Fire tests for building construction & materials

Fire ratings for construction materials are determined using ASTM E119. In this test, structural components are subjected to a heated furnace environment for an appropriate period depending on the application. Relevant pass/fail criteria are developed and the material is compared to those criteria. The heating exposure follows a standard time-temperature curve which relates to a fully developed fire. The materials may be tested under load, if that is relevant to the application. To represent fire fighting performance a heated panel must also experience rapid cooling from hoses to identify its resistance to thermal shock.