Study of flame propagation in vertically oriented test specimens

The study of flame propagation on vertically oriented specimens is a reaction to fire test designed to evaluate the behavior of materials when exposed to a flame in a vertical configuration. This test is particularly used for textiles, polymers, films, coatings, and composites used in the manufacture of packaging or industrial components.

Performed in accordance with ISO 6940 and ISO 6941 , this test measures the flame propagation rate, the potential extinguishing of the material, and the formation of flaming debris. It is an essential tool for material classification , demonstrating regulatory compliance, and managing fire risks.

Principle of the vertical flame propagation test

The test involves exposing a vertically positioned specimen to a standardized flame applied for a defined time, usually to the lower part of the sample. After the flame application, the material's behavior is observed and measured.

The vertical configuration is particularly critical, as it promotes the upward spread of flames due to thermal convection. This orientation allows for the simulation of realistic fire exposure conditions for materials used in vertical or semi-vertical positions.

The test assesses the material's ability to resist ignition, limit flame spread, and self-extinguish.

Applicable standards

The study of vertical flame propagation is carried out according to ISO 6940 and ISO 6941 , widely recognized for the evaluation of the reaction to fire of textile and polymer materials.

ISO 6940 defines the basic test method, while ISO 6941 specifies the criteria for evaluating and classifying fire behavior. Depending on the application sector, these tests can also be incorporated into regulatory frameworks or specific industrial specifications.

Compliance with these standards guarantees the comparability of results and their acceptance within a regulatory or contractual framework.

Measured parameters

The test allows measurement of several key parameters of fire behavior, including the speed of flame propagation along the specimen, the combustion time, the self-extinguishing capacity of the material and the possible presence of flaming droplets or debris.

These parameters are used to classify materials according to their reaction to fire and to verify their compliance with applicable fire safety requirements.

Matrices and materials concerned

The study of vertical flame propagation applies to a wide range of materials, including polymers, plastic films, technical textiles, coatings, composite materials and certain packaging materials.

Tests can be carried out on specimens cut from finished products or on materials representative of the conditions of final use, subject to compliance with the dimensional and preparation requirements defined by the standards.

Industrial applications

This test is used in many industrial contexts. It is involved in the development of new materials, the validation of flame-retardant formulations, the qualification of suppliers and quality control in production.

In the packaging and polymer materials sector, the study of flame propagation makes it possible to verify compliance with fire safety requirements, to compare different formulations and to anticipate risks in case of exposure to fire.

Testing is also used in certification, approval or response to specific regulatory requirements processes.

Regulatory issues and fire safety

Controlling the fire reaction of materials is a major safety issue. Materials with rapid flame propagation can increase the risks of fire, fire spread, and material or human damage.

The study of vertical flame propagation makes it possible to document technical files, demonstrate compliance with applicable standards and secure the placing of products on the market.

YesWeLab Expertise

YesWeLab relies on a rigorously selected network of partner laboratories specializing in fire testing , mostly certified and/or accredited according to recognized standards such as ISO 17025 and COFRAC.

Each request is analyzed by the YesWeLab scientific team to define the most suitable testing protocol for the material, applicable standards, and the client's objectives. The YesWeLab digital platform enables centralized test management, optimized sample tracking, and fast, secure access to results.

Since 2020, many manufacturers, distributors and design offices have trusted YesWeLab for their fire reaction tests and the characterization of their materials.

Other analyses from the YesWeLab catalogue

The study of flame propagation of vertically oriented test specimens can be complemented by other analyses from the YesWeLab catalogue in order to obtain a complete evaluation of the fire behavior of materials.

Flammability and explosivity tests of powders and dusts make it possible to assess the risks associated with materials in particulate form.

Fire resistance and thermal behavior tests complement the evaluation of the reaction to fire of polymer and composite materials.

Thermal analyses , such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), make it possible to link fire behavior to the thermal properties of materials.

Post-fire mechanical testing can also be used to assess the impact of thermal exposure on the mechanical properties of materials.

For any quote request or to discuss your specific needs in studying the flame propagation of vertically oriented test specimens, contact the YesWeLab team now.