The needle flame test, also known as the needle burner test, is a standard test method used to determine the flammability of materials. It is commonly employed in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and textiles, to assess the fire resistance of materials and components.
During the needle flame test, a small flame is applied to a specimen under controlled conditions. The flame is produced by a standardized needle-shaped burner, which has specified dimensions and is fueled by propane or butane gas. The burner is adjusted to provide a specific flame height and temperature.
The test specimen is typically a small sample of the material being evaluated. It is positioned vertically or horizontally, depending on the specific testing requirements. The flame from the needle burner is then directed to the surface or edge of the specimen for a specified duration.
The behavior of the specimen during the test is observed and evaluated based on various criteria such as the time taken for ignition, flame spread, whether the flame self-extinguishes after the removal of the burner, and any other relevant factors. The test provides information on the material's ignition resistance, flame spread characteristics, and the likelihood of it supporting or propagating a fire.
The needle flame test is often conducted in accordance with international standards such as the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 60695-11-5, which outlines the procedure and specifies the testing parameters. The results obtained from the test can be used to classify materials and ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations.