NFPA 701 Test

NFPA 701 is a standard for the flame resistance testing of textiles and films established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in the United States. It is widely applied to materials such as curtains, draperies, and awnings in public spaces. This standard includes two test methods (Method 1 and Method 2), but how to choose the appropriate test method for a product?

ØDetermine based on the scope of application of the two test methods:

Test Method 1:

Applicable to fabrics and materials used for door curtains, window curtains, draperies, or other window coverings.

Suitable for single-layer fabrics and tightly bonded multi-layer door curtains and draperies treated with stitching, adhesion, etc. Vinyl-coated fabrics must be tested using Method 2.

Applicable to the following products:

1) Table skirts

2) Tablecloths

3) Booth partitions

4) Textile wall hangings

Test Method 2:

Applicable to flat-surfaced fabrics with a surface area greater than 700 g/m², including multi-layer fabrics, films, plastic curtains, etc.

Suitable for vinyl-coated blackout linings and lined curtains using vinyl-coated blackout linings.

Applicable to plastic films, whether reinforced or backed, used for interior decoration or other purposes in buildings, or as temporary or permanent enclosures for buildings under construction.

Applicable to awnings, tents, tarpaulins, and similar architectural fabric structures and banners.

ØDifferent test methods involve different shapes and testing conditions:

Test Method 1: Samples must be hung vertically to simulate the natural draping of fabrics in actual use.

Test Method 2: Includes two testing conditions:

Non-foldable specimens: Simulate combustion of materials in horizontal or inclined structures (e.g., awning surfaces).

Foldable specimens: Evaluate the risk of flame spread in folded materials (e.g., tent seams).

ØWhen applying for NFPA 701 testing, note the sample requirements for the two test methods:

Test Method 1 sample requirements: 10 samples (5.90 in. ± 0.20 in. × 15.80 in. ± 0.20 in.)

Test Method 2 sample requirements:

Foldable hanging materials: Four samples (24.0 in. ± 1.0 in. × 47.25 in. ± 1.0 in.)

Non-foldable materials: At least 10 samples (4.9 in. × 47.25 in. ± 1.0 in.)