ASTM D5424-99

1.1 This is a fire-test-response standard.

1.2 This test method provides a means to measure the smoke obscuration resulting from burning electrical insulating materials contained in electrical or optical fiber cables when the cable specimens, excluding accessories, are subjected to a specified flaming ignition source and burn freely under well ventilated conditions.

1.3 This standard provides two different protocols for exposing the materials, when made into cable specimens, to an ignition source (approximately 20 kW), for a 20 min test duration. Use it to determine the flame propagation and smoke release characteristics of the materials contained in single and multiconductor electrical or optical fiber cables designed for use in cable trays.

1.4 This test method does not provide information on the fire performance of electrical or optical fiber cables in fire conditions other than the ones specifically used in this standard nor does it measure the contribution of the cables to a developing fire condition.

1.5 Data describing the burning behavior from ignition to the end of the test are obtained.

1.6 The production of light obscuring smoke is measured.

1.7 The burning behavior is documented visually, by photographic or video recordings, or both.

1.8 The test equipment is suitable for making other, optional, measurements, including the rate of heat release of the burning specimen, by an oxygen consumption technique and weight loss.

1.9 Another set of optional measurements are the concentrations of certain toxic gas species in the combustion gases.

1.10 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard (see Practice E380).

1.11 This standard should be used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under controlled conditions and should not be used to describe or appraise the fire hazard or fire risk of materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions. However, results of this test may be used as elements of a fire-hazard or fire-risk assessment which takes into account all of the factors which are pertinent to an assessment of the fire hazard or fire risk of a particular end use.

1.12 Fire testing of products and materials is inherently hazardous. Employ adequate safeguards for personnel and property in conducting these tests.

1.13 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.