Our Accreditations
At VTEC Laboratories, we regularly conduct the ASTM E162 surface flammability test on materials using a radiant energy source for transportation and military clients.
Unlike the ASTM E84 test, which requires a 25-foot-long sample and costly testing equipment, this flame spread test and subsequent versions offer a more affordable option, requiring only six-inch by 18-inch samples.
What ASTM E162 Measures
Designed to help manufacturers meet safety standards in the construction of buses, trains, recreational vehicles and more, ASTM E162, or the radiant panel test, measures how rapidly flame travels across a material’s surface when the material is exposed to radiant heat.
This index allows clients to compare materials under controlled laboratory conditions, but it does not independently determine their fire risk in actual use.
How The Radiant Panel Test Works
This test works by evaluating two aspects of a material’s response to radiant heat: the speed of the flame across its surface and the heat generated as it burns. The test converts these measurements into:
Flame spread factor (Fs):
Represents the rate at which the test material spreads flames.
Heat evolution factor (Q):
Represents the quantity of combustibles contained in the material.
The two factors are combined to find the flame spread index / radiant panel index (Is) as in the following equation:
Fs x Q = Is
Once determined, the radiant panel index is helpful in assessing the overall fire hazard of the given material.
Test Detail |
ASTM E162 Specification |
| Test purpose | Evaluates surface flammability of materials under controlled radiant-heat exposure |
| Specimen position | Mounted at a 30-degree angle in front of the radiant panel |
| Parameters measured | Flame spread factor (Fs) and heat evolution factor (Q) |
| Reported result | Radiant panel index (Is), calculated as Fs × Q |
| Test endpoint | During the flame spread test, flame travels 15 inches or 15 minutes elapse, whichever occurs first |
| Sample considerations | Specimens should represent the finished material or assembly, including applicable layers, coatings, thickness, and substrate |
| Applicable materials | Panels, laminates, insulation, composites, and other rigid or semi-rigid materials and assemblies |
| Standard edition | Confirm the edition required by the applicable specification, contract, or authority. |
When is ASTM E162 Surface Flammability Testing Used?
This test is typically used when a product specification, procurement requirement, or transportation standard requires a radiant panel test.
Manufacturers may also request testing during product development to compare materials or verify whether a finished material meets a specified index limit. Since these fire and flammability testing methods are not interchangeable, you should always confirm that ASTM E162, and the correct edition, is required for your product or project before requesting testing.
What Materials Are Commonly Tested to ASTM E162?
This flame spread test is commonly used to test materials and assemblies found in transportation interiors, including:
- Wall, ceiling, and partition panels
- Seat frames and shrouds
- Thermal and acoustic insulation
- HVAC ducting
- Windows and light diffusers
- Exterior shells and component-box covers
Keep in mind that the submitted material should represent the material as it will be used, including its thickness, layers, coatings, and substrate where applicable.
How is the ASTM E162 Surface Flammability Test Performed?
- Position the Specimen: Mount the material at a 30-degree angle in front of the radiant panel.
- Apply Radiant Heat: Expose the specimen to a porous panel that burns a controlled mixture of natural gas and air at 1,238°F.
- Record Flame Spread and Heat: Track the flame as it moves down the specimen while thermocouples in the exhaust stack measure the heat produced.
- Complete the Test: End the test when the flame travels 15 inches down the specimen or when 15 minutes have elapsed.
ASTM E162 Testing Services at VTEC Laboratories
With our ASTM surface flammability tests, you can trust the accuracy of our results since we have been a leader in testing services for more than 40 years.
Whether it’s this particular flame spread testing, another standardized materials test, onsite testing, or even customized testing, we are ready to put our expertise to work for you.
To request more information or for a free, no-obligation quote, simply fill out our contact form or call 718-542-8248 today.
In addition to this testing, we proudly hold the following accreditations:
- ISO
- NAVSEA (approved vendor)
- NSWC (Naval Surface Warfare Center
- City of Los Angeles Buildings Dept.
- New York City DOT (approved vendor)
- New York City Transit Authority (approved vendor)
- NYCHA (New York City Housing Authority)
- The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (approved vendor)
Once we receive all samples and paperwork, we can complete this surface flammability test or any other flame spread tests and have your results in just two weeks. That represents one of the fastest turnaround times in the material flammability testing industry.
Recommended Tests to Pair With ASTM E162:
What Should You Provide When Requesting an ASTM E162 Testing Quote?
Try to provide as much of the following information as possible:
- Material or product name
- ASTM E162 flame spread test edition required
- Intended application
- Applicable specification or acceptance criteria
- Material thickness, layers, coatings, and substrate
- Available specimen dimensions and quantity
- Required completion date
- Any special reporting or documentation requirements
At VTEC Labs, product drawings, photographs, technical data sheets, or safety data sheets may also help us confirm the appropriate testing scope. We can then advise you about final specimen specifications and submission requirements.
Results and Deliverables
Following ASTM E162 testing, clients receive a report documenting:
- Identification and description of the tested material
- Specimen configuration and test conditions
- Flame spread factor (Fs)
- Heat evolution factor (Q)
- Calculated radiant panel index (Is)
- Relevant test observations
- Comparison with specified acceptance criteria, when provided
Learn More About VTEC Labs Services
With more than four decades of experience, VTEC Laboratories provides ASTM E162 surface flammability testing and other complementary fire and flammability tests, allowing you to coordinate multiple required evaluations through one fire testing lab.
Learn more about our services by contacting us online or calling us at (718) 542-8248.
Frequently Asked Questions
VTEC Laboratories Inc.
Since 1982, VTEC Laboratories has provided fast, reliable testing services across aerospace, construction, and manufacturing. Based in New York, we offer ISO-accredited fire, weathering, industrial, and environmental testing delivered with speed, accuracy, and clear communication.
212 Manida Street, Bronx, NY 10474
Phone: 718-542-8248
Fax: 718-542-8759
