This test method is designed to differentiate the flame propagation characteristics of dense or cellular elastomeric compounds used in gaskets, setting blocks, shims, or spacers. It is a small scale test which enables the specifier to exercise engineering judgment in the selection of materials.

In this test method, the specimens are subjected to a specific laboratory fire test exposure condition. If different test conditions are substituted or the anticipated end-use conditions are changed, it may not be possible by or from this test method to predict changes in the performance characteristics. Therefore, the results are valid only for the fire test exposure condition described in this test method.

If the results obtained by this test method are to be considered in the total assessment of fire risk, then all pertinent established criteria for fire risk assessment developed by ASTM Committee E-5 must be included in the consideration.

1.1 This test method covers a laboratory procedure for determining flame propagation characteristics of a dense or cellular elastomeric gasket (such as expansion, lock-strip or compression gasket) or an accessory (such as a setting block, spacer or shim) when exposed to heat and flame, with no significance being attached to such matters as fuel contribution, rate of flame spread, smoke developed, or the nature and temperature of the products of combustion.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are provided for information purposes only.

1.3 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 the test may be used as elements of a fire-hazard assessment or a 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

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.

1.4 The committee with jurisdiction over this standard is not aware of any comparable standards published by other organizations.