R316.3

Section R316.3 is titled 'Surface burning characteristics' and covers requirements for foam plastics. The maximum flame spread and smoke-developed indexes for foam plastics, one of two standards by which the testing must be done in accordance with, and the method for testing loose-fill-type foam plastic insulation is established. The purpose of this section is to slow the spread of fire and limit the amount of smoke produced in the event of a fire. This section has an exception which allows for foam plastic to be tested at a lesser thickness than actual final use, provided certain provisions are adhered to. The purpose of this exception is to allow for limited thickness testing which is known to produce results similar to thicker materials, thereby eliminating testing of thicker materials which increases product costs.

The model shows a material being tested for its flame spread and smoke-developed rating. (The burn simulation has been sped up and the entire testing apparatus is not being shown in this model).