BRL-K23001/04
2010-07-01
Evaluation Guideline
for aerosol fire
extinguishing
for the product certificate for fixed dry aerosol fire
extinguishing components
Preface
This evaluation guideline has been accepted by the Board of Experts Fire Safety ,
wherein all the relevant parties in the field of for fixed dry aerosol fire extinguishing
components are represented. These Boards of Experts also supervises the certification
activities and where necessary require the evaluation guideline to be revised. All
references to Board of Experts in this evaluation guideline pertain to the above
mentioned Boards of Experts.
This evaluation guideline will be used by Kiwa in conjunction with the KiwaRegulations for Product Certification. This regulation details the method employed
by Kiwa for conducting the necessary investigations prior to issuing he product
certificate and the method of external control. The inspection frequency is determined
by the above mentioned Boards of Experts.
This guideline must be validated by the Board of Experts with a minimal frequency
of 5 years.
Information about product of performance requirements based public demands
based on European regulation is laid down in chapter 2 of this evaluation guideline.
Kiwa Nederland B.V.
Sir W. Churchill-laan 273
Postbus 70
2280 AB RIJSWIJK
The Netherlands
Tel. +31 70 414 44 00
Fax +31 70 414 44 20
www.kiwa.nl
© 2010 Kiwa Nederland B.V.
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a database or retrieval system, or
published, in any form or in any way, electronically, mechanically, by print, photoprint, microfilm or any
other means without prior written permission from the publisher.
The use of this evaluation guideline by third parties, for any purpose whatsoever, is only allowed after a written
agreement is made with Kiwa to this end.
Validation
This evaluation guideline has been validated by the Director Certification and Inspection of Kiwa on
2010-07-01
Evaluation Guideline for aerosol fire extinguishing
© Kiwa Nederland B.V.
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July, 1st, 2010
Information
This evaluation guideline BRL-K23001 has to be used in conjunction with evaluation
guideline BRL-K23003.
The evaluation guideline BRL-K23001 covers following aspects;
• Product certification of separate components which are integrated into
systems.
• The certification covers the production through to the delivery to a certified
supplier, the minimum information for designers (basis for the specifications
and project definition) and the minimum level of servicing.
The evaluation guideline BRL-K23003 covers following aspects;
• This is a process certificate for the assessment of the following application
areas (i.e. secondary processes in four modules):
• Design of the installation, including drafting the specifications (basis of
design).
• Design of the installation, including component selection and detailing
(engineering).
• Installation of the fire protection system in accordance with the specifications
and the installation design, and commissioning the installation.
• Servicing. Certified installers shall be able to undertake at least one module
in full to be considered for the process certificate.
Inspection protocol design, installation, commissioning and servicing is incorporated
in BRL-K23003. The implementation protocol is addressed to independent inspection
bodies (ISO17020).
General
The intention is that a comprehensive and joined-up system of certification and
inspection arrangements are established, covering the entire process from
manufacturing through to the installed fire protection system.
Evaluation Guideline for aerosol fire extinguishing
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Contents
Preface
1
Information
2
Contents
3
1
Introduction
6
1.1
General
6
1.2
Field of application / scope
6
1.3
Terminology
7
1.4
1.4.1
1.4.2
Requirments and assesments methods
Requirements
Assessment methods
8
8
8
1.5
Acceptance of test reports provided by the supplier
8
1.6
Certificate
8
2
Product requirements and test methods
9
2.1
General
9
2.2
Extinguishing factor, EN2, Class A and B
9
2.3
Agent distribution, EN2, Class B
9
2.4
Discharge time
9
2.5
Ambient temperature and humidity operation ranges
10
2.6
Service life
10
2.7
Shelf life and storage conditions
10
2.8
Corrosion
10
2.9
Vibration
10
2.10
Mechanical shock
11
2.11
Discharge temperature
11
2.12
Activator device
11
2.13
Function reliability
11
2.14
Open fire conditions (optionel with requirment)
11
2.15
2.15.1
2.15.2
2.15.3
Rigidity and activation of the SFEA
Test method 1
Test method 2
Test method 3
12
12
12
12
2.16
2.16.1
2.16.2
Auto activation of the SFEA (optionel with requirment)
Test method 1
Test method 2
12
12
13
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2.17
Fixing system of the fire extinguishing component
13
2.18
EN2, Class B, large liquid fires (optionel with requirment)
13
2.19
EN2, Class C, fires gas (optionel with requirment)
14
2.20
EN2, Class F, fires fat (optionel with requirment)
15
2.21
Classfication according to MSC.1/Circ.1270 (optional with requirment)
15
2.22
Qualification according to UL 2775 (optional with requirment)
16
2.23
2.23.1
Documentation
Design, installation and operation manual
16
16
2.24
Material Safety Data Sheet
16
2.25
2.25.1
2.25.2
2.25.3
2.25.4
2.25.5
Chemical stability of the fire extinguishing agent and extinguishing performance
Aerosol-generating chemical
Determination of the aerosol-generating compound
Determination of the effectiveness of a gaseous fire extinguishing agent
Equipment for activation issues on a fire suppression aerosol generator
Analytical results
16
16
16
17
17
17
2.26
Packaging, preservation, storage and identification
17
2.27
Marking
18
2.28
Certification mark
18
3
Quality system requirements
19
3.1
General
19
3.2
3.2.1
Manager of the quality system
Requirements concerning other verification personnel
19
19
3.3
Internal quality control / quality plan
19
3.4
Procedures and work instructions
19
3.5
Other Quality system requirements
20
3.6
Storage and handling
20
3.7
Receiving inspection SFEA
20
3.8
3.8.1
Process control of production batches
Activation and discharge mechanism
20
20
4
Summary of tests, audits and inspections
21
4.1
General
21
4.2
Assessment matrix
21
4.3
Design modifications
22
4.4
Verification of the quality system
22
5
Agreements on the performance of certification
23
5.1
General
23
5.2
5.2.1
5.2.2
Certification staff
General Qualification of certification staff
Specific Qualification of certification of staff
23
23
23
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6
List of mentioned documents
25
6.1
Rules by public law
25
6.2
Standards
25
I
Model certificate
1
II
Model IQC-scheme
1
III
Additional information test procedure
2
6.3
6.3.1
6.3.2
Extinguishing EN2, Class A, fires solids materials
Extinguishing object, plastics
Extinguishing object, multilayer wood with / without plastics
3
3
4
6.4
6.4.1
Extinguishing EN2, Class B, fires liquid materials
Extinguishing object, liquid fires - test room 100 m3
5
5
6.5
Complete activation and discharge of the SFEA (electrical)
6
6.6
Thermal aging of the SFEA and electrical activator
6
Evaluation Guideline for aerosol fire extinguishing
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1 Introduction
1.1
General
This Evaluation Guideline (BRL) contains all relevant requirements on the basis of
which Kiwa issues and maintains a Kiwa Product Certificate for Kiwa product
certificate for fixed dry aerosol fire extinguishing components. Product certification in
this Evaluation Guideline is based on EN45011.
This evaluation guideline replaces the following BRL:
BRL
BRL-K23001/03
Title
Product certificate for fixed dry aerosol fire
extinguishing components
Dated
2004-11-30
This BRL replaces BRL K23001/03 of 2004-11-30 and as of 2012-07-01 any previous
versions shall no longer be used for new initial assessments. Holders of current
certificates based on older versions of this evaluation guideline shall comply with the
new version as of 2010-07-01.
During the performance of the certification work, Kiwa is bound to the requirements
as laid down in the chapter “Agreements on the implementation of certification”.
1.2
Field of application / scope
These components for fixed fire extinguishing systems using dry aerosols are
intended for incorporation into a fire extinguishing system. The fire extinguishing
components are activated by the fire extinguishing system. These components
comprise a container filled with a dry solid fire extinguishing agent which upon
activation is discharged in the form of an aerosol to extinguish the fire. This
arrangement of components is called the aerosol generator.
The fire extinguishing components shall be suitable for extinguishing fires of the
following classes (EN 2):
• Class A (solid materials);
• Class B (liquid materials).
Additional testing is optional possible for a wider scope and application.
The additional test must be listed in the attest of the product certificate.
Following tests and applications are possible:
• Class B (large liquid fires);
• Class C (gasses);
• Class F (boiling oil and fat fires);
• Classification according to MSC.1/Circ.1270 based on IMO-regulations.
Note:
Melting plastics are assigned to Class A. Fires ignited due to electrical short-circuits
cause Class A, B or C fires.
The parts to build an aerosol generator are specified in paragraph 1 and 4 of CEN/TR
15276-1. Paragraph 14 in MSC.1/Circ.1270 specifies the arrangement of aerosol
extinguishing system. The fire extinguishing component consists of the following
parts:
• container with discharge port and mounting point;
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•
•
•
•
•
solid fire extinguishing agent;
electrical activator; or
thermo cord activator;
fire extinguishing component packaging;
instruction manual
There are requirements for all parts and for the assembled product, which are
described in this evaluation guideline.
The application of the components for fixed fire extinguishing systems using dry
aerosols is a responsibility that belongs to specialists in fire safety.
The design, installation and maintenance are laid down in the Evaluation Guideline
for the Kiwa process certificate for design, installation, acceptance and aftercare of
fire-extinguishing systems based on aerosol.
The procedures and qualification requirements of technical staff applying these
products is also laid down in this evaluation guideline.
This document requires, as a precaution, that the room is evacuated and sealed off
whenever a generator is activated. Precautions include evacuation of the proximity
area, criteria for re-entering and other safeguards as stated in Clause 5 of CEN/TR
15276-2:2009.
1.3
Terminology
In this Evaluation Guideline the following definitions shall apply:
• Board of Experts: the Board of Experts “Fire Safety”;
• BRL: Evaluation Guideline;
• Supplier: the party responsible for ensuring that the products continuously fulfil
the requirements on which the certification is based;
Note: the ‘Supplier’ may also be the manufacturer of the certified product(s).
• IQC-scheme: a description of the quality inspections carried out by the supplier as
part of his quality system.
• Aerosol: colloidal mixture of a substance and a gas.
• Colloidal: the condition of materials which are finely divided in a liquid or gas, in
particulates larger than a molecule and smaller than those in a suspension.
• Suspension: liquid or gas in which another material is suspended as fine particles.
• Container: structure containing the dry solid fire extinguishing agent and from
which the agent is discharged into the surroundings through a discharge opening.
• Evaluation Guideline: arrangements concerning the subject covered by the
certification, as agreed by the Board of Experts.
• Fire extinguishing mechanism (chemical): after the activation of the dry fire
extinguishing agent it is discharged as a dry aerosol consisting of finely divided
particles (e.g. 40% of the mass), specifically alkali salts, and gasses (e.g. 60% of the
mass) primarily consisting of nitrogen, carbon dioxide and water vapour. The dry
aerosol has a chemical extinguishing action by interfering with the chain reactions
in the flames by binding to free radicals as well as a physical extinguishing action
by cooling the seat of the fire. Both reactions largely occur at the surface of the
microscopically small particulates in the dry aerosol. The smaller the particulates,
the more effective the mechanism will be.
• Solid fire extinguishing agent (SFEA): solid material which is transformed into an
aerosol by heat.
• Fire extinguishing system: system consisting of a number of components to detect
a fire, communicate it to the premises manager and possibly to others, and
independently activate other components to extinguish the fire.
• Fire extinguishing components: components which may be incorporated into a fire
extinguishing system. Examples: smoke detectors, fire detectors, manual call
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
1.4
points, cables, signals and alarm annunciators, fire extinguishing components and
other auxiliary components such as automatically closing doors. Here we are
concerned with a fire extinguishing component comprising a container filled with
dry fire extinguishing agent which, after activation, discharges a dry aerosol to
extinguish the fire.
EN: European standard.
Supplier: party which is responsible for ensuring that the products consistently
meet the requirements underlying the certification.
Internal quality monitoring plan: definition of the quality inspections undertaken
by the supplier as part of their quality system.
IMO: International Maritime Organisation.
ISO: International Standardization Organization.
NEN: Netherlands standard.
NFPA: National Fire Protection Association.
MVK: Dutch qualification for intermediate level safety experts.
HVK: Dutch qualification for senior level safety experts.
MBO: Dutch senior secondary vocational education qualification.
HBO: Dutch higher professional education qualification.
Requirments and assesments methods
This Evaluation Guideline defines requirements and assessment methods, including:
1.4.1
Requirements
Performance requirements: quantitative requirements concerning specified functional
properties of the component of the element (fire extinguishing component) defining a
limit which can be unambiguously calculated or measured.
Product requirements: quantitative requirements concerning identifiable properties
of the products used in the element (fire extinguishing component), defining a limit
which can be unambiguously calculated or measured.
1.4.2
Assessment methods
Initial assessment: assessment to determine if all the requirements defined in the
evaluation guideline are met.
Follow-up assessment: assessment undertaken after the issue of the certificate to
verify if the certified products continue to meet the requirements of the evaluation
guideline.
The assessment matrix indicates what is assessed by Kiwa during the initial and
follow-up assessments and how frequently follow-up assessments are undertaken.
1.5
Acceptance of test reports provided by the supplier
The rules for acceptance of test reports provided by the supplier are laid down in the
Kiwa Regulations for Product Certification.
1.6
Certificate
A model of the certificate to be issued on the basis of this Evaluation Guideline has
been included as an Annex.
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2 Product requirements and test methods
2.1
General
In the next chapters the requirements are embodied to which products have to
comply to.
Chapter x explains when determinations or type tests have to be undertaken as part
of the initial assessment or type test. Chapter 4 explains when determinations or tests
have to be made during manufacturing operations as part of the internal quality
monitoring efforts of the supplier.
This chapter 2 contains the performance requirements to be met by the fire
extinguishing component and the methods to determine if the requirements are
fulfilled.
2.2
Extinguishing factor, EN2, Class A and B
The performance requirements for the extinguishing factor are described in CEN/TR
15276-1, paragraph 5.2.
The test method is described in annex A of CEN/TR 15276-1 and must meet the
requirements. The factor found with the test for polymeric sheets (A6.3) and
composite wood (A6.4) must be applied for the wood crib test (A6.1). The total preburn time for this test may also be 4 minutes (3+1 minutes).
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate. The attest must be specific about the declaration for the wood crib
test.
2.3
Agent distribution, EN2, Class B
The performance requirements for the agent distribution are described in CEN/TR
15276-1, paragraph 5.3.
The test method is described in paragraph 7.5 of CEN/TR 15276-1 and must meet the
requirements.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
2.4
Discharge time
The performance requirements for the discharge time are described in CEN/TR
15276-1, paragraph 5.4.
The test method is described in paragraph 7.6 of CEN/TR 15276-1 and must meet the
requirements.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
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2.5
Ambient temperature and humidity operation ranges
The performance requirements for the discharge time are described in CEN/TR
15276-1, paragraph 5.5.
The test method is described in paragraph 7.7 of CEN/TR 15276-1 and must meet the
requirements.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
2.6
Service life
The performance requirements for the service life are described in CEN/TR 15276-1,
paragraph 5.6.
The test method is described in paragraph 7.8 of CEN/TR 15276-1 and must meet the
requirements.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
2.7
Shelf life and storage conditions
The requirements for the shelf life and storage conditions of the aerosol generator are
described in CEN/TR 15276-1, paragraph 5.7.
The shelf life and storage conditions shall be specified by the manufacturer in its
instruction the appliers.
2.8
Corrosion
The performance requirements for corrosion resistance of the aerosol generator are
described in CEN/TR 15276-1, paragraph 5.8.
The test method is described in paragraph 7.9 and 7.10 of CEN/TR 15276-1 and must
meet the requirements. The mounting bracket shall be tested together with the
generator for corrosion, vibration and mechanical shock impacts as described in 7.9,
7.11, 7.12 and 7.13.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
2.9
Vibration
The performance requirements for vibration resistance of the aerosol generator are
described in CEN/TR 15276-1, paragraph 5.8.
The test method is described in paragraph 7.11 and 7.16 of CEN/TR 15276-1 and
must meet the requirements. The mounting bracket shall be tested together with the
generator for corrosion, vibration and mechanical shock impacts as described in 7.9,
7.11, 7.12 and 7.13.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
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2.10
Mechanical shock
The performance requirements for mechanical shock resistance of the aerosol
generator are described in CEN/TR 15276-1, paragraph 5.8.
The test method is described in paragraph 7.13 and 7.16 of CEN/TR 15276-1 and
must meet the requirements. The mounting bracket shall be tested together with the
generator for corrosion, vibration and mechanical shock impacts as described in 7.9,
7.11, 7.12 and 7.13.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
2.11
Discharge temperature
The specifications of the aerosol generator for the discharge temperature are
described in CEN/TR 15276-1, paragraph 5.11.
The test method is described in paragraph 7.14 of CEN/TR 15276-1 and must meet
the requirements.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
2.12
Activator device
The specifications of the electrical activator device of the aerosol generator are
described in CEN/TR 15276-1, paragraph 5.12.
The test method is described in paragraph 7.15 of CEN/TR 15276-1 and must meet
the requirements.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
2.13
Function reliability
The specifications of the function reliability of the aerosol generator are described in
CEN/TR 15276-1, paragraph 5.13.
The test method is described in paragraph 7.16 of CEN/TR 15276-1 and must meet
the requirements.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate
2.14
Open fire conditions (optionel with requirment)
The specifications for open fire conditions of the aerosol generator are described in
CEN/TR 15276-1, paragraph 5.14.
The test method is described in paragraph 7.17 of CEN/TR 15276-1 and must meet
the requirements.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
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2.15
Rigidity and activation of the SFEA
The performance requirement for the rigidity and activation of the SFEA is
determined following. The solid fire extinguishing agent (SFEA) shall maintain its
rigidity at temperatures from -50°C to 200°C and remain capable of being ignited by
the electrical and thermal activators.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
2.15.1
Test method 1
The SFEA without the container, but with the activator, is stored for 24 hours at 50°C. After this period the SFEA is removed from the store and shall not fragment.
The SFEA is ignited in a room at ambient temperature, within 1 minute of the
removal from the store. The SFEA shall ignite immediately.
2.15.2
Test method 2
The SFEA without the container, but with the activator, is stored for 24 hours at 50°C. After this period the SFEA is removed from the store and shall not fragment.
The SFEA is then stored at ambient temperature for 24 hours and is then ignited in a
room at ambient temperature, within 1 minute of the removal from the store. The
SFEA shall ignite immediately.
2.15.3
Test method 3
The SFEA without the container, but with the activator, is stored for 24 hours at 50°C. After this period the SFEA is removed from the store and shall not fragment.
The SFEA is then left for 1 hour at ambient temperature. After that the temperature of
the SFEA is increased by 10°C every 10 minutes. The SFEA is then stored for 24 hours
at a temperature of 200°C. The SFEA is then ignited in a room at ambient
temperature, within 1 minute of the removal from the store. The SFEA shall ignite
immediately.
2.16
Auto activation of the SFEA (optionel with requirment)
The performance requirement for the rigidity and auto activation of the SFEA is
determined following. The SFEA shall exhibit auto activation between a temperature
of 250 and 350°C.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
2.16.1
Test method 1
The SFEA without the container and without the activator is stored for 24 hours at 50°C. After this period the SFEA is removed from the store and shall not fragment.
The SFEA is then heated in stages. The temperature is increased in steps of 10°C.
Once a temperature stage is reached, it shall be maintained for 10 minutes. The SFEA
shall exhibit auto activation between the stated temperatures.
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2.16.2
Test method 2
The thermo cord is stored at -50°C. After this period the thermo cord is removed from
the store and shall not fragment. The temperature of the thermo cord is then
increased in steps of 10°C. Once a temperature stage is reached, it shall be maintained
for at least 10 minutes. Above 150°C the temperature steps shall amount to 5°C. The
thermo cord shall exhibit auto activation between the stated temperatures.
Note:
The SFEA contains a binder whose function may be impaired at low temperatures.
2.17
Fixing system of the fire extinguishing component
The performance requirement for the fixing system of the fire extinguishing
component is determined following. The supplier shall ensure that the fire
extinguishing components can be securely fixed in the room where the extinguishing
action is required. It shall be possible to fix the components to the ceiling, wall or
floor of the room concerned. The fixings of the fire extinguishing component
(minimum 100 g) shall withstand a load equivalent to the weight of the fire
extinguishing component multiplied by a factor of five without visible distortion.
Test method
The fire extinguishing component is fixed to a wall or ceiling in accordance with the
supplier’s instructions. Before assessing the fire extinguishing performance, a weight
of at least five times the weight of the actual fire extinguishing component is secured
to the component. This shall be maintained for 10 minutes. At the end of the
assessment of the fire extinguishing performance the fire extinguishing component
shall not exhibit any visible distortion.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
Note:
During the test the fixing to the ceiling by screws and plugs and the physical
condition of the ceiling are not directly tested. The system is intended for a rapid
response and extinguishing action. Hence, maintaining functionality for more than
e.g. 15 minutes is not relevant. The extinguishing action will always occur at approx.
300°C. A higher temperature due to the activation which results in thermal stress on
the fixing system is assessed during the fire extinguishing performance tests.
2.18
EN2, Class B, large liquid fires (optionel with requirment)
The performance requirement for large liquid fires of the fire extinguishing
component is determined following The solid fire extinguishing system shall meet
the determinations for Class B according to EN2.
Test method
The test objective is a liquid fire in a test room of 1250 m3. The room shall have the
following minimum dimensions: height 8 m, width 8 m, depth 12 m. These
dimensions shall be scaled up to 1250 m3. Central in the room is a steel fire pan
positioned of 1.8 x 1 m and a height of 10 cm.
The fire pan shall contain a layer of 45 l heptane on 5 cm of water with a burning time
of at least 5 minutes and a power of approx. 6 MW. The pan shall be placed on the
floor.
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The fire extinguishing components shall be suspended in accordance with the
supplier’s specifications and distributed as specified by the supplier. The fire cell
shall be placed at the edge of the radius of the design extinguishing area.
The heptane shall be ignited for each test and have a free burning time of 30 seconds.
After the end of the activation of the fire extinguishing agent the room shall remain
closed for at least 10 minutes. During this period the cell shall be monitored for signs
of active fire and signs of spontaneous activation, based on the temperature
measurements in the vicinity of the fire cell.
After this period the cell shall be inspected visually for signs of active fire and signs
of active activation outside the test room without the presence of the fire
extinguishing agent. Any signs of fire shall be described in the report. The
temperature after extinguishing shall be decisive. Visible fire is considered as a sign
of spontaneous activation, but solely smoke is not.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
2.19
EN2, Class C, fires gas (optionel with requirment)
The performance requirement for gas fires of the fire extinguishing component is
determined following The solid fire extinguishing system shall meet the
determinations for Class C according to EN2.
Test method
A triangular sand bed burner to EN13283 filled with two layers of sand and gravel.
A controlled volume of propane gas is blown through the sand bed burner.
After activation the propane gas shall have a thermal power of 30 kW. The total
burning time shall be 2 minutes.
The objects to be extinguished shall be placed in the centre of the test room at floor
level. The fire extinguishing components shall be suspended in accordance with the
supplier’s specifications and distributed as specified by the supplier.
After the end of the activation of the fire extinguishing agent the room shall remain
closed for at least 10 minutes. During this period the cell shall be monitored for signs
of active fire and signs of spontaneous activation, based on the temperature
measurements in the vicinity of the fire cell.
After this period the cell shall be inspected visually for signs of active fire and signs
of active activation without the presence of the fire extinguishing agent. Any signs of
fire shall be described in the report. The temperature after extinguishing shall be
decisive. Visible fire is considered as a sign of spontaneous activation, but solely
smoke is not.
The gas burner shall have a thermal cut-out which independently interrupts the flow
of gas when the burner is extinguished.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
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2.20
EN2, Class F, fires fat (optionel with requirment)
The performance requirement for fat fires of the fire extinguishing component is
determined following The solid fire extinguishing system shall meet the
determinations for Class F according to EN2.
Test method
A steel pan with a diameter of 38 cm and a depth of 30 cm is filled with approx. 15 kg
of solid deep-frying fat (Ossewit brand). The pan is placed on a metal frame with a
propane burner underneath it which heats the steel pan from the bottom. The fat is
heated to the auto activation temperature (approx. 320°C). After activation the fat
shall have a total free burning time of 30 s.
The object to be extinguished shall be located at one side of the test room, above floor
level. The top of the steel pan shall be 60 to 65 cm above the floor.
A metal extractor hood with an area of 0.8 m2 (minimum dimensions 1 x 0.5 m) shall
be suspended above the steel pan. The extractor hood shall be approx. 1.4 m above
the floor.
While the pan is being heated the flue gasses and grease fumes shall be extracted by
the hood.
After activation of the pan and before extinguishing, the flue gas duct shall be closed
and the extractor fan motor shall be switched off.
The fire extinguishing components shall be suspended in accordance with the
supplier’s specifications and distributed as specified by the supplier.
After the end of the activation of the fire extinguishing agent the room shall remain
closed for at least 30 minutes. During this period the cell shall be monitored for signs
of active fire and signs of spontaneous activation, based on the temperature
measurements in the vicinity of the fire cell.
After this period the cell shall be inspected visually for signs of active fire and signs
of spontaneous activation. The temperature shall have fallen below the auto
activation temperature.
Any signs of fire shall be described in the report. Visible fire is considered as a sign of
spontaneous activation, but solely smoke is not.
The gas burner shall be turned off after the auto activation of the fat in the
pan.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
2.21
Classfication according to MSC.1/Circ.1270 (optional with requirment)
The performance requirements for the aerosol are described in MSC.1/Circ.1270,
appendix 1.
The test methods are described in MSC.1/Circ.1270, appendix 1 and must meet the
requirements.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate. The classification in the attest is according to MSC.1/Circ.1270,
appendix A4.
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2.22
Qualification according to UL 2775 (optional with requirment)
The performance requirements for the aerosol are described in UL2775.
The relevant test methods for dry condensed aerosols are described in UL2775
paragraphs 20 until 60 and must meet the requirements.
The findings of the determination and tests must be declared in the attest of the
product certificate.
2.23
Documentation
The requirements for the documentation of the aerosol generator and system are
described in CEN/TR 15276-1, paragraph 5.16.
2.23.1
Design, installation and operation manual
At the time of delivery the product shall be accompanied by an operating manual.
This manual shall address at least the following topics:
• Preparations for application;
• Application details and conditions;
• Application scope, fire extinguishing capacity, discharge length and
temperature decay, surface temperature during fire extinguishing action;
• Use of the accessories;
• Quality inspections relevant to the application;
• Chemical resistance of the fire extinguishing component.
2.24
Material Safety Data Sheet
The fire extinguishing agent shall be safe to humans and the environment during
processing, storage and application. The application is in relation to its intended
goals. With respect to the user this shall be demonstrated by the Chemical Product
Safety Data Sheet or Material Safety Data Sheet in accordance with:
• NEN-ISO11014-1;
• EU Directive 91/155/EEC (Official Journal L76/91) of March 5th, 1991;
Registration has to be in according to REACH, see EU-GHS (EG. nr 1272/2008).
2.25
Chemical stability of the fire extinguishing agent and extinguishing
performance
The chemical composition shall be determined during the type tests and this
formulation shall be recorded by Kiwa and the supplier. All components of the
product shall be clearly identified.
2.25.1
Aerosol-generating chemical
The aerosol-generating chemical is a thermoplastic mixture consisting of an oxidiser,
a combustion binder and additives. The oxidiser is solid potassium nitrate (KNO3),
the binder is solid plasticised resin and other ingredients are for stabilisation.
The solid residual compound contains elementary species, potassium salts, mineral
fractions, retarded resin and a binding retarder as environmentally innocuous
chemically acting fire suppression additives.
2.25.2
Determination of the aerosol-generating compound
Powered fire-extinguishing medium extracts being prepared with water hydrolysis
by dissolving the chemical using ultra-sonic wave technology and acid digestion
using micro-wave destruction technology. Sample extracts for performing techniques,
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such as ICP-MS, pH, potentiometric measurements on alkalinity and acidimetry, TOC
analyzer, CFA analyzer, total organic N analyzer and Ion chromatography, are
prepared. The original compound is analyzed by the two analytical procedures:
(1) ICP-MS after applying digestion techniques using pressed pellets and
(2) the water dissolved extracts will be analyzed for anions by Ion chromatography or
CFA, for pH by potentiometric measurement, hydrocarbonates and carbonates by
acidimetric measurements. The dissolved organic carbon is analyzed with TOC
equipment. C and S are determined with a combustion C and S analyzer and N with
a total organic N analyzer.
2.25.3
Determination of the effectiveness of a gaseous fire extinguishing agent
The effectiveness of a gaseous fire extinguishing agent, consisting of solid aerosolforming compound, is determined after activation by electrical ignition at a
temperature of 300ºC with a thermocord. The present residue after activation of the
extinguishing generators is directed to analytical testing with the performing
techniques see 2.25.2.
2.25.4
Equipment for activation issues on a fire suppression aerosol generator
A combustion chamber can be used for the activation of solid aerosol-forming
compound. Before the activation the combustion chamber need to be inspected and
cleaned before discharging the deleterious compound. Only by-products from the
activation itself have to be present on the integrated glass plate, which is integrated
into the combustion chamber. No unwanted by-products from the outside of the
combustion chamber could be present.
Residual aerosol particulates after activation of the solid aerosol-forming compound
being collected from the inert glass plate, which is integrated in the combustion
chamber. The collected particulates are directly analyzed by the different analytical
techniques.
2.25.5
Analytical results
All analytical experiments by 2.25.1 and 2.25.2 show the original specific composition
of the aerosol-forming compound (AFC’s) and the formed particulates after
activation at a temperature of 300°C in a combustion chamber. In these experiments
both samples of aerosol-forming compounds are analyzed according to several
European Standard Methods. The data before – and after activation are obtained by
analyzing the original compound and the formed residues. The transport of
particulates and gasses are calculated(1) in accordance with their model - and actual
chemical reactions based on the used original fire extinguishing compound and their
formed residual products.
(1) A special spreadsheet for chemical calculations on all different fire extinguishing
compounds before - and after activation at a temperature of 300°C can be used to
fulfil requirements on the formed products in relation to safety, corrosion - and
toxicological purposes.
2.26
Packaging, preservation, storage and identification
The packaging shall be appropriate for the application. If special preservation
measures are required then these shall be stated in the application instructions and on
the packaging identification label. In view of the preservation requirements the
storage shall be in accordance with the application instructions.
The identification on the container and/or packaging shall clearly provide the
following information:
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Generator
X
X
X
X
X
Packaging
X
X
X
X
X
X
Marking
Manufacturer
Supplier’s address and telephone number
Supplier’s type designation
Reference to the application instructions*
Certification mark
Year and month of manufacturing and batch
number
Number of items
Fire Class to EN2
*The application instructions shall describe the scope of application, fire
extinguishing capacity, discharge length and temperature decay and the surface
temperature during fire extinguishing action.
2.27
Marking
The requirements for the marking of the aerosol generator and system are described
in CEN/TR 15276-1, paragraph 5.17.
2.28
Certification mark
The following marks and indications must be provided on each product and product
packaging in a clear, legible and indelible way.
The Kiwa certification mark to be applied to certified products shall be as shown
below, with the legend “BRL K23001”.
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3 Quality system requirements
3.1
General
This chapter contains the requirements that have to be fulfilled by the manufacturer’s
quality system.
3.2
Manager of the quality system
Within the manufacturer’s organisational structure an employee must be appointed
who is in charge of managing the quality system.
3.2.1
Requirements concerning other verification personnel
Function
Production manager
Education
Higher professional qualification in one of the
following disciplines:
•
Technical
Experience
1 year
Laboratory manager
Higher professional qualification in one of the
following disciplines:
•
Chemistry or comparable
1 year
The education and experience of relevant personnel shall be verifiably documented.
3.3
Internal quality control / quality plan
As part of the quality system the manufacturer must implement an internal quality
control schedule (IQC-scheme).
In this IQC-scheme the following must be demonstrably recorded:
• Which aspects are inspected by the manufacturer;
• According to which methods these inspections are carried out;
• How often these inspections are carried out;
• How the inspection results are registered and stored.
This IQC-schedule shall be in the format as shown in the annex. The schedule must
be detailed in such a way that it provides Kiwa sufficient confidence that
requirements will be continuously fulfilled.
3.4
Procedures and work instructions
The manufacturer must be able to submit:
• Procedures for:
o the handling of non-conforming products;
o corrective actions in case non-conformities are found;
o the handling of complaints regarding the products and / or services supplied;
• The work instructions and inspection sheets in use.
• Instructions for packaging and closing off of products during storage and
transport.
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3.5
Other Quality system requirements
The supplier (manufacturer) shall have an operative quality system based on ENISO9001.
3.6
Storage and handling
The storage and handling of the fire extinguishing agent shall be dry and protected
against the weather and the storage temperature and maximum relative humidity
shall be as specified by the supplier.
3.7
Receiving inspection SFEA
The chemical composition shall be determined during the type tests and be recorded
by Kiwa and the supplier. Every delivery of SFEA ingredients shall be accompanied
by delivery certificates issued by the supplier to demonstrate that the composition
meets the specifications. The delivery certificates shall be based on laboratory
analysis of the composition of each production batch of the SFEA. The receiving
inspection of the SFEA shall be carried out for each received delivery. The results
shall be determined through laboratory analysis.
3.8
Process control of production batches
The performance of completed product shall be tested using random samples. The
statistical process control shall be based on a defined sampling system with an
accepted level of quality to ISO2854. The minimum sample size shall be inspection
level S2 and the accepted quality level AQL 6.5.
3.8.1
Activation and discharge mechanism
The reliable operation of the activation and discharge mechanism and its initiation
shall be statistically demonstrated by multiple functional tests.
These tests shall clearly indicate the likelihood of failure, completeness of the
discharge and discharge quantity. This data shall be included in the statistical process
control for the completed products. This shall be governed by a test similar to that
described in section 2.2, 2.3 or 2.19.
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4 Summary of tests, audits and inspections
4.1
General
This chapter contains a summary of tests and inspections to be carried out during:
Initial evaluation: the investigation necessary in order to determine whether all
requirements of the evaluation guideline are fulfilled;
Inspection visit: the surveillances are carried out after issue of the certificate in order
to determine whether the certified products continuously fulfil the requirements of
this evaluation guideline. The surveillance audits and inspections are carried out
according to the frequency indicated;
Audit of the quality system: audit with regard to the correct implementation of the
IQC-schedule and procedures. The surveillance audits and inspections are carried out
according to the frequency indicated.
4.2
Assessment matrix
The initial evaluation (IE) consists out type tests (TT) of the product to determine if it
meets the relevant performance and product requirements. The matrix identifies the
requirements to be fulfilled to be eligible for certification. During the initial audit it is
also verified if the quality system of the product’s manufacturer meets the
requirements.
Requirement
BRL
chapter
Assessment for
Initial
Surveillance by Kiwa after issue of
Evaluation the certificate
+
Type Test
Audit & Inspection
Type Test
frequency
frequency
Fire extinguishing performance of the fire
2
extinguishing component
Complete activation/discharge (electrical or
2
thermo cord) of the fire extinguishing component
All further requirements
2
IE + TT
1/year
IE + TT
1/year
IE + TT
Product requirements
Installation and application manual
Packaging, preservation, storage, identification
Certification mark
3.3.1
3.3.2
3.3.3
IE
IE
IE
1/year
1/year
1/year
Quality system
4
IE
2/year
Once the certificate has been granted it shall be verified regularly if the manufactured
products continue to meet the relevant performance and product requirements,
which will require further type tests.
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There shall be regular audits to determine if the quality system of the manufacturer of
the products is still complying and if the product continues to be manufactured in
accordance with the specifications used for the initial tests.
4.3
Design modifications
Design modifications to the certified product shall always be notified to Kiwa before
being introduced in the production process. Kiwa shall assess to what extent the
design modifications will require new type tests of the product. The modified
product may only be supplied with the Kiwa mark after written approval by Kiwa of
the new product.
4.4
Verification of the quality system
The verification of the quality system can be demonstrated by production of a
certificate issued by an accredited certification body covered by EAC accreditation.
The tests and audits shall be carried out in accordance with the assessment matrix of
this Evaluation Guideline. The audit frequency is 2/year.
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5 Agreements on the performance of
certification
5.1
General
This chapter contains the by the Board of Experts elaborated agreements on the
performance of certification by Kiwa.
Furthermore are the general agreements on the performance of certification
applicable as laid down in the Kiwa-Regulations for Product Certification.
This includes in special the:
• The general procedures for execution of the pre-certification evaluation such as:
o The process in which the suppliers are informed about the handling of the
application for certification;
o The execution of the assessment;
o The decision based on the execution of the evaluation
• The general procedures for the execution of the audits and inspections and the
aspects for the evaluation;
• The sanctions by the certification body when non-conformities are found during
the audits and inspections;
• The sanctions by the certification body when improper use of the Product
Certificate, the Certification Mark, Pictograms and Logo’s.
• The procedures at whit drawing a Product Certificate;
• The possibility of an appeal lodged with the Board of Appeal against a decision
or measure taken by Kiwa.
5.2
Certification staff
The staff involved in the certification process is sub-divided into:
• Certification engineers: in charge of carrying out the pre-certification tests and
assessing the reports of the auditors / inspectors;
• Inspectors / auditor : in charge of carrying out external inspections / audits at the
supplier’s works;
• Decision-makers: in charge of taking decisions in connection with the precertification tests performed, continuing the certification in connection with the
inspections performed and taking decisions with regard to corrective actions.
5.2.1
General Qualification of certification staff
The qualification certification staff must meet the requirements of chapter 5 of
En45011. The quality system of Kiwa describes the procedures for general and
specific qualification of certification staff.
5.2.2
Specific Qualification of certification of staff
The Board of Experts has defined the following qualification requirements for the
scope of this Evaluation Guideline:
Certification personnel
Certification expert
Education
Higher professional qualification in one of the
following disciplines:
•
Chemistry, electrical engineering, mechanical
engineering or similar
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Experience
3 years
BRL-K23001/04
July, 1st, 2010
•
•
•
Internal training in certification and Kiwa policies
Audit training
(Fire) Safety education or equivalent
Inspector / auditor
Senior secondary vocational education qualification in
one of the following disciplines:
•
Chemistry, electrical engineering, mechanical
engineering or similar
•
Internal training in certification and Kiwa policies
•
Audit training
•
(Fire) Safety education or equivalent
3 years
Decision-maker
Higher professional qualification in one of the
following disciplines:
•
Chemistry, electrical engineering, mechanical
engineering or similar
•
Internal training in certification and Kiwa policies
•
Audit training
5 years
Management
experience
The education and experience of relevant certification personnel shall be
adequately documented.
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6 List of mentioned documents
6.1
Rules by public law
There is no legislation pertinent to this product.
6.2
Standards
Following standards are used in this evaluation guideline.
Standard
NEN-EN2
Subject
NEN-EN2: Classification of fires
Data
2004
EN13823
Single Burning Item test procedure
2002
UL2127
UL2127, Standard for Inert Gas Clean Agent Extinguishing
1999
System Units, first edition, March 31, 1999
Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes – Part 1:
1999
sampling schemes indexed by acceptance quality limit (AQL) for
lot-by-lot inspection
Technical corrigendum
2001
ISO2859
ISO2859
CEN/TR 15276-1
MSC.1/Circ.1270
NEN-ISO11014-1
ISO9001
UL 2775
Fixed fire fighting systems - Condensed aerosol extinguishing
systems - Part 1: Requirements and test methods for components
Revised Guidelines for the approval of fixed aerosol fire
extinguishing systems equivalent to fixed gas fire extinguishing
systems, as referred to in SOLAS 74, for machinery spaces
Safety data sheet for chemical products. Part 1: Content and
order of sections
Quality management systems - Requirements
Outline of Investigation for fixed condensed aerosol
extinguishing system units
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2009
2008
2009
2008
2008
I Model certificate
Product certificate
KXXXXXX/0X
Issued
Replaces
Page
1 of 2
Aerosol fire extinguishing
STATEMENT BY KIWA
With this product certificate, issued in accordance with the Kiwa
Regulations for Product Certification, Kiwa declares that legitimate
confidence exists that the products supplied by
Name Supplier
complying with the technical specifications as laid down in this product
certificate and marked with the Kiwa®-mark in the manner as indicated in
this product certificate, on delivery, may be relied upon to comply with the
Kiwa evaluation guideline BRL-K23001 “Kiwa product certificate for fixed
dry aerosol fire extinguishing components”.
Kiwa N.V.
ing. B. Meekma
director
Publication of the certificate is allowed.
Advice: consult www.kiwa.nl in order to ensure that this certificate is still
valid
Kiwa N.V.
Sir W. Churchill-laan 273
Postbus 70
2280 AB RIJSWIJK
The Netherlands
Tel. +31 70 414 44 00
Fax +31 70 414 44 20
E-mail info@kiwa.nl
www.kiwa.nl
Supplier
Certification process
consist of initial and
regular inspection of:
• quality system
• product
•
Kiwa® product certificate
Aerosol fire extinguishing
Product specification
The products mentioned below belong to this certificate
Application and use
Marking
The Kiwa®-mark products are marked with the wordmark “KIWA
Place of the mark:
Compulsory specifications:
xxx
Method of marking:
•
Non-erasable;
•
visible after assembly
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CUSTOMERS
Check at the time of delivery whether:
-
the producer has delivered in accordance with the agreement;
the mark and the marking method are correct;
the products show no visible defects as a result of transport etc.
If you should reject a product on the basis of the above, please contact:
and, if necessary,
-
Kiwa N.V.
Consult the producer's processing guidelines for the proper storage and transport methods.
KXXXXX/0X
II Model IQC-scheme
Subjects
Raw materials or materials
supplied:
•
Recipe sheets
•
Incoming inspection raw
materials
Production process,
production equipment,
material:
•
procedures
•
work instructions
•
equipment
•
release of product
Finished-products
Measuring and testing
equipment
•
measuring equipment
•
calibration
Logistics
•
internal transport
•
storage
•
preservation
•
packaging
•
identification or marking
of semi finished and
finished products
Aspects
Method
Frequency
Registration
III Additional information test procedure
The fixed fire extinguishing components based on a dry aerosol shall effectively
extinguish objects of the relevant fire class. A further requirement is that the fire
extinguishing components are connected to and initiated by an effective fire detection
system. A fast detection and response are essential. Effective extinguishment means
that the object to be extinguished is no longer burning after the test and does not
reignite later. To provide a correlation between the extinguishing performance of fire
extinguishing components and the fire classes referred to in the scope, the fire
extinguishing components are tested for each fire class requested by the supplier for
the certification assessment.
The tests are undertaken using the aerosol for which the supplier wants to receive a
certificate. During the tests the supplier’s design formula for the use of his fixed fire
extinguishing components is also verified. The formula used by the supplier shall
incorporate:
• the dimensions of the room containing the object to be extinguished and the
length, width and height ratios;
• aerosol dispersal factor;
• the amount of fire extinguishing agent, expressed as grams of agent per m3
room.
The test is carried out in a substantially sealed room. Doors and windows shall be
closed. However, a limited area of ventilation grids may be present. Any forced
ventilation systems shall be shut down. The test shall be based on the exact
arithmetical calculation of the number of grams per volume unit as this governs the
value stated in the certificate. There shall be no physical obstructions in the room. The
additional safety factors (1.2 or 1.3) required under the NFPA guidelines for project
design shall not be used when testing the fire extinguishing performance and design
formula. The design formula shall allow for the quantity of remaining fire
extinguishing agent in the cooling effect of the fire extinguishing component. When
testing Class B fires the operation of the fire extinguishing agent in relation to its
dispersal shall be tested more extensively.
The test of the fire extinguishing effect shall be made under the following conditions.
Function
Fire class
Assessment method to EN2 and
BS7937
Thermal energy/power
Burning time due to catalyst
Catalyst
Performance
A, B, C, F
See fire extinguishing test object
See fire extinguishing test object
Heptane to Table 34.2 UL2127 for
Class A
60 ± 20
Relative humidity in the room, before
the fire, measured with a hygrometer
Ambient temperature before the fire, 15 ± 10
determined by a thermocouple
immediately outside the room with
∆T 10 sec recording using a data
logger
Temperature in the room, determined TBD
using at least 4 thermocouples on the
ceiling with ∆T 10 sec recording using
Unit
Minutes
%
°C
°C
a data logger
Dimensions of the test room
Length at least 4 * Width at least 4 *
Height at least 3.5
Volume at least 100
For F and section 2.2.6 volume at
least 80
Ventilation during the fire time, using Adequate ventilation, i.e. 20.7% O2 ±
constant measurement
0.5% O2
Ventilation area and position during
0.1% of the volume of the room,
extinguishing
distributed evenly across the room
Air flow through the room
Natural
Closing of the test room after igniting 30
the fire
Required amount of fire extinguishing Supplier’s design formula
agent according to the formula
Extinguishing time
60
Monitoring time
600 for Class A, B and C.
1800 for Class F
Agent discharge
Direction and homogeneity
Weight of agent to determine
Before and after extinguishing
percentage of agent discharged
Activation
Supplier’s system
m and m3
% O2
m2
S
g/m3
S
S
Visual
G
Ventilation area during extinguishing = 0.1% (e.g.: 1000 m3 = 1 m2 and 100 m3
= 0.1 m2)
Additional registrations during the test, in seconds:
• Time of activation of the heptane.
• Time of activation of the plastic.
• Time of initial activation of the fire extinguishing components.
• End time of the activation of the aerosol.
• Time at which the flames are extinguished.
There shall be adequate ventilation during the burning time and the oxygen
concentration in the test room shall be maintained. If this cannot be guaranteed then
during the activation the oxygen percentage at the level of the source of fuel shall not
deviate more than 0.5 vol% from the normal percentage under ambient conditions
and the oxygen percentage shall be measured with a calibrated oxygen gauge using a
sensor at the same level as the source of fuel.
6.3
Extinguishing EN2, Class A, fires solids materials
The solid fire extinguishing agent shall meet both determinations for Class A.
6.3.1
Extinguishing object, plastics
Each plastic fire cell consists of 4 plastic panels with a thickness of 1 cm, length of 40
cm and width of 20 cm. The panels are positioned as shown in Figure 34.1 of UL2127.
The base of the plastic fire cell is positioned 20 cm above the floor and the panels are
mechanically joined to each other. A steel fire shield with plates on two sides and at
the top is placed around the fire cell as shown in Figure 34.1 of UL2127. The steel fire
shield is 38 cm wide, 85.1 cm high and 61 cm deep. The other sides and the base are
open. The fire cell is positioned such that the 20 cm side of the fire cell runs parallel to
the 61 cm side of the fire shield.
Two external baffles, 1 m2 and 30 cm in size shall be fixed externally to the fire shields
as shown in Figure 34.2 of UL2127. The baffles shall be placed 9 cm above the floor.
The low baffle shall be positioned with its side parallel to the fire shield and the top
baffle shall be turned 45° relative to the low baffle.
The fire extinguishing components shall be suspended above the fire cell in
accordance with the supplier’s specifications and distributed as specified by the
supplier. The fire cell shall be placed at the edge of the radius of the design
extinguishing area.
The test shall be carried out using two plastic fuels: polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)
and polypropylene (PP). The properties of these materials are defined in Table 34.1
of UL2127. The source of activation shall be a square pan of 5.1 x 5.1 cm, with a depth
of 2.2 cm, filled with heptane. The pan shall be centred 1.3 cm below the bottom of
the plastic panels. The volume of heptane shall provide a burning time of at least 90
seconds.
The pan with heptane shall be ignited and the panels shall have a total free burning
time of 210 seconds. After the end of the activation of the fire extinguishing agent the
room shall remain closed for at least 10 minutes. During this period the cell shall be
monitored for signs of active fire and signs of spontaneous activation, based on the
temperature measurements in the vicinity of the fire cell. After this period the cell
shall be inspected visually for signs of active fire and signs of spontaneous activation
outside the test room and without the presence of the fire extinguishing agent. Any
signs of fire shall be described in the report. The loss of weight and temperature after
extinguishing shall be decisive. Visible fire is considered as a sign of spontaneous
activation, but solely smoke is not.
6.3.2
Extinguishing object, multilayer wood with / without plastics
Each fire cell consists of compressed wood panels, i.e.:
• Particleboard with a plastic facing on both sides (furniture panel) with a
burning time of 6 minutes using a catalyst.
• MDF panel with a burning time of 6 minutes using a catalyst.
• Plywood panel with a burning time of 6 minutes using a catalyst.
Specifications of these panels;
• Particleboard to ISO17064; 2004 “Wood-based panels - Fibreboard,
particleboard and oriented strand board” and NEN-EN312; 2003
“Particleboards - Specifications”.
• MDF to ISO17064; 2004 “Wood-based panels - Fibreboard, particleboard and
oriented strand board” and NEN-EN316; 1999 “Wood fibreboards Definition, classification and symbols”.
• Plywood to ISO17064; 2004 “Wood-based panels - Fibreboard, particleboard
and oriented strand board” and draft NEN-EN14755; 2003 “Extruded
particleboards - Specifications”.
The dimensions of the panels are approx. 2 cm thick, 40 cm long and 20 cm wide. The
panels are positioned as shown in Figure 34.1 of UL2127. The base of the plastic fire
cell is positioned 20 cm above the floor and the panels are mechanically joined to each
other. A steel fire shield with plates on two sides and at the top is placed around the
fire cell as shown in Figure 34.1 of UL2127. The steel fire shield is 38 cm wide, 85.1 cm
high and 61 cm deep. The other sides and the base are open. The fire cell is positioned
such that the 20 cm side of the fire cell runs parallel to the 61 cm side of the fire
shield.
Two external baffles, 1 m2 and 30 cm in size shall be fixed externally to the fire shields
as shown in Figure 34.2 of UL2127. The baffles shall be placed 9 cm above the floor.
The low baffle shall be positioned with its side parallel to the fire shield and the top
baffle shall be turned 45° relative to the low baffle.
The fire extinguishing components shall be suspended above the fire cell in
accordance with the supplier’s specifications and distributed as specified by the
supplier. The fire cell shall be placed at the edge of the radius of the design
extinguishing area.
The test shall be carried out using two plastic fuels: polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)
and polypropylene (PP). The properties of these materials are defined in Table 34.1
of UL2127. The source of activation shall be a square pan of 5.1 x 5.1 cm, with a depth
of 2.2 cm, filled with heptane. The pan shall be centred 1.3 cm below the bottom of
the plastic panels. The volume of heptane shall provide a burning time of at least 90
seconds.
After the end of the activation of the fire extinguishing agent the room shall remain
closed for at least 10 minutes. During this period the cell shall be monitored for signs
of active fire and signs of spontaneous activation, based on the temperature
measurements in the vicinity of the fire cell. After this period the cell shall be
inspected visually for signs of active fire and signs of active activation outside the test
room without the presence of the fire extinguishing agent. Any signs of fire shall be
described in the report. The loss of weight and temperature after extinguishing shall
be decisive. Visible fire is considered as a sign of spontaneous activation, but solely
smoke is not.
6.4
Extinguishing EN2, Class B, fires liquid materials
The solid fire extinguishing agent shall meet both determinations for Class B
6.4.1
Extinguishing object, liquid fires - test room 100 m3
This test shall be performed according to annex A5 of CEN/TR 15276-1.
The fire extinguishing components shall be suspended above the fire cell in
accordance with the supplier’s specifications and distributed as specified by the
supplier. The fire cell shall be placed at the edge of the radius of the design
extinguishing area.
For each test the heptane shall be ignited and have a free burning time of 30 seconds.
After the end of the activation of the fire extinguishing agent the room shall remain
closed for at least 10 minutes. During this period the cell shall be monitored for signs
of active fire and signs of spontaneous activation, based on the temperature
measurements in the vicinity of the fire cell.
After this period the cell shall be inspected visually for signs of active fire and signs
of active activation outside the test room without the presence of the fire
extinguishing agent. Any signs of fire shall be described in the report. The
temperature after extinguishing shall be decisive.
Visible fire is considered as a sign of spontaneous activation, but solely smoke is not.
The source of activation shall be a square pan 5.1 x 5.1 cm, 2.2 cm deep, filled with
heptane. The heptane shall have a burning time of at least 90 seconds.
6.5
Complete activation and discharge of the SFEA (electrical)
The performance requirement for the complete activation and discharge of the SFEA
(electrical) from the fire extinguishing component is determined following.
After activation by the electrical activator no less than the design quantity of SFEA
shall be discharged from the container through the discharge port provided, with a
tolerance of -15%. This determination shall be carried in triplicate for each component
to provide reliable discharge data.
Assessment method
Weigh the fire extinguishing component to 0.1% before assembly. The electrical
activator in the container is activated at ambient temperature. After activation all the
SFEA stated by the supplier shall be discharged, with a maximum tolerance of -5%.
The electrical activator shall be initiated electrically using the minimum specifications
(Volt, Ampere) stated by the supplier, with a tolerance of 5%. This shall be measured
with a Class 1.5 VA meter. After activation, the amount of fire extinguishing agent
discharged shall be determined by weighing and it shall be verified visually if this
occurred homogeneously through the discharge port provided. This may be done by
determining if the container exhibits any cracks or punctures.
6.6
Thermal aging of the SFEA and electrical activator
The performance requirement for the thermal aging of the SFEA is determined
following.
The product (SFEA and discharge system) must have a design lifespan of 15 years if
stored in a dry, non corrosive environment.
Assessment method
The lifespan is determined by thermal aging. The assembly comprising the
extinguishing agent and activator is tested in its original container. The container is
placed in a temperature controlled room in which the temperature can be cycled
(aging cabinet). The following test is then undertaken.
The aging cabinet is set to -10 °C and 50 °C (± 2 °C) and alternates between these
temperatures every 4 hours. Once cycle amounts to a full transition from -10 °C to 50
°C, and then back to -10 °C within 8 hours. Fifty cycles are completed, after which the
fire extinguishing performance of the agent is determined in accordance with section
2.2.1.5.
Note:
This test is used for several materials of construction. The stability of the molecular
structure of the material is tested by the temperature cycles. During each cycle the
material passes the dew point which will lead to condensation on the exterior of the
object. During the cold period this may lead to freezing in hairline cracks in the
material which may affect the structure of the material. In use the components are not
exposed to rain, i.e. they are not exposed to a full water load, but they may be
affected by condensation, which is simulated by this test. This thermal aging method
is adopted in several standards to obtain information about the long-term behaviour
of materials in the short term. The effect of this on the fire extinguishing performance
is realistic and functional.
This test is indicative. The Evaluation Guideline refers to the design lifespan;
however the product certificate does not include information about this parameter.