CEA 4001 - Annex M (Informative); Introduction; Test Principles; Method

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Annex M (informative)
Commodity classification methodology utilising
calorimeter tests
M.1 Introduction
Efficient and reliable sprinkler protection of storage risks is dependent on appropriate
commodity classifications.
This European sprinkler installation specification subdivides commodities into four categories, based
on experience and fire test results. Full-scale fire testing has been the preferred solution for
determining commodity classifications, but is a costly procedure. The development of a. purpose built
Fire Products Collector (FPC) by Factory Mutual Research Corporation (FMRC) has made the classification
of commodities possible using smaller amounts of materials than has hitherto been acceptable.
The FPC consists of a large capacity calorimeter hood with a water application pipework array located
below the collector hood, beneath which a fuel array is burnt.
M.2 Test principles
This classification methodology assesses the heat output of the burning goods, placed
beneath the calorimeter, in a fuel array of eight pallets. The pallets are ignited in a specified manner
and are allowed to burn freely until a predefined condition is achieved, at which time water is
released at one of three application rates onto the burning fuel array. The convective heat release
rate is measured over the duration of the test. Three tests are undertaken at different water application
rates.
M.3 Method
The method used is described in the document “NORDTEST METHOD NT FIRE 049".
The
document may be obtained by:
NORDTEST P.O. Box 116
FIN-02151 ESPOO FINLAND
Phone:
+35894554600
Fax: +35894554272
M.4 Evaluation of test results
A rank value is determined for each of the three test results, by means of comparing the results with
those of known commodities. The ranking system, by comparison, ultimately enables the
determination of a commodity classification for the goods under consideration.
M.5 Bibliography