Development of a Multiple Layer Test Procedure for Inclusion in NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) 701: Initial Experiments

摘要

The research program investigated the flammability behavior of multiple layer fabric assemblies used for draperies and developed a laboratory-scale test protocol for predicting full-scale fire behavior. The need for such a study arose from recent findings that showed multiple layers of fabrics, comprised of individual fabrics which meet the requirements of National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 701, may present a serious fire hazard. Eight combinations of four drapery fabrics and two lining fabrics were examined using variants of two established test procedures for single layers: the ASTM D3659 Semi-Restraint Test Method and the NFPA 701 Large-Scale Test Method. The study concludes that neither of the methods, as currently written, adequately predict the full-scale fire behavior of multiple layer fabric assemblies. Based on the results of the study, it is too early to recommend any test protocol for inclusion in NFPA 701.