Yes, PVC trunking materials have undergone fire performance testing and achieved specific classifications based on these tests.
Understanding PVC Trunking and Fire Performance
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) trunking is commonly used as a cable management solution in buildings. It provides a neat and safe way to route electrical cables along walls and ceilings. Like many building materials, its reaction to fire is an important consideration for safety and regulatory compliance.
Fire Testing and Classification of PVC Trunking
To assess their fire performance, the PVC-U materials used for conduit and trunking are subjected to specific fire tests. According to the provided reference, these materials have been tested for:
- Ignitability: Tested to BS 476 Parts 5 and 12.
- Flame Spread: Tested to BS 476 Part 7.
Significantly, when tested for flame spread to BS 476 Part 7, a Class 1 rating was achieved.
What Does a Class 1 Rating Mean?
The BS 476 Part 7 standard classifies the surface spread of flame of materials. A Class 1 rating is the best possible classification under this standard, indicating that the material has very limited surface flame spread when exposed to a flame source. This means fire will not rapidly spread across the surface of the PVC trunking itself if it is exposed to a fire.
Practical Implications
The fact that PVC trunking achieves a Class 1 rating for surface flame spread under BS 476 Part 7 is important for building safety. It demonstrates that the material's surface does not contribute significantly to the spread of fire within a building. This classification is often relevant for meeting building regulations related to internal linings and surfaces.
