ASTM C1485-13

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it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
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Designation: C1485 − 06 C1485 − 13
Standard Test Method for
Critical Radiant Flux of Exposed Attic Floor Insulation Using
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an Electric Radiant Heat Energy Source
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1485; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers a procedure for measuring the critical radiant flux of exposed attic floor insulation subjected to a
flaming ignition source in a graded radiant heat energy environment inside a test chamber. The test specimen can be any attic floor
insulation. This test method is not applicable to those insulations that melt or shrink away when exposed to the radiant heat energy
environment or the ignition source.
1.2 This test method measures the critical radiant flux at the farthest point to which the flame advances. It provides a means
for relative classification of a fire test response standard for exposed attic floor insulation. The imposed radiant flux simulation
levels of thermal radiation are likely to impinge on the surface of exposed attic insulation from roof assemblies heated by the sun
and by heat or flames of an incidental fire which may has the potential to involve an attic space. This test method is intended to
simulate an important element of fire exposure that may has the potential to develop in open attics, but is not intended for use in
describing flame spread behavior of insulation installed other than on an attic floor.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 This standard is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under
controlled conditions, but dosedoes not by itself incorporate all factors required for fire hazard or fire risk assessment of the
material, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.
1.5 Warning—Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in
conducting these tests.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
limitations prior to use.
2. Referenced Documents
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2.1 ASTM Standards:
C168 Terminology Relating to Thermal Insulation
E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method
2.2 ASTM Adjuncts:
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CRF (Critical Radiant Flux) Calibration Form
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this specification, see Terminology C168.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 critical radiant flux (CRF)—the level of incident radiant heat energy on the attic floor insulation system at the most distant
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flame-out point in W/cm. (Btu/ft s).
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This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C16 on Thermal Insulation and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C16.31 on Chemical and
Physical Properties.
Current edition approved April 1, 2006March 1, 2013. Published May 2006March 2013. Originally approved in 2001. Last previous edition approved in 20012006 as
C1485–01C1485–06. DOI: 10.1520/C1485-06.10.1520/C1485-13.
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For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
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Available from ASTM International Headquarters. Order Adjunct No. ADJC1485. Original adjunct produced in 2006.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
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C1485 − 13
3.2.2 flux profile—the curve relating incident radiant heat energy on the specimen plane to distance from the point of initiation
of flaming ignition, that is, 0.0 cm. (0.0 in.).
3.2.3 graded radiant energy—the heating element is placed on an angled plain.
3.2.4 total flux meter—the instrument used to measure the level of radiant heat energy incident on the specimen plane at a given
point.
3.2.5 screed—gently remove the excess material using a metal straight edge to l
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