AS 5637.1 is a standard for determining the fire hazard characteristics of wall and ceiling linings, which assesses ratings based on the results of either the AS 3837 heat release rate test (small-scale method) or the ISO 9705 full-scale room fire test (large-scale method). Typically, decorative materials are commonly tested according to the Australian standard AS 3837 and then rated in accordance with AS 5637.1.

AS 3837—Reaction to Fire Tests—Heat Release Rate Test for Building Materials establishes the testing methodology, and AS 3837 is based on the ISO 5660 heat release rate test standard. The ISO test method, except for smoke testing, and its testing equipment are based on the ASTM E1354 standard, using an oxygen consumption calorimeter to test the heat release and visible smoke release of materials and products.

?Test Sample Requirements

If testing is conducted using AS 3837, the sample requirements are 100mm × 100mm × actual thickness (not exceeding 50mm).

?Test Items

?Heat Release Rate: Determined by oxygen consumption, Group 1 materials exhibit a low heat release rate during testing, with peak and average values required to meet the limits specified by the standard.

?Effective Heat of Combustion and Mass Loss Rate: Alongside heat release rate testing, the mass loss rate of the sample is measured to calculate the effective heat of combustion. Group 1 materials should have effective heat of combustion and mass loss rates within a certain range.

?Smoke Release Rate: Determined by measuring the obscuration of light by combustion products. Group 1 materials produce a low amount of smoke during combustion, with a low smoke generation rate.

?Ignitability: The time from ignition to sustained burning is measured. Group 1 materials are difficult to ignite, with a longer ignition delay period.

?AS 5637.1 Evaluation Procedure for Internal Wall and Ceiling Linings

(a) Tendency to combust;

(b) Once ignited, their heat release;

(c) Likelihood to cause flashover;

(d) Tendency to release smoke; and

(e) Their contribution to fire growth, which can determine the group number, Smoke Growth Rate Index (SMOGRARC), and, if necessary, the Average Specific Extinction Area (ASEA).