ASTM D5048-09
Standard Test Method for Measuring the Comparative Burning Characteristics and Resistance to Burn-Through of Solid Plastics Using 125-mm Flame

Standard No.

ASTM D5048-09

Release Date

2009

Published By

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

Status

Be replaced

Replace By

ASTM D5048-14

Latest

ASTM D5048-20a

Scope

The test results represent afterflame plus afterglow time, in seconds, for a material under the conditions of the test. The test results for plaques also indicate whether or not the specified flame will burn through a material.

The effect of material thickness, colors, additives, deterioration, and possible loss of volatile components is measurable.

The burning characteristics vary with thickness. Compare test data with data for materials of similar thickness only.

The results serve as a reference for comparing the relative performance of materials and can be an aid in material selection.

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

1.1 This fire-test-response test method covers a small-scale laboratory procedure for determining the relative burning characteristics and the resistance to burn-through of plastics using small bar and plaque specimens exposed to a 125-mm (500-W nominal) flame.

Note 18212;This test method is equivalent to IEC 60695-11-20.

Note 28212;For additional information on comparative burning characteristics of solid plastics in a vertical position, see Test Method D 3801.

1.2 This test method was developed for polymeric materials used for parts in devices and appliances. The results are intended to serve as a preliminary indication of their acceptability with respect to flammability for a particular application. The final acceptance of the material is dependent upon its use in complete equipment that conforms with the standards applicable to such equipment.

1.3 The classification system described in Appendix X1 is intended for quality assurance and the preselection of component materials for products.

1.4 If found to be appropriate, it is suitable to apply the requirements to other nonmetallic materials. Such application is outside the scope of this technical committee.

1.5 This test method is not intended to cover plastics when used as materials for building construction or finishing.

1.6 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests.

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

1.8 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. See 6.1.1 for a specific hazard statement.

ASTM D5048-09 Referenced Document

• ASTM D3801 Standard Test Method for Measuring the Comparative Burning Characteristics of Solid Plastics in a Vertical Position
• ASTM D5025 Standard Specification for Laboratory Burner Used for Small-Scale Burning Tests on Plastic Materials
• ASTM D5207 Standard Practice for Calibration of 20 and 125 mm Test Flames for Small-Scale Burning Tests on Plastic Materials
• ASTM D883 Standard Terminology Relating to Plastics
• ASTM E176 Standard Terminology of Fire Standards
• ASTM E691 Standard Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method

ASTM D5048-09 history

• 2020 ASTM D5048-20a Standard Test Method for Measuring the Comparative Burning Characteristics and Resistance to Burn-Through of Solid Plastics Using 125-mm Flame
• 2020 ASTM D5048-20 Standard Test Method for Measuring the Comparative Burning Characteristics and Resistance to Burn-Through of Solid Plastics Using a 125-mm Flame
• 2019 ASTM D5048-19 Standard Test Method for Measuring the Comparative Burning Characteristics and Resistance to Burn-Through of Solid Plastics Using a 125-mm Flame
• 2018 ASTM D5048-18 Standard Test Method for Measuring the Comparative Burning Characteristics and Resistance to Burn-Through of Solid Plastics Using a 125-mm Flame
• 2014 ASTM D5048-14 Standard Test Method for Measuring the Comparative Burning Characteristics and Resistance to Burn-Through of Solid Plastics Using a 125-mm Flame
• 2009 ASTM D5048-09 Standard Test Method for Measuring the Comparative Burning Characteristics and Resistance to Burn-Through of Solid Plastics Using 125-mm Flame
• 2003 ASTM D5048-03 Standard Test Method for Measuring the Comparative Burning Characteristics and Resistance to Burn-Through of Solid Plastics Using 125-mm Flame
• 1997 ASTM D5048-97 Standard Test Method for Measuring the Comparative Burning Characteristics and Resistance to Burn-Through of Solid Plastics Using 125-mm Flame