Interlaboratory Crosscheck Test Programs /

Flammability Testing of Plastics

Fee: $520

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

ASTM’s Proficiency Test Program provides laboratories with a testing program that enables labs to compare, improve and demonstrate their proficiency in performing a commonly used small scale laboratory flammability test on centrally prepared plastic test specimens.

Conducted twice a year, this program provides prepared test specimens fabricated from two different engineering resins for each test cycle, data recording forms and protocols for conducting each test. The test specimens will be centrally prepared in accord with specific ASTM requirements and distributed to all program participants by Plasticoncentrates, Inc of Trainer, PA.

Each laboratory electronically submits their completed test results to ASTM for use in generating statistical summary reports. Electronic final reports contain:


  • Coded laboratory test results
  • Statistical analysis of test data
  • Charts plotting test results versus lab code
  • Other information

TEST MATERIALS

Each lab will receive sufficient quantities of test specimens to conduct the program test each test cycle. Extra specimens are supplied for testing purposes as needed. Program registration fees include test specimen shipping costs to all registered participants.

METHODS INCLUDED IN THE PROGRAM

D3801

Test for Measuring the Comparative Burning Characteristics of Solid Plastics in a Vertical Position

UL 94V

Tests for Flammability of Plastic Materials for Parts in Devices and Appliances Section 8-20 mm Vertical Burning Test for V0,V1, V2

IEC 60695-11-10

Fire hazard Testing-Part 11-10 Test Flames 50W Horizontal and Vertical Flame Test Method B Vertical Burning Test

NOTE: Additional ASTM Flammability Plastic Tests May Be Added in the Future.


WHY SHOULD YOUR LABORATORY PARTICIPATE?


ASTM's Proficiency Test Program provides you with:


  • A useful and meaningful statistical quality assurance program to monitor the strengths and weaknesses of your laboratory's performance in conducting tests
  • The resources you need to satisfy proficiency testing elements of laboratory accreditation
  • A periodic comparison of test results with other participating laboratories worldwide

PROGRAM SCHEDULE & FEE INFORMATION

The program will be conducted in March and August.

Samples, test instructions, and electronic submittal forms are distributed prior to the test month. Upon completing the test, each laboratory electronically submits their test data to ASTM for use in generating statistical summary reports.

Annual Fee: $520


REQUIREMENTS OF PARTICIPATION

Participation is on an annual fee basis and open to all laboratories. Registration fees must be paid in advance to participate. Testing must be performed within the participant’s laboratory and in accord with the current published version of the ASTM tests. Participation is not contingent upon performing all program tests. Final reports will only be distributed to those labs who submit data for each trial of testing.


ABOUT ASTM COMMITTEE D20

Committee D20 on Plastics, consisting of over 750 members, is a developer of 470 standards. The Committee provides the technical direction for the program. Test information from the program may be utilized by Committee D20 to determine if changes to the ASTM test methods are warranted. Data submitted to Committee D20 is coded by ASTM to maintain confidentiality.


FOR MORE INFORMATION, contactJamie Huffnagle at Phone: (610) 832-9682; Fax (610)832-9682.