NF P 92-505 Dripping Test Apparatus

The Radiant Heat Drop Tester is engineered to assess the melting, dripping, and ignition behavior of automotive interior materials under controlled radiant heat exposure. Fully compliant with ECE R118 Appendix 7, it reproduces realistic fire-exposure scenarios through adjustable radiant flux and precision sample positioning. Its stainless-steel construction, stable heating module, and integrated electrical control system ensure long-term reliability for both regulatory testing and R&D applications.

Application

The tester is used for evaluating the combustion behavior of automotive interior components including dashboards, trim panels, door panels, seat fabrics, roof headliners, insulation layers, polymer sheets, composite interior panels, and textile coverings. It measures melting tendency, droplet formation, fiber ignition, and secondary combustion under radiant heat exposure, supporting material qualification and compliance with automotive fire-safety regulations.

Standards

NF P92-505:Specification for conduit systems for cable management-Dripping test with electrical radiator, used for melting materials.

EU 95/28/EC:the burning behaviour of materials used in the interior construction of certain categories of motor vehicles.

ECE R118 Appendix 7 – Burning behavior of materials used in vehicle interiors

Features

(1) Designed specifically for ECE R118 Appendix 7 testing, offering precise simulation of radiant heat exposure and droplet behavior in automotive fire scenarios

(2) Stable radiant heating system ensures uniform energy distribution, improving reproducibility across repeated tests

(3) Sample holder structure minimizes operator error and ensures consistent specimen positioning under radiation

(4) Optimized optical and physical layout provides unobstructed observation of melting, dripping, and ignition phenomena

(5) Control module integrates power regulation, timing, and safety interlocks, preventing overheating and incorrect operation

(6) Fast system warm-up and steady-state radiation enable high laboratory throughput and efficient testing cycles

(7) Mechanical design supports smooth movement of the radiation bracket, allowing quick switching between loading and testing positions

(8) High-temperature-resistant materials and corrosion-proof stainless steel ensure long service life in continuous testing environments

(9) Easy-clean structure reduces residue buildup and maintains consistent test conditions

(10) Compact installation footprint makes the system suitable for automotive interior material labs, quality inspection centers, and R&D departments

Parameters:

The French M Classification for Building Materials (NF P 92-507)The “Reaction to Fire” tests classify the material into 5 categories from M0 to M4. The specific standard that is applicable depends on the intended use and defines test methods for all materials.

M0 - Non-flammable (Calorific Value ≤ 2.5 MJ/kg)

M1 - Non-flammable (Calorific Value > 2.5 MJ/kg)

M2 - Low flammability

M3 - Moderately flammable

M4 - High flammability

Table 1 Flexible Materials with Thickness ≤5mm.

Table 2 Rigid Materials, or Materials on Rigid Substrates, or Flexible Materials Thicker 5mm.

Table 3 Flooring

Accessories:

(1) Stainless steel sample holder

(2) Residue container

(3) Transparent radiation glass plate

(4) Integrated mechanical and electrical control unit

(5) Optional: extra sample holders or calibration tools as required

Test Procedures

(1) Secure the specimen in the stainless steel sample holder

(2) Position the residue container directly under the sample

(3) Set the desired heat flux and power level on the control panel

(4) Adjust the radiation bracket angle and height for correct alignment

(5) Activate the radiant heat source to begin exposure

(6) Observe melting, dripping, fiber ignition, and combustion behavior

(7) Allow the system to cool before removing the sample

(8) Record test results according to ECE R118 Appendix 7 requirements

Maintenance Information

(1) Clean the residue container and radiation glass plate after each test

(2) Inspect electrical connections and stainless steel surfaces regularly

(3) Ensure the ventilation and exhaust port remain unobstructed

(4) Check the radiant heater and mechanical alignment periodically

(5) Keep the instrument in a dry, well-ventilated space to extend service life

(6) Confirm proper functioning of the control system and heat flux adjustment