quickly and do not permit bedetermined.Noblockshallhaveamassofmorethan105%
any adjustment around the wood block.
of the mean of the three masses nor a mass of less than 95%.
8.1.3.2 Adhesive Checking—To test the efficiency of an If such a difference occurs, additional blocks must be cut and
adhesive, apply a small amount on two small pieces of the
the mass determined. The preparation of composites cannot
fabric or interliner to be used. Allow the adhesive to dry (at start until three blocks of resilient padding, which conform to
leastovernight),andthenattempttotearthefabricpiecesfrom the above 5% deviation limit, have been obtained. Mark the
one another. To be acceptable, the glued pieces must not be accepted blocks so as to be traceable. Note the mass of each
able to be separated without tearing the fabric. block of resilient padding along with the identification marks
8.1.4 Tape—Masking tape or other tape with adhesive is of the blocks. Report the mass of resilient padding in the test
used to assist in assembling the test composites. Any type of report along with other information about this test run.
tape that will adhere adequately to all fabrics and be easy to 8.2.4 Fabric Cutting:
remove after completion of assembly is suitable for this
8.2.4.1 First, cut a square of 200 mm by 200 mm.
purpose. Some interliners or fabrics will be damaged by direct
NOTE 1—Do not cut fabrics on the bias. If the fabric weave is such that
application of masking tape to their surface since removal
the yarns in the two directions do not lie at 90° to each other, do not cut
results in tearing or marring the surface. For items susceptible
the sample along yarns in both directions, since a skew specimen would
to such damage, prepare strips of paper slightly wider than the result.
widthofthemaskingtapeandlongenoughtoreachalltheway
8.2.4.2 For cone calorimeter results to be repeatable, fabric
around the forming block. Then secure the paper strips with
for the different replicates must show uniformity. When fabric
tape.
material is obtained directly from a bolt of cloth, do not cut
8.1.5 AluminumFoil—Usealuminumfoilthatis0.03mmto
specimens using closer than 10cm to 12 cm to the selvedge
0.04 mm thick. No other foil thickness shall be used. It is
(that is, the finished edge).
especially important not to substitute a thicker foil.
NOTE 2—This is because sometimes there are weaving or coating
8.2 Basic Preparation of Specimens:
variations that occur closer to the selvedge.
8.2.1 The basic instructions here pertain to specimens that
8.2.4.3 To assist in verifying that uniform specimens have
comprise only a single layer of fabric over a single layer of
been cut, check each set of fabric specimens that has been cut
resilient padding. The same instructions apply to specimens
to the 200 mmby 200 mm size for mass. Determine the mass
where an interliner is laminated onto the back of the fabric. In
once three replicate pieces have been cut. None of the pieces
the latter case, the fabric/interliner combination is treated
shallhaveamassofmorethan105%ofthemeanofthethree,
simply as a fabric alone. For specimens that use multiple
noramassoflessthan95%.Ifsuchadifferenceoccurs,check
padding layers, separate interliner layers, and other more
to see if any of the pieces have been cut oversized. Trim them
specialized constructions. Supplemental instructions are given
if this is found to be the case. If the cause of variation was not
in 8.3.
due to oversized pieces, then cut additional fabric pieces and
8.2.2 Cutting of Resilient Padding Blocks—Thethicknessof
determine the mass.
the resilient padding block will normally be 50 mm when a
8.2.4.4 If fabrics cannot be prepared to within the 5%
deviation limit, then note the fabric masses and mass range of
Commercially available “heavy duty foil” has the appropriate thickness. thespecimen.Continuecuttingthefabricforeachspecimenby
F1550 − 22
cutting it to the shape indicated in Fig. 1. Control all given checking all four corners of the top face. Ensure that the fabric
dimensions according to the tolerances given in the figure is snug but not stretched.
(60.5 mm). Only essential dimensions are given in this figure.
8.2.5.2 For sensitive interliners, when paper strips are used,
The 95-mm and 102-mm dimensions must be checked both
put two strips, forming a cross, under the fabric before placing
before and after cutting. When a fabric having thick yarns is
the forming block on top of it.
cut,stopcuttingoutsidethe102-mmdimensionwhenayarnis
NOTE 3—Make the paper strips wider than the tape, but shorter, so that
reached. Do not cut through the yarn if this will make the
the tape can adhere to the wood block or to itself.
dimension smaller than 102 mm.
8.2.5 Preparing the Fabric Shell: Whenthefabricisbentup,allowthestripstofollow.Secure
8.2.5.1 Assemble the finished shell upside-down upon a the paper strip with masking tape to hold it on. Turn the block
forming block. Place the fabric, top-side down, on the table. to stand on one of its short side faces. Using the suitable
Place the block on top, making sure that it is well-centered. adhesive, glue down the 10-mm gluing area marked with
Bend up the two short sides.Tape each of these sides on to the stripes in Fig. 1 on each corner flap (the area which corre-
sponding to the long side) onto its mating short-side surface.
topoftheformingblockinthecenterofthetopedge.Bendup
thelongsidesandalsotapethemtothetopoftheblock.Make Apply adhesive both to the underneath surface of the flap and
sure that the fabric does not slip sideways on the block by to the surface against which it will mate. Use of a 7-mm to
FIG. 1 Fabric Cutting Shape
F1550 − 22
8-mmwidebrush(forsolventbasedadhesives)willensurethat
the glued area is approximately 10 mm wide. Press down
immediatelyafterapplyingtheadhesiveorafterwaitingtodry,
as appropriate, according to the instructions of the adhesive
manufacturer.
8.2.5.3 The grey area shown in Fig. 1 is used for gripping
and stretching the fabric around the corners of the forming
block.Afterapplyingadhesivetothefirsttwocorners,turnthe
block to rest on the side just-glued and apply adhesive to the
other two corners. If necessary, tape over the gripping handles
andaroundthecornersinordertosecurethefabricintheshape
oftheformingblock(seeabove),orwraptheblockwithpaper
strips prior to sealing with masking tape.
8.2.5.4 Allow the specimen to dry face down for 24 h (do
not stack specimens during drying). Be certain to clean up the
brush or other utensils used to apply the adhesive. Wipe the
solvent and any excess adhesive off the brush with a piece of
clothbeforegluingthenextspecimen.After24hhaveelapsed,
remove all the pieces of masking tape, and trim off the four
flapsdowntotheindicatedoffsetmarksothatonlythe10-mm
glued-down portion is left. Trim any fabric protruding below
FIG. 2 Folding of Foil
the bottom edge of the forming block.
8.2.6 Preparing the Aluminum Foil—Cut an over-sized
thefabricshell.Makesurethattheresilientpaddingisinserted
piece of aluminum foil. If the foil has a shiny and a dull side,
straight. Check each of the resilient padding block corners to
place the shiny side facing up. The actual specimen is slightly
see that they line up exactly at the corners of the fabric shell.
larger than the forming block, depending on the thicknesses of
Check the top face to see that the block of resilient padding is
the fabric and interliner (if present). Shape the aluminum foil
inserted fully into the shell and that there are no gaps. Also
for the final specimen according to either 8.2.6.1 or 8.2.6.2.
checkthatthebottomoftheresilientpaddingisneatlylinedup
8.2.6.1 Use a fabric-covered forming block, encased with
withthebottomedgeofthefabric.Ifthespecimenconstruction
the fabric shell top side up. Place the block on the aluminum
involves additional padding layers or different padding layers,
foil.Holdtheblockfirmlyinplaceandpulleachsideofthefoil
follow similar steps to ensure that a straight, taut assembly is
up to create the bottom folds. Form the corners by holding the
made.
foil firmly in contact with the corner of the specimen. Stretch
8.2.7.3 Carefullyinspectthespecimen.Ensurethatthereare
the corner of the foil and make a 45° fold at each corner.
no buckles, warping, twisting, pulling, etc. The fabric must be
Finally, pull the corners flat against the two sides of the
tautandtheremustnotbeanyairspacesbetweenthefabricand
specimenandpatallsidesdownflatagainstthespecimen.Fig.
thepadding.Ifanysuchproblemsarediscoveredandcannotbe
2 illustrates the folds to be made. Make sure that the bottom
corrected,discardthespecimen.Stapleeachofthefoursidesas
edges and the corners are crisp, straight, and smooth. Remove
shown in Fig. 3. Inspect the top face of the specimen. None of
the forming block and its encasing fabric shell from the foil
thefourtabsaretooverhangatthetopofthespecimen.Ifthere
cup.
isexcessmaterialthere,trimitwithscissors.Becertainthatno
8.2.6.2 Set aside one forming block specifically for shaping holes are made in the specimen while doing the trimming.
the aluminum foil containers. Either prepare another block 8.2.8 Assemblethespecimenandthefoil.Puttheassembled
withdimensions102mmby102mm(ratherthan98mmby98 specimen in the foil cup. Pat the aluminum foil sides down
mm),orglueortapecardboardtothesidesofablocktocreate flush against the specimen. Cut the top of the foil to the flush
one that is 102mmby102mm. Then use this new block for with the top of the specimen. Open up slightly the corners of
shaping the aluminum foil as described in 8.2.6.1.
8.2.7 Assembling the Shell of Resilient Padding and Fabric:
8.2.7.1 Remove the forming block from the fabric shell. If
bits of adhesive make the fabric stick to the block, use a
chemist’s spatula or a similar dull, knife-like device to loosen
the corners. It is easiest to release the fabric by grabbing along
the top edge of the fabric between the thumb and the index
finger. Remove any adhesive which remains stuck to the
forming block. Make certain that the blocks of resilient
padding are identified and tracked according to their masses,
which already have been recorded.
8.2.7.2 Compress the four corners of the selected resilient
paddingblockslightlywiththefingersandinserttheblockinto FIG. 3 Assembled Specimen
F1550 − 22
thealuminumfoilandpullthefoiltopabout20mmawayfrom 8.3.3.2 If the uncompressed fiber layer is 20-mm thick or
the specimen. This will allow good access of air in the less, compress it to one half of that thickness in the final
conditioning chamber. assembly.Thefoamblockthicknessthenistobethedifference
between50mmandonehalfoftheuncompressedthicknessof
8.2.9 Conditioning—Place the specimen in the conditioning
the fiber layer.
chamber for 24 h. Condition to moisture equilibrium (constant
mass)atanambienttemperatureof23°C 63°Candarelative 8.3.3.3 If the uncompressed fiber layer is greater than
20mm, cut back the fiber layer to give a 20 mm depth and the
humidity of 50% 65%.
preparation continued as above. Place the fiber topper layer on
8.2.10 Final Preparation—Remove the specimen from the
top of the foam block. Use this composite block wherever the
conditioningchamber.Checkthatthes
...

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: F1550 − 16 F1550 − 22
Standard Test Method for
Determination of Fire-Test-Response Characteristics of
Components or Composites of Mattresses or Furniture for
Use in Correctional Facilities after Exposure to Vandalism,
by Employing a Bench Scale Oxygen Consumption
Calorimeter
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1550; 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
In correctional occupancies, vandalism of mattresses or furniture occurs with significant frequency.
After such vandalism, it is possible that the filling material (foam or other padding) of the mattress or
furniture becomes exposed. If the mattress or furniture filling material is exposed, it is possible for a
product which meets prescribed fire-test-response characteristics in its intact state to perform in a
decidedly less satisfactory manner. This standard test method provides a means for measuring, in
bench scale, fire-test-response characteristics of composite upholstered components of mattresses or
furniture, for use in correctional facilities, after having been vandalized in a prescribed manner so as
to expose the filling material, using an oxygen consumption calorimeter.
1. Scope
1.1 This fire-test-response test method is designed for use to determine various fire-test-response characteristics, including
ignitability and heat release rate, from composites of mattresses or furniture, or correctional facilities, which have been vandalized
in a prescribed manner to expose the filling material, by using a bench scale oxygen consumption calorimeter.
1.2 This test method provides for measurements of the time to sustained flaming, heat release rate, peak and total heat release, and
effective heat of combustion at a constant radiant initial test heat flux of 35 kW/m . See 5.7 for limitations.
1.3 The apparatus used in this test method is also capable of determining heat release data at different initial test heat fluxes.
1.4 The specimen is oriented horizontally and a spark ignition source is used.
1.5 All fire-test-response characteristics are determined using the apparatus and the procedures described in Test Method E1354.
1.6 The tests are done on bench-scale specimens combining the mattress or furniture outer layer components. Frame elements are
not included.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F33 on Detention and Correctional Facilities and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F33.05 on
Furnishings and Equipment.
Current edition approved June 1, 2016June 1, 2022. Published June 2016July 2022. Originally approved in 1994. Last previous edition approved in 20102016 as
F1550 – 10.F1550 – 16. DOI: 10.1520/F1550-16.10.1520/F1550-22.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1550 − 22
1.7 The vandalism is simulated by causing a prescribed cut on the outer layer of the composite, deep enough to expose the filling
material to the incident radiation.
1.8 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.9 This standard is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under
controlled conditions, but does not by itself incorporate all factors required for fire hazard or fire risk assessment of the materials,
products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.
1.10 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific safety precautions, see Section 7.
1.11 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these
tests.
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:
D123 Terminology Relating to Textiles
E176 Terminology of Fire Standards
E1354 Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Consumption
Calorimeter
E1474 Test Method for Determining the Heat Release Rate of Upholstered Furniture and Mattress Components or Composites
Using a Bench Scale Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter
E1537 Test Method for Fire Testing of Upholstered Furniture
E1590 Test Method for Fire Testing of Mattresses
2.2 ISO Standards:
ISO 13943 Fire Safety–Vocabulary
ISO 4880 Burning Behavior of Textiles and Textile Products—Vocabulary
2.2 California Bureau of Home Furnishings and Thermal Insulation Standards:
CA Technical Bulletin 129 (October 1992), Flammability Test Procedure for Mattresses for Use in Public Buildings
CA Technical Bulletin 133 (January 1991). Flammability Test Procedure for Seating Furniture for Use in Public Occupancies
2.3 ISO Standards:
ISO 4880 Burning Behavior of Textiles and Textile Products—Vocabulary
ISO 13943 Fire Safety—Vocabulary
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this test method and associated with fire issues, refer to the terminology contained in
Terminology E176 and in ISO 13943. In case of conflict, the terminology in Terminology E176 shall prevail.
3.1.2 For definitions of terms used in this test method and associated with textile issues, refer to the terminology contained in
Terminology D123 and in ISO 4880. In case of conflict, the terminology in Terminology D123 shall prevail.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
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 International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO Central Secretariat, Chemin de Blandonnet 8, CP 401, 1214 Vernier, Geneva, Switzerland,
https://www.iso.org.
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 1 rue de Varembé, Case postale 56, CH-1211, Geneva 20, Switzerland.
Available from California Bureau of Home Furnishings and Thermal Insulation, State of California, Department of Consumer Affairs, 3485 Orange Grove Avenue, North
Highlands, CA 95660-5595.
F1550 − 22
3.2.1 effective heat of combustion, n—measured heat release divided by the mass loss for a specified time period.
3.2.2 heat release rate, n—heat evolved from the specimen, expressed per unit area of exposed specimen area per unit of time.
3.2.3 heat flux, n—heat transfer to a surface per unit area, per unit time (see also initial test heat flux).
3.2.3.1 Discussion—
The heat flux from an energy source, such as a radiant heater, can be measured at the initiation of a test (such as Test Method
E1354) and then reported as the initial test heat flux, with the understanding that the burning of the test specimen can generate
additional heat flux to the specimen surface. The heat flux can also be measured at any time during a fire test, on any surface, and
2 2 2
with measurement devices responding to radiative and convective fluxes. Typical units are kW/m , W/cm , or BTU/(s ft ).
3.2.4 ignitability, n—propensity for ignition, as measured by the time to sustained flaming at a specified heating flux.
3.2.5 initial test heat flux, n—the heat flux set on the test apparatus at the initiation of the test (see also heat flux).
3.2.6 mattress, n—mattress is a ticking (outermost layer of fabric or related material) filled with a resilient material used alone or
in combination with other products intended or promoted for sleeping upon.
3.2.7 net heat of combustion, n—oxygen bomb calorimeter value for the heat of combustion, corrected for the gaseous state of
product water.
3.2.8 orientation, n—plane in which the exposed face of the specimen is located during testing, which is horizontal facing up for
this test.
3.2.9 oxygen consumption principle, n—expression of the relationship between the mass of oxygen consumed during combustion
and the heat released.
3.2.10 sustained flaming, n—existence of flame on or over the surface of the specimen for periods of 4 s or more.
3.2.11 upholstered, n—covered with material (as fabric or padding) to provide a soft surface.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 This test method is based on the observation that, generally, the net heat of combustion is directly related to the amount of
5 3
oxygen required for combustion (1). Approximately 13.1 × 10 kJ of energy are released as heat for each kg of oxygen consumed.
Specimens in the test are burned in ambient air conditions, while being subjected to a prescribed external initial test heat flux of
35 kW/m .
4.2 The heat release is determined by the measurement of the oxygen consumption, as determined by the oxygen concentration
and the flow rate in the combustion product stream, as described in Test Method E1354.
4.3 The primary measurements are oxygen concentration and exhaust gas flow rate, used to calculate heat release. Additional
measurements include the mass loss rate of the specimen, the time to sustained flaming, and the effective heat of combustion.
Ignitability is determined by measuring the time for initial exposure to time of sustained flaming of the specimen.
4.4 In order to simulate vandalism, the outer layers of the composite to be tested are cut across the surface, in the form of an X,
to expose the interior filling material.
4.5 The procedure in this test method is identical to that in Test Method E1474, except for the slashing of the surface of the
specimen prior to testing.
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to the list of references at the end of this standard.
F1550 − 22
5. Significance and Use
5.1 This test method provides a means to determine various fire-test-response characteristics, including the time to sustained
flaming and the heat release rate, of composites exposed to a prescribed initial test heat flux in the cone calorimeter apparatus, after
they have been vandalized in a prescribed manner, to expose the filling material.
5.2 It is clearly impossible to predict the manner in which a mattress or furniture will be vandalized. The objective of this test
method is to develop data indicating the effect of violating the integrity of the fabric (or fabric-interliner) the fabric plus interliner
composite) protection and exposing the padding to the source of heat (see Appendix X3).
5.3 Quantitative heat release measurements provide information which is useful for product design and product development, for
mattresses or furniture destined for correctional occupancies.
5.4 Heat release measurements provide useful information for product development by giving a quantitative measure of specific
changes in fire performance caused by component and composite modifications. Heat release data from this method will not be
predictive of product behavior if the product will not spread flame over its surface under the fire exposure conditions of interest.
5.5 The use of test specimens simulating vandalism allows the investigation of the variation in response between the system as
designed by the manufacturer and the way the system is occasionally present in actual use, with the filling material exposed to the
incident energy.
5.6 This test method allows alternative strategies to be employed for producing a product (mattress or upholstered furniture) with
the required fire-test-response characteristics for the scenario under consideration.
5.7 Limitations:
5.7.1 The test data are invalid if any of the events in 5.7.1.1 or 5.7.1.2 occur.
5.7.1.1 Explosive spalling.
5.7.1.2 The specimen swells sufficiently prior to ignition to touch the spark plug or swells up to the plane of the heater base during
combustion.
5.7.2 This test method is not applicable to ignition by cigarettes, or by any other smoldering source.
5.7.3 The ignition source in this test method is a radiant energy source of relatively high intensity (35 kW/m initial test heat flux).
It has been shown that this source models well, for furniture composites, a full scale source equivalent to five sheets of newspaper
(2). It has also been shown that upholstered furniture and mattresses, particularly in public occupancies, are, on occasion, involved
in fires after exposure to flaming ignition sources, However, it is not known what fraction of actual flaming mattress or furniture
fires occur with ignitions more or less intense than the one modeled here.
5.7.4 It is not known whether the results of this test method will be equally valid when it is carried out under conditions different
from the specified ones. In particular, it is unclear whether the use of a different ignition source, or the same ignition source but
at a different initial test heat flux, will change relative results.
5.7.5 The value of heat release rate corresponding to the critical limit between propagating mattress fires and non-propagating
mattress fires is not known.
5.7.6 It is not known what fraction of the vandalism that occurs is represented by the prescribed model used in this standard.
However, the method described here is adequate to address one of the major objectives of the standard, namely investigate the
effect of the exposed filling material on the fire-test-response characteristics of the composite.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Use the apparatus described in Test Method E1354, also known as the cone calorimeter, for this test.
F1550 − 22
7. Safety Precautions
7.1 These test procedures involve high temperatures and combustion processes. Therefore, there is a potential hazard for burns,
ignition of extraneous objects or clothing, and for inhalation of combustion products.
7.2 The operator must use protective gloves for insertion and removal of the test specimens. The operator must refrain from
touching either the cone heater or the associated fixtures while hot, except with the use of protective gloves.
8. Test Specimen Preparation (Method A)
8.1 Equipment and Supplies for Specimen Preparation (3):
8.1.1 Cutting Equipment—Cut foams with a band saw. Use a foam-cutting blade. This blade has no teeth. Instead, it has a wavy
scallop to the edge. Ensure that the blade is well sharpened, and make certain that no silicones or other oils are applied to lubricate
the blade. Lubrication must be solely with graphite or molybdenum compounds. The band saw blade must make a straight and true
cut of the foam; therefore, set the blade guide no higher than 12 mm above the stock to be cut.
8.1.2 Forming Blocks—The specimen preparation rests crucially upon the proper use of forming blocks. These blocks are made
in dimensions of 98 × 98 × 50 mm. 98 mm by 98 mm by 50 mm. Each of these dimensions must be controlled to 60.5 mm. As
the material for the forming blocks, use a dense wood, such as maple, which is minimally subject to dimensional changes when
the humidity is changed. Do not use pine. Use only fully kiln-dried timber for making the forming blocks. Ensure that all surfaces
are cut straight and true and are smooth. Do not round the edges but slightly round the corners. It is preferable to lacquer the blocks
with an acrylic lacquer to ensure a hard, smooth, stable surface. Make up a minimum of 12 blocks to allow a reasonable number
of specimens to be prepared at the same time.
8.1.3 Adhesive—Several adhesives have been found suitable for securing the fabrics. The adhesive must be low in flammability
and must have suitable holding power to permit inserting the resilient padding, stay in place until the testing is performed (that
is, through the required conditioning) and during the flammability test procedure. For the latter, the glued portions of the fabric
must neither flame excessively nor retard burning. Adhesives that are based on polychloroprene (neoprene), acrylic or water have
been found suitable.
8.1.3.1 Adhesive Application—The method of adhesive application depends on the particular adhesive selected. Water-soluble
adhesives are applied directly from the bottle, and therefore, do not require a brush. Likewise, any spillage is readily cleanable with
water. This type of adhesive does not set as quickly as the solvent-based adhesives, which permits shifting the fabric as necessary
to create a neat, tight package. The glued specimen must be left overnight, however, to ensure a good seal. On the other hand,
polychloroprene-based adhesives are applied with a brush made of hog bristles or other stiff, course material. The brush must be
flat and square cut with a width of 77 mm to 8 mm. A solvent compatible with the adhesive must be used for cleanup and storage
of the brush. The solvent-based glues set up very quickly and do not permit any adjustment around the wood block.
8.1.3.2 Adhesive Checking—To test the efficiency of an adhesive, apply a small amount on two small pieces of the fabric or
interliner to be used. Allow the adhesive to dry (at least overnight), and then attempt to tear the fabric pieces from one another.
To be acceptable, the glued pieces must not be able to be separated without tearing the fabric.
8.1.4 Tape—Masking tape or other tape with adhesive is used to assist in assembling the test composites. Any type of tape that
will adhere adequately to all fabrics and be easy to remove after completion of assembly is suitable for this purpose. Some
interliners or fabrics will be damaged by direct application of masking tape to their surface since removal results in tearing or
marring the surface. For items susceptible to such damage, prepare strips of paper slightly wider than the width of the masking
tape and long enough to reach all the way around the forming block. Then secure the paper strips with tape.
8.1.5 Aluminum Foil—Use aluminum foil that is 0.030.03 mm to 0.04 mm thick. No other foil thickness shall be used. It is
especially important not to substitute a thicker foil.
8.2 Basic Preparation of Specimens:
8.2.1 The basic instructions here pertain to specimens that comprise only a single layer of fabric over a single layer of resilient
Commercially available “heavy duty foil” has the appropriate thickness.
F1550 − 22
padding. The same instructions apply to specimens where an interliner is laminated onto the back of the fabric. In the latter case,
the fabric/interliner combination is treated simply as a fabric alone. For specimens that use multiple padding layers, separate
interliner layers, and other more specialized constructions. Supplemental instructions are given in 8.3.
8.2.2 Cutting of Resilient Padding Blocks—The thickness of the resilient padding block will normally be 50 mm when a single
layer of resilient padding is the only padding material used in the composite. With a typical fabric thickness, this will result in a
total specimen thickness of approximately 50.9 mm, which is acceptable. Cut square each resilient padding block with 90° corners
and face dimensions of 102.5102.5 mm 6 0.5 mm by 102.5102.5 mm 6 0.5 mm. This size ensures that the resilient padding will
be compressed during composite assembly, leading to tight, well-formed specimens.
8.2.2.1 Some resilient paddings have a tendency for high friction against the sawing table and the guide. To make a smooth cut
by allowing the resilient padding to slide easier, put a piece of paper between the resilient padding and the table/guide. Push the
assembly of resilient padding and paper forward and allow the blade to cut through both the resilient padding and the paper.
8.2.3 Forming Resilient Padding Blocks—The cone calorimeter test results will not be repeatable if the density of the resilient
padding tested is not controlled very closely. For this purpose, each batch of resilient padding specimens prepared must be checked
for mass. It is assumed here that three replicate tests will be performed for each specimen type. Once three blocks of resilient
padding have been cut, the mass must be determined. No block shall have a mass of more than 105 % of the mean of the three
masses nor a mass of less than 95 %. If such a difference occurs, additional blocks must be cut and the mass determined. The
preparation of composites cannot start until three blocks of resilient padding, which conform to the above 5 % deviation limit, have
been obtained. Mark the accepted blocks so as to be traceable. Note the mass of each block of resilient padding along with the
identification marks of the blocks. Report the mass of resilient padding in the test report along with other information about this
test run.
8.2.4 Fabric Cutting:
8.2.4.1 First, cut a square of 200 mm by 200 mm.
NOTE 1—Do not cut fabrics on the bias. If the fabric weave is such that the yarns in the two directions do not lie at 90° to each other, do not cut the sample
along yarns in both directions, since a skew specimen would result.
8.2.4.2 For cone calorimeter results to be repeatable, fabric for the different replicates must show uniformity. When fabric material
is obtained directly from a bolt of cloth, do not cut specimens using closer than 1010 cm to 12 cm to the selvedge (that is, the
finished edge).
NOTE 2—This is because sometimes there are weaving or coating variations that occur closer to the selvedge.
8.2.4.3 To assist in verifying that uniform specimens have been cut, check each set of fabric specimens that has been cut to the
200 mm × 200 mm by 200 mm size for mass. Determine the mass once three replicate pieces have been cut. None of the pieces
shall have a mass of more than 105 % of the mean of the three, nor a mass of less than 95 %. If such a difference occurs, check
to see if any of the pieces have been cut oversized. Trim them if this is found to be the case. If the cause of variation was not due
to oversized pieces, then cut additional fabric pieces and determine the mass.
8.2.4.4 If fabrics cannot be prepared to within the 5 % deviation limit, then note the fabric masses and mass range of the specimen.
Continue cutting the fabric for each specimen by cutting it to the shape indicated in Fig. 1. Control all given dimensions according
to the tolerances given in the figure (60.5 mm). Only essential dimensions are given in this figure. The 95-95-mm and 102-mm
dimensions must be checked both before and after cutting. When a fabric having thick yarns is cut, stop cutting outside the 102-mm
dimension when a yarn is reached. Do not cut through the yarn if this will make the dimension smaller than 102 mm.
8.2.5 Preparing the Fabric Shell:
8.2.5.1 Assemble the finished shell upside-down upon a forming block. Place the fabric, top-side down, on the table. Place the
block on top, making sure that it is well-centered. Bend up the two short sides. Tape each of these sides on to the top of the forming
block in the center of the top edge. Bend up the long sides and also tape them to the top of the block. Make sure that the fabric
does not slip sideways on the block by checking all four corners of the top face. Ensure that the fabric is snug but not stretched.
F1550 − 22
FIG. 1 Fabric Cutting Shape
8.2.5.2 For sensitive interliners, when paper strips are used, put two strips, forming a cross, under the fabric before placing the
forming block on top of it.
NOTE 3—Make the paper strips wider than the tape, but shorter, so that the tape can adhere to the wood block or to itself.
When the fabric is bent up, allow the strips to follow. Secure the paper strip with masking tape to hold it on. Turn the block to
stand on one of its short side faces. Using the suitable adhesive, glue down the 10-mm gluing area marked with stripes in Fig. 1
on each corner flap (the area which corresponding to the long side) onto its mating short-side surface. Apply adhesive both to the
underneath surface of the flap and to the surface against which it will mate. Use of a 77-mm to 8-mm wide brush (for solvent based
adhesives) will ensure that the glued area is approximately 10 mm wide. Press down immediately after applying the adhesive or
after waiting to dry, as appropriate, according to the instructions of the adhesive manufacturer.
8.2.5.3 The grey area shown in Fig. 1 is used for gripping and stretching the fabric around the corners of the forming block. After
applying adhesive to the first two corners, turn the block to rest on the side just-glued and apply adhesive to the other two corners.
If necessary, tape over the gripping handles and around the corners in order to secure the fabric in the shape of the forming block
(see above), or wrap the block with paper strips prior to sealing with masking tape.
8.2.5.4 Allow the specimen to dry face down for 24 h (do not stack specimens during drying). Be certain to clean up the brush
or other utensils used to apply the adhesive. Wipe the solvent and any excess adhesive off the brush with a piece of cloth before
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gluing the next specimen. After 24 h have elapsed, remove all the pieces of masking tape, and trim off the four flaps down to the
indicated offset mark so that only the 10-mm glued-down portion is left. Trim any fabric protruding below the bottom edge of the
forming block.
8.2.6 Preparing the Aluminum Foil—Cut an over-sized piece of aluminum foil. If the foil has a shiny and a dull side, place the
shiny side facing up. The actual specimen is slightly larger than the forming block, depending on the thicknesses of the fabric and
interliner (if present). Shape the aluminum foil for the final specimen according to either 8.2.6.1 or 8.2.6.2.
8.2.6.1 Use a fabric-covered forming block, encased with the fabric shell top side up. Place the block on the aluminum foil. Hold
the block firmly in place and pull each side of the foil up to create the bottom folds. Form the corners by holding the foil firmly
in contact with the corner of the specimen. Stretch the corner of the foil and make a 45° fold at each corner. Finally, pull the corners
flat against the two sides of the specimen and pat all sides down flat against the specimen. Fig. 2 illustrates the folds to be made.
Make sure that the bottom edges and the corners are crisp, straight, and smooth. Remove the forming block and its encasing fabric
shell from the foil cup.
8.2.6.2 Set aside one forming block specifically for shaping the aluminum foil containers. Either prepare another block with
dimensions 102 × 102 102 mm by 102 mm (rather than 98 × 98 98 mm by 98 mm), or glue or tape cardboard to the sides of a block
to create one that is 102 × 102 mm. 102 mm by 102 mm. Then use this new block for shaping the aluminum foil as described in
8.2.6.1.
8.2.7 Assembling the Shell of Resilient Padding and Fabric:
8.2.7.1 Remove the forming block from the fabric shell. If bits of adhesive make the fabric stick to the block, use a chemist’s
spatula or a similar dull, knife-like device to loosen the corners. It is easiest to release the fabric by grabbing along the top edge
of the fabric between the thumb and the index finger. Remove any adhesive which remains stuck to the forming block. Make
certain that the blocks of resilient padding are identified and tracked according to their masses, which already have been recorded.
8.2.7.2 Compress the four corners of the selected resilient padding block slightly with the fingers and insert the block into the
fabric shell. Make sure that the resilient padding is inserted straight. Check each of the resilient padding block corners to see that
they line up exactly at the corners of the fabric shell. Check the top face to see that the block of resilient padding is inserted fully
into the shell and that there are no gaps. Also check that the bottom of the resilient padding is neatly lined up with the bottom edge
of the fabric. If the specimen construction involves additional padding layers or different padding layers, follow similar steps to
ensure that a straight, taut assembly is made.
8.2.7.3 Carefully inspect the specimen. Ensure that there are no buckles, warping, twisting, pulling, etc. The fabric must be taut
and there must not be any air spaces between the fabric and the padding. If any such problems are discovered and cannot be
FIG. 2 Folding of Foil
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corrected, discard the specimen. Staple each of the four sides as shown in Fig. 3. Inspect the top face of the specimen. None of
the four tabs are to overhang at the top of the specimen. If there is excess material there, trim it with scissors. Be certain that no
holes are made in the specimen while doing the trimming.
8.2.8 Assemble the specimen and the foil. Put the assembled specimen in the foil cup. Pat the aluminum foil sides down flush
against the specimen. Cut the top of the foil to the flush with the top of the specimen. Open up slightly the corners of the aluminum
foil and pull the foil top about 20 mm away from the specimen. This will allow good access of air in the conditioning chamber.
8.2.9 Conditioning—Place the specimen in the conditioning chamber for 24 h. Condition to moisture equilibrium (constant mass)
at an ambient temperature of 2323 °C 6 3°C3 °C and a relative humidity of 5050 % 6 5 %.
8.2.10 Final Preparation—Remove the specimen from the conditioning chamber. Check that the specimen is wrinkle-free, smooth
and visually completely uniform and symmetrical. Fix or reject if defects are found. Determine the specimen mass with and
without the aluminum foil. Pat the aluminum foil sides again down flush against the specimen. Place the specimen on the sample
holder. Gently push down on the top of the specimen, pushing against the ceramic fibre blanket. This ensures that the bottom
c
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