Testing acc. to ASTM D 5132. Standard Test Method for Horizontal Burning Rate of Polymeric Materials Used in Occupant Compartments of Motor Vehicles
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Our laboratory performs testing according to ASTM D 5132 under accredited conditions. This standard describes a laboratory test method for determining the horizontal flame spread rate of polymeric materials used in vehicle interiors. The purpose of the test is to compare flame propagation behavior under defined conditions in order to classify materials with regard to their fire performance.
ASTM D 5132 is primarily applied to thermoplastic and elastomeric materials and their composites that may be used in automotive interiors. It serves as a comparative test method for evaluating flame spread, with its applicability limited to laboratory conditions.
Test principle and procedure
In this test, standardized specimens are positioned horizontally in a defined specimen holder within a test chamber. One end of the specimen is then exposed to a standardized ignition flame for a specified period.
After removal of the flame, the subsequent behavior of the material is observed. The following parameters are determined in particular:
the time to reach defined measurement marks
the burned distance and
the resulting flame spread rate in mm/min
The test also records whether the material self-extinguishes after ignition or continues to propagate the flame.
