Understanding Flame Ratings for Plastics

Understanding Flame Ratings for Plastics

Understanding Flame Ratings for Plastics
When safety matters, material selection isn’t just about performance; it’s about protection. One critical aspect of plastics is how they perform when exposed to an open flame.

Here’s a quick guide to the three key flammability standards that impact industries from electronics to automotive to construction:

Test Standard  Industry Application  Flame Source & Duration  Key Measurement  Best For 
UL 94 (V, HB, 5V)  Consumer electronics, appliances Bunsen burner (10 sec or 5 sec x5) Self-extinguishing time, dripping Electrical housings, enclosures
FMVSS 302  Automotive interiors Bunsen burner (15 sec) Burn rate (≤ 102 mm/min) Dashboards, seats, carpets
ASTM E84  Building materials Tunnel flame (10 min) Flame Spread Index (FSI) & Smoke Developed Index (SDI) Insulation, wall panels

 

Why does this matter?

  • UL 94 helps designers choose materials that won’t propagate flames in electronics and appliances.
  • FMVSS 302 is critical in the automotive world to slow flame spread, giving passengers more time to exit.
  • ASTM E84 ensures that wall panels and insulation materials don’t become a conduit for fire in buildings.

 

As material professionals, it’s our job to ensure products meet these standards before they meet the market.

If you’re specifying materials and unsure how to interpret flammability data, reach out. Understanding these tests can mean the difference between safe and unsafe product design.