ASTM E2874-23 - Standard Test Method for Determining the Fire-Test Response Characteristics of a Building Spandrel-Panel Assembly Due to External Spread of Fire

1.1 This test method evaluates the fire-test response characteristics of a spandrel-panel assembly spanning the intersection of a floor assembly.

1.2 This test method is used to assess the spandrel-panel assembly’s ability to impede spread of fire to the interior of the room or the story immediately above it via fire spread from the exterior of a building, and provide a quantitative measure of the fire hazard in terms of an I-Rating, T-Rating, and F-Rating from a specified set of fire conditions involving specific materials, products, or assemblies.

1.3 This test evaluates the performance of the portions of the exterior wall installed between vertically adjacent window openings in multi-story buildings.

1.4 This test method addresses the potential for fire spread to a single story immediately above the room of fire origin.

1.5 The test method simulates a fire in a post-flashover condition in a compartment that is venting to the exterior through a window opening.

1.6 The fire exposure conditions within the test room are those specified by this test method for the first 30 min of exposure and then conform to Test Methods E119 time-temperature curve for the remainder of the test. The fire exposure on the exterior surface of the test specimen comprises both the exposure from the fire plume exiting the window opening of the test room and the exterior burner, although the fire exposure on the exterior surface of the test assembly is not equivalent to that of Test Methods E119.

1.7 This test method specifies the heating conditions, methods of test, and criteria for evaluation of a building’s spandrel-panel assembly. Specimens are not tested using any super-imposed axial load.

1.8 Test results establish the performance of the spandrel-panel assembly during the fire-exposure period and shall not be construed as having determined the suitability of a spandrel-panel assembly for use after that exposure.

1.9 This test method does not provide quantitative information about the spandrel-panel assembly relative to the rate of leakage of smoke or gases, or both.

1.10 This test method does not evaluate the fire-test-response characteristics or fire propagation propensity of material installed on, or within, exterior non-load-bearing wall assemblies containing combustible components. This is covered in NFPA 285.

1.11 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. Where provided, the SI values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.12 The text of this test method references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.

1.13 This test method is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products or assemblies to heat and flame under controlled conditions but does not by itself incorporate all factors required for the fire-hazard or fire-risk assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.

1.14 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.15 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these tests.

1.16 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.