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Description / Abstract:
These methods of fire tests are applicable to window assemblies,
including glass block and other light transmitting assemblies, for
use in the protection of openings in vertical fire resistive
assemblies.
Assemblies classified in accordance with this standard provide
only limited protection from the transmission of heat. This
standard provides guidance to measure the heat flux emitted through
the test specimen during the fire exposure and temperatures on the
unexposed surface.
Tests made in conformity with these test methods shall not be
construed as determining suitability of window assemblies for
continued use after fire exposure.
These methods are intended to evaluate the ability of a window
or other light transmitting assembly to remain in an opening during
a predetermined test exposure.
The tests expose a specimen to a standard fire exposure
controlled to achieve specified temperatures throughout a specified
time period, followed by the application of a specified standard
fire hose stream. The exposure, however, may not be representative
of all fire exposure conditions, which may vary with changes in the
amount, nature, and distribution of fire loading; ventilation;
compartment size and configuration; and heat sink characteristics
of the compartment. It does, however, provide a relative measure of
fire performance of window assemblies under these specified
exposure conditions.
This standard defines two pressure conditions for the control of
the furnace during the fire exposure. One pressure condition is
identified as a positive pressure condition and one is identified
as a neutral pressure condition.
Any variation from the construction or conditions that are
tested may substantially change the performance characteristics of
the assembly.
These methods do not provide the following:
a) Full information as to performance of all window assemblies
in walls constructed of materials other than tested.
b) Evaluation of the degree by which the window assembly
contributes to the fire hazard by generation of smoke, toxic gases,
or other products of combustion.
c) Measurement of the degree of control or limitation of smoke
or products of combustion passage through the window assembly.
These methods permit loss of glass lights and through openings,
provided such loss and openings do not exceed specified limits.