What is the UL 214 Large Flame Flammability Tester?

The Flame Flammability Tester is developed according to the NFPA 701 Method 2 and can be used for single or multi-layer fabrics. It’s used to determine the combustion performance of outdoor products, banners and many other products.

Application

The large-scale flame combustibility tester is primarily used to determine the burning performance of outdoor products, banners, and many other textile products. By simulating a fire environment, it evaluates the burning rate and flame spread of materials, providing crucial data to support the fire safety performance of products.

Standards

1. NFPA 701: Standard Methods of Fire Tests for  flame propagation of textiles and films

2. UL 214: Test for flame-Propagation of fabrics and films

3. CAN/ULC S109: Flame tests of flame-resistant fabrics and films

Features

1. Possesses a strong after-sales service team.

2. Able to handle various issues promptly and efficiently, relieving customers of any concerns.

3.  A complete range of spare parts is available, eliminating the hassle of long lead times for ordering parts.

4. Keeps up with industry standard updates and provides testing instruments that meet the latest standards in a timely manner.

Parameters

Test Procedures

Sample Preparation: Prepare samples according to the test standard requirements, ensuring that the size, shape, and quantity of the samples meet the test requirements.

Equipment Calibration: Check that all components of the equipment are functioning correctly, such as the ignition device and flow meter. Ensure that the gas supply system is in good working order.

Sample Installation: Secure the sample in the sample holder, ensuring its stability and vertical alignment during the test.

Gas Mixing and Supply: Adjust the flow rates of oxygen and nitrogen (if applicable) according to the test requirements, and supply the mixed gas to the combustion chamber after mixing in the mixing chamber. Ensure that the oxygen concentration of the mixed gas meets the test standard requirements (if applicable). For large-flame flammability testers, the focus is primarily on the supply of combustible gas and the stability of the flame.

Ignition and Timing: Turn on the ignition device to ignite the burner. Simultaneously start the timing device to record the burning time of the sample. When the sample burns to the specified length or the burning time reaches the preset value, turn off the ignition device and the gas supply system.

Data Recording and Analysis: Record all data during the test process, such as burning time and flame spread rate. Calculate the relevant parameter values according to the test standard requirements, and analyze and interpret the test results.

Maintenance Information

(1) Inspect gas lines, burners, and flowmeters for proper function and leaks.

(2) Clean the stainless steel chamber regularly to prevent soot buildup.

(3) Ensure timing system accuracy and check the calibration of the flowmeter periodically.

(4) Replace worn sample holders and burner nozzles as needed.

Product Advantages

1. High-Precision Combustion and Flame Control

Precise Adjustment: The equipment is equipped with high-precision gas flow meters and pressure gauges, enabling accurate control of the flow rate and pressure of the test gas. This ensures a high degree of consistency in ignition intensity and calorific value during every test.

Flexible Angle Adjustment: The burner typically supports stepless or rapid adjustment at multiple angles, such as 0°, 20°, or 45°, to satisfy the stringent requirements of different standards regarding the flame exposure surface of the specimen.

Automatic Timing: An integrated automatic ignition and timing system allows precise presetting of the flame application duration and automatically records afterflame time and afterglow time, minimizing timing errors caused by manual operation to the greatest extent possible.

2. Strictly Controlled Test Environment and Comprehensive Safety Protection

Corrosion-Resistant Stainless Steel Chamber: The test chamber is typically constructed entirely from stainless steel and other heat-resistant, corrosion-resistant materials. Its spacious interior provides the specimen with an adequate supply of clean, controlled air during combustion.

Safe Exhaust Gas Discharge: Intelligent exhaust systems installed at the top or bottom of the chamber can rapidly and safely remove combustion-generated exhaust gases and smoke after the completion of testing, thereby protecting the laboratory environment.

Visual Observation Window: The equipment is equipped with a large high-temperature-resistant glass observation window, while the inner walls of the chamber are treated with anti-glare coatings. This design enables operators to clearly observe the combustion behavior and flame propagation of the specimen in real time from all angles without blind spots.

3. Multifunctionality and Broad Standard Compatibility

Applicable to Multiple Scenarios: By replacing different specimen holders, the equipment can be used not only for testing conventional textiles but also for evaluating the flammability performance of various substrates, including building materials and protective clothing.

Compliance with International Standards: The equipment is designed and manufactured in strict accordance with international regulations and industry standards, such as NFPA, IEC, and other applicable specifications, ensuring the global credibility and acceptance of the test results.

4. Intelligent and Automated Data Processing

Human–Machine Interaction Interface: Modern instruments generally adopt PLC control modules combined with LCD touch screens. The user interface is intuitive and user-friendly, supporting one-touch operation for improved testing efficiency.

Accurate Data Recording: In addition to providing direct observation of flame spread rate and combustion intensity, the system can automatically calculate and output key physical indicators, such as the damaged length of the material, ensuring accurate and reliable evaluation results.

Conclusion

The Large Flame Flammability Tester provides precise, repeatable testing for flame propagation of textiles and outdoor products. Its robust construction, automated timing, and compliance with NFPA, UL, and ULC standards make it ideal for manufacturers, safety labs, and regulatory testing organizations.