A new standard test method for the quantification of fire propagation behavior of electrical cables using Factory Mutual Research Corporation's small-scale flammability apparatus

A new specification test standard for cable fire propagation has recently been developed at Factory Mutual Research Corporation (FMRC), using FMRC's 50 kW-scale flammability apparatus. Guidelines for fire protection of grouped cables in non-combustible industrial and commercial occupancies have been formulated. Cables are classified into three groups on the basis of their fire propagation behavior: Group 1 cables: fire propagation beyond the ignition zone is not likely to occur and fire protection is not required; Group 2 cables: fire propagates slowly beyond the ignition zone and fire protection is required in most applications; and Group 3 cables: fire propagates rapidly beyond the ignition zone and fire protection is always required. This paper describes the concepts associated with the development of the standard test and fire protection guidelines for cables.