Semi-natural test methods to evaluate fire safety of wall claddings

Abstract

External walls and their components are subjected to a number of fire safety requirements. Fire resistance and reaction to fire are the harmonised requirements in the EU. These cover two fire scenarios: contribution of internal wall linings to an intermediate-size developing fire inside a fire compartment, and resistance of external walls to post-flashover fire inside a fire compartment (resistance to an external fire may also be required). The spread of fire along the external surface is not part of this European evaluation system and remains subjected to national fire safety codes and regulations. A number of test methods covering this scenario exist in Europe and North America at national levels as well as at the international level (ISO). These test methods and associated criteria differ in fire size, test duration, test specimen size and configuration. This paper presents principles of major existing test methods and comparison of test results on comparable test specimens where they are available.