BMW GS 97038 - Flammability (accredited)

Our test laboratory performs testing according to the BMW standard GS‑97038 under accredited procedures. This flammability test for automotive interior materials is used for the standardized determination of the fire and ignition behavior of materials used in vehicle interiors. The methodology is designed to assess the suitability of textile, coated, painted, uncoated, laminated, foam-based, and polymeric interior surfaces that may be exposed to potential fire or heat sources in everyday vehicle use, contributing to safety and regulatory compliance. The test evaluates defined conditions for ignition source, flame behavior, and smoke development, providing an objective asessment according to BMW specifications.

During the flammability test according to BMW GS‑97038, standardized specimens are examined under defined test conditions. The samples are prepared according to the standard and exposed to a flame to measure burn rate as well as additional criteria such as flame spread and self-extinguishing behavior. Test parameters—including flame exposure duration, ignition source position, specimen size, and environmental conditions—are strictly defined to ensure reproducible and comparable results. Following testing, burn data are documented and analyzed.