Single Wire/Cable Vertical Combustion Tester
The Single Wire/Cable Vertical Flame Tester is designed to evaluate the flame resistance of electrical wires and cables under vertical orientation, critical for assessing fire safety in applications like buildings, vehicles, and electronics. By simulating real-world fire conditions, it helps manufacturers ensure compliance with international fire safety standards.
Applicable Standards
The tester adheres to global and domestic regulations, including:
- IEC 60332 Series: Evaluates flame propagation in single wires (IEC 60332-1/2) and bunched cables (IEC 60332-3).
- UL 2556/94: Assesses flame retardance for VW-1 and 5VA/B ratings.
- GB/T 18380: Chinese standards for single-wire flame spread tests.
- GB 17761-2024: Mandates fire resistance for e-bike wiring.
Main Parameters
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Flame Height | Blue core: 50–60 mm; Total: 170–190 mm |
| Ignition Time | 0.1–999.9 seconds (adjustable) |
| Fuel Type | 95% propane + air mixture |
| Sample Length | 600 ±25 mm |
| Conductor Size | Diameter >0.8 mm or cross-section >0.5 mm² |
| Control System | PLC + touchscreen with data logging |
Working Principle
The tester employs a 1 kW propane-air flame applied to vertically mounted cables. Sensors monitor flame spread, smoke generation, and temperature changes in real time. The system automatically adjusts flame height and angle (45°) to simulate worst-case fire scenarios. Safety features include emergency stop buttons and explosion-proof enclosures.
Test Principle
- Sample Preparation: Condition cables at 23±10℃ and 50±20% humidity for 16 hours.
- Ignition: Apply flame to the cable’s midpoint for a predefined duration.
- Combustion Monitoring: Track flame propagation distance and self-extinguishing time.
- Pass/Fail Criteria: Damage must not exceed 50 mm from the upper clamp for compliance.
Key Advantages
- Compliance: Meets IEC, UL, and GB standards for global market access.
- Precision: Adjustable flame parameters ensure repeatable results.
- Efficiency: Automated controls reduce testing time by 40%.
- Safety: Dual-layer protection prevents operator exposure to hazards.
This tester empowers manufacturers to design safer cables, minimizing fire risks and accelerating product certification. By identifying weaknesses early, it supports cost-effective quality control and innovation.