Testing the Drip and Melting Behaviour of Materials under Flame Exposure
Our laboratory examines the drip and melting behaviour of plastics, films, textiles, foams, coated materials and other materials under defined thermal or flame exposure. The test determines whether a material softens, melts or releases burning or non-burning droplets or particles when exposed to heat.
Depending on the test method, specimen geometry, specimen orientation, type and duration of flame exposure and observation conditions are specified. The assessment focuses particularly on melting and dripping, the burning behaviour of falling material and the possible effects of droplets or particles on materials positioned underneath the specimen.
Drip and melting behaviour is particularly relevant for thermoplastic materials, foams, films, textiles and coated materials. Heating can substantially alter the shape and structure of such materials, so their fire behaviour cannot always be characterized solely by flame spread on the original specimen.
Drip and melting behaviour testing forms part of Burning Behavior and Flammability. Further physical material tests are listed in our overview of Physical Testing.
Below you will find the available tests for drip and melting behaviour.