SR160 Fire properties of wall and ceiling linings: Investigation of fire test methods for use in NZBC Compliance Documents (2006)

This project has demonstrated the effectiveness of the ISO 9705 room corner test method and the AS/NZS 3837/ISO 5660 cone calorimeter in evaluating the reaction-to-fire performance of a selection of surface lining materials as applied to walls and ceilings.

The measurement of heat release rate (HRR) and smoke production rate (SPR) are direct indicators of the hazard. The growth of the HRR enables a lining material to be classified with respect to time based on if or when flashover occurs.

The measurements of gas species, percentage of flame spread area over the lining surface and compartment temperatures and smoke layer height are compared to confirm that the conditions generated are consistent with the primary parameters of HRR and SPR and accurately reflect the fire hazard. Recommendations are made for changes to the fire test methods in NZBC Compliance Documents.