How do we determine that a wall assembly, partition, roof, or floor that you manufacture
will be safe when exposed to fire? We rely on the ASTM E119 testing method.
This comprehensive test allows us to evaluate the duration for which certain building
elements can contain a fire, retain their structural integrity, or exhibit both properties during a predetermined test
exposure.
What is an ASTM E119 Fire Test?
The ASTM E119 fire test is a standardized test method used to evaluate the fire
resistance of building components and assemblies. It is conducted in accordance with the ASTM E119 or UL 263
(Underwriters Laboratories) standard.
One of many types of fire testing standards, this test measures the ability of a
construction material -such as a wall, partition, roof, or floor- to withstand exposure to fire for a specified period
of time.
The results of an ASTM E119 fire test provide valuable information for
building code officials, architects, engineers, and construction professionals.
The test helps ensure that building components and assemblies meet the required fire
safety standards and provide a level of protection to occupants and property in the event of a fire. It aids in the
design and construction of fire-resistant buildings, allowing for effective fire prevention, containment, and
evacuation strategies.
How We Conduct an ASTM E119 Fire Test
To conduct this test, we uniformly expose numerous building elements to fire, with
temperatures and fire conditions that simulate a real-world fire scenario. The test evaluates two primary performance
criteria, including:
· Fire resistance – containment of fire and heat
· Structural integrity – load-carrying ability during
test exposure
The duration of the fire exposure varies depending on the fire rating being tested,
typically ranging from 45 minutes to several hours.
We monitor the testing material for factors such as flame penetration, temperature rise
on the unexposed side, structural stability, and the integrity of fire barriers. We also evaluate the period of
resistance before the first critical point of failure is observed.
Understanding the Pass/Fail Criteria
In the ASTM E119 fire test, the evaluation of a building component's fire resistance is
determined based on pass/fail criteria. These criteria play a crucial role in assessing the performance of the tested
material and ensuring its compliance with fire safety standards.
The following critical timed events are recorded during the ASTM E119 test. Pass/fail
(endurance time of the assembly) is when the first of these events occurs:
· The temperature rises to 250 degrees
F above the ambient temperature on the average of all unexposed surface thermocouple locations.
· The temperature rises to 325 degrees
F above the ambient temperature on any single unexposed surface
thermocouple location.
· For assemblies where structural steel
members are utilized, the maximum temperature on a structural steel member exceeds 1,100 degrees
F.
· Any flaming is observed on the
unexposed surface of the test specimen.
· Smoke and/or gas emissions are hot
enough to ignite cotton waste material applied on the specimen's unexposed surface.
· Failure to sustain the applied load
during exposure of load-bearing assemblies. In many cases, the ASTM E119 test
requires an additional evaluation of the assembly where it is subjected to a
hose stream test to establish a fire-resistance rating.
Components that successfully meet the criteria demonstrate their ability to withstand
fire exposure for the specified duration without compromising their integrity or contributing to the fire's
spread.
It's important to note that the specific pass/fail criteria may vary depending on the
fire rating being tested and the applicable building codes and regulations.
Importance of Compliance With Pass/Fail Criteria
Building code officials, architects, and engineers rely on the results of an ASTM E119
fire test to verify compliance with fire safety standards and make informed decisions regarding the design and
construction of fire-resistant buildings.
Here are some key reasons why compliance with these criteria is crucial.
Life Safety
Compliance ensures that buildings are designed and constructed to effectively contain and
control fires, allowing occupants sufficient time for evacuation and reducing the risk of injury or loss of
life.
Property Protection
Fire-resistant construction elements and assemblies play a crucial role in preventing
fire from spreading to other areas of the building, limiting the extent of the fire's impact, and protecting valuable
assets.
Code and Regulatory Compliance
Failure to comply with the prescribed criteria can result in code violations, potential
legal consequences, and difficulties in obtaining occupancy permits.
Insurance and Liability Considerations
Insurance providers often assess the fire resistance measures implemented in a building
when determining coverage options and premiums. Non-compliance with the prescribed criteria may result in increased
insurance costs or even denial of coverage.
Additionally, failure to meet fire safety standards can expose building owners,
developers, and contractors to potential liability in case of fire-related incidents.
Ensuring Building Safety With ASTM E119
By understanding the pass/fail criteria of an ASTM E119 fire test, you can ensure that
your building components and assemblies meet the required standards and contribute to a safer built
environment.
For more details about the ASTM E119, including information about what
this test standard does not provide, contact our team of experts.
Tel: (+86) 25 86583475 (+86) 25 86583465
Web: www.fire-
test.com www.firete.com
Email: info@fire-test.com
WeChat: firetesting or 17714189018
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