FIRE RESISTANCE TESTS FOR "A", "B" AND "F" CLASS DIVISIONS
*
* As defined in the International
Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, chapter II-2, part A and the
Torremolinos Protocol of 1993 relating to the Torremolinos International Convention
for the Safety of Fishing Vessels, 1977, chapter V except that "F" class divisions
are defined only in the latter Convention . 01 General
1.1
Under the provisions of the International Convention for the
Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, and subsequent amendments thereto, and the
Torremolinos Protocol of 1993 relating to the Torremolinos International
Convention for the Safety of Fishing Vessels, 1977, constructions for use in
passenger ships, cargo ships, and fishing vessels should have a 'fire insulation'
to the satisfaction of, and be approved by, the Administration. In this context
'fire insulation' is the ability of the construction to insulate/protect an area
from the influences of a fire in an adjoining area by having separating
performance during fire. Such constructions are "A" class bulkheads and decks, "A"
class doors, "B" class bulkheads, decks, ceilings and linings, "B" class doors,
"F" class bulkheads, decks, ceilings and linings, and "F" class doors.
The approval will be given by the Administration based on results
of tests carried out on the construction and material in question. Tests should be
conducted at a testing laboratory recognized by the Administration. The applicant
for the test, i.e., the manufacturer or agent, should if required submit test
specimens and information to the testing laboratory as prescribed in this
document.
1.2
Approval of constructions will be restricted to the
orientation in which they have been tested, therefore bulkheads, linings and doors
should be tested vertically mounted and decks and ceilings should be tested
horizontally mounted. It is only necessary to test decks with the underside
exposed to the heating conditions, and "B" and "F" class ceilings and linings are
required only to be tested from the side incorporating the ceiling or the lining.
For "A" class bulkheads and doors for
"general application", i.e. for use of the insulation material on either side of
the structural core, and also for "B" class bulkheads and doors, approval usually
requires that the construction has been tested from each side separately, using
two separate specimens, unless the Administration considers that only a single
test to one side, that being the side expected to provide a performance inferior
to the other side, is appropriate.
In tests
for "A" class bulkheads for "general application" it may be possible for approval
to be granted on the basis of a single test only, provided that the bulkhead has
been tested in the most onerous manner which is considered to be with the
insulation on the unexposed face and the stiffeners also on that side.
In tests for "A" class bulkheads for "restricted
application", i.e. where the fire hazard has been identified as being from the
insulated side only, the bulkhead can be tested with the insulation on the exposed
face and with the stiffeners also on that side.
If approval of an "A" class bulkhead is being sought involving the use of
"double-sided application" of the insulation, the thickness of the insulation
being equal on both sides of the structural core, it should be tested with the
stiffeners on the unexposed side of the bulkhead, otherwise it should be tested
with the side with the thinnest thickness of insulation on the exposed face.
If insulation of an "A" class division is to be
provided by membrane protection, i.e. by a "B" class ceiling to a structural steel
core or a "B" class lining to a structural steel core, the distance between the
membrane, i.e. the ceiling or the lining, and the structural core should be the
minimum for which approval is being sought. For "A" class bulkheads, the division
is required to be tested both from the structural core side, and from the "B"
class lining side. For both ceilings and linings which may form part of such deck
or bulkhead constructions, they should satisfy at least B-0 classification.
When the insulation of an "A" class division is
provided by membrane protection, the stiffeners of the structural core should be
positioned in the cavity between the steel plate of the structural core and the
membrane protection. For an "A" class bulkhead the Administration may accept or
require the stiffeners to be on the opposite side of the steel plate of the
structural core to enable the distance between the membrane protection and the
structural core to be reduced to a minimum.
1.3
The dimensions of the structural cores of the test specimens
given in section 2 are intended for structural cores of stiffened flat plates of
steel or aluminium alloy. The Administration may require tests to be carried out
on specimens having structural cores of materials other than steel or aluminium
alloy if such materials are more representative of the construction to be used on
board ships.
1.4
"A" class divisions which consist of an uninsulated steel
bulkhead or deck of suitable scantlings and without openings can be deemed to
satisfy the requirements for class A-0 divisions, i.e. to satisfy the requirements
for the passage of smoke and flame, without the need for testing. All other
divisions, including class A-0 divisions with a structural core of aluminium, are
required to be tested.
1.5
Results obtained on an insulating material used in
conjunction with an "A" class division may be applied to constructions
incorporating heavier scantlings than those tested and providing the orientation
of the construction is the same, i.e. results from bulkhead tests should not be
applied to decks and vice versa.
1.6
The construction to be tested should be, as far as possible,
representative of that to be used on board ships, including the materials and
method of assembly. The design of the specimens proposed in this Resolution are
considered to reflect the worst case situations in order to provide maximum
usefulness of the classifications to end use applications. However, the
Administration may accept or request special test arrangements which provide
additional information required for approval, especially of those types of
constructions which do not utilize the conventional components of horizontal and
vertical divisions, e.g. where cabins may be of a modular type construction
involving continuous connections between bulkheads, decks and ceilings.
1.7
- Constructions should be tested without paint or other superimposed finish,
provided that where they are only produced with a superimposed finish, and
subject to the agreement of the Administration, they may be tested as
produced. Such constructions may be required to be tested with a superimposed
finish if such a finish is considered by the Administration to have a
detrimental effect on the performance of the construction in the test.
02 Nature of Test Specimens
2.1 "A" class bulkheads
2.1.1 Dimensions
The minimum overall dimensions for the test specimen are
given in SOLAS regulation II-2/3.2, but the recommended dimensions of the test
specimen, including the perimeter details at the top, bottom and vertical edges,
are 2,440 mm width and 2,500 mm height. The overall dimensions of the structural
core should be 20 mm less in both the width and the height than the overall
dimensions of the specimen, and the other dimensions of the structural core
should be as follows:
- thickness of plating:  steel 4.5
± 0.5 mm
-  aluminium 6.0 ± 0.5 mm
- stiffeners spaced :  steel 65 ± 5
× 65 ± 5 × 6 ±1 mm
-  at 600 mm
 aluminium 100 ± 5 × 75 ± 5 × 9 ± 1 mm The width of the
structural core may be greater than the specified dimensions providing that
the additional width is in increments of 600 ‡o to maintain the stiffener
centres and the relationship between the stiffeners and the perimeter
detail. Any joints in the plating should
be full welded, at least from one side. The construction of a structural
steel core having the recommended dimensions is shown in figure 1; the
thickness of the plating and dimensions of the stiffeners shown are nominal
dimensions. Irrespective of the dimensions of the structural core and the
material of manufacture, the details around the perimeter should be as
illustrated in figure 3.
2.1.2 Design
Where insulation is provided by panels (e.g. a "B" class
lining), then the test specimen should be designed such that at least one of the
panels is of full width and this, or these, should be positioned such that both
its/their longitudinal edges are jointed to an adjacent panel and are not
secured to the restraint frame. The overall dimensions of the panel insulation
system, including the perimeter details at all the edges, should be 20 mm
greater in each direction than the equivalent dimensions of the structural core.
If the insulation system is a lining which may incorporate
electrical fittings, e.g. light fittings and/or ventilation units, it is
necessary that initially a test is performed on a specimen of the lining itself,
without the incorporation of these units, to establish the basic performance. A
separate test(s) may be performed on a specimen(s) with the units incorporated
to ascertain their influence on the performance of the lining.
2.1.3 Description
The applicant should provide full constructional details
of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a detailed schedule of
components) and method of assembly, such that the laboratory is able to confirm
agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and specifications prior
to the test. The drawings should include dimensions and details of the
thicknesses of insulation used in way of the plating and the stiffeners, the
method of securing the insulation system and details of the components used for
this purpose, details of joints, connections, air gaps and all other
details.
2.2 "A" class decks
2.2.1 Dimensions
The minimum overall dimensions for the test specimen are
given in SOLAS regulation II-2/3.2, but the recommended dimensions of the test
specimen, including the perimeter details at all edges, are 2,440 mm width and
3,040 mm length. The overall dimensions of the structural core should be 20 mm
less in both the width and length than the overall dimensions of the specimen,
and the other dimensions of the structural core should be as follows:
-
thickness of plating: steel 4.5 ± 0.5 mm
- aluminium 6.0 ± 0.5 mm - stiffeners spaced : steel 100 ± 5 × 70 ± 5 ×
8 ± 1 mm
- at 600 mm
 aluminium 150 ± 5 × 100 ± 5 × 9 ± 1 mm The width of the
structural core may be greater than the specified dimensions providing that
the additional width is in increments of 600 mm to maintain the stiffener
centres and the relationship between the stiffeners and the perimeter
detail. Any joints in the plating should
be full welded, at least from one side. The construction of a structural
steel core having the recommended dimensions is shown in figure 2, the
thickness of the plating and dimensions of the stiffeners shown are nominal
dimensions. Irrespective of the dimensions of the structural core and the
material of manufacture, the details around the perimeter should be as
illustrated in figure 3.
2.2.2 Design
Where insulation is provided by panels (e.g. a "B" class
ceiling), then the test specimen should be designed such that at least one of
the panels is of full width and this, or these, should be positioned such that
both its/their longitudinal edges are jointed to an adjacent panel and are not
secured to the restraint frame. The overall dimensions of the panel insulation
system, including the perimeter details at all the edges, should be 20 mm
greater in each direction than the equivalent dimensions of the structural core.
If the ceiling incorporates panels, the specimen should
include examples of both the lateral and longitudinal joints between the panels.
If the specimen is to simulate a ceiling where the maximum length of the panels
is greater than the length of the specimen, then a joint should be positioned at
a distance of approximately 600 mm from one of the shorter ends of the test
specimen.
If the insulation system is a ceiling which may
incorporate electrical fittings, e.g. light fittings and/or ventilation units,
it is necessary that initially a test is performed on a specimen of the ceiling
itself, without the incorporation of these units, to establish the basic
performance. A separate test(s) may be performed on a specimen(s) with the units
incorporated to ascertain their influence on the performance of the
ceiling.
2.2.3 Description
The applicant should provide full constructional details
of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a detailed schedule of
components) and method of assembly, such that the laboratory is able to confirm
agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and specifications prior
to the test. The drawings should include dimensions and details of the
thicknesses of insulation used in way of the plating and the stiffeners, the
method of securing the insulation system and details of the components used for
this purpose, details of joints, connections, air gaps and all other
details.
2.3 "A" class doors
2.3.1 Dimensions
The test specimen should incorporate the maximum size (in
terms of both the width and the height) of door leaf or leaves for which
approval is to be sought. The maximum size of a door which can be tested will be
determined by the requirement to retain certain dimensions of the structural
core (see 2.3.2.2).
2.3.2 Design
The test specimen should incorporate the maximum size (in
terms of both the width and the height) of door leaf or leaves for which
approval is to be sought. The maximum size of a door which can be tested will be
determined by the requirement to retain certain dimensions of the structural
core (see 2.3.2.2).
2.3.2.1 The
door leaf and frame should be constructed of steel or other equivalent material
and insulated as necessary to achieve the desired standard of insulation. Door
furniture such as hinges, locks, latches, shoot bolts, handles, etc., should be
constructed of materials having melting points of not less than 950°C.
2.3.2.2 The door leaf and frame
should be mounted into a structural core constructed in accordance with 2.1.1.
An opening to accommodate the door assembly should be provided in the structural
core; the maximum dimensions of the opening will be determined by a requirement
to retain a minimum width of the structural core of 300 mm to each vertical side
of the opening and a minimum distance of 100 mm from the top edge of the
structural core. No additional stiffening should be provided to the structural
core unless provided as part of the door frame. The method of fixing the door
frame into the opening in the structural core should be as used in practice.
2.3.2.3 The structural core should
be mounted such that the stiffeners are on that side which is intended to face
away from the heating conditions of the test (i.e. the unexposed face), whilst
the insulating system should be on the side intended to be exposed to the
heating conditions of the test (i.e. the exposed face).
2.3.2.4 The insulation system should be approved by
the Administration to at least the same standard as that which the door is
intended to achieve. If the insulation performance of the door is unknown the
structural core should be insulated to A-60 standard. The insulation of the
structural core should not be extended beyond the outer web of the door frame.
2.3.2.5 The door should be
mounted into the structural core such that the side expected to give the
inferior performance will be exposed to the heating conditions of the test. A
hinged door should be tested with the door leaf opening away from the heating
conditions unless the Administration deems otherwise. For sliding doors it is
not possible to state generally from which side the door should be tested to
give the inferior performance. It will, therefore, be necessary to conduct two
separate tests, one with the door mounted to the exposed face and one with the
door mounted to the unexposed face of the bulkhead. If for practical reasons a
sliding door cannot be fixed to the stiffened face of the structural core, then
subject to the agreement of the Administration, the stiffeners may be positioned
on the exposed face.
2.3.3 Description
The applicant should provide full constructional details
of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a detailed schedule of
components) and method of assembly, such that the laboratory is able to confirm
agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and specifications prior
to the test. The drawings should include dimensions and details of the
following:
- the bulkhead;
- the door leaf and frame
construction including the clearances between the door leaf and the frame;
- the connection of the door frame to the bulkhead;
- the method of securing insulation and details of components
used for this purpose (e.g. the type and rate of application of any adhesive);
- fittings such as hinges, shoot bolts, latches, locks, etc.
2.4 "B" and "F" class bulkheads
2.4.1 Dimensions
The minimum overall dimensions for the test specimen are given in
SOLAS regulation II-2/3.2, but the recommended dimensions of the test specimen,
including the perimeter details at the top, bottom and vertical edges, are 2,440
mm width and 2,500 mm height. When the maximum overall height in practice is to be
less than given above, then the test specimen should be of the maximum height to
be used in practice.
2.4.2 Design
Where the construction incorporates panels,
the specimen should be constructed such that at least one of the panels is of full
width and this, or these, should be positioned such that both its/their
longitudinal edges are jointed to an adjacent panel and are not secured to the
restraint frame. If the bulkhead may incorporate electrical fittings, e.g. light
fittings and/or ventilation units, it is necessary that initially a test is
performed on a specimen of the bulkhead itself, without the incorporation of these
units, to establish the basic performance. A separate test(s) should be performed
on a specimen(s) with the units incorporated to ascertain their influence on the
performance of the bulkhead.
2.4.3
Description
The applicant should provide full
constructional details of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a
detailed schedule of components) and method of assembly, such that the laboratory
is able to confirm agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and
specifications prior to the test. The drawings should include dimensions and
details of the thicknesses of materials used in the insulation system (e.g. of any
panels), the method of securing the panels and details of the components used for
this purpose, details of joints, connections, air gaps and all other
details.
2.5 "B" and "F" class decks
2.5.1 Dimensions
The minimum overall dimensions for the test
specimen are given in SOLAS regulation II-2/3.2, but the recommended dimensions of
the test specimen, including the perimeter details at all the edges, are 2,440 mm
width and 3,040 mm length. When the maximum dimensions in practice are less than
given above then the test specimen should be of the maximum size to be used in
practice.
2.5.2 Design
Where the construction incorporates panels,
the specimen should be constructed such that at least one of the panels is of full
width and this, or these, should be positioned such that both its/their
longitudinal edges are jointed to an adjacent panel and are not secured to the
restraint frame.
2.5.3 Description
The applicant should provide full
constructional details of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a
detailed schedule of components) and method of assembly such that the laboratory
is able to confirm agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and
specifications prior to the test. The drawings should include dimensions and
details of the thicknesses of materials used in the insulation system (e.g. of any
panels), the method of securing the insulation system and details of the
components used for this purpose, details of joints, connections, air gaps and all
other details.
2.6 "B" and "F" class doors
2.6.1 Dimensions
The test specimen should incorporate the
maximum size (in terms of both the width and the height) of door leaf or leaves
for which approval is to be sought. The maximum size of a door which can be tested
will be determined by the requirement to retain certain dimensions of the bulkhead
(see 2.6.2.3).
2.6.2 Design
2.6.2.1 Door furniture such as
hinges, locks, latches, shoot bolts, handles, etc., should be constructed of
materials having melting points of not less than 850°C unless it can be shown by
the fire test that materials having melting points below 850°C do not adversely
affect the performance of the door.
2.6.2.2 The door leaf and frame should be mounted as appropriate
into a "B" or "F" class bulkhead of compatible construction, thereby reflecting an
actual end use situation. The bulkhead should have dimensions as prescribed in
2.4.1. The bulkhead should be of a construction approved by the Administration as
having at least a similar classification to that required by the door. The method
of fixing the door frame to the bulkhead should be as used in practice.
2.6.2.3 The door should be
positioned such that there is a minimum width of the bulkhead of 300 mm to each
vertical side of the door and a minimum distance of 100 mm from the top edge of
the bulkhead.
2.6.2.4 The door
should be mounted into the bulkhead such that the side expected to give the
inferior performance will be exposed to the heating conditions of the test. A
hinged door should be tested with the door leaf opening away from the heating
conditions unless the Administration deems otherwise. For sliding doors it is not
possible to state generally from which side the door should be tested to give the
inferior performance. It will, therefore, be necessary to conduct two separate
tests, one with the door mounted to the exposed face and one with the door mounted
to the unexposed face of the bulkhead.
2.6.2.5 For a door which incorporates a ventilation opening within
its construction, the ventilation grille(s) should be open at the commencement of
the test. Temperature measurements on such a door should not be made over the face
of the grille(s).
2.6.3
Description
The applicant should provide full
constructional details of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a
detailed schedule of components) and method of assembly, such that the laboratory
is able to confirm agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and
specifications prior to the test. The drawings should include dimensions and
details of the following: - the bulkhead; - the door leaf and frame construction
including the clearances between the door leaf and the frame; - the connection of
the door frame to the bulkhead; - the method of securing insulation and details of
components used for this purpose (e.g. the type and rate of application of any
adhesive); - fittings such as hinges, shoot bolts, latches, locks, handles,
ventilation louvres, escape panels, etc.
2.7 "B" and "F" class linings
2.7.1 Dimensions
The minimum overall dimensions for the test
specimen are given in SOLAS regulation II-2/3.2, but the recommended dimensions of
the test specimen, including the perimeter details at the top, bottom and vertical
edges, are 2,440 mm width and 2,500 mm height. Irrespective of the overall
dimensions, the width and the height of the lining should each be 20 mm greater
than the equivalent dimensions of the structural core.
2.7.2 Design
The lining should be positioned alongside a
structural core constructed in accordance with 2.1.1. The design of the lining
should be such that it facilitates its assembly with the limited access provided
by the proximity of the structural core, i.e. it should be mounted with the
structural core in place. During a test on an "A" class bulkhead which utilizes
membrane protection along its exposed side, e.g. a "B" class lining, it is
possible also to evaluate the performance of the lining with a view to
classification providing that the necessary thermocouples are attached to the
lining and providing that the necessary integrity measurements are made. The
specimen should be constructed such that at least one of the panels is of full
width and this, or these, should be positioned such that both its/their
longitudinal edges are jointed to an adjacent panel and are not secured to the
restraint frame. If the lining may incorporate electrical fittings, e.g. light
fittings and/or ventilation units, it is necessary that initially a test is
performed on a specimen of the lining itself, without the incorporation of these
units, to establish the basic performance. A separate test(s) may be performed on
a specimen(s) with the units incorporated to ascertain their influence on the
performance of the lining.
2.7.3
Description
The applicant should provide full
constructional details of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a
detailed schedule of components) and method of assembly, such that the laboratory
is able to confirm agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and
specifications prior to the test. The drawings should include dimensions and
details of the thicknesses of materials used in the insulation system (e.g. of any
panels), the method of securing the insulation system and details of the
components used for this purpose, details of joints, connections, air gaps and all
other details.
2.8 "B" and "F" class ceilings
2.8.1  Dimensions
The minimum overall dimensions for the test
specimen are given in SOLAS regulation II-2/3.2, but the recommended dimensions of
the test specimen, including the perimeter details at all edges, are 2,440 mm
width and 3,040 mm length. Irrespective of the overall dimensions, the width and
the length of the ceiling should each be 20 mm greater than the equivalent
dimensions of the structural core.
2.8.2
 Design
The ceiling should be positioned below a
structural core constructed in accordance with 2.2.1. The design of the ceiling
should be such that it facilitates its assembly with the limited access provided
by the proximity of the structural core, i.e. it should be mounted with the
structural core in place.
During a test on an
"A" class deck which utilizes membrane protection along its underside, e.g. a "B"
class ceiling, it is possible also to evaluate the performance of the ceiling with
a view to classification providing that the necessary thermocouples are attached
to the ceiling and providing that the necessary integrity measurements are made.
If the ceiling incorporates panels, the
specimen should include examples of both the lateral and longitudinal joints
between the panels. If the specimen is to simulate a ceiling where the maximum
length of the panels is greater than the length of the specimen, then a joint
should be positioned at a distance of approximately 600 ‡o from one of the shorter
ends of the test specimen.
The specimen should
be constructed such that at least one of the panels is of full width and this, or
these, should be positioned such that both its/their longitudinal edges are
jointed to an adjacent panel and are not secured to the restraint frame.
If the ceiling may incorporate electrical
fittings, e.g. light fittings and/or ventilation units, it is necessary that
initially a test is performed on a specimen of the ceiling itself, without the
incorporation of these units, to establish the basic performance. A separate
test(s) may be performed on a specimen(s) with the units incorporated to ascertain
their influence on the performance of the ceiling.
2.8.3  Description
The applicant should provide full
constructional details of the test specimen in the form of drawings (including a
detailed schedule of components) and method of assembly, such that the laboratory
is able to confirm agreement between the actual specimen and the drawings and
specifications prior to the test. The drawings should include dimensions and
details of the thicknesses of materials used in the insulation system (e.g. of any
panels), the method of securing the insulation system and details of the
components used for this purpose, details of joints, connections, air gaps and all
other details.
04 Conditioning of the Tests Specimens
4.1 General
The test specimen should not be tested until it has reached
an air-dry condition. This condition is defined as an equilibrium (constant
weight) with an ambient atmosphere of 50% relative humidity at 23°C.
Accelerated conditioning is permissible provided the method does
not alter the properties of component materials. In general, high temperature
conditioning should be below temperatures critical for the materials.
4.2 Verification
The condition of the test specimen can be monitored and
verified by use of special samples for the determination of moisture content of
constituent materials, as appropriate. These samples should be so constructed as
to represent the loss of water vapour from the specimen by having similar
thicknesses and exposed faces. They should have minimum linear dimensions of 300
mm by 300 mm and a minimum mass of 100 g. Constant weight should be considered to
be reached when two successive weighing operations, carried out at an interval of
24 h, do not differ by more than 0.3% of the mass of the reference specimen or 0.3
g whichever is the greater.
Other reliable methods of verifying
that the material has reached equilibrium moisture content may be used by the
testing laboratory.
4.3 Encapsulated materials
When the test specimen incorporates encapsulated materials
it is important to ensure that these materials have reached an equilibrium
moisture content prior to assembly, and special arrangements should be made with
the applicant for the test to ensure that this is so.
05 Mounting of the Test Specimens
5.1 Restraint and support frames
All test specimens should be mounted within substantial
concrete, or concrete- or masonry- lined frames, which are capable of providing a
high degree of restraint to the expansion forces generated during the tests. The
concrete or the masonry should have a density between 1600 kg/m3 and
2400 kg/m3. The concrete or masonry lining to a steel frame should have
a thickness of at least 50 mm.
The rigidity of the restraint
frames should be evaluated by applying an expansion force of 100 kN within the
frame at mid-width between two opposite members of the frame, and measuring the
increase in the internal dimensions at these positions. This evaluation should be
conducted in the direction of the bulkhead or deck stiffeners, and the increase of
the internal dimension should not exceed 2 mm.
For frames which
are to be used to evaluate "A" class divisions which incorporate "B" class
ceilings or linings, the frames should be provided with at least four viewing and
access openings, notionally one to each quarter of the test specimen. These
openings should facilitate access to the cavity for the determination of the
integrity of the ceiling or lining during the test on the deck or bulkhead. The
access/viewing openings should normally be sealed with mineral wool insulation
slabs except when viewing or accessing to the ceiling or lining is needed.
5.2 "A" class divisions
The structural core to an "A" class division should be fixed
into the restraint frame and sealed around its perimeter as shown in figure 3.
Steel spacers, with an approximate thickness of 5 mm, may be inserted between the
fixing cleats and the restraint frame if the laboratory finds this necessary.
When the structural core of an "A" class division is to be exposed
to the heating conditions of the test, i.e. when the fixing cleats are on the
exposed side of the structural core, then a 100 mm wide perimeter margin adjacent
to the restraint frame should be insulated such that the fixing cleats and the
edges of the structural core are protected from direct exposure to the heating
conditions. In no other situations, irrespective of the type of test specimen,
should the perimeter edges be protected from direct exposure to the heating
conditions.
5.3 "B" and "F" class divisions
TFor a "B" or "F" class bulkhead or lining, the specimen
should be supported at the top and secured on the vertical sides and at the bottom
in manner representative of the conditions in service. The support provided at the
top of a bulkhead or lining should allow for the appropriate expansion or
clearance to be used as in practice. At the vertical edges lateral expansion
towards the vertical edges of the restraint frame should be prevented by ensuring
a tight fit of the specimen within the frame which may be achieved by inserting a
rigid packing between the vertical edges and the frame. If provision for movement
at the edges of a bulkhead or lining is made for a particular construction in
service, the specimen should simulate these conditions.
06 Examination of the Test Specimens
6.1 Conformity
The laboratory should verify the conformity of the test
specimen with the drawings and method of assembly provided by the applicant (see
section 2), and any area of discrepancy should be resolved prior to commencement
of the test.
On occasion it may not be possible to verify the
conformity of all aspects of the specimen construction prior to the test and
adequate evidence may not be available after test. When it is necessary to rely on
information provided by the applicant then this should be clearly stated in the
test report. The laboratory should nevertheless ensure that it fully appreciates
the design of the test specimen and should be confident that it is able to
accurately record the constructional details in the test report.
6.2 Door clearances
Following mounting of the door and immediately prior to
test, the laboratory should measure the actual clearances between the door leaf
and the door frame, and additionally for a double leaf door between the adjacent
door leaves. The clearances should be measured for each door leaf at two positions
along the top and bottom edges and at three positions along each vertical
edge.
6.3 Door operation
Similarly, immediately prior to test, the laboratory should
check the operability of the door by opening the door leaf by a distance of at
least 300 mm. The door leaf should then be closed, either automatically, if such a
closing device is provided, or manually. The door may be latched for the test but
should not be locked, and no devices for latching or locking should be included
which are not normally incorporated in practice.
07 Instrumentation
7.1 General
The furnace, the instrumentation of the furnace and the
instrumentation of the test specimen should generally be in accordance with the
International Standard ISO 834: Part 1, except where amended by this section. The
details given in the following paragraphs are supplementary to, an elaboration of,
or a deviation from the ISO requirements.
7.2 Furnace temperature thermocouples
7.2.1  Design
The furnace temperature should be measured by
thermocouples as shown in Figure 4. They may be either thermocouples of bare-wire
design or sheathed thermocouples having an equivalent response time to that of
bare-wire thermocouples. The bare-wire thermocouples should have a wire diameter
of between 0.75 mm and 1.00 mm and a welded or crimped junction. At least 25 mm of
wire should project from the insulation. Bare-wire thermocouples should be checked
at least after every 20 h of use, and stainless-steel-sheathed thermocouples
should be checked at least after every 50 h of use, to establish their accuracy
and sensitivity. If any doubt exists as to their serviceability, they should be
replaced.
7.2.2  Number
At least six furnace thermocouples should be
provided for the specimens given in section 2. For specimens larger than specified
in section 2, additional thermocouples should be provided in the proportion one
per 1.5 m2 of the specimen area. In the case of a door assembly,
specimen area refers to the entire bulkhead construction with the door fitted.
7.2.3  Positioning
The thermocouples employed to measure the
temperature of the furnace should be uniformly distributed so as to give a
reliable indication of the average temperature in the vicinity of the specimen. At
the commencement of the test the measuring junctions should be 100 mm from the
face of the specimen and they should be maintained at a distance of 50 mm to 150
mm during the test. The method of support should ensure that thermocouples do not
fall away or become dislodged during the test. Where it is convenient to pass
thermocouple wires through the test construction, then the steel support tube
should not be used. The hot junctions of the thermocouples should not be located
at positions within the furnace where they are subject to direct flame
impingement.
7.2.4
 Connection
The thermocouple wire should be either
continuous to the recording instrument or suitable compensating wire should be
used with all junctions maintained as near as possible at ambient temperature
conditions.
7.3 Furnace pressure sensors
The mean value of the furnace pressure should be measured
using one of the designs of sensing heads described in figure 5.
7.4 Unexposed face temperature thermocouples
7.4.1 Design
The temperature of the unexposed surface
should be measured by means of disc thermocouples of the type shown in figure 6.
Thermocouple wires, 0.5 mm in diameter, should be soldered to a 0.2 mm thick by 12
mm diameter copper disc. Each thermocouple should be covered with a 30 mm square ×
2.0 ±0.5 mm thick non-combustible insulating pad. The pad material should have a
density of 900 ±100 kg/m3.
7.4.2 Connection
Connection to the recording instrument should
be by wires of similar or appropriate compensating type.
7.4.3 Preparation of surfaces to receive thermocouples
Steel - Surface finishes should be removed and
the surface cleaned with a solvent. Loose rust and scale should be removed by wire
brush. Irregular surfaces - A smooth surface not greater than 2,500 mm2
to provide adequate adhesive bond should be made for each thermocouple by
smoothing the existing surface with a suitable abrasive paper. The material
removed should be the minimum to provide adequate bonding surface. Where the
surface cannot be smoothed, fillings should be used of minimum quantity to provide
a suitable surface. The filling should comprise a ceramic cement and when the
filled surface is dry it should be smoothed, if necessary, with abrasive paper.
7.4.4 Fixing of thermocouples
Steel - The insulating pad with the
thermocouple fitted should be bonded to the cleaned surface of the steel using a
'water-based ceramic cement' produced by integrating the components to form a high
temperature resistant adhesive. The adhesive should be of such a consistency that
no mechanical aid is necessary for retention purposes during the drying process,
but where difficulty in bonding is experienced, retention by adhesive tape may be
employed provided that the tape is removed sufficiently long in advance of the
test to allow complete drying of the adhesive. Care is required in the removal of
the tape to ensure that the insulating pad is not damaged. If the thermocouple pad
is damaged when the tape is removed then the thermocouple should be replaced.
Mineral wool - The thermocouples with insulating
pads fitted should be arranged in such a way that if a surface wire mesh is
present it may aid retention, and in all cases the bond to the fibrous surface
should be made using a "contact adhesive". The nature of the adhesive necessitates
a drying time before mating surfaces are put together thus obviating the need for
external pressure.
Mineral fibre spray -
Thermocouples should not be fitted until the insulation has reached a stable
moisture condition. In all cases the bonding technique for steel should be used
and where a surface wire mesh is present the thermocouples should be affixed to
the insulation in such a way that the wire mesh aids retention.
Vermiculite/cement type spray - The technique specified for
wet fibrous spray should be employed. Boards of fibrous or mineral aggregate
composition - The bonding technique for steel should be used.
In all cases of adhesive binding the adhesive should be
applied in a thin film sufficient to give an adequate bond and there should be a
sufficient lapse of time between the bonding of the thermocouples and the test for
stable moisture conditions to be attained in the case of the ceramic adhesive and
evaporation of the solvent in the case of the "contact adhesive".
For "A" and "B" class divisions the insulation performance
of a construction should be given by that part of the construction which is
manufactured from non-combustible materials only. However, if a material or panel
is only produced with a superimposed finish, or if the Administration considers
that the addition of a superimposed finish may be detrimental to the performance
of the division, the Administration may allow, or may require, the finish to be
incorporated during the test. In these cases the superimposed finish should be
removed locally over as small an area as possible to allow fixing of the
thermocouples to the non-combustible part, e.g. a deck provided with overlayed
non-combustible insulation (a floating floor) should have any combustible top
surface finish removed locally to the thermocouples to allow them to be fixed to
the insulation material.
7.5 Positioning of thermocouples on the specimen
7.5.1 "A" class divisions, excluding doorsThe surface temperatures on the unexposed face
of the test specimen should be measured by thermocouples located as shown in
figures 7 and 8:
- five thermocouples, one at the centre of the test
specimen and one at the centre of each of the four quarters, all positioned at
least 100 mm away from the nearest part of any joints and/or at least 100 mm
away from the welds to any stiffeners;
- two thermocouples, one placed
over each of the central stiffeners and positioned for a bulkhead at 0.75
height of the specimen, and positioned for a deck at mid-length of the deck;
- two thermocouples, each placed over a vertical (longitudinal) joint,
if any, in the insulation system and positioned for a bulkhead at 0.75 height
of the specimen and positioned for a deck at mid-length of the deck;
- when a construction has two differently orientated joint details, for
example normal to each other, then two thermocouples additional to those
already described in 7.5.1.3 above should be used, one on each of two
intersections;
- when a construction has two different types of joint
detail, then two thermocouples should be used for each type of joint;
- additional thermocouples, at the discretion of the testing laboratory
or Administration, may be fixed over special features or specific construction
details if it is considered that temperatures higher than those measured by
the thermocouples listed above may result; and
- the thermocouples
specified in 7.5.1.4 to 7.5.1.6 above for measurements on bulkheads, e.g. over
different joint types or over joint intersections, should, where possible, be
positioned in the upper half of the specimen.
7.5.2 "B" and "F" class divisions, excluding doorsThe surface temperatures on the unexposed face
of the test specimen should be measured by thermocouples located as shown in
figure 9:
- five thermocouples, one at the centre of the test specimen and
one at the centre of each of the four quarters, all positioned at least 100 mm
away from the nearest part of any joints;
- two thermocouples, each
placed over a vertical (longitudinal) joint, if any, in the
division/insulation system and positioned for a bulkhead at 0.75 height of the
specimen and positioned for a deck/ceiling at mid-length of the deck/ceiling;
and
- additional thermocouples, as required by 7.5.1.4 to 7.5.1.7
above.
7.5.3 "A", "B" and "F" class doorsThe surface temperatures on the unexposed face
of the test specimen should be measured by:
- five thermocouples, one at the
centre of the door leaf and one at the centre of each of the four quarters of
the door leaf, all positioned at least 100 mm away from the edge of the door
leaf, from any stiffeners, any door furniture and from any special features or
specific constructional details;
- if the door leaf incorporates
stiffeners, two additional thermocouples, one placed over each of two
stiffeners in the central portion of the door;
- additional
thermocouples, at the discretion of the testing laboratory or Administration,
may be fixed over special features or specific constructional details if it is
considered that temperatures higher than those measured by the thermocouples
listed above may result. Any additional thermocouples fixed to the door frame,
or to any part of the door leaf, which is closer than a distance of 100 mm
from the gap between the edge of the door leaf and the frame, should not be
used for the purpose of classification of the test specimen, and if provided
are for information only;
- the thermocouples specified in 7.5.3.2 and
7.5.3.3 above should, where possible, be positioned in the upper half of the
specimen; and
- when testing double leaf door assemblies, the
requirements should be applied to each door leaf separately.
7.6 Structural core temperature thermocouples
When testing a specimen with a structural core other than
steel, thermocouples should be fixed to the core material in positions
corresponding to the surface thermocouples mentioned in 7.5.1.1. The thermocouples
should be fixed so that their hot junctions are attached to the appropriate
positions by suitable means including peening into the structural core. The wires
should be prevented from becoming hotter than the junction. The first 50 mm should
be in an isothermal plane.
7.7 Cotton wool pads and gap gauges
7.7.1  Cotton wool pads
The cotton wool pad employed in the
measurement of integrity should consist of new, undyed and soft cotton fibres, 20
mm thick × 100 mm square, and should weigh between 3 g and 4 g. It should be
conditioned prior to use by drying in an oven at 100 ± 5°C for at least 30 min.
After drying, it should be allowed to cool to ambient temperature within a
desiccator where it may be stored until needed to be used. For use it should be
mounted in a wire frame, as shown in figure 10, provided with a handle.
7.7.2  Gap gauges
Two types of gap gauge, as shown in figure 11,
should be available for the measurement of integrity. They should be made of
stainless steel of the diameter specified to an accuracy of ± 0.5 mm. They should
be provided with appropriate handles.
08 Method of Test
8.1 General
The test should be carried out generally in accordance with
the International Standard ISO 834: Part 1, except where amended by this section.
The procedures given in the following paragraphs are supplementary to, an
elaboration of, or a deviation from the ISO requiremen
8.2 Commencement of test
Not more than 5 min before the commencement of the test, the
initial temperatures recorded by all thermocouples should be checked to ensure
consistency and the datum values should be noted. Similar datum values should be
obtained for deformation, and the initial condition of the test specimen should be
noted. At the time of the test, the initial average internal temperature and
unexposed surface temperature of the specimen should be 20 ± 10°C and should be
within 5°C of the initial ambient temperatur
8.3 Furnace control
8.3.1 Furnace temperature
8.3.1.1  The average temperature of the
furnace as derived from the furnace thermocouples specified in 7.2 should be
monitored and controlled such that it follows the relationship (i.e. the
standard heating curve)
- T = 345 log
10 (8t + 1) + 20  where:
- T is the
average furnace temperature (¡æ)
- t is the time
(min) 8.3.1.2  The
following points are defined by the above relationship:
- - at
the end of the first 5 min  576°C
- - at the end
of the first 10 min  679°C
- - at the end of the
first 15 min  738°C
- - at the end of the first 30
min  841°C
- - at the end of the first 60 min
 945°C 8.3.1.3
 The per cent deviation 'd' in the area of the curve of the
average temperature recorded by the specified furnace thermocouples versus
time from the area of the standard heating curve should be within: ±15%
from t = 0 to t = 10 (i) ±15 - 0.5 (t-10) %  from 10
< t 30 (ii) ±5 - 0.083 (t-30) %
from 30 < t 60 (iii)
±2.5% from t = 60 and above (iv)
where:
- d = ( A -
As) 1/ As 100 , and
- A is the
area under the actual average furnace time-temperature curve
- As is the area under the
standard time-temperature curve All areas should be
computed by the same method, i.e. by the summation of areas at intervals not
exceeding 1 min for (i), 2 min for (ii), and 5 min for (iii) and (iv). 8.3.1.4 At any time after the
first 10 min of test, the temperature recorded by any thermocouple should
not differ from the corresponding temperature of the standard
time-temperature curve by more than ± 100°C
8.3.2 Furnace pressure
8.3.2.1 A linear pressure gradient exists over
the height of furnace, and although the gradient will vary slightly as a
function of the furnace temperature, a mean value of 8 Pa per metre height may
be assumed in assessing the furnace pressure conditions. The value of the
furnace pressure should be the nominal mean value, disregarding rapid
fluctuations of pressure associated with turbulence, etc., and should be
established relative to the pressure outside the furnace at the same height. It
should be monitored and controlled continuously and by 5 min from the
commencement of the test should be achieved within ± 5 Pa and by 10 min from the
commencement of the test should be achieved and maintained within ± 3 Pa.
8.3.2.2 For vertically orientated
specimens the furnace should be operated such that a pressure of zero is
established at a height of 500 mm above the notional floor level to the test
specimen. However, for specimens with a height greater than 3 m, the pressure at
the top of the test specimen should not be greater than 20 Pa, and the height of
the neutral pressure axis should be adjusted accordingly.
8.3.2.3 For horizontally orientated specimens the
furnace should be operated such that a pressure of 20 Pa is established at a
position 100 mm below the underside of the specimen.
8.4 Measurements and observations on the test specimen
8.4.1 Temperature
8.4.1.1 All temperature measurements should be
recorded at intervals not exceeding 1 min.
8.4.1.2 When calculating temperature rise on the unexposed
surface of the test specimen, this should be done on an individual thermocouple
by thermocouple basis. The average temperature rise of the unexposed surface
should be calculated as the average of the rises recorded by the individual
thermocouple used to determine the average temperature.
8.4.1.3 For "A" class divisions, excluding doors,
the average temperature rise on the unexposed face of the specimen should be
calculated from the thermocouples specified in 7.5.1.1 only.
8.4.1.4 For "B" and "F" class divisions,
excluding doors, the average temperature rise on the unexposed face of the
specimen should be calculated from the thermocouples specified in 7.5.2.1 only.
8.4.1.5 For "A", "B" and "F"
class doors, the average temperature rise on the unexposed face of the specimen
should be calculated from the thermocouples specified in 7.5.3.1 only. For a
double leaf door, all ten thermocouples used on both door leaves should be used
for this calculation.
8.4.2 Flaming on unexposed face
The occurrence and duration of any flaming on the
unexposed surface, together with the location of the flaming, should be
recorded. In cases where it is difficult to identify whether or not there are
flames then the cotton wool pad should be applied to the area of such disputed
flaming to establish whether ignition of the pad can be initiated.
8.4.3 Cotton wool pad
8.4.3.1 Tests with the cotton wool pad are
used to indicate whether cracks and openings in the test specimen are such that
they could lead to the passage of hot gases sufficient to cause ignition of
combustible materials.
8.4.3.2 A
cotton wool pad is employed by placing the frame within which it is mounted
against the surface of the test specimen, adjacent to the opening or flaming
under examination, for a period of 30 s, or until ignition (defined as glowing
or flaming) of the cotton wool pad occurs (if this happens before the elapse of
the 30 s period). Small adjustments in position may be made so as to achieve the
maximum effect from the hot gases. A cotton wool pad should be used only once.
Where there are irregularities in the surface of the test
specimen in the area of the opening, care should be taken to ensure that the
legs of the support frame are placed so that clearance between the pad and any
part of the test specimen surface is maintained during the measurements.
The cotton wool pad should be applied freely
and not necessarily parallel to the surface of the specimen, and not always such
that the crack or opening is central to the pad. The pad should be positioned in
the flow of hot gases but should never be positioned such that any part of the
pad is closer than approximately 25 mm from any point of the test specimen. For
example, to adequately evaluate the hot gas leakage around a door it may be
necessary to use the pad both parallel and normal to the face of the door or
possibly at an oblique angle within the confines of the door frame.
The operator may make 'screening tests' to evaluate the
integrity of the test specimen. Such screening may involve selective short
duration applications of the cotton pad to areas of potential failure and/or the
movement of a single pad over and around such areas. Charring of the pad may
provide an indication of imminent failure, but an unused pad should be employed
in the prescribed manner for an integrity failure to be confirmed.
8.4.4 Gap gauges
8.4.4.1 Tests with the gap gauges are used to
indicate whether cracks and openings in the test specimen are of such dimensions
that they could lead to the passage of hot gases sufficient to cause ignition of
combustible materials.
8.4.4.2
The gap gauges should be used at intervals which will be determined by the
apparent rate of the specimen deterioration. Two gap gauges should be employed,
in turn, and without undue force to determine:
- whether the 6 mm gap
gauge can be passed through the specimen such that the gauge projects into the
furnace, and can be moved a distance of 150 mm along the gap, or
- whether the 25 mm gap gauge can be passed
through the specimen such that the gauge projects into the surface. Any small
interruption to the passage of the gauge that would have little or no effect
upon the transmission of hot gases through the opening should not be taken into
account, e.g. small fastening across a construction joint that has opened up due
to distortion.
8.4.5 Deformation
The deflection of an "A", "B" or "F" class test specimen,
and additionally in the case of a door the maximum displacement of each corner
of the door leaf relative to the door frame, should be recorded during the test.
These deflections and displacements should be measured with an accuracy of ± 2
mm.
8.4.6 General behaviour
Observations should be made of the general behaviour of
the specimen during the course of the test and notes concerning the phenomena
such as cracking, melting or softening of the materials, spalling or charring,
etc., of materials of construction of the test specimen should be made. If
quantities of smoke are emitted from the unexposed face this should be noted in
the report. However, the test is not designed to indicate the possible extent of
hazard due to these factors.
8.5 Duration of testing
8.5.1 "A" class divisions
For all "A" class divisions, including those
with doors, the test should continue for minimum 60 min. When the specimen is of
an "A" class division, with a structural steel core which is imperforate (e.g.
without door), and where insulation is provided to the exposed face only (i.e. the
structural steel core is the unexposed face of the construction), it is permitted
to terminate the test prior to 60 min once the unexposed-face temperature rise
limits have been exceeded.
8.5.2 "B"
and "F" class divisions
For all "B" and "F" class divisions, including
those with doors, the test should continue for minimum 30 min.
Appendix Testing of Windows, Fire Dampers, Pipe Penetrations and Cable Transits
Introduction
This appendix covers the testing of windows,
fire dampers, pipe penetrations and cable transits, all of which may be incorporated
within "A" class divisions.
Irrespective of the
fact that this appendix is written only for "A" class divisions, the prescriptions
given can be used by analogy when testing windows, fire dampers, pipe and duct
penetrations and cable transits incorporated in "B" class divisions, where
appropriate.
The testing and reporting of these
components should be generally in accordance with the requirements given in IMO
resolution A.754(18). Where additional interpretation, adaption and/or supplementary
requirements may be necessary, these are detailed in this appendix.
Since it is not possible to introduce the distortions which
are experienced by the structural core during tests to procedures given in the
resolution, into specimens of smaller scale, all the tests of the components covered
by this appendix should be undertaken with those components installed in full size
dimensioned structural cores as specified in the resolution.
A. I Windows
1 General
The term window is taken to include windows, side scuttles
and any other glazed opening provided for light transmission or vision purposes
in "A" class bulkheads. Windows in "A" class doors are considered to be part of
the door and they should be tested within the appropriate door.
The approach adopted for testing windows should generally follow the
requirements for testing "A" class, doors where relevant and appropriate.
2 Nature of test specimens
2.1  Dimensions
The test should be conducted on the window
of the maximum size (in terms of both the width and the height) for which
approval is sought.
2.2
 Design
The bulkhead which includes the window
should be insulated to class A-60 on the stiffened face which should be the face
exposed to the heating conditions of the test. This is considered to be most
typical of the use of windows on board ships, not necessarily being the worst
way round.
There may be special applications of windows where
the Administration considers it appropriate to test the window with the
insulation of the bulkhead to the unexposed face of the structural core, or
within bulkheads other than class A-60.
The window should be
positioned within the bulkhead, shown in figure 1 of the resolution, at that
height which is intended for practical application. When this is not known, the
window should be positioned with the top of its frame as close as possible, but
not closer than 300 mm, to the top of the bulkhead.
3 Instrumentation
When a window is required by the Administration to be of a
classification other than class A-0, thermocouples should be fixed to the window
pane as specified for the leaf of a door. In addition, thermocouples should be
provided to the window frame, one at mid-length of each perimeter edge. When
windows are fitted with transoms and/or mullions, five thermocouples should be
fixed to each window pane as specified for the leaf of a door, and in addition
to the thermocouples fixed to the window frame, a single thermocouple should be
fixed at mid-length of each transom or mullion member.
4 Method of test
4.1  Temperature
For the calculation of the average
temperature rise on the unexposed face, only those thermocouples fixed to the
face of the window pane(s) should be used.
4.2  Cotton-wool pad and gap gauges
For windows which are to be of a
classification of A-0 the cotton-wool pad test need not be used to evaluate the
integrity of a window since radiation through the window pane could be
sufficient to cause ignition of the cotton-wool pad. In such cases cracks or
openings in windows should not be such as to allow the gap gauges to enter in
the manner described in 8.4.4 of the recommendation. The cotton-wool pad has to
be used for windows required to have a classification other than A-0.
5 Hose-stream test
5.1 General
This procedure is an optional requirement
and may be requested by some Administrations for windows used in specific areas
of a ship. The window is subjected to the impact, erosion and cooling effects of
a hose stream.
5.2 Method of
test
The hose stream test should be applied to
the exposed face of the specimen, immediately, but at least within not more than
1 ½ min following the termination of the heating period.
The
water stream is delivered through a standard fire hose and discharged through a
19 mm nozzle of tapered smooth-bore pattern without shoulder at the orifice. The
nozzle orifice should be 6 m from the centre and normal to the exposed face of
the specimen. The water pressure at the nozzle should be 310 kPa when measured
with the water flow in progress. The duration of application of the hose stream
to the surface of the specimen should be 0.65 min for each square metre of the
exposed area of the specimen. The stream should be directed firstly at the
centre and then at all parts of the exposed face, changes in direction being
made slowly.
5.3 Performance
criteria
The specimen is considered to have satisfied
the criteria of the hose stream test if no openings develop during the
application of the stream which allow water to pass to the unexposed
face.
A. II Fire Dampers
1 General
"A" class divisions may have to be pierced for the passage
of ventilation ducting, and arrangements should be made to ensure that the
effectiveness of the division in relation to the criterion for integrity, as
specified in 9.2 of the recommendation, is not impaired. Provisions should also
be made to ensure that should a fire be initiated within, or gain access to
ventilation ductwork, such a fire does not pass through the division within the
ductwork. To provide for both these requirements fire dampers are provided
within or fixed to spigots or coamings which are welded to the structural core
and are insulated to the same standard as the division.
2 Nature of test specimens
2.1  Dimensions The maximum and minimum
sizes (in terms of both the width and the height, or the diameter) of each type
of fire damper for which approval is sought should be tested in both vertical
and horizontal orientation.
2.2
 Design2.2.1  A bulkhead which
includes the damper should be constructed in accordance with 2.1.1 of the
recommendation and should be insulated to class A-60 on the stiffened face which
should be the face which is not exposed to the heating conditions of the test. A
deck which includes the damper should be constructed in accordance with 2.2.1 of
the recommendation and should be insulated to class A-60 on the stiffened face
which should be the face which is exposed to the heating conditions of the test.
2.2.2  Fire dampers
should be incorporated in or fixed to coamings or spigots which should be welded
or bolted into the structural core. The coaming or spigot including the damper
should have a length of 900 mm (450 mm on each side of the structural core) and
a thickness as follows:
- Width * or diameter of the ductMinimum thickness of coaming or
spigotUp to and
including 300 mm3 mm760 mm and over5 mm__________________ * Width means the
greater of the two cross-sectional dimensions.For widths or diameters of ducts in
excess of 300 mm but less than 760 mm, the thickness of the coaming or
spigot should be obtained by interpolation. The coaming or spigot should be
insulated as shown in figure A1. 2.2.3  The coamings or spigots (including insulation)
should be positioned only in the top half of a bulkhead but should be no
closer than 200 mm from the edges of a bulkhead or a deck. Where more than
one damper is to be tested simultaneously in a division, the separation
between adjacent coamings or spigots (including insulation) should not be
less than 200 mm. When more than one damper is included in a bulkhead, the
top edges of all dampers should be, as far as possible, at the same height.
2.2.4  The fire
dampers should be positioned on the exposed face of the bulkhead or deck, at
a distance of at least 225 mm from the structural core, with their operative
controls also on that side of the division. 2.2.5  Fire dampers which are operated
automatically should be in the open position at the start of the test.
3 Instrumentation
3.1  Positioning of thermocouples on the
specimenFor each fire damper, two thermocouples
should be fixed to the unexposed face at each of the following locations:
- on the surface of the insulation provided to the coaming or spigot at a
distance of 25 mm from the unexposed surface of the division; and
- on the surface of the coaming or spigot at a distance of 25 mm
from where the coaming or spigot emerges from its insulation. For fire dampers
in bulkheads, for each of the positions indicated above, one of the
thermocouples should be fixed on the top surface of the coaming or spigot and
the other thermocouple should be fixed on the bottom surface of the coaming or
spigot.
4 Method of test
The performance of fire dampers may be related to their ability to
satisfy both the insulation and the integrity criteria, or may be related only
to the requirements for integrity depending on the requirements of the
Administration.
A. III Pipe and Duct Penetrations
1 General
"A" class divisions may have to be provided with apertures
to allow them to be penetrated by service pipes and ducts, and it is necessary
to reinstate the insulation and/or integrity performance of the division at the
position where it has been penetrated. Administrations may have different
requirements relating to the need to classify pipe and/or duct penetrations,
e.g. related to the pipes' diameter and their direct attachment or not to the
structural core. This section refers from here on to pipe penetrations but may
be read as equally applicable to duct penetrations.
2 Nature of test specimens
2.1  Dimensions
The maximum and minimum sizes (in terms of
both the width and the height or diameter) of each type of pipe penetration for
which approval is sought should be tested in both vertical and horizontal
orientation.
2.2  Design
2.2.1 A bulkhead which includes
the pipe penetration should be constructed in accordance with 2.1.1of the
recommendation and should be insulated to class A-60 on the stiffened face which
should be the face which is not exposed to the heating conditions of the test. A
deck which includes the pipe penetration should be constructed in accordance
with 2.2.1 of the recommendation and should be insulated to class A-60 on the
stiffened face which should be the face which is exposed to the heating
conditions of the test.
2.2.2
The pipe penetrations should be positioned only in the top half of a bulkhead
but should not be closer than 200 mm from the edges of a bulkhead or a deck.
Where more than one pipe penetration is to be tested simultaneously in a
division, the separation between adjacent penetrations should not be less than
200 mm. Both measurements should relate to the distance to the nearest part of
the penetration system including any insulation which is part of the system.
2.2.3 Each pipe passing through a
penetration should project 500 ± 50 °C beyond the exposed end of the penetration
and 500 ± 50°C beyond the unexposed end of the penetration. The exposed end of
the pipe should be blanked off using an appropriate methodology to ensure that
any fire penetration into the pipe does not occur via the end of the pipe in
advance of it occurring through the exposed perimeter of the pipe.
2.2.4 Each pipe should be firmly
supported and fixed independent of the bulkhead or deck on the unexposed side of
the test specimen, e.g. by a framework mounted from the restraint frame. The
support and fixing of the pipe should restrain it from movement during the
test.
3 Instrumentation
3.1  Positioning of thermocouples on the
specimenFor each pipe penetration, two thermocouples
should be fixed on the unexposed face at each of the following locations:
-
on the surface of the pipe at a distance of 25 mm from the centre of the
thermocouples to the position where the pipe emerges from the penetration seal;
- on the pipe penetration at a distance of
25 mm from the centre of the thermocouples to the face of the insulation on the
unexposed side of the test specimen; and
-
on the surface of any insulation or filling material used between the pipe and
any coaming or spigot fixed to the division (provided that the gap between pipe
or any such coaming or spigot is greater than 30 mm), or on the surface of any
collar or shroud used between the pipe and the division (e.q. vapour barrier).
For pipe penetrations in bulkheads, for each of the positions indicated above,
one of the thermocouples should be fixed directly above the centre of the pipe
and the other thermocouple should be fixed directly below the centre of the
pipe. Additional thermocouples may be required to be fitted dependent upon the
complexity of the pipe penetration.
4 Performance criteria
4.1  General
The performance of pipe penetrations may be
related to their ability to satisfy both the insulation and the integrity
criteria, or may be related only to the requirements for integrity, depending on
the requirements of the Administration.
4.2  Insulation
Since the pipe penetration is a local
weakness in the division it should be capable of preventing a temperature rise
at any point on the surface not exceeding 180°C above the initial temperature.
The average temperature rise is not relevant.
A. IV Cable Transits
1 General
"A" class divisions may have to be provided with apertures
to allow them to be penetrated by cables, and it is necessary to reinstate the
insulation and integrity performance of the division at the position where it
has been penetrated. A cable transit consists of a metal frame, box or coaming,
a sealant system or material and the cables, and it may be uninsulated,
partially insulated or fully insulated.
2 Nature of test specimens
2.1  Dimensions
The maximum and minimum sizes (in terms of
both the height and the width) of each type of cable transit for which approval
is sought should be tested in both vertical and horizontal orientation.
2.2  Design
2.2.1  A bulkhead which
includes the cable transit should be constructed in accordance with 2.1.1 of the
recommendation and should be insulated to class A-60 on the stiffened face which
should be the face which is not exposed to the heating conditions of the test. A
deck which includes the cable transit should be constructed in accordance with
2.2.1 of the recommendation and should be insulated to class A-60 on the
stiffened face which should be the face which is exposed to the heating
conditions of the test.
2.2.2
 The cable transits should be positioned only in the top half of a
bulkhead but should not be closer than 200 mm from the edges of a bulkhead or a
deck. Where more than one cable transit is to be tested simultaneously in
division, the separation between adjacent transits should not be less than 200
mm. Both measurements should relate to the distance to the nearest part of the
transit system including any insulation which is part of the system.
2.2.3  Notwithstanding the
above, the distance between transits should be sufficient to ensure that the
transits do not influence each other during the test except that this
requirement does not apply to multi-transits which are intended to be positioned
adjacent to one another.
2.2.4
 The cables should project 500 ± 50 mm beyond the transit on the
exposed side of the division and 500 ± 50 mm on the unexposed side.
2.2.5  Cable transits
should be welded or bolted into the bulkhead or deck. The cables and sealing
compounds or blocks should be incorporated in the transits with the bulkhead and
deck panels placed respectively in vertical and horizontal positions. Any
insulation should be applied to the panels and transits with the panels in the
same respective positions.
2.2.6
 The transit(s) should be tested incorporating a range of different
types of cables (e.g. in terms of number and type of conductor, type of
sheathing, type of insulation material, size) and should provide an assembly
which represents a practical situation which may be found on ships. An
individual Administration may have its own specification for a "standard"
configuration of penetrating cables which it may use as a basis of its
approvals. The test results obtained from a given configuration are generally
valid for the tested types of cables of size equal to or smaller than tested.
2.2.7  No more than 40%
of the inside cross-sectional area of each transit should be occupied by cables
and the distances between adjacent cables and between the cables and the inside
of the transit should be the minimum for which is allowable for the actual
penetration sealing system.
3 Instrumentation
3.1 Positioning of thermocouples on the specimenFor each uninsulated cable transit,
thermocouples should be fixed on the unexposed face at each of the following
locations:
- at two positions on the surface of the outer perimeter of the
frame, box or coaming at a distance of 25 mm from the unexposed surface of the
division;
- at two positions at the end of
the transit, on the face of the sealant system or material at a distance of 25
mm from a cable; and
- on the surface of
each type of cable included in the cable transit, at a distance of 25 mm from
the face of the sealant system or material. In case of group or bunch of cables
the group should be treated as a single cable. In case of horizontal cables the
thermocouples should be mounted on the uppermost surface of the cables. For
those thermocouples placed on the outer perimeter of the frame, box or coaming,
one thermocouple should be fixed on each of two opposite faces which in the case
of bulkheads should be the top and bottom faces.
For each partially insulated or fully insulated cable transit,
thermocouples should be fixed on the unexposed face at equivalent positions to
those specified for an uninsulated transit as illustrated in figure A2.
Additional thermocouples may be required to be fixed dependent
upon the complexity of the cable transit.
When fixing thermocouples to the unexposed surface of the cables, the copper
disc and the insulating pad should be formed over the surface to provide good
contact with the surface of the cable. The copper disc and the pad should be
retained in position by some mechanical means, e.g. wiring or spring clips, such
that they do not become detached during the test. The mechanical retention
should not provide any significant heat sink effect to the unexposed face of the
thermocouple.
4 Performance criteria
4.1  General
The performance of cable transits may be
related to their ability to satisfy both the requirements for insulation and
integrity, or may be related only to the requirements for integrity depending on
the requirements of the Administration.
4.2  Insulation
Since the cable transit is a local weakness
in the division it should be capable of preventing a temperature rise at any
point on the surface not exceeding 180°C above the initial temperature. The
average temperature rise is not relevant.