Fire testing according to IMO 2010 FTP Code Part 7

Purpose

The standard is used for maritime safety to assess the ignitability of vertically supported textiles and films when subjected to a gas flame similar to that of a burning match.

This test method only evaluates the ignitability of vertically supported textiles and films. To evaluate the burning behavior, the object needs to be tested in full scale with larger ignition sources.

Products and materials for maritime use is fire tested according to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) code, IMO 2010 FTP Code. The results from fire testing according to the FTP-code can be used as a basis for type approval (also called the wheel mark). Type approval is regulated in accordance with European Parliament Directive 2014/90/EU. RISE can perform the fire tests, issue the certificates and perform the production control required in order to gain the wheel mark.

Method

The testing is performed in a draught free cabinet. The textile or film is mounted on to a steel frame and put into the test cabinet. A series of pre-tests are performed to establish which ignition scenario is the worst case in warp and weft direction respectively. This is done by applying the ignition source to the surface and the edge of the specimens for 5 and/or 15 seconds. When the worst case is established, 5 further tests are performed in both warp and weft direction.

Performance criteria are in regard to burning droplets, flame spread, damaged length and after burn time.

Deliveries

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