Report on Proposals — Copyright, NFPA NFPA 251

NFPA 251 (e.g., electrical receptacle outlets, plumbing pipe) unless specifically
Standard Methods of Tests of Fire Endurance Resistance of provided for in the construction tested
Building Construction and Materials [ROP 251-4]
2005 Edition
IMPORTANT NOTE: This NFPA document is made available for use 1.4 Units. The inch-pound value for a measurement and the SI value given in
subject to important notices and legal disclaimers. These notices and parenthesis shall each be acceptable for use as primary units for satisfying the
disclaimers appear in all publications containing this document and requirements of this standard.
may be found under the heading “Important Notices and Disclaimers Chapter 2 Referenced Publications
Concerning NFPA Documents.” They can also be obtained on request from 2.1 General. The documents or portions thereof listed in this chapter
NFPA or viewed at www.nfpa.org/ disclaimers. are referenced within this standard and shall be considered part of the
NOTICE: An asterisk (*) following the number or letter designating a requirements of this document.
paragraph indicates that explanatory material on the paragraph can be found 2.2 NFPA Publications. (Reserved)
in Annex A.
2.3 Other Publications.
Information on referenced publications can be found in Chapter 2 and
Annex H. 2.3.1 ASTM Publications. American Society for Testing and Materials, 100
Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.
Chapter 1 Administration
ASTM C 569, Test for Indentation Hardness of Preformed Thermal
1.1* Scope. This standard provides methods of fire tests for the fire-resistive Insulations, 1989.
properties of building members and assemblies.
ASTM E 2226, Standard Practice for Application of Hose Stream, 2002.
1.2 Purpose.
2.3. UL Publication. Underwriters Laboratories Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road,

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1.2.1 This standard describes methods to evaluate the duration for which Northbrook, IL 60062-2096.
the types of assemblies noted in 1.3.1 contain a fire, retain their structural
integrity, or exhibit both properties, depending on the type of assembly ANSI/UL 385, Standard for Safety Play Pipes for Water Supply Testing in
involved during a predetermined test exposure. Fire Protection Service, 1994.

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1.2.2 It is the intention of this standard that classifications fire resistance Chapter 3 Definitions
ratings be based on performance during the period of exposure and not be 3.1 General. The definitions contained in this chapter shall apply to the terms
used to determine suitability for use after fire exposure. [ROP 251-2] used in this standard. Where terms are not included, common usage of the
1.2.3* The results of these tests are one factor in assessing fire performance terms shall apply.

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of building construction and assemblies. 3.2 NFPA Official Definitions.
1.3 Application. 3.2.1 Shall. Indicates a mandatory requirement.
1.3.1 These methods of fire tests apply to assemblies of masonry units and to 3.2.2 Should. Indicates a recommendation or that which is advised but not
composite assemblies of structural materials for buildings, including bearing required.

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and other walls and partitions, columns, girders, beams, slabs, and composite
3.2.3 Standard. A document, the main text of which contains only mandatory
slab and beam assemblies for floors and roofs.
provisions using the word “shall” to indicate requirements and which is in a
1.3.2 They also apply to other assemblies and structural units that constitute form generally suitable for mandatory reference by another standard or code
permanent integral parts of a finished building. or for adoption into law. Nonmandatory provisions shall be located in an
1.3.3 This standard requires a specimen to be exposed to a standard fire annex or annex, footnote, or fine-print note and are not to be considered a part

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exposure that is controlled to achieve specified temperatures throughout a of the requirements of a standard.
specific time period. 3.3 General Definitions.
1.3.4 In some instances, the fire exposure is followed by the application of a 3.3.1* Fire Resistance. The measure of the ability of a material, product, or
specified standard fire hose stream. assembly to withstand fire or give protection from it. [ROP 251-7]
1.3.5 The exposure is not to be considered representative of all fire 3.3.2* Fire Resistance Rating. The time, in minutes or hours, that materials
conditions, which vary with changes in the amount, nature, and distribution or assemblies have withstood a standard fire exposure. The rating should be
of fire loading, ventilation, compartment size and configuration, and heat sink determined in accordance with the test procedures of this standard. [ROP
characteristics of the compartment. 251-7]
1.3.6 The test provides a relative measure of fire performance of comparable Chapter 4 Control of Fire Tests
assemblies under specified fire exposure conditions.
4.1 Temperature–Time Curve.
1.3.7 Variations in the construction or conditions (e.g., size, method of
4.1.1* The conduct of fire tests of materials and construction shall be
assembly, and materials) that are tested substantially varies the performance
controlled by the standard temperature–time curve shown in Figure 4.1.1.
characteristics of the assembly.
1.3.8 The standard provides methods to measure the following:
FIGURE 4.1.1 Temperature–Time Curve. [Existing Figure 2-1.1, 99 ed.,
(1) In walls, partitions, and floor or roof assemblies:
(no change)]
(a) Transmission of heat
(b) Transmission of hot gases through the assembly sufficient to
4.1.2 The temperature inside the furnace shall be ambient when the test
ignite cotton waste
begins.
(c) Load-carrying ability of the test specimen during the test
4.2* Furnace Temperatures.
exposure where load-bearing elements are included
4.2.1* The temperature fixed by the curve shall be the average temperature
(2) For individual load-bearing assemblies such as beams and
obtained from the readings of no fewer than nine thermocouples for a floor,
columns, a load-carrying ability under the test exposure with some
roof, wall, or partition and no fewer than eight thermocouples for a structural
consideration for the end support conditions (i.e., restrained or
column.
unrestrained)
4.2.1.1 The thermocouples shall be symmetrically disposed and distributed
1.3.9 The standard does not provide the following:
to show the temperature near all parts of the sample and shall be enclosed in
(1) Full information on the performance of assemblies constructed with protection tubes of such materials and dimensions that the time constant of
components or lengths other than those tested the protected thermocouple assembly lies within the range of 5.0 minutes to
(2) Evaluation of the degree to which the assembly contributes to the 7.2 minutes.
fire hazard by generation of smoke, toxic gases, or other products of 4.2.1.2 The exposed length of the pyrometer tube and thermocouple in the
combustion furnace chamber shall be not less than 12 in. (305 mm).
(3) Measurement of the degree of control or limitation of the passage of 4.2.1.3 Other types of protecting tubes or pyrometers shall be permitted to be
smoke or products of combustion through the assembly used that, under test conditions, provide the time range of 5.0 minutes to 7.2
(4) Simulation of the fire behavior of joints between building elements, minutes within the accuracy requirement that applies for the measurement of
such as floor-to-wall or wall-to-wall connections furnace temperature.
(5) Measurement of flame spread over the surface of the tested element 4.2.1.4 For floors and columns, the junction of the thermocouples shall be
placed 12 in. (305 mm) away from the exposed face of the specimen at the
(6) Effect on fire endurance of conventional openings in the assembly beginning of the test and, during the test, shall not touch the sample as a
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Report on Proposals — Copyright, NFPA NFPA 251
result of its deflection. measurements taken at individual points. [ROP-251-6]
4.2.1.5 In the case of walls and partitions, the thermocouples shall be placed 4.3.5 Where a temperature rise of 30 percent in excess of the specified limit
6 in. (152 mm) away from the exposed face of the specimen at the beginning occurs at any one of the individual measurement points, all other points shall
of the test and shall not touch the specimen during the test in the event of be ignored, and the fire endurance period shall be judged as ended.
deflection. 4.4 Furnace Pressure.
4.2.2 The temperatures shall be measured at intervals not exceeding 1 minute 4.4.1 The pressure-sensing probes shall be as shown in Figure 4.4.1(a) or
during the test period. Figure 4.4.1(b).
4.2.3 The accuracy of the furnace control shall be such that the area under the FIGURE 4.4.1(a) Static pressure-sensing probe dimensions. [Existing
temperature–time curve, obtained by averaging the results from the pyrometer Figure 2.4.1(a), 1999 edition, no change]
readings, is within the following percentages of the corresponding area under
the standard temperature–time curve shown in Figure 4.1.1: FIGURE 4.4.1(b) Pressure-sensing probe. [Existing Figure 2.4.1(b), 1999
edition, no change]
(1) 10 percent for fire tests of 1 hour or less
4.4.2 The pressure shall be measured using a differential pressure instrument
(2) 7.5 percent for fire tests over 1 hour and not more than 2 hours capable of reading in increments no coarser than 0.01 in. wg (2.5 Pa) with a
(3) 5 percent for fire tests exceeding 2 hours precision of not less than ± 0.005 in. wg (± 1.25 Pa).
4.3 Temperatures of Unexposed Surfaces of Floors, Roofs, Walls, and 4.4.3 The differential pressure measurement instrument(s) shall be located to
Partitions. minimize stack effects caused by vertical runs of pressure tubing between the
4.3.1* Temperatures of unexposed surfaces shall be measured with furnace probe(s) and instrument locations.
thermocouples or thermometers placed under thermocouple pads. 4.4.4 The furnace pressure(s) shall be measured and recorded at intervals not
4.3.1.1 Thermocouple pads shall meet the following requirements or exceeding 1 minute throughout the test.
otherwise shall be demonstrated to be equivalent by comparative NFPA 251 4.4.5 Control of the furnace pressure shall be established no later than 10

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tests: minutes after the start of the test and shall be maintained throughout the
(1) Length and width, 6 in. ± 1/8 in. (1.52 mm ± 3.2 mm) remainder of the test.
(2) Thickness, 0.40 in. ± 0.05 in. (10.2 mm ± 1.3 mm) 4.4.5.1 For vertical specimens, the vertical pressure distribution within the

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furnace shall be measured by at least two probes separated by a vertical
(3) Thermal conductivity [at 150°F (65°C)], 0.38 ± 0.027 Btu·in./hr·ft2·° F distance [minimum of 6 ft (1.8 m)] within the furnace.
(0.55 ± 0.039 W/m·K)
4.4.5.1.1 A calculation of the neutral planeʼs (zero differential pressure)
(4) Dry weight, 0.147 lb ± 0.053 lb (67 g ± 24 g). [ROP 251-8] location shall be made based on the vertical separation of the probes and their
(5)* Hardness indentation on soft face, 0.075 in. ± 0.025 in. (1.9 mm ± 0.6 pressure differences.

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mm), with indentation determined in accordance with ASTM C 569, 4.4.5.1.2 The pressure measurements made inside the furnace, along with the
Test for Indentation Hardness of Preformed Thermal Insulations. calculation showing the position of the neutral plane with respect to the top of
[ROP 251-8] the vertical assembly during the test, shall be reported.
4.3.1.2 The wire leads of the thermocouple or the stem of the thermometer 4.4.5.2 For horizontal specimens, the following criteria shall be met:

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shall have an immersion under the pad and shall be in contact with the
unexposed surface for not less than 31/2 in. (90 mm). (1) The pressure shall be measured at two locations along the centerline of
the specimen and 12 in. (305 mm) below the specimen.
4.3.1.3 The hot junction of the thermocouple or the bulb of the thermometer
shall be placed under the approximate center of the pad. (2) The pressure (the average of the two readings) during the test shall be
reported. [ROP 251-9]

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4.3.1.4 The outside diameter of protecting or insulating tubes and of
thermometer stems shall be not more than 5/16 in. (8 mm).
4.3.1.5 The pad shall be held firmly against the surface and shall fit closely
about the thermocouples or thermometer stems.
4.3.1.6 Thermometers shall be of the partial-immersion type, with a length of
stem, between the end of the bulb and the immersion mark, of 3 in. (76 mm).
4.3.1.7 The wires for the thermocouple in the length covered by the pad shall
be not heavier than No. 18 B & S gauge [0.04 in. (1.02 mm)] and shall be
electrically insulated with heat-resistant and moisture-resistant coatings.
4.3.2 Temperature measurements shall be obtained from at least nine points
on the surface, as follows:
(1) Five thermocouples shall be symmetrically disposed as follows:
(a) One located approximately at the center of the specimen
(b) Four located approximately at the center of each quadrant
(2) The other four thermocouples shall be located at the discretion of
the testing authority to obtain representative information on the
performance of the construction under test.
(3) All of the thermocouples shall be located at a distance of at least 11/2
times the thickness of the construction or 12 in. (305 mm) from the
edges of the test specimen.
(4) The distance requirements specified in 4.3.2(3) shall not apply where
an element of the assembly is located near the edge only.
(5) None of the thermocouples shall be located opposite or on top of
beams, girders, pilasters, or other structural members if temperatures
at such points are lower than at more representative locations.
(6) None of the thermocouples shall be located opposite or on top of
fasteners such as screws, nails, or staples that are higher or lower in
temperature than at more representative locations if the aggregate area
of any part of such fasteners projected to the unexposed surface is less
than 1 percent of the area within any 6 in. (152 mm) diameter circle.
(7) The fasteners specified in 4.3.2(6) shall not be required to extend
through the assembly.
4.3.3 Temperature readings shall be measured at intervals not exceeding 1
minute.
4.3.4 Where the conditions of acceptance place a limitation on the rise of
the temperature of the unexposed surface, the temperature end point of the
fire endurance resistance period shall be determined by the average of the

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Chapter 5 Test Specimen conditions of acceptance for the given type of construction. [ROP 251-6]
5.1 Specimen. 6.1.2 For the purpose of obtaining additional performance data, the test shall
5.1.1 The test specimen shall be a true representation of the construction for be permitted to be continued beyond the time the fire endurance classification
which classification fire resistance rating is to be determined with respect to is determined.
materials, workmanship, and details such as dimension of parts. [ROP 251-2] 6.2 Hose Stream Test.
5.1.1.1 The specimen shall be built under conditions representative of those 6.2.1 Where required by the conditions of acceptance, a duplicate specimen
properties that are applied in actual building construction and operation. shall be subjected to a fire exposure test for a period equal to one-half of that
5.1.1.2 The physical properties of the materials and ingredients used in the indicated as the resistance period in the fire endurance test, but not for more
test specimen shall be determined and recorded. than 1 hour and the following also shall apply:
5.1.2 The following shall apply to the size and dimensions of the test (1) Immediately following the fire exposure test, the specimen shall be
specimen: subjected to the impact, erosion, and cooling effects of a hose stream directed
first at the middle and then at all parts of the exposed face, with changes in
(1) They shall be recognized as intending to apply in rating constructions direction made slowly.
of dimensions within the normal general range used in buildings.
(2) The hose stream test shall not be required in the case of construction
(2) Where the conditions of use limit the construction to smaller having a resistance period, as specified in the fire endurance test, of less than
dimensions, a proportionate reduction shall be permitted to be made 1 hour.
in the dimensions of the specimens for a test used to qualify them for
such restricted use. 6.2.2 The stream shall be delivered through a 21/2-in. (64-mm) hose
discharging through a national standard play pipe as specified in ANSI/
5.1.3 Where it is desired to include a built-up roof covering, the following UL 385, Standard for Safety Play Pipes for Water Supply Testing in Fire
criteria shall be met: Protection Service. 6.2.2.1 The play pipe shall have an overall length of 30 in.
(1) The test specimen shall have a roof covering of 3-ply, 15 lb (6.8 kg) (762 mm) and shall be equipped with a 11/8-in. (28.4-mm) discharge tip of the

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type felt not in excess of 120 lb (54.4 kg) per 100 ft2 (9.3 m2) of hot standard-taper, smooth bore pattern without shoulder at the orifice.
mopping asphalt without gravel surfacing.
(2) Tests of assemblies with such roof covering shall not preclude the field 6.2.2.2 The play pipe shall be fitted with a 21/2-in. (64-mm) inside diameter
use of other built-up roof coverings. by 6-in. (153-mm) long nipple mounted between the hose and the base of the

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5.2 Protection and Conditioning of Test Specimen. The test specimen shall play pipe.
be protected during and after fabrication to ensure its quality and condition 6.2.2.3 The pressure tap for measuring the water pressure at the base of the
when tested. nozzle shall be normal to the surface of the nipple, centered in its length, and
5.2.1 The specimen shall not be tested until close to its full strength, and, if shall not protrude into the water stream.
it contains moisture, it shall not be tested until the excess moisture has been 6.2.2.4 The water pressure shall be measured with a pressure gauge [as a

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removed to achieve an air-dry condition in accordance with the requirements minimum 0 to 50 psi (0 to 345 kPa)] graduated in no more than 2-psi (13.8-
of 5.2.2 through 5.2.5. kPa) increments.
5.2.2 The testing equipment and sample undergoing the fire test shall be 6.2.2.5 The water pressure and duration of application shall be as specified in
protected from any condition of wind or weather that might lead to abnormal Table 6.2.2.

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results.
6.2.3 The nozzle shall be located as follows:
5.2.3 The ambient air temperature at the beginning of the test shall be within
the range of 50°F to 90°F (10°C to 32°C). (1) The nozzle orifice shall be 20 ft (6 m) from the center of the exposed
surface of the test sample if the nozzle is so located that, when directed at the
5.2.4 The velocity of air across the unexposed surface of the sample, center, its axis is normal to the surface of the test sample.

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measured immediately before the test begins, shall not exceed 4.4 ft/sec
(1.3 m/sec) as determined by an anemometer placed at right angles to the (2) If otherwise located, the distance of the nozzle from the center shall be
unexposed surface. less than 20 ft (6 m) by a distance equal to 1 ft (0.3 m) for each 10 degrees of
deviation from normal. [ROP 251-12]
5.2.5 If mechanical ventilation is used during the test, an airstream shall not
be directed across the surface of the specimen. 6.2.1 Where required by the conditions of acceptance specified in Section 7.3
or Section 8.2, for walls or partitions having a fire resistance rating of not less
5.2.6* Prior to the fire test, the construction shall be conditioned with the than 1 hour, a hose stream test shall be conducted in accordance with Section
objective of providing a moisture condition within the specimen representative 6.2.
of that likely to exist in similar construction in buildings.
6.2.2 Unless otherwise provided for in 6.2.3, the hose stream test shall
5.2.6.1 For purposes of standardization, the moisture condition shall be be conducted on a duplicate test specimen immediately after it has been
considered to be that which would exist at equilibrium as a result of drying in subjected to the fire resistance test for a period equal to one-half of the period
an ambient atmosphere of 50 percent relative humidity at 73°F (23°C), indicated as the fire resistance rating, but for not more than 1 hour.
5.2.6.2 Where it is difficult or impossible to achieve such a condition within 6.2.3 It shall be permitted to conduct the hose stream test on the original test
a reasonable time, specimens shall be permitted to be tested when the specimen.
dampest portion of the structure [i.e., the portion at 6 in. (152 mm) depth
below the surface of massive constructions] has achieved a moisture content 6.2.4 The test equipment and test procedures for conducting the hose stream
corresponding to drying to equilibrium with air in the range of 50 percent to test shall be as described in ASTM E 2226, Standard Practice for Application
75 percent relative humidity at 73°F ± 5°F (23°C ± 3°C). of Hose Stream. [ROP 251-12]
5.2.6.3 The following also shall apply to the requirements for conditioning of 6.2.5 The water pressure and duration of application shall be as specified in
the test specimen: Table 6.2.5. [ROP 251-12]
(1) In the event that specimens dried in a heated building fail to meet the Table 6.2.5 Hose Stream Test
requirements of Section 5.2 through 5.2.6.2 after a 12-month conditioning
period, or in the event that the nature of the construction is such that it is evident Resistance Period Water Pressure Duration of Application
that drying of the specimen interior is prevented by hermetic sealing, these at Base of Nozzle to Exposed Area
requirements shall be permitted to be waived.
psi kPa min/100 ft 2 min/9.3 m 2
(2) The requirement for testing of the specimen only after nearing its full strength
shall not be permitted to be waived. 8 hr and over 45 310 6 0.65
5.2.7 If, during the conditioning of the specimen it appears desirable or is 4 hr and over, if 45 310 5 0.54
necessary to use accelerated drying techniques, it shall be the responsibility of less than 8 hr
the laboratory conducting the test to avoid procedures that significantly alter
the structural or fire endurance characteristics of the specimen, or both, from 2 hr and over, if 30 207 21/2 0.27
those produced as the result of drying in accordance with procedures in 5.2.1. less than 4 hr
5.2.8* Within 72 hours prior to the fire test, information on the actual 11/2 hr and over, if 30 207 11/2 0.16
moisture content and distribution within the specimen shall be obtained and less than 2 hr
included in the test report.
1 hr and over, if 30 207 1 0.11
Chapter 6 Conduct of Fire Tests less than 11/2 hr
6.1 Fire Endurance Resistance Test. [ROP 251-6]
Less than 1 hr, if 30 207 1 0.11
6.1.1 A fire endurance resistance test on the specimen, including its applied desired
load, if any, shall be continued until failure occurs, or until the specimen has
withstood the test conditions for a period equal to that herein specified in the
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Chapter 7 Tests of Bearing Walls and Partitions fire endurance test is undertaken.
7.1 Size and Restraint of Specimen. 9.2.4 Where the test permitted by 9.2.3 has been performed, it shall not
7.1.1 The area exposed to fire shall be not less than 100 ft2 (9.3 m2), with be construed as having had a deleterious effect on the fire endurance test
neither dimension less than 9 ft (2.7 m). performance.
7.1.2 The test specimen shall not be restrained on its vertical edges. 9.3 Conditions of Acceptance. The test shall be regarded as valid if the
column sustains the applied load during the classification fire endurance test
7.2* Loading. Throughout the fire endurance and fire and hose stream tests, for a period equal to that required for the fire resistance rating desired. [ROP
a constant superimposed load shall be applied to simulate a maximum load 251-2]
condition.
Chapter 10 Alternative Test of Protection for Structural Steel Columns
7.2.1 The applied load shall be, as nearly as practicable, the maximum load
permitted by design under nationally recognized structural design criteria. 10.1 Application. This test procedure shall not require column loading at
any time and shall be permitted to be used at the discretion of the testing
7.2.2 The tests also shall be permitted to be conducted by applying to the laboratory to evaluate steel column protection that is not required by design to
specimen a load less than the maximum and shall be identified in the test carry any of the column load.
report as having been conducted under restricted load conditions.
10.2 Size and Character of Specimen.
7.2.3 The applied load, and the applied load expressed as a percentage of the
maximum permitted design load, shall be included in the report. 10.2.1 The size of the steel column used as a specimen shall be a true
representation of the design, materials, and workmanship required for the
7.2.4 A double-wall assembly shall be loaded during the test to simulate field classification fire resistance rating desired. [ROP 251-2]
use conditions, with either side loaded separately or both sides loaded together
and the method used reported. 10.2.1.1 The protection shall be applied in accordance with the methods of
standard field practice.
7.3 Conditions of Acceptance. The test shall be regarded as valid if the
following conditions are met: 10.2.1.2 The length of the protected column shall be at least 8 ft (2.4 m).

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(1) The wall or partition shall have sustained the applied load during the 10.2.1.3 The column shall be vertical during application of the protection and
fire endurance test, without passage of flame or gases hot enough during the fire exposure.
to ignite cotton waste, for a period equal to that required for the 10.2.2 The applied protection shall be restrained against longitudinal

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classification fire resistance rating desired. [ROP 251-2] temperature expansion greater than that of the steel column by rigid steel
(2) The wall or partition shall have sustained the applied load during the plates or reinforced concrete attached to the ends of the steel column before
fire and hose stream test, as specified in Section 6.2, without passage the protection is applied.
of flame, gases hot enough to ignite cotton waste, or the hose stream. 10.2.3 The size of the plates or amount of concrete required by 10.2.2 shall
be adequate to provide direct bearing for the entire transverse area of the

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(3) The wall or partition shall be considered to have failed the hose
stream test specified in Section 6.2 if an opening develops that allows protection.
a projection of water from the stream beyond the unexposed surface 10.2.4 The ends of the specimen, including the means for restraint, shall be
during the hose stream test. provided with sufficient thermal insulation to prevent appreciable direct heat
(4) Transmission of heat through the wall or partition during the fire transfer from the furnace.

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endurance test shall not be sufficient to raise the temperature on the 10.3 Temperature Measurement. The temperature of the steel in the column
unexposed surface more than 250°F (140°C) above the assemblyʼs shall be measured by at least three thermocouples located at each of four
initial temperature. levels as follows:
Chapter 8 Tests of Nonbearing Walls and Partitions (1) The upper and lower levels shall be 2 ft (0.6 m) from the ends of the

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8.1 Size and Restraint of Specimen. steel column
8.1.1 The area exposed to fire shall be not less than 100 ft2 (9.3 m2), with (2) The two intermediate levels shall be spaced equally.
neither dimension less than 9 ft (2.7 m). (3) The thermocouples at each level shall be placed to measure significant
8.1.2 The test specimen shall be restrained on all four edges. temperatures of the component elements of the steel section.
8.2 Conditions of Acceptance. The test shall be regarded as valid if the 10.4 Exposure to Fire. Throughout the fire endurance test, the specimen
following conditions are met: shall be exposed to fire on all sides for its full length.
(1) The wall or partition shall have withstood the fire endurance test, 10.5 Conditions of Acceptance. The test shall be considered to be valid if the
without passage of flame or gases hot enough to ignite cotton waste, transmission of heat through the protection during the period of fire exposure
for a period equal to that required for the classification fire resistance required for the classification fire resistance rating desired meets one of the
rating desired. [ROP 251-2] following criteria: [ROP 251-2]
(2) The wall or partition shall have withstood the fire and hose stream (1) It does not raise the average (arithmetical) temperature of the steel at
tests, as specified in Section 6.2, without passage of flame, gases hot any one of the four levels above 1000°F (530°C).
enough to ignite cotton waste, or the hose stream. (2) It does not raise the temperature above 1200°F (649°C) at any one of
the measured points.
(3) The wall or partition shall be considered to have failed the hose
stream test specified in Section 6.2 if an opening develops that allows
a projection of water from the stream beyond the unexposed surface
during the hose stream test.
(4) Transmission of heat through the wall or partition during the fire
endurance test shall not be sufficient to raise the temperature on the Chapter 11 Tests of Floor and Roof Assemblies
assemblyʼs unexposed surface more than 250°F (140°C) above the 11.1 Application.
assemblyʼs initial temperature.
11.1.1 This test procedure shall apply to floor and roof assemblies with or
Chapter 9 Tests of Columns without attached, furred, or suspended ceilings, and the underside of the
9.1 Size and Connections of Specimen. specimen under test shall be exposed to fire.
9.1.1 The length of the column exposed to fire shall, where practicable, 11.1.2* The following two classifications fire resistance ratings shall be
approximate the maximum clear length contemplated by the design and, for determined for assemblies restrained against thermal expansion: [ROP 251-2]
building columns, shall be not less than 9 ft (2.7 m). (1) A restrained assembly classification fire resistance rating based upon
9.1.2 The contemplated details of connections, and their protection, if any, the conditions of acceptance specified in Section 11.5(a) through
shall be applied according to the methods of standard field practice. Section 11.5(e) [ROP 251-2]
9.2 Loading. (2) An unrestrained assembly classification fire resistance rating based
upon the conditions of acceptance specified in Sections 11.6(1) and
9.2.1 Throughout the fire endurance test, the column shall be exposed to fire (2), in addition to Section 11.6(3), Section 11.6(4), Section 11.6(5), or
on all sides and shall be loaded in a manner calculated to develop as nearly as Section 11.6(6) [ROP 251-2]
practicable, in theory, the working stresses contemplated by the design.
11.1.3 One classification fire resistance rating shall be determined from
9.2.2 Provision shall be made for transmitting the load to the exposed portion tests of assemblies not restrained against thermal expansion based on the
of the column without unduly increasing the effective column length. conditions of acceptance specified in Section 11.6(1) and (2). [ROP 251-2]
9.2.3 If the submitter and the testing body jointly so decide, the column shall 11.1.4 Individual unrestrained classifications fire resistance ratings shall
be permitted to be subjected to 13/4 times its designed working load before the
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Report on Proposals — Copyright, NFPA NFPA 251
be permitted to be determined for beams tested in accordance with this test (2) The transmission of heat through the specimen during the
method using the conditions of acceptance specified in Section 13.3(1), (2), or classification period fire test exposure period shall not raise the
(3). [ROP 251-2] average temperature on its unexposed surface more than 250°F
11.2 Size and Characteristics of Specimen. (140°C) above its initial temperature. [ROP 251-2]
11.2.1 The area exposed to fire shall be not less than 180 ft2 (16.7 m2), with (3) For specimens using steel structural members (e.g., beams, open-
neither dimension less than 12 ft (3.6 m). web steel joists) spaced more than 4 ft (1.2 m) on center, the beams
shall achieve a classification fire resistance rating on the basis of the
11.2.2 Structural members, if a part of the construction under test, shall lie temperature criteria specified in Section 11.6(3), (4), (5), or (6) for
within the combustion chamber and shall have a side clearance of not less assembly classifications ratings up to and including 1 hour. [ROP 251-
than 8 in. (203 mm) from the combustion chamber walls. 2]
11.2.3 The specimen shall be installed in accordance with recommended (4) For specimens using steel structural members, as specified in 11.5(3)
fabrication procedures for the type of construction and shall be representative and tested for classifications greater than 1 hour, the temperature
of the design for which a classification fire resistance rating is desired. [ROP criteria of Section 11.6(3), (4), (5), or (6) shall apply for a period equal
251-2] to one-half the period for the classification fire resistance rating of the
11.2.4 Where a restrained classification fire resistance rating is desired, assembly or 1 hour, whichever is greater. [ROP 251-2]
specimens representing forms of construction in which restraint to thermal (5) For specimens using steel structural members (e.g., beams, open-
expansion occurs shall be reasonably restrained in the furnace. [ROP 251-2] web steel joists) spaced 4 ft (1.2 m) or less on center, the assembly
11.3 Loading. Throughout the fire endurance resistance test, a superimposed shall achieve a classification fire resistance rating on the basis of
load shall be applied to the specimen to simulate a maximum load condition. the temperature criteria specified in Section 11.6(4) for assembly
[ROP 251-2] classifications fire resistance ratings up to and including 1 hour. [ROP
251-2]
11.3.1 The maximum load condition shall be, as nearly as practicable, the

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maximum load allowed by the limiting condition of design under nationally (6) For specimens using steel structural members, as specified in Section
recognized structural design criteria. 11.5(5) and tested for classifications fire resistance ratings greater
than 1 hour, the temperature criteria of Section 11.6(4) shall apply
11.3.2 A fire endurance test shall be permitted to be conducted by applying a
for a period equal to one-half the period for the classifications fire
restricted load condition to the specimen that shall be identified for a specific

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resistance rating of the assembly or 1 hour, whichever is greater. [ROP
load condition other than the maximum permitted load condition.
251-2]
11.4 Temperature Measurement.
(7) For specimens using conventionally designed concrete beams
11.4.1 For specimens using structural members (e.g., beams, open-web steel spaced more than 4 ft (1.2 m) on center, the assembly shall achieve
joists) spaced at more than 4 ft (1.2 m) on center, the following criteria shall a classification fire resistance rating on the basis of the temperature

A
be met: criteria specified in Section 11.6(5) for assembly classifications fire
(1) The temperature of the steel in the structural members shall be resistance rating up to and including 1 hour. [ROP 251-2]
measured by thermocouples at three or more sections spaced along the (8) For specimens using conventionally designed concrete beams,
length of the members, with one section preferably located at midspan. as specified in Section 11.5(7) and tested for classification fire

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(2) In cases where the cover thickness is not uniform along the specimen resistance rating greater than 1 hour, the temperature of Section
length, at least one of the sections at which temperatures are measured 11.6(5) criteria shall apply for a period equal to one-half the period
shall include the point of minimum cover. for the classification fire resistance rating of the assembly or 1 hour,
whichever is greater. [ROP 251-2]
11.4.2 For specimens using structural members (e.g., beams, open-web steel
joists) spaced at 4 ft (1.2 m) on center or less, the temperature of the steel in 11.6 Conditions of Acceptance — Unrestrained Assembly. In obtaining

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the structural members shall be measured by four thermocouples placed on an unrestrained assembly classification fire resistance rating, the following
each member, and the following criteria also shall be met: conditions shall be met: [ROP 251-2]
(1) No more than four members shall be so instrumented. (1) The specimen shall sustain the applied load during the classification
period fire test exposure period without developing unexposed surface
(2) The thermocouples shall be placed at significant locations, such as at conditions that ignite cotton waste. [ROP 251-2]
midspan, over joints in the ceiling, and over light fixtures.
(2) The transmission of heat through the specimen during the
11.4.3 For reinforced or prestressed concrete structural members, classification period fire test exposure period shall not raise the
thermocouples shall be located on each of the tension-reinforcing elements average temperature on its unexposed surface more than 250°F
unless there are more than eight such elements, in which case thermocouples (140°C) above the specimenʼs initial temperature. [ROP 251-2]
shall be placed on eight elements selected to obtain representative
temperatures of all the elements. (3) For specimens using steel structural members (e.g., beams, open-web
steel joists) spaced more than 4 ft (1.2 m) on center, the following
11.4.4* For steel structural members, four thermocouples shall be located at criteria shall be met:
each section.
(a) The temperature of the steel shall not exceed 1300°F (704°C) at
11.4.4.1 Where only four thermocouples are required on a member, the any location during the classification period fire test exposure
thermocouples shall be permitted to be distributed along the member at period [ROP 251-2]
significant locations as specified in 11.4.2.
(b) The average temperature recorded by four thermocouples at any
11.4.4.2 Two thermocouples shall be located on the bottom of the bottom section shall not exceed 1100°F (593°C) during the classification
flange or chord, one on the web at the center, and one on the top flange or period fire test exposure period [ROP 251-2]
chord.
(4) For specimens using steel structural members (e.g., beams, open-
11.4.5* For steel floor or roof units, four thermocouples shall be located as web steel joists) spaced 4 ft (1.2 m) or less on center, the average
follows on each section, which shall equal the width of one unit: temperature recorded by all joist or beam thermocouples shall not
(1) One located on the bottom plane of the unit at an edge joint exceed 1100°F (593°C) during the classification period fire test
(2) One located on the bottom plane of the unit remote from the edge exposure period. [ROP 251-2]
(3) One located on a sidewall of the unit (5) For specimens using conventionally designed concrete structural
members (excluding cast-in-place concrete slabs having spans equal to
(4) One located on the top plane of the unit or less than those tested), the average temperature of the tension steel
11.4.5.1 The thermocouples shall be applied, where practicable, to the surface at any section during the classification period fire test exposure period
of the units that are remote from fire and shall be spaced across the width of shall not exceed the following: [ROP 251-2]
the unit. (a) 800°F (426°C) for cold-drawn prestressing steel
11.4.5.2 Not more than four nor fewer than two sections shall be required to (b) 1100°F (593°C) for reinforcing steel [ROP 251-2]
be instrumented as specified in 11.4.5 and 11.4.5.1 in each representative span.
(6) For specimens using steel floor or roof units intended for use in spans
11.4.5.3 The groups of four thermocouples shall be placed in representative greater than those tested, the average temperature recorded by all
locations. thermocouples located on any one span of the floor or roof unit shall
11.5 Conditions of Acceptance — Restrained Assembly. In obtaining not exceed 1100°F (593°C) during the classification period fire test
a restrained assembly classification fire resistance rating, the following exposure period. [ROP 251-2]
conditions shall be met: [ROP 251-2] Chapter 12 Tests of Loaded Restrained Beams
(1) The specimen shall sustain the applied load during the classification 12.1 Application. An individual fire resistance rating of a restrained beam
period fire test exposure period without developing unexposed surface shall be permitted to be determined by this test procedure and shall be based
conditions that ignite cotton waste. [ROP 251-2]
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on the conditions of acceptance specified in Section 12.4. (a) The temperature of the steel shall not exceed 1300°F (704°C) at
12.1.1 This fire endurance classification fire resistance rating shall apply to any location during the classification period fire test exposure
the beam where used with a floor or roof construction that has a comparable period. [ROP 251-2]
or greater capacity for heat dissipation from the beam than the floor or roof (b) The average temperature recorded by four thermocouples at any
with which it is tested. [ROP 251-2] section shall not exceed 1100°F (593°C) during the exposure
12.1.2 The fire endurance classification fire resistance rating determined by period.
this method shall not apply to beams smaller than those tested. [ROP 251-2] (3) For conventionally designed concrete beams, the average temperature
12.2 Size and Characteristics of Specimen. The test specimen shall be of the tension steel at any section during the fire test exposure shall not
installed in accordance with the recommended fabrication procedures for the exceed the following:
type of construction and shall be representative of the design for which the (a) 800°F (426°C) for cold-drawn prestressing steel
fire endurance classification fire resistance rating is to be determined. [ROP (b) 1100°F (593°C) for reinforcing steel
251-2]
Chapter 14 Alternative Test of Protection for Solid Structural Steel
12.2.1 The length of beam exposed to the fire shall be not less than 12 ft (3.7 Beams and Girders
m), and the member shall be tested in its normal horizontal position.
14.1 Application.
12.2.2 A section of a representative floor or roof construction not more than
7 ft (2.1 m) wide, symmetrically located with reference to the beam, shall be 14.1.1 Where the loading required in Section 11.3 is not feasible, this
permitted to be included with the test specimen and exposed to the fire from alternative test procedure shall be permitted to be used to evaluate the
below. protection of steel beams and girders without application of design load,
provided that the protection is not required by design to function structurally
12.2.3 The beam, including that part of the floor or roof element forming the in resisting applied loads.
complete beam as designed (such as composite steel or concrete construction),
shall be restrained against longitudinal thermal expansion in a manner 14.1.2 The conditions of acceptance of this alternative test shall not apply to

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simulating the restraint in the construction represented. tests performed under design load as provided in tests for floors and roofs in
Sections 11.2, 11.5, and 11.6.
12.2.4 Only that part of the perimeter of the floor or roof element specimen
that forms part of a beam as designed shall be supported or restrained. 14.2 Size and Character of Specimen.

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12.3 Loading. 14.2.1 The size of the steel beam or girder shall be a true representation of
the design, materials, and workmanship required for the classification fire
12.3.1 Throughout the fire endurance test, a superimposed load shall be resistance rating desired. [ROP 251-2]
applied to the specimen.
14.2.1.1 The protection shall be applied in accordance with the methods
12.3.2 The superimposed load, together with the weight of the specimen, of field practice, and the projection below the ceiling, if any, shall be

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shall be, as nearly as practicable, the maximum theoretical dead and live loads representative of the conditions of intended use.
permitted by nationally recognized design standards.
14.2.1.2 The length of the beam or girder exposed to the fire shall be not less
12.4 Conditions of Acceptance. The following conditions shall be met: than 12 ft (3.7 m), and the member shall be tested in a horizontal position.
(1) The specimen shall sustain the applied load during the classification 14.2.1.3 A section of a representative floor construction not less than 5 ft

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period fire test exposure period. [ROP 251-2] (1.5 m) wide, symmetrically located with reference to the beam or girder and
(2) The specimen shall achieve a classification fire resistance rating on extending its full length, shall be included in the test assembly and exposed to
the basis of the temperature criteria specified in Section 11.6(3), (4), fire from below.
or (5) equal to one-half the period for the classification fire resistance 14.2.1.4 The rating of performance shall not apply to beams or girders
rating of the assembly or 1 hour, whichever is greater. [ROP 251-2]

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smaller than those tested.
Chapter 13 Alternative Procedure for Loaded Beams 14.2.2 The applied protection shall be restrained against longitudinal
13.1 Application. Individual unrestrained classifications fire resistance expansion greater than that of the steel beam or girder by rigid steel plates or
ratings shall be permitted to be determined for beams tested as part of a floor reinforced concrete attached to the ends of the specimen before the protection
or roof assembly as described in Sections 11.1 through 11.4 (except 11.1.3) is applied.
or for restrained beams tested in accordance with the procedure described in 14.2.3 The ends of the specimen, including the means for restraint, shall be
Sections 12.1 through 12.3. [ROP 251-2] provided with sufficient thermal insulation to prevent appreciable direct heat
13.1.1 These classifications fire resistance ratings shall apply to beams transfer from the furnace to the unexposed ends of the specimen or from the
where used with a floor or roof construction that has a comparable or greater ends of the specimen to the outside of the furnace.
capacity for heat dissipation from the beam than the floor or roof with which 14.3 Temperature Measurement. The temperature of the steel in the beam
it is tested. [ROP 251-2] or girder shall be measured with not less than four thermocouples.
13.1.2 The classifications fire resistance ratings determined by this method 14.3.1 The thermocouples shall be located at each of four sections equally
shall not apply to beams smaller than those tested. [ROP 251-2] spaced along the length of the beam, symmetrically disposed, and not nearer
13.2 Temperature Measurement. than 2 ft (0.6 m) from the inside face of the furnace.
13.2.1 The temperature of the steel in structural members shall be measured 14.3.2 The thermocouples at each section shall be placed symmetrically so
by thermocouples at three or more sections spaced along the length of the as to measure significant temperatures of the component elements of the steel
members, with one section preferably located at midspan. section.
13.2.2 In cases where cover thickness is not uniform along the specimen 14.4 Conditions of Acceptance. The test shall be accepted as valid if the
length, at least one of the sections at which temperatures are measured shall transmission of heat through the protection during the period of fire exposure
include the point of minimum cover. required for the classification fire resistance rating desired meets one of the
13.2.3 For steel beams, four thermocouples shall be located at each section as following: [ROP 251-2]
follows: (1) It does not raise the average (arithmetical) temperature of the steel at
(1) Two located on the bottom of the bottom flange any one of the four sections above 1000°F (538°C).
(2) One located on the web at the center (2) It does not raise the temperature above 1200°F (649°C) at any one of
the measured points.
(3) One located on the bottom of the top flange
Chapter 15 Performance of Protective Membranes in Wall, Partition,
13.2.4 For reinforced or prestressed concrete structural members, Floor, or Roof Assemblies
thermocouples shall be located on each of the tension-reinforcing elements
unless there are more than eight such elements, in which case thermocouples 15.1 Application.
shall be placed on eight elements selected to obtain representative 15.1.1 Where the thermal protection afforded by membrane elements in wall,
temperatures of all the elements. partition, floor, or roof assemblies is to be determined, the nonstructural
performance of protective membranes shall be obtained by following the
procedure outlined in Sections 15.2 through 15.4.
13.3 Conditions of Acceptance. In obtaining an unrestrained beam
classification fire resistance rating, the following conditions shall be met: 15.1.2 The performance of protective membranes is supplementary
[ROP 251-2] information only and shall not be used as a substitute for the fire endurance
classification fire resistance rating determined by Chapters 7 through 14.
(1) The specimen shall sustain the applied load during the classification
period fire test exposure period. [ROP 251-2] 15.2 Characteristics and Size of Sample.
(2) For steel beams, the following criteria shall be met: 15.2.1 The characteristics of the sample shall conform to 5.1.1.
15.2.2 The size of the sample shall conform to one of the following:
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(1) Section 7.1, for bearing walls and partitions
(2) Section 8.1, for nonbearing walls and partitions (2) Dividing the product determined in 16.1.4.1(1) by the area between the
(3) Subsection 11.2.1, for floors or roofs standard curve and a baseline of 68°F (20°C) for the same portion of
the indicated period
15.3 Temperature Performance of Protective Membranes.
16.1.4.2 The area specified in 16.1.4.1(2) shall be increased by 54°F-hr or
15.3.1 The temperature performance of protective membranes shall be 30°C-hr (3240°F-min or 1800°C-min) to compensate for the thermal lag of
measured with thermocouples, the measuring junctions of which shall be in the furnace thermocouples during the first part of the test.
intimate contact with the exposed surface of the elements being protected.
16.1.4.3 For fire exposure that occurs during the test that is higher than
15.3.1.1 The diameter of the wires used to form the thermo-junction shall standard, the indicated resistance period shall be increased by the amount
not be greater than the thickness of sheet metal framing or panel members to of the correction and shall similarly be decreased for fire exposure below
which they are attached, and in no case shall they be greater than 18 AWG standard.
gauge [0.040 in. (1.02 mm)].
16.1.5 Asymmetrical wall assemblies shall be permitted to be tested as
15.3.1.2 The lead shall be electrically insulated with heat-resistant and follows:
moisture-resistant coatings.
(1) Either side exposed to the fire, with the report indicating the side so
15.3.2 For each class of elements protected, temperature readings shall be exposed
taken at not less than five representative points.
(2) Both sides tested, with the report indicating the classification fire
15.3.2.1 None of the thermocouples shall be located nearer to the edges of the resistance rating applicable to each side [ROP 251-2]
test assembly than 12 in. (305 mm).
16.2 Test of Floor and Roof Assemblies.
15.3.2.2 In those cases in which there exists an element or feature of
the construction that is not otherwise represented in the test assembly, 16.2.1 The classification fire resistance rating of a restrained assembly shall
thermocouples shall be permitted to be located closer to the edges of the test be reported as that developed by applying the conditions of acceptance

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assembly than 12 in. (305 mm). specified in Sections 11.5(1) through 11.5(5). [ROP 251-2]
15.3.2.3 None of the thermocouples shall be located opposite, on top of, or 16.2.2 The classification fire resistance rating of an unrestrained assembly
adjacent to fasteners such as screws, nails, or staples where such locations are shall be reported as that determined by applying the conditions of acceptance

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excluded for thermocouple placement on the unexposed surface of the test to a specimen tested in accordance with this test procedure as specified in
assembly as detailed in 4.3.2. Sections 11.6(1) and (2) and, where applicable, Sections 11.6(3), through (5),
or Section 11.6(6). [ROP 251-2]
15.3.3 Thermocouples shall be located to obtain representative information
on the temperature of the interface between the exposed membrane and the 16.3 Performance of Protective Membranes.
substratum or element being protected. 16.3.1 The protective membrane performance for each class of element being

A
15.3.4 Temperature readings shall be taken at intervals not exceeding 1 protected shall be reported to the nearest integral minute.
minute for the duration of the test. 16.3.2 The test report shall identify each class of element being protected and
15.4 Conditions of Performance. Unless otherwise specified, the shall show the location of each thermocouple.
performance of protective membranes shall be considered to be the time at 16.3.3 The test report shall show the temperature–time data recorded for each

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which the following conditions occur: thermocouple and the average temperature for the set of thermocouples on
(1) The average temperature rise of any set of thermocouples for each each element being protected.
class of element protected is more than 250°F (140°C) above the initial 16.3.4 The test report shall record any visual observations that are pertinent
temperature. to the performance of the protective membrane.

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(2) The temperature rise of any one thermocouple of the set for each class 16.4 Tests of Load-Bearing Assemblies. Reports of tests in which loading is
of element protected is more than 325°F (180°C) above the initial used shall describe the following:
temperature. (1) How the applied load was calculated
Chapter 16 Report of Results (2) Design standard used
16.1 Classification Fire Resistance Rating as Determined by Test. [ROP (3) Governing stress in each structural member (e.g., bending, shear)
251-2]
(4) Details of the system used to apply the load
16.1.1 Results shall be reported in accordance with the performance
specifications in the tests prescribed in these methods. (5) Time of load application relative to the start and finish of the test
16.1.1.1 The time of resistance shall be expressed as the nearest integral Annex A Explanatory Material
minute. Annex A is not a part of the requirements of this NFPA document but is
16.1.1.2 Reports shall include observations of significant details of the included for informational purposes only. This annex contains explanatory
behavior of the material or construction during the test and after the furnace material, numbered to correspond with the applicable text paragraphs.
fire is cut off, including information on the following: A.1.1 The performance of walls, columns, floors, and other building members
(1) Deformation under fire exposure conditions is an issue of major importance in ensuring
construction that is safe and not a menace to neighboring structures or the
(2) Spalling public. This factor is recognized by the codes of many authorities, municipal
(3) Cracking and otherwise.
(4) Burning of the specimen or its component parts It is important to create a balance among the many units in a single building
(5) Continued flaming and in buildings of like character and use in a community, and also to
promote uniformity in the requirements of the various authorities throughout
(6) Production of smoke the country. Therefore, it is necessary that the fire-resistive properties of
16.1.2 Reports of tests involving wall, floor, beam, or ceiling constructions in materials and assemblies be measured and specified in accordance with a
which restraint is provided against expansion, contraction, or rotation of the common standard and expressed in terms that are applicable to a wide variety
construction shall describe the method used to provide this restraint. of materials, situations, and conditions of exposure.
16.1.3 Reports of tests in which other than maximum load conditions (see These test methods are such a standard. They prescribe a uniform exposing
Section 11.3) are imposed shall fully define the conditions of loading used fire of controlled extent and severity. Performance is defined as the period of
in the test and shall be designated in the title of the test report as a restricted resistance to standard exposure that elapses before the first critical point in
load condition. behavior is observed. Results are reported in units in which field exposures
can be judged and expressed.
16.1.4* Where the indicated resistance period is 1/2 hour or more, as
determined by the average or maximum temperature rise on the unexposed The methods are cited as the “Standard Fire Tests,” and the performance or
surface or within the test specimen or by failure under load, an adjustment exposure is expressed as “2 hr,” “6 hr,” “1/2 hr,” and so forth. Where a factor of
shall be made for variation of the furnace exposure from that prescribed. safety exceeding that inherent in the test conditions is desired, a proportional
increase should be made in the specified classification fire resistance rating.
16.1.4.1 In those cases where the adjustment will affect the classification fire
[ROP 251-2]
resistance rating, it shall be made using the following two consecutive steps:
[ROP 251-2] A.1.2.2 A method of fire hazard classification based on rate of flame spread
is covered in NFPA 255, Standard Method of Test of Surface Burning
(1) Multiplying the indicated resistance period by two-thirds of the
Characteristics of Building Materials.
difference in the area between the curve of the average furnace
temperature and the standard curve for the first three-fourths of the [ROP 251-14]
period A.1.2.3 These methods prescribe a standard fire exposure for comparing the
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performance of building construction assemblies. Application of these test If, in the intended use, the load from the structure above is supported by both
results to predict the performance of actual building construction requires walls as a unit and would be or is transferred to the unexposed side in the
careful evaluation of test conditions. event of collapse of the exposed side, both walls should be loaded for the test
A.3.3.1 Fire Resistance. As applied to elements of buildings, fire resistance by a single unit.
is characterized by the ability to confine a fire or to continue to perform If, in the intended use, the load from the structure above each wall is
a given structural function or both. More specific examples of this ability supported by each wall separately, the walls should be loaded separately for
include retention of stability, integrity, or thermal insulation. Once a measure the test by separate load sources.
of time is defined for fire resistance, and exposure conditions specified for In tests conducted with the walls loaded separately, the condition of
that measure, the result is a fire resistance rating. The term fire endurance is acceptance requiring the walls to maintain the applied load is based on the
often used with the same meaning as fire resistance. [ROP 251-7] time at which the first wall fails to sustain the load.
A.3.3.2 Fire Resistance Rating. Once a measure of time is obtained for fire If the intended use of the construction system being tested involves situations
resistance using NFPA 251, that result is the fire resistance rating. The term of both loading conditions described above, the walls should be loaded
fire endurance classification has been used with the same meaning as fire separately for the test by separate load sources.
resistance rating. [ROP 251-7]
A.11.1.2 Annex E should be consulted for guidance in determining the
A.4.1.1 For a more precise definition of the temperature–time curve, see conditions of thermal restraint that apply to floor and roof constructions and
Annex B. individual beams in actual building construction.
A.4.2 The following provides guidance on the desired characteristics of A.11.4.4 Figure A.11.4.4 provides examples of thermocouple distribution at
instrumentation for recording the flow of fuel to the furnace burners. Fuel each section.
flow data is useful for a furnace heat balance analysis, for measuring the
effect of furnace or control changes, and for comparing the performance of FIGURE A.11.4.4 Examples of Thermocouple
assemblies of different properties in the fire endurance test. Distribution. [Existing Figure A-9-4.4, 99 ed., (no change)]

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The integrated (cumulative) flow of gas (or other fuel) to the furnace
burners should be recorded at 10 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, and at
A.11.4.5 Figure A.11.4.5 provides examples of typical thermocouple locations
least every 30 minutes thereafter. The total gas consumed during the test
for a unit section.
period also should be determined. A recording flowmeter has advantages over

F
periodic readings on an instantaneous or totalizing flowmeter. A measuring
and recording system should be selected to provide flow rate readings FIGURE A.11.4.5 Typical Location of Thermocouples. [Existing Figure
accurate to within ± 5 percent. A-9-4.5, 99 ed., (no change)]
The type of fuel, its higher (gross) heating value, and the fuel flow A.16.1.4 The correction can be expressed by the following formula:
[corrected to standard conditions of 60°F (16°C) and 30.0 in. Hg] as a

A
function of time should be reported. 2 I ( A − As )
C=
A.4.2.1 A typical thermocouple assembly that meets specified time constant 3 ( As + L )
requirements can be fabricated by fusion-welding the twisted ends of 18
AWG Chromel-Alumel wires, mounting the leads in porcelain insulators, and where:

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inserting the assembly so the thermocouple bead is 1/2 in. (13 mm) from the C = correction in the same units as I
sealed end of a standard weight nominal 1/2 in. (13 mm) iron, steel, or Inconel®
pipe. The time constant for this and for several other thermocouple assemblies I= indicated fire resistance period
was measured in 1976. The time constant is also calculated from knowledge A= area under the curve of the indicated average furnace
of the thermocouple assemblyʼs physical and thermal properties. temperature for the first three-fourths of the indicated

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A.4.3.1 Under certain conditions, it is unsafe or impracticable to use period
thermometers. As = area under the standard furnace curve for the same part of
For the purpose of testing roof assemblies, the unexposed surface is the indicated period
defined as the surface exposed to ambient air. L= lag correction in the same units as A and A s [54°F-hr or
Additional information on refractory pads can be found in Section C.1. 30°C-hr (3240°F-min or 1800°C-min)]
A.4.3.1.1(5) Modified Brinell values of hardness are obtained from the Annex B Operating Criteria for Fire Tests
following equation, This annex is not a part of the requirements of this NFPA document but is
included for informational purposes only.
2.24 B.1 Temperature–Time Curve. Control of fire tests for testing of fire-rated
Hardness =
y assemblies should be in done as demonstrated by the standard temperature–
time curve as highlighted in Table B.1.
where Annex C Recommendations for Thermocouple Pads
y = the measured indentation in inches: This annex is not a part of the requirements of this NFPA document but is
[ROP 251-8] included for informational purposes only.
A.4.4.5.2 This is equivalent to a 3-minute running average. [ROP 251-9] C.1 Refractory Fiber Pads. Specific product information is being provided for
A.5.2.6 A recommended method for determining the relative humidity within informational purposes only and has not been independently verified, certified, or
a hardened concrete specimen with electric sensing elements is described endorsed by NFPA or any of its Technical Committees.
in Annex I of Menzel, “A Method for Determining the Moisture Condition C.1.1 Comparative fire tests have demonstrated that a refractory fiber material
of Hardened Concrete in Terms of Relative Humidity.” A similar procedure designated Ceraform 126®, placed with the softer surfaces in contact with the
with electric sensing elements can be used to determine the relative humidity thermocouple, can be substituted for the previously specified asbestos pad where the
within fire test specimens made with other materials. distortion of the unexposed face of the sample is minimal. Ceraform 126® is a registered
With wood constructions, the moisture meter based on the electrical trade name of Manville Specialty Products Group, P.O. Box 5108, Denver, CO 80217.
resistance method can be used, where appropriate, as an alternative to the C.1.2 The pads are relatively rigid and should not be used on surfaces subject to sharp
relative humidity method to indicate when wood has attained the proper distortions or discontinuities during the test.
moisture control. Electrical methods are described on pages 320 and 321 of C.2 Properties of Ceraform 126. The properties of Ceraform 126® material are as
the 1955 edition of the “Wood Handbook of the Forest Products Laboratory,” follows:
U.S. Department of Agriculture.
(1) Length and width, 6 in. ± 1/8 in. (152 mm ± 3 mm)
The relationships between relative humidity and moisture content are
illustrated by the graphs in Figure 23 on p. 327 of the “Wood Handbook of the (2) Thickness, 0.375 in. ± 0.063 in. (9.5 mm ± 1.6 mm), with measurement made
Forest Products Laboratory.” They indicate that wood has a moisture content under the light load of a 1/2 in. (13 mm) diameter pad of a dial micrometer gauge
of 13 percent at a relative humidity of 70 percent for a temperature of 70°F to (3) Thermal conductivity [at 150°F (66°C)], 0.37 Btu·in./hr·ft2·°F ± 0.03 Btu·in./
80°F (21°C to 27°C). hr·ft2·°F (0.053 W/m·K ± 0.004 W/m·K)
A.5.2.8 If the moisture condition of the fire test assembly is likely to change (4) Pads shaped by wetting, forming, and then drying to constant weight to provide
drastically from the sample taken 72 hours prior to this test, the sample should complete contact on sharply contoured surfaces
be taken not later than 24 hours prior to the test.
C.3 Supporting Data. Supporting data are available from The American Society for
A.7.2 The choice depends on the intended use and whether the load on the Testing and Materials, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.
exposed side will be transferred to the unexposed side after the exposed side Request RR:E05-1004.
has failed.
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Table B.1 Standard Temperature–Time Curve for Control of Fire Tests

Time Temperature Area Above 68°F Base Temperature Area Above 20°C Base
(hr: min) °F °F-min °F-hr °C °C-min °C-hr
0:00 68 0 0 20 0 0
0:05 1000 2330 39 538 1290 22
0:10 1300 7740 129 704 4300 72
0:15 1399 14,150 236 760 7860 131
0:20 1462 20,970 350 795 11 650 194
0:25 1510 28,050 468 821 15 590 260
0:30 1550 35,360 589 843 19 650 328
0:35 1584 42,860 714 862 23 810 397
0:40 1613 50,510 842 878 28 060 468
0:45 1638 58,300 971 892 32 390 540

T
0:50 1661 66,200 1103 905 36 780 613
0:55 1681 74,220 1287 916 41 230 687
1:00 1700 82,330 1372 927 45 740 762

F
1:05 1718 90,540 1509 937 50 300 838
1:10 1735 98,830 1647 946 54 910 915
1:15 1750 107,200 1787 955 59 560 993

A
1:20 1765 115,650 1928 963 64 250 1071
1:25 1779 124,180 2070 971 68 990 1150
1:30 1792 132,760 2213 978 73 760 1229

R
1:35 1804 141,420 2357 985 78 560 1309
1:40 1815 150,120 2502 991 83 400 1390
1:45 1826 158,890 2648 996 88 280 1471

D
1:50 1835 167,700 2795 1001 93 170 1553
1:55 1843 176,550 2942 1006 98 080 1635
2:00 1850 185,440 3091 1010 103 020 1717
2:10 1862 203,330 3389 1017 112 960 1882
2:20 1875 221,330 3689 1024 122 960 2049
2:30 1888 239,470 3991 1031 133 040 2217
2:40 1900 257,720 4295 1038 143 180 2386
2:50 1912 276,110 4602 1045 153 390 2556
3:00 1925 294,610 4910 1052 163 670 2728
3:10 1938 313,250 5221 1059 174 030 2900
3:20 1950 332,000 5533 1066 184 450 3074
3:30 1962 350,890 5848 1072 194 940 3249
3:40 1975 369,890 6165 1079 205 500 3425
3:50 1988 389,030 6484 1086 216 130 3602
4:00 2000 408,280 6805 1093 226 820 3780
4:10 2012 427,670 7128 1100 237 590 3960
4:20 2025 447,180 7453 1107 248 430 4140
4:30 2038 466,810 7780 1114 259 340 4322
4:40 2050 486,560 8110 1121 270 310 4505
4:50 2062 506,450 8441 1128 281 360 4689
5:00 2075 526,450 8774 1135 282 470 4874
5:10 2088 546,580 9110 1142 303 660 5061
5:20 2100 566,840 9447 1149 314 910 5248
5:30 2112 587,220 9787 1156 326 240 5437
5:40 2125 607,730 10,129 1163 337 630 5627

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5:50 2138 628,360 10,473 1170 349 090 5818
6:00 2150 649,120 10,819 1177 360 620 6010
6:10 2162 670,000 11,167 1184 372 230 6204
6:20 2175 691,010 11,517 1191 383 900 6398
6:30 2188 712,140 11,869 1198 395 640 6594
6:40 2200 733,400 12,223 1204 407 450 6791
6:50 2212 754,780 12,580 1211 419 330 6989
7:00 2225 776,290 12,938 1218 431 270 7188
7:10 2238 797,920 13,299 1225 443 290 7388
7:20 2250 819,680 13,661 1232 455 380 7590
7:30 2262 841,560 14,026 1239 467 540 7792
7:40 2275 863,570 14,393 1246 479 760 7996
7:50 2288 885,700 14,762 1253 492 060 8201
8:00 2300 907,960 15,133 1260 504 420 8407

F T
Annex D Report Information (3) Temperature observations that are useful but not required by this
This annex is not a part of the requirements of this NFPA document but standard, documented in the annex to the report, and include the
is included for informational purposes only. following:

A
D.1 Sample Report Form. See Figure D.1 for a sample of a report form (a) Temperatures on the face of framing members in back of
cover sheet. protection
(b) Other temperatures required by various building codes
FIGURE D.1 Sample Report Cover Sheet. [Existing Figure D.1, 99 ed., (4) Furnace pressure at start of test and every 1 minute thereafter

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(no change)] (5) Deflections every 5 minutes for the first 15 minutes of test and during
the last hour with a report every 10 minutes in between
D.2 Description of Laboratory Test Facility. Describe items such as the (6) Appearance of exposed face as follows:
furnace, restraining frame, and details of end conditions, including wedges, (a) Every 15 minutes
and bearing.

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(b) When any noticeable development occurs, including cracking,
D.2.1 If construction is to be tested under load, indicate how the load is buckling, flaming, smoking, and loss of material, with provision
applied and controlled (provide loading diagram). Indicate whether the of details and time
load is a maximum load condition or a restricted load condition, and, for (c) At end of test, including items such as amount of dropout,
either condition, report the specific loads and the basis for limitation, such condition of fasteners, and sag
as bending stress, and shear. A restricted load condition is reported as a
percentage of the maximum load condition. (7) Appearance of unexposed face as follows:
D.2.2 If construction is to be tested as nonload-bearing, indicate whether the (a) Every 15 minutes
frame is rigid or moves during the test, or whether the test is for temperature (b) When any noticeable development occurs, including cracking,
rise only. smoking, and buckling, with provision of details and time
D.3 Description of All Materials. Describe type, size, class, strength, (c) At end of test
densities, trade name, and any additional data necessary to define materials.
The testing laboratory should indicate whether materials meet NFPA (8) Time of failure caused by the following:
standards by markings, by statement of sponsor, or by physical or chemical (a) Temperature rise
test by the testing laboratory. (b) Failure to carry load
D.4 Description of Test Assembly. The following information should be (c) Passage of flame, heat, and smoke
provided:
D.6 Hose Stream Test. If a hose stream test is required, repeat appropriate
(1) Size of test specimen parts of Sections D.2 and D.4. If failure occurs in the hose stream test,
(2) Details of structural design, including safety factors of all structural provide a description.
members in test assembly D.7 Official Comments. The following information should be included:
(3) Plan, elevation, principal cross section, and other sections as needed (1) Statement to the effect that the construction is a true representation
for clarity of field construction or, where construction does not represent typical
(4) Details of attachment of test panel in frame field construction, notation of deviations
(5) Location of thermocouples, deflection points, and other items for test (2) If construction is asymmetrical (different details on each face),
(6) Description of general ambient conditions for all of the following specification of which face is exposed to the fire, with comments on
times: fire resistance from opposite side
(a) Time of construction (3) Comment on fire test
(b) During curing (time from construction to test) D.8 Summary of Results. A summary of results should include the
following:
(c) Time of test
(1) Endurance time
D.5 Description of Test. The following information should be reported:
(2) Nature of failure
(1) Temperature at start of test and every 1 minute thereafter
(3) Hose stream test results
(2) Where charts are included in report, clear indication of time and
temperature for all of the following: D.9 List of Official Observers. Provide signatures of responsible persons.
(a) In furnace space D.10 Annex. Include all data not specifically required by test standard but
useful to better understanding of test results. Special observations for building
(b) On unexposed surface code approvals should be included in the annex.
(c) On protected framing members as stipulated in this standard

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D.11 Photographs. Photographs should be used to show items not covered in

a report or to clarify information and should include the following: Table E.1.5 Construction Classifications, Restrained and Unrestrained
(1) Assembly in construction I. Wall Bearing
(2) Exposed face prior to fire test Single span and simply supported end spans of multiple
(3) Unexposed face at start of endurance test, including recording bays:1
equipment where possible 1. Open-web steel joists or steel beams, supporting concrete unrestrained
(4) Unexposed face at end of fire endurance test slab, precast units, or metal decking
(5) Exposed face at end of fire endurance test 2. Concrete slabs, precast units, or metal decking unrestrained
(6) Unexposed face at end of fire exposure before hose test
Interior spans of multiple bays:
(7) Exposed face at end of fire exposure before hose test
1. Open-web steel joists, steel beams or metal decking, restrained
(8) Exposed face after hose stream test supporting continuous concrete slab
(9) Unexposed face after hose stream test
2. Open-web steel joists or steel beams, supporting precast unrestrained
D.12 Other Pertinent Information. It is essential to include the following: units or metal decking
(1) Detailed drawing of test assembly 3. Cast-in-place concrete slab systems restrained
(2) Photographs [see Sections D.11(1), (4), (8), and (9)] for every test
report 4. Precast concrete where the potential thermal expansion is restrained
resisted by adjacent construction2
Annex E Guide for Determining Conditions of Restraint for Floor and

T
Roof Assemblies and for Individual Beams II. Steel Framing.
This annex is not a part of the requirements of this NFPA document but is 1. Steel beams welded, riveted, or bolted to the framing restrained
included for informational purposes only. members

F
E.1 Introduction. The revisions adopted in 1970 introduced, for the first time 2. All types of cast-in-place floor and roof systems (such restrained
in the history of this standard, the concept of classifications fire resistance as beams-and-slabs, flat slabs, pan joists, and waffleslabs)
ratings based on two conditions of support: restrained and unrestrained. As a in which the floor or roof system is secured to the framing
result, most specimens are fire tested in a manner that seeks to derive these members
two classifications fire resistance ratings. [ROP 251-2]

A
3. All types of prefabricated floor or roof systems in which restrained
E.1.1 A restrained condition in fire tests, as used in this method, is one in the structural members are secured to the framing members
which expansion at the supports of a load-carrying element resulting from the and the potential thermal expansion of the floor or roof
effects of fire is resisted by forces external to the element. An unrestrained system is resisted by the framing system or the adjoining
condition is one in which the load-carrying element is free to expand and floor or roof construction2

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rotate at its supports.
E.1.2 It is recognized that there can be some difficulty in determining the III. Concrete Framing.
condition of restraint that is anticipated at elevated temperatures in actual 1. Beams securely fastened to the framing members restrained
structures. Until a more satisfactory method is developed, it is recommended
that all construction should be classified temporarily as either restrained or 2. All types of cast-in-place floor or roof systems (such restrained

D
unrestrained. This classification fire resistance rating enables the architect, as beam-and-slabs, flat slabs, pan joists, and waffle slabs)
engineer, or building official to correlate the classification fire resistance where the floor system is cast with the framing members
rating, based on conditions of restraint, with the construction type under 3. Interior and exterior spans of precast systems with cast- restrained
consideration. [ROP 251-2] in-place joints resulting in restraint equivalent to that which
E.1.3 For the purpose of this annex, restraint in buildings is defined as exists in condition III(1)
follows: Floor and roof assemblies and individual beams in buildings are
4. All types of prefabricated floor or roof systems in which restrained
considered restrained where the surrounding or supporting structure is the structural members are secured to such systems and the
capable of resisting substantial thermal expansion throughout the range potential thermal expansion of the floor or roof system is
of anticipated elevated temperatures. Construction not complying with resisted by the framing system or the adjoining floor or roof
this definition is assumed to be free to rotate and expand and therefore is construction2
considered as unrestrained.
E.1.4 The definition of restraint in buildings specified in E.1.3 necessitates IV. Wood Construction.
the exercise of engineering judgment to determine what constitutes restraint All types. urestrained
to substantial thermal expansion. Restraint can be provided by the lateral
stiffness of supports for floor and roof assemblies and intermediate beams 1
Floor and roof systems can be considered restrained where they are tied to
forming part of the assembly. In order to develop restraint, connections walls with or without tie beams, the walls being designed and detailed to
have to adequately transfer thermal thrusts to such supports. The rigidity of resist thermal thrust from the floor or roof system.
adjoining panels or structures should be considered in assessing the capability 2
Resistance to potential thermal expansion is considered to be achieved
of a structure to resist thermal expansion. Continuity, such as that occurring where the following criteria are met:
in beams acting continuously over more than two supports, induces rotational (a)Continuous structural concrete topping is used.
restraint that usually adds to the fire resistance of structural members.
(b)The space between the ends of precast units or between the ends of the
E.1.5 Table E.1.5 specifies only the common types of constructions. These units and the vertical face of supports is filled with concrete or mortar.
classifications fire resistance ratings, as well as the philosophy expressed
(c)The space between the ends of precast units and the vertical faces of
in A.1.1, are helpful in determining the less common types of construction. supports, or between the ends of solid or hollow core slab units, does not
[ROP 251-2] exceed 0.25 percent of the length for normal weight concrete members or
E.1.6 The foregoing methods of establishing the presence or absence of 0.1 percent of the length for structural lightweight concrete members.
restraint according to type and detail of construction are considered to
be temporary but necessary for the determination of dual classifications
fire resistance ratings. It is anticipated that methods for realistically
predetermining the degree of restraint applicable to a particular classification Annex F Method of Correcting Fire Endurance for Concrete Slabs
fire resistance rating will be developed soon. [ROP 251-2] Determined by Unexposed Surface Temperature Rise for Nonstandard
Moisture Content
This annex is not a part of the requirements of this NFPA document but is

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included for informational purposes only. that is, the concrete contains 2.34 volume percent moisture at time of test.
F.1 Scope. F.5.2 Calculate ms as follows:
F.1.1 The standard fire endurance is the time determined by the unexposed Example: If the standard moisture level is assumed to correspond to a
surface temperature rise of a test specimen at a standard moisture level. middepth RH of 75 percent, me = 0.24, then
F.1.2 This annex provides a procedure for correction of the fire endurance ms = 0.232 × 0.24 = 0.0557 (see F.3.4)
of unprotected vertical or horizontal slabs (solid or hollow) made from that is, the standard moisture level is 5.57 volume percent.
essentially inorganic building materials and conditioned on both sides, where
moisture content at the time of test is other than at a standard moisture level. F.5.3 Calculate bm as follows:
F.1.3 Among the common inorganic building materials, only the hydrated b = 5.5 [see Table F.2(b)]
Portland cement products can hold (after due conditioning in accordance with bma = 5.5 × 0.0234 = 0.129
Section 5.2) sufficient amounts of moisture to affect the result of the fire test
bms = 5.5 × 0.0557 = 0.306
significantly. Consequently, correcting the experimental fire endurance of
constructions containing less than 5 volume percent of Portland cement paste F.5.4 Draw lines on the nomogram from point R to bma and bms (see Figure
is not necessary. F.5.4).
F.2 Symbols. The symbols used in this annex are defined as follows: F.5.5 Draw a line from the FE ordinate, 2.90, parallel to line R-bma to
intersect the curve.
A = factor characterizing the drying conditions [see Table F.2(a)]
F.5.6 Draw a line parallel to R-bms from a point on the curve to intersect the
b = factor characterizing the permeability of the specimen [see
FE ordinate scale. The value, 3.19, is the adjusted fire endurance; that is, the
Table F.2(b)]
fire endurance if the specimen had been tested at the standard moisture level,
FE = fire endurance of specimen (hr) which is assumed in this example to correspond to 75 percent RH at middepth.
m = moisture content in volume fraction (ft3/ft3 or cm3/cm3)

T
ma = average moisture content of test specimen
Table F.2(a) Factor Characterizing Drying Conditions
mc = average moisture content of cement paste
Conditioning Middepth Factor A for Portland

F
me = nominal equilibrium moisture content of cement paste for a
given relative humidity [see Table F.2(c)] Environment RH of Test Cement
Specimen
mes = equilibrium moisture content of cement paste at the standard (%)
relative humidity level [see Table F.2(c)]
Normal Lightweight
ms = average moisture content of a standard conditioned concrete

A
Weight Concrete
specimen of same concrete and cement paste volume as the Concrete
test specimen
RH = relative humidity 60°F–80°F (15.6°C– any 1.0 1.0
26.7°C) atmospheric

R
v = volume fraction of cement paste (ft3/ft3 or cm3/cm3) conditions
F.3 Calculation of Moisture Content. 120°F–160°F (48.9°C– 7075 0.7 0.7
F.3.1 The average moisture content (ma) is the volume fraction of moisture 71.1°C), 2035%RH
[ft3/ft3 (cm3/ cm3)] in the material relative to its dry condition, where dry
190°F–200°F (87.8°C– 7075 0.45 0
condition is defined as that resulting when the material is heated in an oven at

D
93.3°C), 05%RH
221°F ± 1°F (105°C ± 0.5°C) until no further weight loss occurs.
F.3.2 The average moisture content of the cement paste can be estimated from 120°F–200°F (48.9°C– less than 70 0 0
the known value of RH at middepth (assuming the material has never been 93.3°C), 535%RH
subject to rewetting) by calculating first the moisture content in the cement
paste as follows:
mc = A·mc
F.3.3 The average moisture content of the test specimen then is calculated as Table F.2(b) Factor Characterizing Permeability of Test Specimen
follows: Material b
ma = v·ma
Normal weight and gun-applied concrete [dry unit 5.5
F.3.4 The average moisture content of a standard conditioned specimen is weight greater than 135 lb/ft3 (2162 kg/m3)]
calculated as follows:
Lightweight concrete [dry unit weight 85 lb/ ft3–115 8.0
ms = v·mes lb/ft3 (1361 kg/m3–1841 kg/m3)]
where mes is the value of me in Table F.2(c) pertaining to the standard RH
level. Lightweight insulating concrete [dry unit weight 10.0
less than 50 lb/ft3 (801 kg/m3)]
F.4 Correction Procedure. The correction procedure begins with the
selection of an empirical factor to reflect the permeability of the material
as suggested in Table F.2(b). The known values of ma and ms are used to
calculate the products bma and bms. On the nomograph (see Figure F.4), lines Table F.2(c) Equilibrium Moisture Content (Desorption) of
are drawn from point R to values of bma and bms on the right-hand scale. Cement Paste at Given Relative Humidity
From the point representing the actual fire endurance time (FE) on the left- RH at Middepth (%) me
hand scale, a line is drawn parallel to R-bma to intersect the curve. From this
point on the curve, a line is drawn parallel to R-bms and the corrected fire 90 0.30
endurance is determined from the FE scale.
85 0.274
F.5 Example. A wall made from normal weight concrete having 23.2 volume
percent of paste is conditioned at 200°F (93°C) and 5 percent RH until the 80 0.255
RH at its middepth is reduced to 70 percent. It has a 2.90-hour fire endurance.
75 0.24
The adjusted fire endurance is calculated as shown in F.5.1 through F.5.6.
F.5.1 Calculate ma as follows: 70 0.225
For 70 percent RH, 65 0.21
me = 0.225 [see Table F.2(c)] 60 0.195
For 200°F (93°C) and 5 percent RH conditioning, for normal weight
concrete, 55 0.185
A = 0.45 [see Table F.2(a)] 50 0.175
mc = 0.45 × 0.225 = 0.101 (see F.3.2) 45 0.16
For v = 0.232 40 0.15
ma = 0.232 × 0.101 = 0.0234 (see F.3.3)

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Report on Proposals — Copyright, NFPA NFPA 251
G.4.2 The end-point criteria by which the test result is assessed are related to
FIGURE F.4 Nomograph for Correcting Fire Endurance for the following:
Nonstandard Moisture Content. [Existing Figure F-5(4), 99 ed., (no (1) Transmission of heat through the test assembly
change)] (2) Ability of the test assembly to withstand the transmission of flames or
gases hot enough to ignite combustible material
Annex G Commentary (3) Ability of the assembly to carry the load and withstand restraining
This annex is not a part of the requirements of this NFPA document but is forces during the fire test period
included for informational purposes only. (4) Temperature of the steel under some conditions
G.1 Introduction. G.4.3 Classifications Fire resistance ratings should reflect performance
G.1.1 This commentary has been prepared to provide the user of this standard during the period of exposure and performance should not be construed as
with background information on the development of the standard and its having determined suitability for use after the exposure. [ROP 251-2]
application in the fire protection of buildings. It also provides guidance in G.4.4 This standard, although specific regarding the assembly to be tested,
the planning and performance of fire tests and in the reporting of results. No enables the testing laboratory to determine whether the specimen is a true
attempt has been made to incorporate into this commentary all the available representation of the assembly intended for evaluation. This is necessary
information on fire testing. The serious student of fire testing is strongly because of the wide variation in assemblies. For instance, wall test specimens
urged to consult the referenced documents for a better appreciation of the generally do not contain electric switches and outlets, which in some designs
history of fire-resistant design and the intricate problems associated with can affect test results. Floor test specimens might or might not contain
testing and with interpretation of test results.[1, 2] electrical raceways and outlets or pull boxes for power and communications
G.1.2 Floors and walls designed as fire separations have been recognized wiring. Cover plates over trench headers also are present in some designs.
for many years as efficient tools for restricting fires to the area of origin or The testing laboratory is in the best position to judge the effects of such
components.

T
limiting their spread.[3–11] Prior to 1900, relative fire safety was achieved
by mandating use of specific materials. By the year 1900, the appearance G.5 Test Furnaces. This standard does not provide specific construction
of a multitude of new materials and innovative designs and constructions details for the furnace. Users are urged to consult reference documents for a
accelerated the demand for performance standards. The British Fire more comprehensive review of furnace design and performance.[25]

F
Prevention Committee, established in 1894, was the first to produce tables that G.6 Temperature–Time Curve.
provided fire-resistive floors, ceilings, doors, and partitions.[5] Test furnaces
in the United States were constructed shortly after 1900 at the Underwriters G.6.1 A specific temperature–time relationship for the test fire is defined
Laboratories Inc., Columbia University, and the National Bureau of Standards in the standard and in Table B.1. The actual recorded temperatures in the
(NBS).[1, 12] These early furnaces eventually led to the development of furnace are required to be within specified percentages of those of the

A
ASTM E 119, Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction standard curve. Accuracy in measuring temperature generally is easier to
and Materials, and its counterpart, NFPA 251. achieve after 1 hour due to stabilizing of the furnace and the slope of the T-t
curve. The number and type of temperature-measuring devices are outlined
G.2 Historical Aspects. ASTM E 119, Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests in the standard. Specific standard practices for location and use of these
of Building Construction and Materials, was first published as ASTM C 19 temperature-measuring devices also are outlined in the standard. However, no

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in 1918. A number of refinements have been made to the standard since that uniformity of the temperatures within the fire chamber is specified.
time. However, several provisions, including the temperature–time curve,
the major apparatus, and the acceptance criteria have remained essentially G.6.2 The standard T-t curve used in this standard represents a severe
unchanged. The roots of fire testing as defined today can be traced back building fire.[5] The curve was adopted in 1918 as a result of several
to about 1800. A comprehensive review of early fire testing has been conferences by eleven technical organizations, including testing laboratories,
published.[1] insurance underwriters, fire protection associations, and technical societies.[1,

D
16, 30] The T-t relationship of these test methods represents only one fire
G.3 Fire Load Concept. situation. Data is available to evaluate the performance of assemblies under
G.3.1 Specifications for fire resistance in regulatory documents continue fire exposure conditions that are more representative of particular fire
to be based largely on the fire load concept developed by NBS in the 1920s situations (i.e., using different T-t relationships to simulate specific fire
and reported in the 1928 NFPA Quarterly by S. H. Ingberg. The concept conditions).[9, 11, 16, 19, 22, 23, 27, 29, 31, 32]
incorporates the premise that the duration of a fire is proportional to the G.6.3 Furnace pressure is not specified and is generally slightly negative. The
fire loading (i.e., the mass of combustible materials per unit floor area). The pressure can have an effect on the test results, and the test conditions always
relationship between the mass of combustible materials and fire duration was should be controlled carefully.
established on the basis of burnout tests in structures incorporating materials
having calorific or potential heat values equivalent to wood and paper [i.e., G.7 Test Specimen.
7000 Btu/lb to 8000 Btu/lb (16.3 MJ/kg to 18.6 MJ/kg)]. The fire loads of G.7.1 The test specimen is required to represent as closely as possible the
noncellulosic materials, such as oils, waxes, and flammable liquids, were actual construction in the field subject to the limits imposed by the test
interpreted on the basis of their equivalent calorific content.[5, 13–15] In facilities.
the simplest terms, the calorific content premise means that 10 lb (50 kg)
G.7.2 All specimens are required to be conditioned so as to attain a moisture
of combustible materials per ft (m ) of floor area produce a fire of 1-hour
2 2
content comparable to that in the field prior to testing. For uniformity,
duration.
the standard moisture content is defined as that in equilibrium with an
G.3.2 Increasing sophistication in the understanding of materials and the atmosphere of 50 percent relative humidity at 73°F (23°C). Massive concrete
fire process is the result of numerous research activities.[9, 11, 13–27] It is units that need unusually long drying periods can be fire-tested after a 12-
now generally conceded that fire severity as well as the temperature–time month conditioning period. Annex F describes how the test result should
relationship of a fire depends on several factors, including the following: be corrected to account for any variation from the standard moisture
(1) Amount and type of the fire load condition.[33]
(2) Distribution of the fire load G.7.3 With few exceptions, only the interior face of exterior wall assemblies
and the ceiling portion or underside of floor or roof assemblies are exposed
(3) Specific surface characteristics of the fire load[5, 27] to the standard fire.[24, 25] The rationale for this practice is based on the
(4) Ventilation, as determined by the size and shape of openings [17–19, assumption that the outside face of exterior walls is not usually subjected
21, 27–29] to the same fire exposure as the interior face and that the fire exposure of
(5) Geometry (the size and shape) of the fire compartment the upper side of a floor or roof assembly is seldom as intense as that of the
underside.
(6) Thermal characteristics of the enclosure boundaries
G.7.4 Although this standard does not contain specific criteria for judging
(7) Relative humidity of the atmosphere the impact of through-joints or poke-through devices, such as electrical or
G.3.3 For the purposes of this annex, fire severity is defined in terms of telephone outlets, it should be recognized that these components should be
temperature (one measure of an effect of fire intensity) and fire duration. It is evaluated with respect to structural performance and temperature-rise criteria
expressed in terms of minutes or hours of fire exposure and, in NFPA 251, is if they constitute a significant part of the tested assembly.
assumed to be equivalent to that defined by the standard temperature–time (T- G.7.5 For obvious reasons, symmetrical walls and partitions are tested only
t) curve (i.e., the area under the T-t curve).[27] on one side. Asymmetrical walls and partitions might be required to be tested
G.4 Scope and Significance. with either or both sides individually exposed to the fire. If both sides are
exposed, the report should indicate the fire endurance classification for each
G.4.1 This standard is intended to evaluate, in terms of endurance time, the
case.
ability of an assembly to contain a fire or to retain its structural integrity,
or both, during the test conditions imposed by the standard. It also contains G.8 Loading.
standard conditions for measuring heat transfer through membrane elements G.8.1 Floors and roofs generally are loaded during tests to provide a
protecting combustible framing or surfaces.
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Report on Proposals — Copyright, NFPA NFPA 251
maximum load condition determined by the applicable nationally recognized the beam is tested. [ROP 251-2]
design criteria. This practice is intended to accommodate those designs that G.11 Other Observations.
are loaded to maximum design conditions in actual intended use. Through the
application of engineering principles, those fire endurance ratings developed G.11.1 No limitation is imposed on the deformation of the specimen during
can be applied to assemblies having spans greater than those tested. or after the test period. It is assumed that the deflection or deformation of
an assembly is limited only by its ability to stay in place (under load, where
G.8.2 Where a floor or roof assembly is designed for a specific use, such as specified) during the test period.
in prefabricated housing units, the assembly can be tested with a restricted
load condition. The loading condition used for such tests is to be defined in G.11.2 A complete record of deformation during the endurance test is helpful
the test report. This standard does not require specific loading devices. Some in the application of test results and should be reported.
laboratories use large containers of water; others use a system of hydraulic G.11.3 Other observations, such as the evolution of unusual quantities of
rams for floor and roof assemblies. Where a uniformly distributed load is visible smoke, vapors, or gases that could affect the proper decision regarding
simulated by point-loading (several small-area loads), it is recommended use of the test results, should be reported.
that the load at any such area not exceed 25 percent of the total load and that
G.12 Protective Membranes. This standard provides criteria for evaluating
the individual load have a width at least equal to the depth of the floor. Wall
the protection that membrane elements can offer to combustible framing and
furnaces generally are equipped with hydraulic rams.
paneling (e.g., joists, wall studs, and paneling or boards on the unexposed side
G.8.3 This standard requires that load-bearing walls and partitions sustain the of an assembly and other combustible materials). The results of these tests are
applied test load during the fire endurance and hose stream tests. A former reported as protective membrane ratings.
provision that required load-bearing walls and partitions to sustain twice the
G.13 References.
specified superimposed test load after cooling but within 72 hours of the test
period has been deleted from the method as being unrealistic. Nonbearing (1) Babrauskas, Vytenis, and Robert Brady Williamson, “The Historical
walls and partitions are not loaded during the test but are restrained on all Basis of Fire Resistance Testing,” Part I and Part II, Fire Technology, Vol. 14,
sides. This restraint could impose more stress than a load on top. The ASTM No. 3 and No. 4, 1978, pp. 184– 194, 304–316.

T
Committee E-5 has reviewed the loading procedures for framed walls and (2) Shoub, H., “Early History of Fire Endurance Testing in the United
partitions several times. It was the committeeʼs unanimous decision that such States,” Symposium on Fire Test Methods, ASTM STP 301, American Society
a wall be tested either with calculated maximum design load or with a load for Testing and Materials, 1961, pp. 1– 9.
expected to occur in practice. The method used to compute the design loads

F
should be reported. (3) Dilam, C.H., et al., Modern Building Inspection, R. C. Colling and
Associates, Los Angeles, CA, 1942.
G.8.4 Some important stresses, such as those caused by creep and shrinkage
in the wall itself and its supporting frame, are present, and the designer (4) Facts About Fires, National Fire Protection Assn., Quincy, MA, 1971.
should recognize these stresses in the analysis. The ASTM Committee E-5 (5) Bird, E. L. and S. J. Docking, Fire in Buildings, D. Van–Nostrand Co.,
has investigated the possibility of openings occurring in joints at the corners Inc., New York, 1949.

A
of nonload-bearing enclosures due to differential movement. While the (6) Ferguson, R.S., “Principles of Fire Protection,” Technical Paper No.
possibility exists that this will occur, the committee has not found it feasible 272, Division of Building Research, National Research Council of Canada,
to amend the test based on available data. Ottawa, March 1970.
G.8.5 Double walls pose a unique problem for load application. Which wall (7) Konicek, L., and T. T. Lie, “Temperature Tables for Ventilation

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should be loaded? Should both walls be loaded simultaneously? The ASTM Controlled Fires,” Building Research Note No. 94, National Research Council
Committee E-5 devoted considerable time to debating this problem and of Canada, September 1974.
recommends the decision be made by the user after an analysis of the loading
conditions anticipated in service both before and after a fire. Such loading (8) Gordon, C., “Considerations of Life Safety and Building Use,” DBR
conditions are to be reported. Paper No. 699, National Research Council of Canada, Ottawa, January 1977.

D
G.9 Integrity. All walls and partitions that qualify for a fire endurance (9) Shorter, G.W., “The Fire Protection Engineer and Modern Building
classification of 1 hour or more are required to be subjected to the cooling Design,” Fire Technology, Vol. 4, No. 3, August 1968, pp. 206– 213.
impact and erosion effects of a stream of water from a 21/2 in. (63.5 mm) (10) Harmathy, T. Z., “Performance of Building Elements in Spreading
hose discharging through a standard play pipe equipped with a 11/8 in. (28.6 Fire”, DBR Paper No. 752, National Research Council of Canada, NRCC
mm) tip under specified pressures. In this hose stream test, the ability of the 16477, Fire Research, Vol. 1, 1977/1978, pp. 119–132.
construction to resist disintegration under adverse conditions is examined.
(11) Harmathy, T.Z., “Design Approach to Fire Safety in Buildings,”
The requirement for a hose stream test was removed from the test procedure
Progressive Architecture, NRCC 14076, National Research Council of
for columns and floor or roof assemblies because of impracticality and the
Canada, Ottawa, April 1974, pp. 82–87.
possibility of excessive damage to the furnace.
(12) “Rule 508 — Industrial Code,” New York State Labor Law, New York
G.10 Conditions of Tests.
City Building Code, p. 513, 1934 Edition.
G.10.1 Columns generally are tested with all four sides exposed to the test
(13) Robertson, A.E., and Daniel Gross, “Fire Load, Fire Severity, and Fire
fire. However, it is possible to test a column with three sides exposed (with the
Endurance,” Fire Test Performances, ASTM STP 464, American Society for
fourth side against a wall). This standard requires that specimens be tested
Testing and Materials, 1970, pp. 3–29.
under conditions contemplated in the design. The former general practice of
testing columns with pin connection at the top and bottom to simulate the (14) BMS 92, Building Materials and Standards, National Bureau of
most critical condition is no longer a criterion. Standards, Washington, DC, October 1942.
G.10.2 Columns are required to sustain successfully the design load during (15) Ingberg, S.H., et al., “Combustible Contents in Buildings,” BMS 149,
the test period. This standard also permits columns to be loaded up to 13/4 National Bureau of Standards, Washington, DC, July 1957.
times the design load prior to the fire test if desired by the submitter. Such (16) Seigel, L.G., “The Severity of Fires in Steel Framed Buildings,” Her
loading, however, should not be construed as having had a deleterious effect Majestyʼs Stationery Office, 1968, London. Proceedings of the Symposium
on the fire endurance test performance. Instead of loading, steel columns, held at the Fire Research Station, Borehamwood, Herts. (England), January
whose protective covering does not carry a load, can be assigned a fire 24, 1967, pp. 59–63.
resistance classification on the basis of the temperature of the steel only. With
such columns, the protective cover should be restrained against longitudinal (17) Gross, D., “Field Burnout Tests of Apartment Dwelling Units,”
expansion. Wood columns are tested for load-carrying ability only. Building Science Series 10, U. S. Dept. of Commerce, National Bureau of
Standards, September 29, 1967.
G.10.3 Test results have established that variations of restraint conditions
can influence the time of fire resistance for a structure or a structural element (18) Law, Margaret, “Radiation from Fires in a Compartment,” Fire
considerably. Restraints generally are beneficial to fire resistance; however, Research Technical Paper No. 20, Her Majestyʼs Stationery Office, London,
there are conditions under which restraint can have a detrimental effect on the 1968.
performance of a specimen during a fire resistance test.[34, 35] The users of (19) Heselden, A.J.M., “Parameters Determining the Severity of
test results are advised to study the reference documents as well as Annex E Fire,” Symposium No. 2, Her Majestyʼs Stationery Office, 1968, London.
and Table E.1.5. Proceedings of the Symposium held at the Fire Research Station,
G.10.4 An unrestrained classification fire resistance rating for a steel beam Borehamwood, Herts. (England), January 24, 1967, pp. 19–27.
or a reinforced concrete beam used as part of an assembly tested in restrained (20) Sfintesco, D., “Furnace Tests and Fire Resistance,” Building Science
condition can be assessed from the temperature records obtained for the steel Series 10, U.S. Dept. of Commerce, National Bureau of Standards, September
or the reinforcing steel, respectively (see Chapter 13). It is also possible to 29, 1967.
evaluate the protective cover of steel beams by measuring the temperature (21) Gross, Daniel and A. F. Robertson, “Experimental Fires in
of the steel that is protected (see Chapter 14). The fire resistance rating Enclosures,” Tenth Symposium (International) on Combustion, The
determined under the provisions of Chapter 13 is applicable only to beams Combustion Institute, 1965, pp. 931–942.
used with a floor or roof construction that has a comparable or greater
capacity for heat dissipation from the beam than the floor or roof with which (22) Odeen, Kai, “Theoretical Study of Fire Characteristics in Enclosed

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Report on Proposals — Copyright, NFPA NFPA 251
Spaces,” Division of Building Construction, Royal Institute of Technology, Studies of the Effects of Restraint on the Fire-Resistance of Prestressed
Stockholm, Sweden, 1965. Concrete, Feuerwider-stansfahigkeit von Spannbeton, Ergebnisse einer
(23) Ryan, J.E., “Perspective on Methods of Assessing Fire Hazards in Tagung der F.I.P. in Braunschweig, June 1965,Wiesbaden-Berlin, 1966, p. 32.
Buildings,” Ignition, Heat Release, and Noncombustibility of Materials, (35) Issen, L.A., Gustaferro A.H., and Carlson C.C., “Fire Tests of
ASTM STP 502, American Society for Testing and Materials, 1972, pp. Concrete Members; An Improved Method for Estimating Thermal Restraint
11–23. Forces,” Fire Test Performance, ASTM STP 464, American Society for
(24) Harmathy, T.Z., “Performance of Building Elements in Spreading Testing and Materials, 1970, pp. 153–185.
Fire,” DBR Paper No. 752, National Research Council of Canada, NRCC G.14 Additional References.
16477, Fire Research, Vol. 1, 1977/ 1978, pp. 119–132. Castle, G.K., “The Nature of Various Fire Environments and the
(25) Harmathy, T.Z., “Design of Fire Test Furnaces,” Fire Technology, Vol. Application of Modern Material Approaches for Fire Protection of Exterior
5, No. 2, May 1969, pp. 146–160. Structural Steel,” presented at American Institute of Chemical Engineers Loss
(26) Harmathy, T.Z., “Fire Resistance versus Flame Spread Resistance,” Prevention Symposium, November 1973, Philadelphia, PA.
Fire Technology, Vol. 12, No. 4, November 1976, pp. 290–302, 330. Crowley, D., et al., “Test Facilities for Measuring the Thermal Response of
(27) Harmathy, T.Z., “A New Look at Compartment Fires,” Part I and Part Materials to the Fire Environment,” Journal of Testing and Evaluation, Vol.
II, Fire Technology, Vol. 8, No. 3 and No. 4, August and November 1972, pp. 1, No. 5.
196–217; 326–351. Ingberg, S.H., “Tests of the Severity of Building Fires,” NFPA Quarterly,
(28) Satsberg, F., Illinois Institute of Technology Research Institute Vol.22, No.1, July 1928, pp.43–61.
Limited release on research data conducted for U.S. Dept. of Civil Defense. Ingberg, S.H., “The Hose-Stream Test as a Part of Fire-Testing Procedure,”
(29) Harmathy, T.Z., “Designers Option Fire Resistance or Ventilation,” Symposium on Fire Test Methods 1962, ASTM STP 344, American Society
Technical Paper No. 436, Division of Building Research, National Research for Testing and Materials, 1963, pp. 57–68.

T
Council of Canada, Ottawa, NRCC 14746, 1974. Stone, Richard, “Danger-Flammable,” Wall Street Journal, New York, NY,
(30) Fire Protection Handbook, 16th edition, National Fire Protection December 8, 1970.
Association, Quincy, MA, 1986. Warren, J.H., and A. A. Corona, “This Method Tests Fire Protective
Coatings,” Hydrocarbon Processing, January 1975.

F
(31) Magusson, Sven-Erik, and Ove Petersson, ISO/TE-WG5 Report,
March 9–10, 1967, Copenhagen, Denmark (Sweden-B)—Exhibit 14. Annex H Informational References
Preliminary report on some theoretical studies for structural elements of H.1 Referenced Publications. The following documents or portions thereof
the effect on their fire resistance of variations of T-t curve for cooling down are referenced within this standard for informational purposes only and
period. are thus not part of the requirements of this document unless also listed in

A
(32) Ryan, J.E. and A. F. Robertson, “Proposed Criteria for Defining Load Chapter 2.
Failure of Beams, Floors, and Roof Construction During Fire Tests,” Journal H.1.1 NFPA Publications. National Fire Protection Association, 1
of Research of the National Bureau of Standards, Washington, DC, Vol. 63C, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471.
No. 2, 1959.
NFPA 255, Standard Method of Test of Surface Burning Characteristics of

R
(33) Harmathy, T. Z., “Experimental Study on Moisture and Fire- Building Materials, 2000 edition.
Endurance,” Fire Technology, Vol. 2, No. 1, February 1966.
NFPA Quarterly, July, Vol 22, No. 1, 1928.
(34) Carlson, C.C., Selvaggio S.L., and Gustaferro A.H., A Review of
H.1.2 Other Publications.
H.1.2.1 ASTM Publications. American Society for Testing and Materials,

D
100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.
ASTM C 569, Test for Indentation Hardness of Preformed Thermal
Insulations, 1989.
ASTM E 119, Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building
Construction and Materials, 1997.
H.1.2.2 Other Publications. See Section G.13 and Section G.14 for additional
documents.
Menzel, Carl A., “A Method for Determining the Moisture Condition of
Hardened Concrete in Terms of Relative Humidity,” Proceedings, American
Society for Testing and Materials, Vol. 55, p. 1085, 1955.
U.S. Department of Agriculture, “Wood Handbook of the Forest Products
Laboratory,” pp. 320–321, 327 (1955).
H.2 Informational References. (Reserved)
H.3 References for Extracts. (Reserved)

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