BS 5852: Part 2:1982 - Methods of test for the ignitability of upholstered composites for seating by flaming sources.

The standard is used to assess the ignitability of material combinations, such as covers and fillings used in upholstered seating, when subjected to different ignition sources of gas flames and small wooden cribs. The thermal output of the ignition sources shall approximate a burning match to four sheets of a full size newspaper.

In United Kingdom all items of domestic upholstered furniture must meet the “Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988” with amendments 1989, 1993 and 2010. The regulations specify which technical fire methods to be used for a furniture or its components, the requirements, labelling and how often the tests should be performed. In some cases, the Act also makes requirements beyond what is stated in the test standards to which it refers.

The tests are performed in a test cabinet with a calibrated air flow. The cover fabric and the filling are put in a test rig to create a small sofa with a 90º angle between seat and back. The ignition sources are located in the junction between seat and back. There are six different ignition sources, numbered 2-7. ignition sources 2-3 are gas flames and ignition sources 4-7 are wooden cribs (the higher number the larger gas flame/crib).

During the gas flame tests the test assembly is not allowed to smoulder for more than 30 minutes from the start of the test (60 minutes for wooden cribs). The test assembly is not allowed to show evidence of charring more than 100 mm in any direction apart from upwards from the ignition source. The gas flames are removed after 40 seconds (ignition source 2) or 70 seconds (ignition source 3). No flaming is allowed to continue for more than 120 seconds after removal of the burner tube. No flaming is allowed to continue for more than 10 minutes after start of the test with ignition source 4-5 (13 minutes with ignition source 6-7).

A test report, in Swedish or English, is delivered with the test results after testing.

Material needed for testing:

• Cover/interliner/wadding, 2-3 pieces with the dimensions 1100 x 650 mm.
• Filling, 2-3 pieces with the dimensions 450 x 450 x 75 mm.
• Filling, 2-3 pieces with the dimensions 450 x 300 x 75 mm.

The thickness of 75 mm regards the filling together with any wadding.

If the filling differs between the seat, back, armrests, etc. all fillings must be tested separately.

Testing according to the British furniture regulation:

Amount of material as well as dimensions may differ depending on the schedule to be tested.

Pre-treatment:

According to the British furniture regulation, all interliners and cover fabrics that have been treated with a flame retardant, shall go through a water soaking procedure before testing.  

Similar standard:

• BS 5852:2006

As competition for biomass grows, the interest in using alternative fuels for electricity and heat production is increasing. Combustion plants with fluidized bed boilers can improve their sustainability by increasing the combustion efficiency thus reducing the emissions.

Changing to new bed material, testing new fuels or additives to increase combustion efficiency and reduce emissions comes with risks, both financially and safety related.

Our experienced staff offers support, expertise and can perform combustion tests under conditions resembling full-size fluidized bed combustion in RISE’s experimental scale reactor. We can offer small scale testing opportunities which are cost efficient and flexible to identify possible problems, such as sintering or undesirable emissions at an early stage before they cause damage to the production plant. In RISE experimental plant located at our combustion lab in Borås, extremes can be tested to identify when problematic phenomena occur without major costs.

This service is aimed at energy companies and industries with their own combustion plants.

Subject area: Energy, combustion, fluidized bed, fluidization, sintering, flue gases

The experiments are carried out in RISE’s experimental scale reactor. Fuel, usually in pelletized form, is continuously fed into the bed (Bubbling Fluidized Bed, BFB). By supplying primary air through the bed and secondary and tertiary air in the freeboard, the combustion conditions in a full-scale boiler can be simulated. Pelletization of the fuel takes place in connection with the experiments where a specific mixture can be tailored to fit the purpose of the experiments.

The service is performed in RISE's own facility in Borås and the results are analyzed and delivered in a test report in desired language.

Fuel and additive specification would be required

BS 5852: Part 1:1979 - Methods of test for the ignitability by smokers' materials of upholstered composites for seating

The standard is used to assess the ignitability of material combinations, such as covers and fillings used in upholstered seating, when subjected to a smouldering cigarette and a match flame equivalent as ignition source.

In United Kingdom all items of domestic upholstered furniture must meet the “Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988” with amendments 1989, 1993 and 2010. The regulations specify which technical fire methods to be used for a furniture or its components, the requirements, labelling and how often the tests should be performed. In some cases, the Act also makes requirements beyond what is stated in the test standards to which it refers.

The tests are performed in a test cabinet with a calibrated air flow. The cover fabric and the filling are put in a test rig to create a small sofa with a 90º angle between seat and back. The ignition sources are located in the junction between seat and back.

During the cigarette test the test assembly is not allowed to smoulder after one hour from the beginning of the test. The test assembly is also not allowed to show evidence of charring more than 100 mm in any direction apart from upwards from the cigarette.

The test assembly is subjected to a to a match flame equivalent for 20 seconds. No flaming is allowed to continue for more than 120 seconds after removal of the burner tube.

A test report, in Swedish or English, is delivered with the test results after testing.

Material needed for testing:

Complete test with 1 ignition source:

• Cover/interliner/wadding, 2 pieces with the dimensions 800 x 650 mm.
• Filling, 2 pieces with the dimensions 450 x 300 x 75 mm.
• Filling, 2 pieces with the dimensions 450 x 150 x 75 mm.

The thickness of 75 mm regards the filling together with any wadding.

If the filling differs between the seat, back, armrests, etc. all fillings must be tested seperately.

Testing according to the British furniture regulation:

Amount of material as well as dimensions may differ depending on the schedule to be tested.

Pre-treatment:

According to the British furniture regulation, all interliners and cover fabrics that have been treated with a flame retardant, shall go through a water soaking procedure before testing.

Similar standards:

• EN 1021-1
• EN 1021-2
• ISO 8191-1
• ISO 8191-2
• IMO 2010 FTP Code, part 8

Characterisation of optical properties of materials using UV-VIS-NIR and FT-IR spectroscopy.

Properties such as colour, transmittance and reflectance in a material often changes over time. Therefore, as an evaluation of different aging methods, it is common to use optical surface analysis to study the change in the material. Depending on the material and purpose, properties can be evaluated in different wavelength ranges.

RISE offer optical evaluations of material properties in the UV, visual and IR wavelength range using various spectroscopic methods. Common assessment factors are colour, gloss, transmittance, haze, yellowness index (YI) and reflectance.

Upon completion of the test, we deliver a report on the test procedure and results.

Contact us for price information. Please find contact information below

The customer prepares the test items unless otherwise agreed

ISO 11664-4: “Colorimetry — Part 4: CIE 1976 L*a*b* colour space”

ISO 2813: “Paints and varnishes — Determination of gloss value at 20 degrees, 60 degrees and 85 degrees”

ASTM D1003: “Standard Test Method for Haze and Luminous Transmittance of Transparent Plastics”

ASTM E313: “Standard Practice for Calculating Yellowness and Whiteness Indices from Instrumentally Measured Colour Coordinates”

ECSS-Q-ST-70-09C: “Measurements of thermo-optical properties of thermal control materials”

EN ISO 9239-1 - Reaction to fire tests for floorings - Part 1: Determination of the burning behaviour using a radiant heat source

The fire test EN ISO 9239-1 evaluates the ability of floorings to withstand flames and raidiant heat. The product's flame spread, smoke generation and the lowest radiant heat to sustain burning are measured in the method. The method is mainly used to classify floor coverings according to the European system for Euroclass EN 13501-1.

To be able to sell a construction product in Europe, the product must be tested, classified and if possible, CE-marked in accordance with the Construction Product Regulation. To meet the technical fire requirements, there are common test methods and a common classification system, EN 13501-1, also called Euroclass. This classification system is used by all EU countries, including Norway and Iceland. In Sweden the Building Regulations, BBR, use the Euroclass system.

The test specimen is placed in a horizontal position below a gas-fired radiant panel inclined at 30° where it is exposed to a defined heat flux. A pilot flame is applied to the hotter end of the specimen. Following ignition, any flame front which develops is noted and a record is made of the progression of the flame front horizontally along the length of the specimen in terms of the time it takes to spread to defined distances. Smoke production during the test is recorded as light transmission in the exhaust stack. One specimen is tested in one direction (e.g. production direction) and one specimen in the direction perpendicular to the first specimen. The test which yields the worst results is repeated twice in that direction.

All types of flooring can be tested in this method, for example those comprised by fire regulations and included in the European Construction Product Directive, CPD, for example wood floor, plastic floor, rubber floor, linoleum floor etc

A test report, in Swedish or English, is delivered with the test results after testing.

Material consumption during test:

Complete test

• 4 part tests. 10 test specimens, 5 specimens in one direction (e.g. production direction) and 5 specimens in perpendicular direction to the first direction, with the dimension 230 mm x 1050 mm

Indicative test

• 1 part test. 2 test specimens, with the dimension 230 mm x 1050 mm.

Large scale room fire test of surface layers in building products. The method evaluates fire properties such as heat release rate, smoke production rate, flame spread, burning droplets and the presence of flashover.  

Testing can be performed according to e.g. ISO 9705, ISO 9705-1, EN 14390 and FTP Code 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)) Part 10, annex 1.

Fire technical test in a room fire scenario according to e.g. ISO 9705, ISO 9705-1, EN 14390 and FTP Code 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)) Part 10, annex 1. The test evaluates the surface layer's fire properties: heat release rate (kW), total heat release (MJ), smoke production (m²/s). The phenomenon of flashover, flame spread and burning droplets/particles are also recorded visually. If needed, the level of toxic gases can also be measured using FTIR gas analysis equipment.

The main area of use is for example, for cerification under the Marine Directive or for evaluating fire properties of building products that for some reason cannot be tested in their actual design on a small scale, such as thermoplastic materials, joints and materials with large irregularities. Other products can also be evaluated in the method, such as upholstered furniture.

During test, the test sample is mounted on the inside of the room, in the ceiling and on all the walls except for the wall with the door opening. A propane gas burner is located in one of the corners and produces a heat release rate of 100 kW during 10 minutes, and then 300 kW the following 10 minutes. The total test time is 20 minutes. The combustion gases are collected through a hood where heat release rate and smoke production are measured. Flame spread along walls and ceiling are observed visually. If flames emerge from the door opening, flashover has occurred and the test is terminated. The heat release rate at flashover is generally about 1 MW. 

Example of products that can be tested with this method: 

• Building products, mostly surface linings, composite panels etc.

A test report is delivered in English with the results. The report can be used for example, as a basis for a DOP, Declaration Of Performance according to national fire requirements or as a basis for classification according to the Marine Directive.

Material consumption during test:

At least 35 m², with dimensions that facilitate mounting in the room.

• ISO 9705
• ISO 9705-1
• EN 14390
• FTP Code 2010 (Resolution MSC.307(88)) Annex 1:Part 10

Plastic fuel tanks are now days the most common fuel tank model within the automotive industry. One of the major benefits compared to metal fuel tanks is the almost unrestricted freedom of shape. However, there are various specific regulations for plastic fuel tanks concerning fire resistance, impact strength, permeability etc. with which they must

The requirements for plastic fuel tanks are regulated in the UN standard UN Regulation 34 Annex 5. Testing according to this standard, but also according to the customer's own requirements is performed at RISE

The UN tests are, in general terms, as follows:

Fire resistance

The tank is filled to half its volume with fuel and exposed to an open flame for two minutes. More information on fire testing of plastic fuel tanks can be found via the link below.

Evaporative emission testing

This test measures the average permeation of petrol vapor over an eight-week period, by weighing the tanks and recording the loss of weight. During the test, the tanks are stored at a temperature of +40 °C in explosion-resistant areas.

Mechanical strength

The tanks are filled with water at +53 °C, and then subjected to an internal positive pressure of 30 kPa for five hours. The ambient temperature is also maintained at 53 °C.

Impact testing

The tanks are filled with a glycol/water mixture and cooled to -40 °C, before being subjected to blows from a pyramid-shaped body with an impact energy of 30 Nm.

Thermal testing

The tanks are filled with water at a temperature of +20 °C, and then placed in a test chamber for one hour at a temperature of +95 °C.

Performed testing with associated report can be used as a basis for certification of the fuel tank. Often, certification organizations (TÜV, VCA, RDW, TS etc.) require tests to be witnessed by the relevant organization.

In order to carry out the tests, a chassis including relevant components as well as relevant information about the fuel system and how it should be mounted is required. Please enter into a dialogue with one of our contact persons. We also recommend starting a dialogue with a certifying organization at an early stage.

UN Regulation 34 Annex 5

A fire testing method that evaluates the fire performance of all building products except floorings regarding heat realese rate, smoke production, flame spread and burning droplets/particles. The test method is a part of the test programme for CE-marking according to the Construction Products Regulation (CPR).

Fire technical test according to EN 13823 - Single Burning Item evaluates a building products fire properties regarding heat release rate, smoke production, flame spread and burning droplets/particles. The main area of use is as a basis for classification within the fire classes A2, B, C or D and associated smoke classes s1, s2 or s3 and the presence of burning droplets/particles d0, d1 or d2. 

Declaration of a products fire characteristics for specific purposes, for example Insurance purposes.

Within EU building products shall be CE-marked according to the Construction Product Regulation (CPR). Building products with harmonized product standards or that have an ETAG/EAD need a CE-marking to be sold within the EU. A basis for the CE-marking is a fire classification according to EN 13501-1 which for instance include the fire test method EN 13823.

Examples of products that can be tested with this method are all types of building products, for example those included in the European Construction Product Regulation, CPR, or found in national regulations, for example wallpaper, paint systems, acoustic boards and coverings.

In addition to the benefits of CE marking, the method also provides important information about the building products fire properties and is therefore often used in product development contexts and process optimization.

A large and a small wing are mounted in a right angle and create a corner. A gas burner with a heat release rate of 30 kW is located in the corner during testing. The test time is 21 minutes. The combustion gases are collected through a hood where heat release rate and smoke production are measured (see figure above).  The heat output of the product is used for calculating HRR, THR and FIGRA while the amount of smoke is used for calculating SPR, TSP and SMOGRA. Flame spread and burning droplets/particles are visually observed.

The mounting of the sample should be as close to reality as possible. If there are vertical and/or horizontal joints in end use, these joints should also occur on the test panel. It is important to decide which substrate the product shall be applied to and how the product shall be mounted. Possible air gaps or similar shall be considered.

The fire test is carried out at our accredited fire lab in Borås. Our advanced flue gas purification plant takes care of all our emissions.

After testing, a test report is delivered in English with the results. The report can then be used for classification, which is needed to be able to CE-mark the building Product

Material consumption during test

Complete test 3 tests:
5 test samples with the dimension 1,0 m x 1,5 m (long wing) and
5 test samples with the dimension  0,49 m x 1,5 m (small wing).

Indicative test, 1 test:
1 test sample with the dimension 1,0 m x 1,5 m (long wing) and
1 test sample with the dimension 0,49 m x 1,5 m (small wing)

EN 13823

EN 13501-1

The reference scenario to EN 13823 is ISO 9705

Factors such as UV light, temperature, humidity and rain have a degrading effect on most materials. Through accelerated artificial testing, the durability of a material can be determined under controlled forms.

Accelerated weather resistance testing offers reproducible and fast results due to highly controlled  light intensity, temperature and humidity and with a light source that produces a light spectrum similar to that of the sun. With the help of different filter combinations, both indoor- and outdoor environments can be simulated.

We can offer tests according to most standard methods. We also perform customized tests under varying climatic conditions, use of different types of light sources and filter sets to best simulate the environmental conditions that apply to your test. Common test methods are ISO 4892-2, ISO 4892-3, ISO 16474-2, ISO 16474-3, ICH Q1B, EN 1297, ASTM G154 and ASTM G155.

The weatherability of the material is usually evaluated for mechanical strength, gloss- or colour changes or various spectroscopic methods such as transmittance, reflectance, Haze or Yellowness index.

Upon completion of the test, we deliver a report on the test procedure and any assessment results.

Contact us for price information. Please find contact information below

The customer prepares the test items unless otherwise agreed

ISO 4892-2 “Plastics — Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources — Part 2: Xenon-arc lamps”

ISO 4892-3 ” Plastics — Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources — Part 3: Fluorescent UV lamps” 

ISO 16474-2 ” Paints and varnishes — Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources — Part 2: Xenon-arc lamps”

ISO 16474-3 ” Paints and varnishes — Methods of exposure to laboratory light sources — Part 3: Fluorescent UV lamps”

ICH Q1B ”Stability testing: Photostability testing of new drug substances and products Q1B”

EN 1297 “ Flexible sheets for waterproofing. Bitumen, plastic and rubber sheets for roof waterproofing. Method of artificial ageing by long term exposure to the combination of UV radiation, elevated temperature and water”

ASTM G154 ”Standard Practice for Operating Fluorescent Ultraviolet (UV) Lamp Apparatus for Exposure of Nonmetallic Materials”

ASTM G155 ”Standard Practice for Operating Xenon Arc Light Apparatus for Exposure of Non-Metallic Materials

RISE offer in vitro-analyses to study interactions between material/subtances and cell lines.

Many are the reasons to study the effect of substances or materials on cells. It can be materials/substances to be used in or as medicinal products, wound dressing, future pharmaceuticals, supplements etc. Depending on what the product are to be used as, different evaluations are of interest. With vast knowledge in cell and molecular biology we will adjust the evaluation to the customers needs. We bring in new cell lines and methods on an ongoing basis. 

If the customer lacks the laborative resources we will assist with that, but we also have the ability to take on a bigger role in your developmental journey. 

Frequent methods may include but not be limited to; toxcicity, proliferation, gene expression, protein analysis and morphology studies based on microscopy. We will aslo help with more uniqe evaluation methods including proof of concept and mode of action. 

If the customer have a protocol or method, we gladly help you evaluate, troubleshoot and validate it. 

By studying your substances or materials in vitro before going in vivo you will save both money and research animals in the process by choosing the best candidates earlier in the testing. If your method is new, repetition and validation by an independet laboratory open up new posibilities for it. 

Method to be used is completely depending on the customers question. If you have questions regarding cell biology you are welcome to schedule a meeting to discuss your uniqe perspective. We can help with everything from questions, experimental design and performance to interpertation of results. Please contact us for more information regarding how we can help you. 

The customer get a report with parameters of choice. 

Deliverytime depends completely on methods used and whats to be studied. Generally it takes two weeks to start up cells from cryopreservation. In addition to that there is time needed to set up and performe studies of choice. The total time from tender acceptance is around six weeks. Contact us for more specifics. New cell lines, methods and national holidays will affect the delivery time. 

Contact one of the persons listed below for dicussion or price 

Information regarding test subtstance need to be discussed before start of cultivation of the model systems. The test substances need to arrive one week before test start.