The flammability test for upholstery textiles is a test method used to evaluate the burning performance of textiles under fire conditions. These tests are designed to ensure that textiles' response to fire during use meets safety standards and help reduce the risk of fire spreading. The following is a general overview of flammability testing of upholstery textiles:
1. Basic test:
- Vertical burning test: This test is designed to evaluate the burning performance of textiles in a vertical position. The standard test uses a standard plastic burning api barrel to ignite the bottom of the sample, and then measures parameters such as burning speed, flame index, and residual length.
- Oxygen Index Test: Oxygen Index test is used to measure the burning limit of textiles. This test uses a specifically formulated mixture (usually a mixture of oxygen and nitrogen) to determine the minimum oxygen concentration required by the textile to sustain combustion by varying the oxygen concentration.
2. Extended testing:
- Longitudinal burning test: This test is designed to simulate the burning behavior of vertical surfaces of textiles during fire propagation. The sample is rubbed at a specific point, and parameters such as flame propagation speed, burning time and residual ablation length are then observed.
- Smoke density test: The smoke density test is used to measure the amount of smoke emitted when a textile burns. During the test, textile samples are burned under heated conditions, and the concentration of smoke produced and related parameters are measured and recorded.
3. Other tests:
- Thermal radiation test: This test is used to measure the response of textiles to thermal radiation under fire conditions. The response of textiles to heat sources is evaluated by exposing them to a hot fire source and measuring the heat transfer parameters of conduction, radiation and convection.
- Carbonization test: The carbonization test is used to evaluate the amount and properties of char produced when a textile is burned. The combustion performance of textiles is evaluated by analyzing the residues of the samples and comparing their degree and characteristics of charring.
These test methods can be performed according to specific international, regional or industry standards, such as NFPA 701 in the United States or EN 13773 in Europe. Textile manufacturers and the interior decoration industry often label products with corresponding flammability performance levels based on relevant regulations and market demand.
In summary, textiles flammability testing is to determine their burning performance under fire conditions and ensure that they meet safety standards. These testing methods help ensure the safety of textiles, reduce fire risks, and provide consumers with a basis for choosing safe interior decoration products.