ISO 5658 EN 45545 IMO Thermal Radiation Flame Spread Tester Materials Combustion Test Machine Burning Test Device

The IMO Thermal Radiation Flame Spread Tester is designed to evaluate the combustion characteristics of materials used in construction, high-speed trains, and marine vessels. It measures flame spread rate, heat for ignition, and total heat release based on distance and CEF (Critical Heat Flux at Extinguishment).

This test method assesses the burning behavior of vertically mounted specimens in accordance with ISO 5658-2 and IMO Resolution A.653(16); it also complies with GB/T 28752-2012 (Test method for lateral spread of flame on vertical surfaces). During testing, the specimen is exposed to a specific heat flux profile generated by a gas-fired radiant panel, with signal output measured in millivolts (mV) using calibrated thermocouples.

The system records time to ignition, duration of sustained burning at various distances along the specimen, and flame spread rate. Additional measured parameters include heat for ignition (MJ/m²), heat for sustained burning (MJ/m²), critical heat flux at extinguishment (kW/m²), average heat for sustained burning, and total heat release (kW).

Rail transit and marine materials

• EN (European Standard): EN 45545-2+A1:2022
• IMO (International Maritime Organization): IMO Res. A.653(16)
• IMO (International Maritime Organization): IMO FTPC Part 5
• ISO (International Organization for Standardization): ISO 5658-2:2006
• GB (Chinese National Standard): GB/T 28752:2012

• Testing apparatus consists of four main components: radiant panel assembly and specimen holder assembly
• Radiant panel provides a radiating surface of approximately 480 x 280 mm with wire mesh screen
• Blower supplies air to radiant panel with airflow regulated by variable frequency drive (VFD)
• Propane mass flow controller regulates fuel supply with Venturi mixer for combustion gas
• Includes perforated calibration plate and sliding track for heat flux meter verification
• Water-cooled heat flux sensor measures radiant panel's heat flux profile
• Portable water cooling circulation unit dissipates heat from heat flux meter
• Ceramic tube burner applies direct open flame to test specimen surface
• Variable area flow meter regulates mixed combustion gas to ceramic tube burner
• Mass flow controller enables measurement of methane heat output
• Thermocouple assemblies measure parameters including heat release rate
• Methane calibration burner and mass flow controller generate 1 kW and 3 kW outputs
• Video camera monitors and records test procedure status
• Adjustable-angle viewing mirror with foot switch for automatic recording
• Computer and standard testing software control the testing process