Certification and Registration
IMO A.652 (16) Fire-Testing Procedure for Upholstered Furniture
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IMO A.652 (16) Standard Description
IMO A.652 (16) Recommendations on Fire‑Resistance Testing Procedures for Upholstered Furniture
IMO A.652 (16) Standard Introduction
To reduce fire risks at sea from upholstered furniture, IMO A.652(16) specifies a method for assessing the flammability of materials (coverings and padding) when exposed to a smouldering cigarette or a lit match, helping ensure crew and vessel safety.
IMO A.652 (16) Scope of Application
Applies to coverings and padding for upholstered seats.
IMO A.652 (16) Test Method
Light the cigarette until the tip glows brightly, with consumption not exceeding 8 mm. Place it along the joint between vertical and horizontal specimens, at least 50 mm from edges, and start timing.
Observe combustion progress and record any smouldering or flaming on the surface or interior. If detection is difficult, look for smoke emerging – observing via a mirror makes it easier.
Basis for determination:
◎ If smouldering or open flame is observed within 1 hour, extinguish the specimen – fail.
◎ If no such phenomena occur within 1 hour and the cigarette does not fully smoulder, retest at a new position at least 50 mm from the previous damage. If the retest still shows no result or the cigarette does not fully smoulder, the specimen passes.
IMO A.652 (16) Butane flame test
Ignite the butane burner, adjust gas flow, and allow the flame to stabilise for at least 2 minutes. Position the burner tube axially along the seat/backrest joint, at least 50 mm from the nearest edge or previous marks, and start timing.
Apply the flame for 20 seconds, then carefully remove the burner. Observe for open flames or smouldering in the interior trim or covering. Flames that extinguish within 120 seconds after removal, afterglow, smoking, or smouldering may be disregarded.
Basis for determination:
◎ If open flame or progressive smouldering is observed on interior components – fail.
◎ If none is observed, repeat the test at a new location. If still no open flame or progressive smouldering occurs in the repeat test – pass.
SATISFY has a professional team specialising in flame‑retardant and fire‑resistance testing, offering end‑to‑end services for textiles, building materials, home furnishings, wires, cables, and other materials. Services include preliminary assessments, comprehensive test oversight, report interpretation, data analysis, and corrective recommendations. For more information, please contact SATISFY customer service.
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