What is the Textile Flammability Testing?

Textile flammability is not a simple function, where the 'burning behaviour' of the material can be predicted under all circumstances. The subject is complex; and has resulted in the development of a wide spectrum of test methods, some of which are specific to particular end-uses.

Textile flammability testing is the process used to determine how well a material resists catching fire when exposed to flames. Tests measure how quickly a flame spreads across and throughout a material, as well as how long it takes for the flame to extinguish. This information helps manufacturers make informed decisions about whether or not their materials meet safety standards set by organizations such as UL, ASTM International and AATCC (American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists).

A textile flammability tester is a machine used to test the flame-resistance or flame-retardant properties of fabrics and other textiles. It will measure how quickly a fabric burns and the amount of heat generated when it burns. The results can then be used to determine which materials should be approved for use in clothing, upholstery, curtains, and carpets.