NFPA 701 Curtain Flammability Tester

The NFPA 701 Curtain Flammability Tester is designed specifically for evaluating the flame resistance of curtains, draperies, and other hanging textiles according to NFPA 701:2004 & 2009 Edition, Test Method 1. This method applies to single-layer or multi-layer fabrics with an areal density of 700 g/m² (21 oz/yd²) or less, ensuring that textile products used in public spaces meet critical fire safety requirements.
With an open combustion chamber, standardized Meker burner, automated control, and precise timing, the instrument provides reliable and repeatable flammability assessments for laboratories, manufacturers, and regulatory agencies.
Application
The tester is used to assess flame propagation and ignition characteristics of hanging decorative fabrics, including:
Curtains and draperies used in public buildings
Stage backdrops and theatrical fabrics
Hotel, cinema, and commercial window coverings
Lightweight decorative interior fabrics
Multi-layer curtain systems
Fire-retardant textile certification and quality inspection
It helps users verify compliance with NFPA 701 and reduce fire hazards associated with combustible textiles.
Standards
The instrument fully meets:
NFPA 701:2004 Edition, Test Method 1
NFPA 701:2009 Edition, Test Method 1
Technical Specifications
Curtain Flammability Tester Specifications
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Combustion Chamber Size | 675 mm (W) × 500 mm (D) × 700 mm (H) |
| Chamber Structure | 12 mm Marinite (calcium silicate board) with 1.2 mm 304 stainless steel exterior |
| Chamber Type | Open-front test box, inner surface coated with black finish |
| Compliance | NFPA 701:2004 Chapter 5 |
| Burner Type | Meker burner (hammer-type laboratory burner) |
| Heat Output | 10,500 BTU/hour |
| Sample Pin Bar | 9 mm stainless steel bar, 190 mm length, with 0.7 mm × 11 mm steel pins |
| Wire Brush | Bronze, compliant with NFPA 701:2004 Section 5.9 |
| Sample Holders | Five stainless steel specimen holders |
| Standard Clips | Five stainless steel sample clips |
| Standard Burning Line | Included (1 roll) |
| Control Method | Fully automatic; proximity sensor triggers timing |
| Gas Supply System | Pressure regulator + solenoid valve; automatic ON/OFF |
| Timer Range | 0–99.99 s |
| Timer Resolution / Accuracy | 0.01 s / 0.1 s |
| Flow Meter | Rotameter for flame height adjustment |
FAQ
1. What types of fabrics can be tested with this instrument?
It is suitable for curtains, draperies, lightweight hanging fabrics, and multi-layer textiles with an areal density under 700 g/m².
2. Why is the NFPA 701 test required?
NFPA 701 is a widely recognized fire safety standard for hanging textiles. Many commercial buildings, theaters, hotels, and public venues require fabrics to pass this test before installation.
3. What ignition source does the tester use?
A standardized Meker burner delivering 10,500 BTU/hour, as required by NFPA 701.
4. Does the instrument operate automatically?
Yes. It features automatic ignition, automatic gas control, and automatic timing activated by a proximity switch.
5. How is flame height controlled?
A rotameter-type flow meter allows precise gas flow adjustment to achieve the correct flame height during testing.
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