STUDIES OF FLAMMABILITY TEST PROCEDURES FOR CURTAINS AND DRAPES

The Intergovernmental Maritime Consultative Organization (IMCO) is in need of a simple, relevant flammability test method for the curtain and drapery fabrics used aboard ships. Two methods for measuring self-extinguishment of fabrics upon removal of the flame were compared. One was proposed by the United States' representative to IMCO, the other was an adaptation of a recently proposed method of the International Standards Organization (ISO). The effects of variations of the proposed test methods (changes in the ignition flame characteristics, bottom edge or surface ignition, and in the specimen suspension) were also investigated. In general, the relative ranking of the fabrics was not changed, though the individual afterflame time and char length results were affected by some of these variables. The advantages and disadvantages of the two proposed test methods are discussed and an improved method is recommended.

  • Supplemental Notes:
    • Sponsored in part by Coast Guard, Washington, DC.
  • Corporate Authors:

    National Engineering Laboratory

    Center for Fire Research
    Gaithersburg, MD  United States  20760

    United States Coast Guard

    2100 Second Street, SW
    Washington, DC  United States  20593
  • Authors:
    • Hopkins, D E
    • Krasny, J F
  • Publication Date: 1979-3

Media Info

  • Pagination: 25 p.

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00198590
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: National Technical Information Service
  • Report/Paper Numbers: NBSIR-79-1596 Final Rpt.
  • Files: TRIS
  • Created Date: Oct 17 1979 12:00AM