Flame Spread Index Tester BS 476
The Flame Spread Index Tester is designed in accordance with BS 476 Part 6:2009 for evaluating the fire performance of wall and ceiling lining materials. It quantifies the contribution of various materials to fire development by calculating the Flame Spread Index (FSI). The instrument exposes samples to controlled radiant heat and flame under precisely regulated conditions, providing reliable and repeatable results.
This tester is widely used in construction material testing laboratories, building fire safety research, quality control for interior linings, and certification testing for fire-resistant wall and ceiling products.
Application
The Flame Spread Index Tester is suitable for:
(1) Assessing fire performance of wall and ceiling lining materials in buildings.
(2) Comparing different construction materials to determine their contribution to fire propagation.
(3) Evaluating insulation panels, decorative boards, gypsum boards, and other interior materials.
(4) Supporting compliance testing for national and international fire safety regulations.
(5) Research and development of low-flame-spread construction materials.
(6) Generating reproducible data for certification, risk assessment, and safety evaluation.
Compliance Standards
BS 476 Part 6:2009 – Method of test for fire propagation for building materials
Reference for evaluation: Comparison with standardized asbestos-cement boards as specified in BS 476-6
Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Frame & Enclosure Material | Stainless steel |
| Combustion Chamber | Made of high-quality calcium silicate refractory board |
| Sample Supports | Three types, stainless steel wrapped |
| Radiant Heater | 1000 W quartz radiant heater |
| Flame Source | T-type burner providing direct flame exposure |
| Temperature Measurement | K-type thermocouples continuously record flue temperature differences relative to room temperature |
| Heat Output Control | Automatic, adjusted based on test timing; initial radiant heat: 530 J/s; electric heater power varied during test (1800 W at 2 min 45 s, 1500 W at 5 min, maintained for remainder) |
| Data Processing | Computerized, with automatic calculation of Flame Spread Index (FSI) and report generation |
| Total Test Duration | 20 minutes per standard test procedure |
| Sample Size | Standard per BS 476 Part 6 |
| Software | Real-time monitoring, automatic data logging, and printable reports |
Key Features
Fully compliant with BS 476 Part 6:2009 methodology.
Automated power adjustment and flame control for precise testing.
Continuous temperature monitoring via high-precision K-type thermocouples.
Computerized data acquisition and automated FSI calculation for consistent and reproducible results.
Sturdy stainless steel construction ensures durability and long service life.
Multiple sample holder options accommodate different material types.
Radiant quartz heater and T-type burner simulate realistic fire exposure conditions.
FAQ
Q1. What types of materials can be tested?
Wall and ceiling lining materials including insulation panels, gypsum boards, decorative boards, and other fire-rated construction materials.
Q2. How is the Flame Spread Index determined?
The tester records the temperature rise in the flue relative to room temperature and compares it to a standard reference curve obtained from asbestos-cement boards. The FSI quantifies fire propagation potential.
Q3. Is the tester fully automated?
Yes, the system automatically controls heat output, records temperature data, calculates the FSI, and can generate printable test reports.
Q4. Can this instrument be used for certification testing?
Absolutely. It provides standardized, reproducible results suitable for compliance with BS 476 Part 6 and other fire safety evaluations.
Q5. How long does a standard test take?
The total test duration is 20 minutes according to BS 476 Part 6:2009.
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