EN ISO 4589-2 Fire testing of products in trains

Purpose

When tested according to EN ISO 4589-2, the test results shows the lowest concentration of oxygen, by volume percentage, in a mixture of oxygen and nitrogen introduced at 23°C which supports combustion of a material under specific test conditions. The method is used, among other things, to classify materials for trains and is referred to by EN 45545-2 - Railway applications - Requirements for fire behaviour of materials and Components.

When we take the railway, we assume that the journey will be comfortable and safe. Fire safety is important in order to save lives in the event of an accident. Therefore, all materials and products installed in trains and subways must be fire tested according to EN 45545-2. The system has been developed by Technical Committee CEN/TC 256 ”Railway applications” at the request of the European Commission. The system is based on requirements from EU Directive 2016/797. All contradictory national standards are revoked.

Method

The test specimen is supported vertically in a mixture of oxygen and nitrogen flowing upwards through a transparent chimney. The upper end of the specimen is ignited and the subsequent burning behaviour of the specimen is observed. The period for which burning continues, or the length of the specimen burnt are compared with specified limits for such burning. By testing a series of specimens in different oxygen concentrations, the minimum oxygen concentration is estimated.

Deliveries

A test report, in Swedish or English, is delivered with the test results after testing.