Evaluation of raw material components is a vital and ongoing part of any manufacturing operation, especially when each item can contribute to the technical performance of the final product.

This test method measures the behavior of mattress edge binding and sewing thread during and after exposure to an open flame ignition source.

Flame resistance of the components used to close the perimeter of a mattress is an important factor in limiting the potential of a bedding fire by preventing the chance for seam failure.

Data which show a correlation of behavior for both the sewing thread and edge binding tape, when tested as a subassembly according to this test method, and also when tested using a full scale composite mattress burn test, such as California TB 603, can provide the manufacturer with important information. These data can be valuable when selecting components to be used in the manufacture of its products which are designed to use mattress edge binding and sewing thread.

The level of performance required for these components is (1) that they do not support the afterflame, and (2) that these components demonstrate post flame exposure characteristics which contribute to retaining the structural integrity of the subassembly.

In case of a dispute arising from differences in reported results when using this test method for acceptance testing of commercial shipments, the purchaser and the supplier should conduct comparative tests to determine if there is a statistical bias between their laboratories. Competent statistical assistance is recommended for the investigation of bias. As a minimum, the two parties should take a group of test specimens which are as homogeneous as possible and which are from a lot of material of the type in question. The test specimens should then be sent to each laboratory for testing. The average results from the two laboratories should be compared using Student's t-test and an acceptable probability level chosen by the two parties before testing is begun. If a bias is found, either its cause must be found and corrected or the purchaser and the supplier must agree to interpret future test results with consideration to the known bias.

1.1 This test method measures the flammability characteristics of mattress edge bindings and sewing threads during and after exposure to an open flame ignition source.

1.1.1 This test method is used to evaluate these components either independently or in combination for use in mattresses designed with a fire barrier fabric.

1.1.1.1 The test method is used to evaluate mattress edge binding and sewing thread when the design requires the use of these components.

1.1.2 This test method can be used as a screening test method to determine how sewing thread and mattress edge binding component combinations will perform.

1.2 This test method is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or subassemblies to heat and flame under controlled conditions, but does not by itself incorporate all factors required for fire hazard or fire risk assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.

1.3 Fire testing of products and materials is inherently hazardous, and adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests.

1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.5 This test method may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. 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.