What is ASTM E 648, Standard Test Method for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor-Covering Systems Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source (Flooring Radiant Panel Test)?
In this test, a horizontally mounted floor covering system is exposed to radiant energy from a gas/air fuel radiant panel mounted above one end of the sample and inclined at a 30 degree angle. The radiant panel generates a heat profile along the length of the sample. A gas-fired pilot burner is used to ignite the sample, and the distance the floor covering system burns to extinguishment is converted to watts per square centimeter (watts/cm2). This value is reported as the Critical Radiant Flux (CRF) and is the minimum radiant energy needed to sustain flame propagation in the test. A CRF of 0.45 watts/cm2 or more, Class I rating, may be requested for floor finish materials installed in corridors and exits of certain buildings, such as health care facilities.
