Fire Testing

Fire Testing Fast Facts

Provided by the leader in fenestration and building-material performance testing to ensure proper test type based on material application.
Equipped to substantially reduce the time and cost of getting your products and systems approved.
Provides laboratory and environmental testing to ASTM standards.
Issues recognized third-party mark to certify products and processes of mass-produced products.

Value

Understanding how fenestration products and building materials perform when exposed to fire is critical in designing safe structures. Architectural Testing provides laboratory testing and industry-standard fire and burning tests for a variety of building materials and roof coverings. The resulting data help determine fire rating and performance characteristics as required by architects, builders, fire inspectors, and manufacturers.

ASTM laboratory testing:

Heat and visible smoke release rates for materials and products using an oxygen consumption calorimeter.
Rate of burning and extent and time of burning of materials in a horizontal position.
Autogenous (self-sustaining) ignition temperatures of materials ASTM environmental testing:
ASTM E108: For testing roof coverings (specimens are tested as part of a system that may include combustible or noncombustible decks, insulation type and thickness, and fastening). This test method involves:
- Intermittent flame exposure test (only this test is required for roof coverings restricted for use on noncombustible decks)
- Spread of flame test
- Burning brand test
- Flying brand test
- Rain test
ASTM E119: For testing building construction and materials. This test method is used for:
- Measuring the length of time that an assembly contains a fire, retains structural integrity while exposed to a fire, or both.
- Measuring the effect of fire exposure followed by the application of a specified standard fire hose stream.
ASTM E84: For evaluating surface burning characteristics of building materials, such as wall coverings, acoustical tile, insulation, and other ceiling materials. This test method involves placing a 25-foot specimen in a tunnel for measuring spread of flame and smoke development.

Innovations

Most fire test methods are designed for a specific product or a particular material property, so it is critical that the appropriate method is used. Our expertise as the leader in fenestration and building-material performance testing enables us to determine the proper test type based on how the material will be applied. Our expertise can substantially reduce the time and cost of getting your products and systems approved.

It is also important to know that manufactured products will perform the same as the tested specimen. That’s why Architectural Testing offers certification programs. Our label provides the assurance that Architectural Testing has periodically analyzed and inspected mass-produced products for compliance. Our professionals can also provide enhanced services, from managing your project to providing professional engineering to analyzing the root cause of failure.

Insights and Possibilities

Many variables affect the performance and service life of fenestration products and building materials. That’s why Architectural Testing offers a comprehensive range of laboratory, environmental, and field test programs. With Architectural Testing, you get the convenience of testing solar transmittance, thermal, durability, impact, and other performance parameters administered by one firm with facilities located on both coasts and in the Midwest.

Thanks to consistent Architectural Testing procedures, all data and reports are professionally compiled in standard forms, including:

Technical reports for performance evaluation of materials or components.
Statistical analysis of lab data.
Technical reports on problems, obstacles, or risks.

Our customers draw upon our expertise in over 700 test methods performed in accordance with ASTM, AAMA, ANSI, military, and international standards, including ICC. And we continue to develop procedures and apply new test methods to meet customer requirements.

Because Architectural Testing is directly involved in writing test standards, we provide accurate, unbiased information to give you a clear understanding of performance-test outcomes and causes of failure. We also offer educational seminars on the general design principles that affect test results.

Learn more about how the Architectural Testing Difference can help you or Contact Us today.