1.1 This test method can be used to determine the release rates of heat and visible smoke (Note 1) from materials and products when exposed to different levels of radiant heat using the test apparatus, specimen configurations, and procedures described in this test method.

Note 1-Visible smoke is described in terms of the obscuration of transmitted light caused by combustion products release during the tests (see 10.2.1).

1.2 This test method provides for radiant thermal exposure of a specimen both with and without a pilot. Piloted ignition may be effected by direct flame impingement on the specimen (piloted, point ignition) or by placing the pilot to ignite gases evolved by pyrolysis of the specimen.

1.3 Heat and smoke release are measured from the moment the specimen is injected into a controlled exposure chamber. The measurements are continued during the period of ignition (and progressive flame involvement of the surface in the case of point ignition), and to such a time that the test is terminated.

1.4 This test method tests materials and products under a constant, imposed, external heat flux that may be varied from 0 to 100 kW/m .

1.5 This test method is intended for use in research and development and not as a basis for rating, regulatory, or code purposes.

1.6 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.

1.7 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.