NFPA 258 Test to Determine Smoke Production of Solid Materials

EUROLAB laboratory provides testing and compliance services within the scope of NFPA 258 standard. This standard provides a procedure for evaluating smoke blackening from the combustion of solid materials and assemblies up to 1 inch (25.4 mm) (25,4 mm) thick when subjected to certain test conditions in a closed chamber.

The test is used only as a research and development tool and should not be used as a basis for determining ratings for building codes or other regulatory purposes.

The measurement is made by the attenuation of a light beam by suspended solid or liquid particles - ie smoke - accumulating in a closed chamber. Smoke results from the flameless, pyrolytic decomposition or flaming combustion of a relatively small sample of material. The radiant heat source is an electric oven. NFPA 270, Standard Test Method for Measurement of Smoke Blackening Using a Conical Radiant Source in a Single Enclosed Chamber, was subsequently developed using an improved design radiant heat source within the same enclosure.

Test results are expressed in terms of specific optical density, which is a dimensionless property derived from measured light transmission and geometric measurements of the chamber and sample.

This test is designed to measure and describe the properties of materials, products or assemblies in response to heat and flame under controlled conditions. It is not intended to describe or evaluate the fire hazard or fire risk of materials, products or assemblies under actual fire conditions.

EUROLAB assists manufacturers with NFPA 258 test compliance. Our test experts, with their professional working mission and principles, provide you, our manufacturers and suppliers, the best service and controlled testing process in our laboratories. Thanks to these services, businesses receive more effective, high-performance and quality testing services and provide safe, fast and uninterrupted service to their customers.