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NBSIR 81-2344

Fire Testing of Roof-Mounted Solar

Collectors by ASTM E 108

U S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Bureau of Standards

Center for Fire Research and

Center for Building Technology

August 1981

Prepared for: Department of Energy

of Solar Heat Technologies

ngton, D.C. 20585

100

.056

81 - 234^ 1981

NBSIR 81-2344

FIRE TESTING OF ROOF-MOUNTED SOLAR

COLLECTORS BY ASTM E 108

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William D. Walton

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Bureau of Standards

Center for Fire Research

and

David Waksman

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Bureau of Standards

Center for Building Technology

August 1981

Prepared for: Department of Energy

Office of Solar Heat Technologies

Washington, D.C. 20585

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE, Malcolm Baldrige, Secretary

NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS, Ernest Ambler, Director
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

List of Tables Iv

List of Figures iv

Abstract 1

1. Introduction 1

2. Experimental Program 2

3. Test Results 4

3.1 Burning Brand Test 4

3.2 Intermittent Flame Test 5

3.3 Spread of Flame Test 5

4. Discussion of Results 7

4.1 Burning Brand Test 7 4.2 Intermittent Flame Test 7 4.3 Spread of Flame Test 7

5. Acknowledgements 9

6. References 9

Appendix 17

iii
LIST OF TABLES

Page

Table 1. Test Collector Description 11

Table 2. Summary of Test Configurations 12

Table 3. Summary of Spread of Flame Test Results 13

LIST OF FIGURES

Page

Figure 1. Cross Section of Typical Flat Plate Solar Collector. ... 15

Figure 2. Collector Mounting Configurations 15

Figure 3. Schematic for Fire Test Apparatus 16

Figure 4. Fire Brands for Class A, B, and C Tests 16

iv
FIRE TESTING OF ROOF-MOUNTED SOLAR COLLECTORS BY ASTM E 108

William D. Walton and David Waksman

ABSTRACT

A study was undertaken to investigate the use of ASTM

E 108 (NFPA 256, UL 790), Fire Tests of Roof Coverings, for

testing roof-mounted solar energy collectors. The ASTM E 108

test method is commonly referenced in building codes as the

procedure for determining the fire characteristics of roof

coverings. To date, no data have been available regarding

the influence of solar collectors on the fire characteristics

of roof coverings or on collectors used as roof coverings.

This study focused primarily on class C intermittent flame,

spread of flame, and burning brand tests, although several

class A and B burning brand tests were conducted. The

collectors studied were commercially available and constructed with a broad variety of glazing, casing, and

insulation materials representative of those commonly in

use. The collectors were tested on sloped, asphalt shingled,

roofs with three types of mountings: integrally as the

roof, directly on the roof covering, and on standoffs above

the roof covering. Data are presented showing the results of

the testing conducted. An evaluation of the testing procedures as they apply to roof-mounted solar collectors is

given.

Key Words: Fire tests; roofing fire characteristics; roofing

fire tests; solar collectors

1. INTRODUCTION

ASTM E 108 "Fire Tests of Roof Coverings" [1]^, also known as NFPA

256 [2] and UL 790 [3], is a commonly used test procedure to determine

the fire characteristics of roof coverings when exposed to fires originating outside the building on which they are installed. Provisions

based on this test procedure have been incorporated into building codes

used in many jurisdictions. As the use of solar collectors has become

more widespread, a number of codes and standards have added statements

to the effect that solar collectors shall not reduce the required performance of the roof covering materials in a fire as determined by ASTM

E 108 [4,5].

Numbers in brackets refer to the references listed at the end of this

publication.

1
The fire testing described in this paper was conducted: (1) to

evaluate the use of ASTM E 108 as a means for determining the influence

of roof-mounted solar collectors on the fire characteristics of roof

coverings, (2) to determine modifications in the basic testing procedure

that may be required to make it applicable to roof -mounted solar collectors, and (3) to determine the influence that flat plate solar collectors

constructed of various materials may have on the fire characteristics of

roof coverings. No attempt was made to rate or certify the collectors

tested. This study does not address other fire-related features of

solar energy systems not addressed by ASTM E 108; e.g., the potential

for self-ignition of solar collectors under either operating or stagnation

conditions, and the fire resistance of roofing assemblies with solar

collectors when exposed to interior fires.

This work was performed under the technical direction of the National

Bureau of Standards and utilized the baseline fire testing procedures

outlined in NBSIR 78-1305 A [6]. It was undertaken as part of a U. S.

Department of Energy sponsored program to develop and evaluate testing

procedures that can be used to assess the reliability/durability and

safety of solar collectors. The testing was carried out at two different

testing laboratories: Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. and Approved

Engineering Testing Laboratories .

2. EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM

Test specimens were selected to be representative of the broad

range of materials and design configurations used in flat plate solar

collectors intended for solar heating and cooling applications. A cross section of a typical flat plate collector is shown in Figure 1. Four

types of configurations are commonly used for solar collectors mounted

on sloped roofs. These include: (1) integral mounting as roofing

elements, (2) direct surface mounting on top of the roofing material,

(3) on standoffs parallel to the roofing surface, and (4) on racks at an

angle to the roofing surface. Diagrams of the mounting configurations

are shown in Figure 2. The materials used in the solar collectors

selected for evaluation and their dimensions are summarized in Table 1.

These materials include aluminum, steel, wood, glass, fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP), etc. The types of tests conducted, the mounting

configurations, and the roof slopes used are summarized in Table 2.

Major emphasis was placed on glazing, casing, and insulation materials

and on the types of mounting configurations used. Unless otherwise

noted, collectors on standoffs were mounted on noncombustible spacers

located at each corner. Only one angular rack-mounted solar collector

was tested. All collectors were tested without heat transfer fluid.

Reference to the testing laboratories participating in the program is

made solely for informational purposes. Such identification does not

imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Bureau of Standards.

2
Wooden test decks covered with shingles representative of the

median of class C were used for purposes of equipment calibration and

for the mounting of collectors, where required. Typical class C asphalt

impregnated organic-felt shingles from the same lot were used for all ' tests. Except as noted, in all tests where a roof deck was used, the

collector was mounted one foot (30 cm) back from the leading edge of the

deck which was closest to the burner. The standard 12 + 0.5 mph (5.3 +

0.2 m/s) wind condition specified in ASTM E 108 was used for all tests,

with the exception of tests Nos. 22 and 23 which were conducted without

wind to determine the influence of wind. A roof slope of 5 in 12 (23°)

was used, unless otherwise indicated on Table 2.

The testing focused primarily on the class C intermittent flame,

spread of flame, and burning brand test conditions described in ASTM E

108, although several class A and B burning brand tests were also con- ducted. A diagram of the test apparatus is shown in Figure 3.

According to ASTM E 108, the class A tests represent a severe

exposure; class B, a moderate exposure; and, class C, a light exposure.

The following is a summary of the test conditions and conditions of

classification given in ASTM E 108. The test decks for the intermittent

flame and burning brand tests are 31/3 feet (1.0 m) wide and 41/3 feet

(1.3 m) long. The deck for the spread of flame test is 3 1/3 feet (1.0

m) wide and 13 feet (4.0 m) long.

As shown in Figure 4, Class A and B brands are constructed of

nominal 1 x 1-inch (25 x 25-mm) Douglas fir wood strips with a finished

size for class A brands of 12 x 12 x 2 11/32 inches (305 x 305 x 59.5

mm) and class B brands of 6x6x2 11/32 inches (152 x 152 x 59.5 mm).

Class C brands consist of a piece of white pine wood 1 1/2 x 1 1/2 x

25/32 inches (38 x 38 x 19.8 mm) with saw kerfs in the top and bottom

faces. The class A burning brand test utilizes 1 brand; the class B

test, 2 brands; and, the class C test, 25 brands. For all classes of

the burning brand test, the brands are ignited before they are placed on

the roof at the location considered most vulnerable. The test is

continued until there is no evidence of flame, glow, or smoke from

either the brands or the test deck. In this test program, brands were

placed on the collector covers and, for collectors mounted on standoffs,

beneath the collectors directly on the roofing surface.

For the intermittent flame test, the test deck is subjected to a luminous gas flame—having a temperature of 1400° + 50° F (760° + 28°

C) for class A and B and 1300° + 50° F (704° + 28° C) for class C

approximately the width of the test deck, which uniformly bathes the

surface. The flame is applied intermittently for specified periods with

specified time intervals between flame applications, as indicated below.

3
Method of Flame on Flame off No. of Test

Test (min) (min) Cycles

Class A 2 2 15

Class B 2 2 8

Class C 1 2 3

For the spread of flame test the same type of luminous gas flame

used for the intermittent flame tests, Including flame temperature, is

applied continuously for 10 minutes for classes A and B and 4 minutes

for class C.

The conditions for classification for the burning brand and the

intermittent flame test are the same. During the test, no glowing or flaming brands from the roof deck or covering shall continue to glow

after reaching the floor, the roof deck shall not be exposed, and there

shall be no flaming on the underside of the roof deck. For the spread

of flame test, the classification conditions are that flaming shall not

have spread beyond 6 feet (1.8 m) for class A, 8 feet (2.4 m) for class

B, and 13 feet (4.0 m) for class C. The burning brand test and the

intermittent flame test are primarily intended to determine if the fire

will penetrate the roof deck and if the roof will spread burning brands.

The spread of flame test provides a measure of surface flame travel.

3. TEST RESULTS

The test results obtained are summarized in the sections which

follow. Only a few repeat tests were conducted on selected collectors

because of the exploratory nature of the test program; however, for

rating purposes, ASTM E 108 requires replicate tests for each of the

tests discussed below. Complete tabulations of the test results obtained

are presented in the Appendix to this report. Materials, collector

designs, and mounting configurations other than those tested may yield

different results.

3.1 Burning Brand Test

Tests were conducted with class A, B, and C brands using a variety

of collector types and mounting configurations. With one exception, no sustained ignitions were obtained with class C brands. This size brand

had no visible effect on either tempered or annealed glass. When class

C brands were placed directly on fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP)

surfaces (tests 10,15), small flames were observed on the FRP directly

adjacent to some of the brands, and a small area of the FRP was blackened;

but, in no case did flames continue after the brand burned out. The

4
same phenomena were observed when C brands were placed on a FRP surface

with no slope and no wind (test 23). When Class C brands were placed on shingles with either an FRP collector (test 12) or a sheet of plywood

(test 22) mounted 4 inches (10.2 cm) above the shingles the brands did

not ignite either the shingles, or the FRP or the plywood above the

shingles. The class C brands did ignite the one collector with acrylic

glazing tested (test 30). The acrylic burned both up the collector with

the wind, and down the collector against the wind, resulting in deformation of the collector. The collector insulation became involved in the

fire, following which burning plastic dripped out of the collector.

Both class A and B brands readily ignited the FRP glazings on both

collectors tested (tests 11, 16), but their absorber plates prevented

penetration fire through those collectors. Flames were observed in the

air passages of the air collector tested (test 16) . The flames on the

FRP spread only in the direction of the wind and not opposed to it. One

test conducted with a class A brand resulted in the shattering of the

tempered glass glazing (test 9); however, the absorber plate prevented

the fire from penetrating the collector. One test with a class B brand

resulted in the breaking of the annealed glass glazing used (test 31)

;

but, unlike the tempered glass which fractured into small pieces, the

annealed glass broke into large pieces, some of which slid off the collector. The absorber plate again prevented the fire from penetrating the

collector. The influence of a class B brand on tempered glass was not

investigated. In one test, a class B brand was placed on the shingled

roof deck beneath a collector with a FRP case mounted on standoffs (test

13). The brand ignited the collector case and the shingles, and the

test was terminated prematurely due to the excessive size of the fire.

It should be noted that the deck used was covered with class C shingles.

In another test using class C brands (test 12), neither the shingles nor

the FRP case of the collector ignited.

3.2 Intermittent Flame Test

Class C intermittent flame tests were conducted with three collectors

having cases constructed of FRP, wood, and aluminum respectively, mounted

one foot back from the leading edge of the test deck (tests 1, 2, 4, 6).

In all tests, neither the shingles nor the collector were ignited.

3.3 Spread of Flame Test

The majority of the tests conducted were spread of flame tests.

These included calibration tests on roof decks with no collectors and

tests with collectors mounted directly on the roof, integral as the

roof, and at a number of standoff distances from the roof. Spread of

flame test results are summarized in Table 3. The calibration tests

were used to compare the results from the two test laboratories and also

as a baseline to assess the influence of solar collectors. At the first

laboratory, the flame had spread 51/2 feet (1.7 m) after four minutes

during one test and 61/2 feet (2.0 m) during a second test on a different

day. At the second laboratory, the flame had spread 8 feet (2.4 m) in

each of two tests conducted on different days.

5
I

The results of spread of flame tests on collectors can be categorized

as spread along combustible glazings and spread under collectors mounted

on standoffs. No variation in the spread of flame test results as a function of collector insulation type was observed. In the majority of

tests, the collectors were mounted one foot back from the leading edge

of the roof deck and the shingles on the leading edge of the test deck

were the first material to ignite. In all cases where the collector had

a FRP glazing, the FRP ignited and flames traveled rapidly to the end of

the collector, usually in less than one minute. When the roof deck

was longer than the collector and smoke did not obscure observation, the

flames from the FRP glazing were observed to ignite the shingles beyond

the collector. A single test was conducted in which acrylic glazing was

exposed to the spread of flame test (test 26). In this test, the glazing

began to sag into the collector when exposed to the test flame, and it

took almost four minutes for it to ignite. Once ignited, flames reached

the end of the collector in approximately three minutes.

The spread of flame under collectors was primarily a function of

the separation or standoff distance between the collector and the roof

covering. Although the collectors with combustible backs certainly

contributed fuel to the fire, the rate of flame travel between the roof

deck and the back of the collectors was not significantly different from

those constructed of steel or aluminum. Generally when a collector was mounted 4 inches (10.2 cm) above and parallel to the roof, flames would

extend beyond the end of the 13-foot (4.0-m) deck within the four

minute test period (tests 5, 7, 8, 17, 19, 24, 25, 33, 39, 42). The

single test conducted with 6-inch (15.2-cm) standoffs also resulted in

flame spread beyond the end of the test deck within 4 minutes (test 27).

A number of tests were conducted with 2-inch (5.1-cm) standoffs (tests

34, 35, 38, 40, 43). In some of these, the flame spread to the end of

the test deck within four minutes (tests 34, 38). In others, the flames

did not spread beyond the end of the collector (tests 35, 40, 43). This

appeared to result from the metal collector bottom deflecting towards

the roof deck as a result of the heat and blocking flame travel beneath

the collector. This phenomenon was also noticed in one of the 4-inch

(10.2-cm) standoff tests (test 25).

Additional tests were conducted with collectors with noncombustible

backs at smaller standoff distances: 9/16 inch (1.4 cm) (test 44), 1

inch (2.5 cm) (tests 47, 49), and 1 9/16 inches (4.0 cm) (test 50). In

these tests, the flames did not travel beyond the end of the collector.

One test was conducted in which an aluminum case collector was mounted

at an angle to the roof surface: 2 inches (5.1 cm) above the roof at the

lower end (towards the flames) and 24 inches (61 cm) above at the upper

end (test 28). The collector was approximately 8 feet (2.4 m) long

forming a 13° angle with the roof. After the four-minute test period,

the flames had spread approximately 1 foot (30.5 cm) under the collector.

The test was allowed to continue; and, at 5 1/2 minutes, the flames

completely filled the area between the test deck and the collector back

and spread to the end of the 13-foot (4.0-m) test deck. This compared

to a spread of 8 feet (2.4 m) in 5 1/2 minutes on a calibration deck

with no collector.

6
A test was conducted with a collector having wood sides and a plywood back mounted above the roof on two 3/4-inch (1.9-cm) thick wood

strips which served as standoffs (test 45). These strips were equal in

length to the width of the collector and were mounted perpendicular to

the direction of flame travel in the test 28 inches (71 cm) from each

end. During the four-minute test, flame travel under the collector was

limited to the leading 28 inches (71 cm) up to the wood strip. Flaming

was also noted on the leading edge of the collector and along the sides

back to the location of this wood strip.

4. DISCUSSION OF RESULTS

4.1

Burning Brand Test

The results of this test program indicated that the burning brand

test may be applied to solar collectors with only minor modifications.

Brands could be placed both on top of the collector and on the roof

covering below a stand-off-mounted collector. Metal absorber plates of

the thickness commonly used in solar collectors act as a barrier to the

penetration of flames from brands as large as class A. However, heat

conducted through the absorber plate could conceivably ignite certain

types of organic insulation materials in direct contact with the absorber.

The test results indicated that with a collector mounted on 4-inch

(10.2-cm) standoffs, neither the collector nor the asphalt shingles of

the type tested will be affected by class C brands placed on a roof

covering similar to that tested. Class A and B brands are likely to

cause ignition on such stand-off-type collectors when combustible cases

are used and will result in significant burning of class C asphalt

shingles similar to those tested. It is not clear that A or B size

brands are likely to be blown under collectors mounted on standoffs and

thus represent a significant hazard. This may be more significant with

rack-mounted collectors where the space under the collector is larger

and more accessible. Where collectors with untempered glass glazing

were tested, large pieces of glass fell from the collector during the

test. ASTM E 108 does not address this potential type of hazard.

4.2

Intermittent Flame Test

The limited test results obtained indicated that the spread of

flame test and the burning brand test are more severe test conditions

than the intermittent flame test when evaluating roof-mounted solar

collectors. Collectors which met these requirements for the burning

brand and spread of flame tests also met those for the intermittent

flame test.

4.3

Spread of Flame Tests

The presence of the collector and its associated mounting configurations, appeared to have the most impact on the spread of flame test.

While it is impractical to test collectors in all possible mounting

configurations, the test results indicated there may not be a single

worst case mounting configuration. The selection of a mounting

7
configuration becomes a function of the philosophy of the test method

with regard to simulating use conditions.

Collectors mounted on standoffs greater than approximately 1 1/2

inches (3.8 cm) above a class C roof covering will result in flame

travel under the collectors greater than that allowed by the test criteria

regardless of collector construction. The presence of any type of

collector case material (either combustible or noncombustible) directly

above the roof covering appears to increase or enhance radiative heat

transfer to the roof covering and channel the wind towards the roof,

thus increasing the rate of flame travel. If the collector is mounted

far enough above the roof, these effects will be reduced although the

separation distance required for this to occur was not examined as part

of this program. The greatest standoff distance tested in which the

collector was parallel to the roof was 6 inches (15.2 cm) and the

enhancement effect was substantial at this distance. The use of blocking

strips for fire stopping under the collectors may be the only method by

which the test criteria can be met for standoff distances greater than

approximately 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm). However, blocking may present

other problems, such as the trapping of moisture, leaves, and snow. Additional testing is necessary to fully define the effect of standoff

distance and collector tilt angle on flame travel.

The set back distance between the leading edge of the roof deck

and the leading edge of the collector also needs to be examined in more

detail. For most of the tests, a 1-foot (30-cm) set back distance was

used. This distance appears to be suitable for examining flame spread

under the collector. It generally allows the roof deck to be the first

material ignited and the flame to spread under the collector. In order

to test for spread of flame directly on the glazing, the collector

should be mounted with the glazing flush and even with the cornice, with

no set back distance, otherwise, the collector may block the flame.

Collector size as it relates to the size of the test decks used and the

size of the test apparatus also needs to be examined.

Collectors with combustible glazing could provide a path for rapid

flame spread from one area of a roof to another area. Building codes do

not clearly address such flame travel when a considerable portion of it

takes place on a material mounted above the roof covering. In addition

to testing the glazing as part of the collector, testing separately for

flame spread on the glazing material in the E 108 apparatus appears

desirable. This is especially true in the case of thermoplastic materials,

such as the acrylic tested in this program which sagged into the collector

case and was shielded from the test flame for a period of time. This

resulted in a time delay in the fire involvement of the cover. However,

once it became involved the spread of flame was greater than that

observed for the roof covering when tested alone.

8
Small-scale tests such as ASTM D 635 [7] Test for Flammability of

Self Supporting Plastics have been incorporated, for purposes of certification, in the roofing requirements for plastic glazings of some model

building codes. Several organic cover materials exhibited very rapid

spread of flame in the present test program. In view of the large

expanses of combustible glazings which may be used in solar energy

systems, the use such small-scale tests and their correlation with the

ASTM E 108 test needs to be examined in more detail.

The presence of roof-mounted solar collectors can significantly

increase the spread of flame across a roof. However, it is not known

whether or not this will result in a substantial increase in hazard by

reducing the fire integrity of the roof deck itself. The conditions of

classification of ASTM E 108 need to be carefully examined to ensure

that they address this potential increase in hazard. The possibility of

fire penetration into the building air duct systems from the burning of

glazings on air collectors also requires further investigation. In

addition, careful documentation of fire occurrences with roof -mounted

collectors is required to determine the extent of increased hazard.

5. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This work was funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of

Solar Applications for Buildings. The authors wish to thank Tim Smith

of Approved Engineering Test Laboratories and Jim Thiel of Underwriters

Laboratories who coordinated the testing performed at these laboratories.

6 . REFERENCES

[1] Fire Tests of Roof Coverings, ASTM No. E 10880, American Society

for Testing and Materials, Philadelphia, PA 19103 (1980).

[2] Standard Methods of Fire Tests of Roof coverings, NFPA No. 256,

National Fire Protection Association, Boston, MA 02210 (1976)

.

[3] Tests for Fire Resistance of Roof Covering Materials, UL No. 790,

Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Northbrook, IL 60062 (1973).

[4] HUD Intermediate Minimum Property Standards Supplement, 1977

Edition Solar Heating and Domestic Hot Water Systems, No. 4930.2,

Dept. Housing and Urban Development (1977).

[5] Recommended Requirements to Code Officials for Solar Heating,

Cooling and Hot Water Systems, Dept, of Energy, DOE/CS/34281-01

(June 1980).

[6] Waksman, D. , Streed, E. R. , Reichard, T. W. and Cattaneo, L. E.,

Provisional Flat Plate Solar Collector Testing Procedures: First

Revision, Nat. Bur. Stand. (U. S.) NBSIR 78-1305A (June 1978)

9
[7] Standard Test Method for Rate of Burning and/or Extent and Time

of Burning of Self-supporting Plastics in a Horizontal Position,

ASTM No. D 635-77, American Society for Testing and Materials,

Philadelphia, PA 19103 (1977).

10
TABLE

1.

Test

Collector

Description

C

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x: CN

m o o ro 00O CO i“H CN CSV vOO o H O CN CN CO <f CN vD CN rH CO CO CN ov in vO CN VO CN iH CSV in o S--' iH o> W o^ i-H ^ o^ CSV CN Os 00 ^ iH

CU a; V-/ (X w < hJ

Pd 0 0 0 0 u D P 3 P n C C }-l c u c P P4 3

psi *H *H 0) a) •H 0) •H •H iH <D •H o 0 0 PL 0 a. 0 0 (U PL 0

CD 3 3 a CL P PL P P <u PL P

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<C CU 60 Cd cd CL cd oo 4J 0) oo 00

hJ }-( x: x: >s

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M (A 0) iH <U CO <u CO Cd •rl CO CD < CO a CN O M CO PL cd 0) CO PL M <? Cd 0 0) rt 0 •H c >v fb (0 a

oi h-J 0) s 0) PL S K I-H 0)

O 3 U PP iH 0) 3 Cd o 4J p^ H S pL CJ) 4J cd O pH O H Cm H s«/ ^ 0) Vw^ < 3 4-1 S OQ Xo 0 3 ns D T3 ns Pl 0 M ns 0 0 C O O P Cd o P 3 P

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wQ

kJ hO] j hJ fH kJ XI

J XI

X <

hJ o CN iH CO

m vO -d* CO 00 VD 00

CJ CN cn •<r

m o o CN o

11

Rigid

foam

plastic,

type

unknown

FRPglass

fiber

reinforced

plastic
Table 2 Summary of Test Configurations

Collector Test Test Test

Code Type No. Lab.

Mount ing — SF 21 UL Calibration deck only — SF 29 UL Calibration deck only — SF 36 AETL Calibration deck only — SF 48 AETL Calibration deck only — C Brand 22 UL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff, brand under plywood (0 incline)

29L SF 35 AETL 2-inch (5.1-cm) standoff

29L SF 43 AETL 2-inch (5.1-cm) standoff

32L SF 46 AETL Direct

32L SF 47 AETL 1-inch (2.5-cm) standoff

41L IF 4 UL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff

41L SF 5 UL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff

41L SF 17 UL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff

43L IF 1 UL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff

43L IF 2 UL Direct

43L SF 3 UL Direct

43L C Brand 10 UL Direct (2 in 12 incline)

43L A Brand 11 UL Direct (2 in 12 incline)

43L C Brand 12 UL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff, brand under (2 in 12 incline)

43L B Brand 13 UL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff, brand under (2 in 12 Incline)

43L SF 20 UL Direct

43L C Brand 23 UL Direct (0 incline) (no wind)

45L SF 37 AETL Direct

45L SF 38 AETL 2-inch (5.1-cm) standoff

45L SF 39 AETL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff

46L IF 6 UL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff

46L SF 7 UL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff

46L SF 19 UL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff

54L B Brand 31 AETL Direct

54L C Brand 32 AETL Direct

54L SF 45 AETL 3/4-inch (1.9-cm) standoff

78a B Brand 14 UL No deck (integral) (2 in 12 incline)

78A C Brand 15 UL No deck (integral) (2 in 12 incline)

78A A Brand 16 UL No deck (integral) (2 in 12 incline)

78A SF 18 UL No deck (integral)

103L SF 26 UL No deck (integral)

103L SF 27 UL 6-inch (14.2-cm) standoff

103L SF 28 UL 2 - 24-inch (5.1 - 61.0-cm) rack (4 in 12 deck incline

and 22 in 93 collector incline to deck)

103L C Brand 30 UL Direct (3 in 12 incline)

108L SF 40 AETL 2-inch (5.1-cm) standoff

108L SF 41 AETL Direct

108L SF 42 AETL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff

12 6L SF 8 UL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff

126L A Brand 9 UL Direct

12 6L SF 24 UL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff

126L SF 25 UL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff

126L SF 33 AETL 4-inch (10.2-cm) standoff

126L SF 34 AETL 2-inch (5.1-cm) standoff

126L SF 44 AETL 9/16-inch (1.4-cm) standoff

126L SF 49 AETL 1-inch (2.5-cm) standoff

126L SF 50 AETL 1-9/16-inch (4.0-cm) standoff

1 , Test Type: IF - Intermittent Flame; SF - Spread of Flame; A Brand - Class A Burning Brand;

B Brand - Class B Burning Brand: C Brand - Class C Burning Brand

2 Test Laboratory: AETL - Approved Engineering Test Laboratories; UL - Underwriters Laboratories

3 All inclines 5 in 12 except as noted

12
TABLE 3

Summary of Spread of Flame Test Results

Collector Code Spread of Flame Test Results

29L With 2-in (5.1-cm) standoffs, attached flames of 6 ft

(1.8 m) on deck under collector; intermittent flames to

the end of the 10-ft (3.0-m) deck.

32L Flames extended up entire length of the cover in approximately 1 minute; flames extended beyond cover. Flames

extended 3 ft (0.9) m) on deck under collector with 1-in

(2.5 cm) standoff. Intermittent unattached flames traveled

up between collector and deck.

41L With 4-in (10.2-cm) standoffs attached flames traveled

on deck under collector to the end of the test deck;

Flames beyond the 13-ft (4.0-m) deck. Back of collector

ignited.

43L In two tests the collector was mounted direct on the deck.

In first case, flames traveled up entire cover in 4 min;

in second case, where asphalt ignition was delayed for

unexplained reasons to 4 min 17 sec; flaming up entire

cover took an additional 1 min, 8 sec from the time of

ignition of shingles.

45L Attached flames extended up entire length of cover in

less than 2 min for both direct mount and 2-in (5.1-cm)

standoffs. Flames extended beyond the cover. Tests

terminated prematurely due to intense flames and smoke.

46L With 4-in (10.2-cm) standoffs attached flames traveled

on deck under collector to end of test deck. Flames

beyond end of 13-ft (4.0-m) deck. Back of collector

ignited

.

54L Flames traveled approximately 3 ft (0.9 m) on deck

under collector. 3/4-in (1.9-cm) wood standoffs

perpendicular to direction of flame travel prevented

further flame spread. Front edge and bottom of collector

up to first standoff ignited.

Test times were 4 minutes unless otherwise specified.

Attached flames are above the surface and appear to be connected to the surface

Unattached flames are above the surface but do not appear to be connected to

the surface.

13
TABLE 3 (Continued)

Collector Code Spread of Flame Test Results

103L Cover deformed into collector case and was partially

shielded from the ignition flame. Test was conducted

without roof deck. Cover ignited at 3 min, 46 sec, at

4 minutes test flame was turned off. At 4 min, 32 sec attached flames reached the end of the collector.

With 6 in (15.2 cm) standoffs attached flames traveled

on deck under collector to the end of the 13.5-ft

(4.1-m) test deck. Flames extended beyond end of deck.

With leading edge of collector 2 in (5.1 cm) and

trailing edge 24 in (61 cm) above roof deck, attached

flames traveled 1 ft (0.3 m) on cover and 2 ft (0.6 m) on deck under collector in 4 minutes. At 4 min, 27 sec attached flames extended up the entire length of the cover and under the collector to the end of the 13.5-ft

(4.1-m) test deck.

108L In all tests attached flames traveled up the entire

length of the cover in less than 1 minute. With 2-in

(5.1-cm) standoffs attached flames traveled 6 ft (1.8 m) on the deck under collector in 4 minutes. With 4-in

(10.2-cm) standoffs, attached flames traveled on the deck

under collector to the end of the deck. In test with

collector direct on deck flames from cover ignited

shingles beyond collector.

126L With 9/16-in (1.4-cm), 1-in (2.5-cm) and 1 9/16-in

(4.0-cm) standoffs flames traveled less than 4 ft

(1.2 m) on deck under collector in 4 minutes. With 2-in

(5.1-cm) and 4-in (10.2-cm) standoffs attached flames

traveled on deck under collector to end of deck and

flames extended beyond deck, with two exceptions.

In the first, the collector bottom deflected, blocking

flames and air flow and in the second, there was an unexplained delay in ignition of shingles as compared to

ignition time in almost all other tests.

78A Attached flames traveled the 14 ft (4.9 m) length of

the cover in 1 min, 21 sec. Flames extended beyond cover

Calibration

Decks Attached flames traveled 4.4 ft (1.7 m) 6.5 ft. (2.0 m)

and 8 ft (2.4 m) in 4 minutes. In one case where the

test was extended to 10 minutes, flames traveled 11.5 ft

(3.5 m).

14
COLLECTOR CASE

GLAZING (COVER

PLATE) 1 or 2

AIRSPACE

SOLAR ABSORBER

INSULATION

Figure 1. Cross Section of Typical Flat Plate Solar Collector

15
TEST SPECIMEN

30”x72" AIR DUCT FROM

OUTSIDE TEST ROOM. AIR INTRODUCED BY BLOWER

(INCREASED TO 60”

FOR BURNING BRAND TEST)

PITCH

ADJUSTMENT

SIMULATED EAVE

AND CORNICE

GAS BURNER

Figure 3. Schematic for Fire Test Apparatus

SOLID BLOCK WITH

1/8” SAW KERFS

Figure 4, Fire Brands for Class A, B, and C Tests

16

Test Number : 1

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 43L

Test Type: Intermittent Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 4 in (10.2 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:01 Flame on.

0:42 Cover warping, asphalt melting on shingles, no ignition.

1:00 Flame off - no change.

3:00 Flame on.

O o Flame off - no ignition of shingles

warping of cover.

on collector, some

6:00 Flame on.

7:00 Flame off - no ignition of shingles

test terminated.

or collector;

SUMMARY COMMENTS

No ignition of shingles or collector.

18
Test Number : 2

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 43L - (Same collector and deck as used in Test Number 1)

Test Type: Intermittent Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: Leading edge direct on roof deck and trailing edge 4 in

(10.2 cm) above deck, set back 1 ft (30 cm) from

the leading edge of the deck.

Time, Min: Sec

0:01

1:00

3:00

4:00

6:00

7 :00

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

Flame on.

Flame off - no ignition of shingles or collector.

Flame on.

Flame off - no change.

Flame on.

Flame off - no ignition of shingles or collector;

test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

No ignition of shingles or collector.

19
Test Number: 3

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 43L (same collector and deck as used in Tests 1 and 2)

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: Leading edge direct on roof deck and trailing edge 4 in

(10.2 cm) above deck, set back 1 ft (30 cm) from

the leading edge of the deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

Flame on.

Shingles ignited; blistering of plastic base at leading

edge.

Collector base ignited at leading edge.

Collector cover ignited.

Flame spread along the entire length of the

collector cover.

Test terminated.

Time, Min: Sec

0:01

2:15

3:12

3:20

3:48

4:00

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Collector cover burned to the end of its approximate 8 ft (2.4 m) length

in 3 min, 48 sec. Flames extended beyond the end of the collector. The

shingles were not affected beyond the leading edge of the collector

which was in contact with the shingles at that point.

20
Test Number : 4

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 41L

Test Type: Intermittent Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 1 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 4 in (10.2 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

Flame on.

Flame off - no ignition of shingles or collector - some melting of asphalt.

Flame on.

Flame off - slight discoloration of wood frame, melting

of asphalt, no ignition.

Flame on.

Flame off - no ignition of shingles or collector;

test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

ignition of shingles or collector.

Time, Min: Sec

0:01

1:00

3:00

4:00

6:00

7:00

21
Test Number: 5

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 41L (same collector and deck as used in Test 4)

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 4 in (10.2 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:01 Flame on.

1:00 No ignition; some melting of asphalt.

2:08 Ignition of shingles.

2:30 Flame spread 2 ft (0.6 m) on shingles

.

2:32 Ignition of bottom of collector.

2:40 Flame extending over the entire length of deck.

2:50 Test terminated.

3:00 Collector and deck still flaming.

3:25 Test terminated.

SUMMARY COIfMENTS

Intensive flaming between the bottom of the collector and shingles.

22
Test Number : 6

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: A6L

Test Type: Intermittent Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 4 in (10.2 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:01 Flame on.

1:00 Flame off - no ignition of shingles or , collector ; some melting of asphalt.

3:00 Flame on.

4:00 Flame off; no ignition.

6:00 Flame on.

7:00 Flame off; no ignition of shingles or collector;

test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

No ignition of shingles or collector.

23
Test Number : 7

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 46L (same collector and deck as used in Test 6)

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 4 in (10.2 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

Time, Min: Sec

0:01

2:08

2:36

2:56

3:04

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

Flame on.

Ignition of shingles.

Flame spread 3 ft (0.9 m) on shingles.

Ignition of bottom of collector.

Flame extending over the entire length of deck; test

terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Intensive flaming between the bottom of the collector and shingles.

24
Test Number : 8

Test Laboratory; Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 126L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class : C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 4 in (10.2 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

Flame on.

Bottom of collector distorting downward.

No ignition; some melting of asphalt.

At end of standard 4 min flame exposure, test was

continued at request of NBS personnel.

Ignition of shingles.

Flame spread 2 ft (0.6 m) on shingles

Flame spread 3 ft (0.9 m) on shingles.

Flame spread 5 ft (1.5 m) on shingles and paint burning

on bottom of collector.

Flame extending over entire length of deck; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Ignition of the shingles did not occur until after the normal 4 minute test

period

.

Note: Also, see results of Test No. 24.

Time, Min; Sec

0:01

1:58

4:00

NOTE:

4:40

5:12

5:30

5:50

6:00

25
Test Number : 9

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 126L

Test Type: Burning Brand

Test Class: A

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 4 1/3 ft (1.3 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: Direct on roof deck, no set back from the leading edge

of the deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:20 Brand in place on collector cover 24 in (61 cm)

from the leading edge and midway between the

collector sides.

0:58 Cover bowing upward in brand area.

2:45 Approximate 3/4 in (1.9 cm) upward bow in cover

at brand.

3:36 1/4 of brand consumed.

5:07 1/2 of brand consumed.

7:40 3/4 of brand consumed.

8:25 Glass cover crazed but remained in place without

any flying glass; brand still in place on top of

the absorber.

11:30 7/8 of brand consumed.

13:00 Only small embers of brand remaining.

16:58 Brand out; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Brand did not penetrate the collector absorber , no ignition of the shingles

26
Test Number: 10

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 43L

Test Type: Burning Brand

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 4 1/3 ft (1.3 m)

Incline of Deck: 2 in 12

Collector Mounting: Direct on roof deck, no set back from the leading edge of

the deck.

Time , Min : Sec

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

NOTE: All brands were placed on the collector cover 24 in

(61 cm) from the leading edge with approximately

5 in (13 cm) spacing between each brand.

2:13 First brand in place.

4:06 Second brand in place.

5:11 Third brand in place.

6:46 Flame out on first brand.

6:58 Flame out on third brand.

7:12 Fourth brand in place.

8:10 Fifth brand in place.

NOTE: Due to action of brands on collector, NBS personnel

directed that additional brands need not be placed

on collector.

10:00 Light flaming at cover in the immediate area of

Brands 2, 4, 5.

19:00 All flaming out; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Brands did not penetrate the collector cover, no ignition of the shingles.

27
Test Number: 11

Test Laboratory; Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 43L (same collector and deck as used in Test 10)

Test Type: Burning Brand

Test Class: A

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 4 1/3 ft (1.3 m)

Incline of Deck; 2 in 12

Collector Mounting: Direct on roof deck, no set back from the leading edge of

the deck.

Time, Min: Sec

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

0:14 Brand in place on collector cover 44 in (112 cm)

from the leading edge and midway between the

collector sides.

0:48 Cover ignited.

1:08 Flame spread to the trailing end of the cover.

2:35 Cover still burning to the end of the collector and

spreading laterally out to both sides. Flame also

spread approximately 6 in (15 cm) toward the

leading edge.

3:51 Flame subsiding.

4:46 Cover burning only at three isolated areas other than

at the brand.

5:22 Brand 1/4 consumed. Flame out at all but one location

other than brand area.

7:12 Flaming confined to brand area only.

7:32 Brand 1/2 consumed.

15:00 Brand 7/8 consumed with no flaming; just glowing

embers

.

21:38 Brand out; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Brand did not penetrate the collector absorber , no ignition of the shingles.

28
Test Number: 12

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 43L (same collector and deck as used in Tests 10 and 11)

Test Type: Burning Brand (Brands under collector)

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 4 1/3 ft (1.3 m)

Incline of Deck: 2 in 12

Collector Mounting: 4 in (10 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

Time, Min: Sec

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

NOTE: All brands were placed on the shingles under the

collector in three rows located 22 in (56 cm)

,

28 in (71 cm) , and 34 in (86 cm) from the leading

end of the deck with approximately 5 in (13 cm)

between each brand.

1:00 First brand in place.

3:45 Second brand in place.

4:13 Third brand in place.

5:08 Fourth brand in place.

6:10 Fifth brand in place.

7:20 Sixth brand in place.

8:16 Seventh brand in place.

9:13 Eighth brand in place.

10:11 Ninth brand in place.

11:21 Tenth brand in place.

12:14 Eleventh brand in place.

29
Test Number: 12 (continued)

NOTE:

12:10

Due to negligible action of brands, NBS personnel

directed that additional brands need not be placed

on shingles.

All brands out; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Brands did not ignite the shingles or the collector above.

30
Test Number: 13

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 43L (same collector and deck as used in Tests 10, 11, and 12)

Test Type: Burning Brand (brand under collector)

Test Class: B

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 4 1/3 ft (1.3 m)

Incline of Deck: 2 in 12

Collector Mounting: 4 in (10.2 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck, set

back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

The brand was placed on the shingles under the collector

at approximately 24 in (61 cm) from the leading edge

of the deck and midway between the collector sides.

Brand in place.

Bottom of collector distorting downward; asphalt melting

on shingles.

Ignition of shingles.

Flame spread 1 ft (0.3 m) on shingles.

Ignition of bottom of collector.

Flames extending past end of collector and both sides.

Test terminated.

SUMJ4ARY COMMENTS

Class B brand ignited the Class C shingles. The collector was then ignited.

Time, Min: Sec

NOTE:

0:10

0:57

1:10

1:46

1:58

2:18

2:20

31
Test Number: 14

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 78A

Test Type: Burning Brand

Test Class: B

Size of Deck: No deck used.

Incline of Deck: Collector incline of 2 in 12.

Collector Mounting: Collector mounted in place of the roof deck.

Time, Min: Sec

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

0:15 Brand in place on collector cover 36 in (91 cm)

from the leading edge.

0:28 Ignition of cover.

0:48 Flame spread 1 1/2 ft (0.5 m) on cover.

1:04 Flame spread 2 1/2 ft (0.8 m) on cover.

1:29 Flame spread 7 ft (2.1 m) on cover.

1:39 Flame spread to end of collector cover.

1:55 The flame was extinguished with a hose except in the

immediate area of the brand.

3:00 Flaming on the cover at the brand area only. Some

burning inside the collector apparently on the

inside surface of the cover.

4:30 Light flaming at brand only.

5:15 Brand 1/2 consumed.

6:30 Brand 3/4 consumed.

10:08 Brand out; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Flaming on both the inside and outside of the collector cover. Brand did not

penetrate the absorber plate.

32
Test Number: 15

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 78A (same collector as used in Test 14)

Test Type: Burning Brand

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: No deck used.

Incline of Deck: Collector incline of 2 in 12.

Collector Mounting: Collector mounted in place of the roof deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observations

NOTE: Three Class C brands were placed on the cover 1 ft

(30 cm) from the leading edge of the collector in an area unaffected by the previous test. The brands were approximately 5 in (13 cm) apart.

2:05 First brand in place.

2:15 Second brand in place.

2:25 Third brand in place.

NOTE: Due to little action of brands on collector, NBS

personnel directed that additional brands need not

be placed on collector.

2:58 Ignition of cover at brand one.

3:30 Flame spread of approximately 5 in (13 cm) on cover at brand one.

5:04 Brand one flaming out.

5:09 Small area of flaming out at brand one.

9:00 All brands out; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Brands did not penetrate the collector cover.

33
Test Number: 16

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 78A (same collector as used in Tests 14 and 15)

Test Type: Burning Brand

Test Class: A

Size of Deck: No deck used.

Incline of Deck: Collector Incline of 2 in 12.

Collector Mounting: Collector mounted in place of the roof deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:12 Brand in place on collector cover 10 in (25 cm)

from the leading edge and midway between the

collector sides.

0:21 Ignition of cover.

1:31 Flaming inside collector.

3:00 Brand 1/4 consumed, flame at brand area only.

4:34 Brand 1/2 consumed.

6:00 Large holes burned through cover in brand area.

8:00 Brand 3/4 consumed.

13:35 Remainder of brand burned through cover and resting

on absorber plate.

17:58 Brand out; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Flaming on both the inside and outside of the collector cover. Brand did not

penetrate the absorber plate.

34
Test Number: 17

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 41L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 13 ft (4.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 4 in (10.2 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:01 Flame on.

1:11 Melting of asphalt.

2:43 Ignition of shingles.

3:12 Ignition of bottom of collector.

3:24 Flame spread to end of collector

3:45 Flame spread to end of deck.

3:50 Test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Intensive flaming between the bottom of the collector and shingles.

Flames extended beyond the end of the deck.

35
Test Number: 18

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 78A

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: No deck used.

Incline of Deck: Collector incline of 5 in 12.

Collector Mounting: Collector mounted in place of

TEST OBSERVATIONS

the roof deck.

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:01 Flame on.

0:07 Distortion of cover up to first cover support.

0:30 Distortion of cover up to second cover support

0:40 Ignition of cover.

0:50 Flame spread 4 ft (1.2 m) on cover.

0:57 Flame spread 6 ft (1.8 m) on cover.

1:04 Flame spread 8 ft (2.4 m) on cover.

1:21 Flame spread to end of collector.

1:24 Test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Flame spread rapidly on collector glazing. Flames extended beyond the end

of the collector.

36
Test Number; 19

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Codes; 46L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 13 ft (4.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 4 in (10.2 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

Flame on.

Melting of asphalt.

Ignition of shingles.

Flame spread 1 ft (0.3 m) on shingles.

Ignition of bottom of collector.

Flame spread to end of collector.

Flame spread to end of deck.

Test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Intensive flaming between the bottom of the collector and shingles.

Time, Min: Sec

0:01

0:45

1:54

2:29

2:49

3:03

3:14

3:26

37
Test Number: 20

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 43L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 4 1/3 ft (1.3 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: Direct on roof deck, set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the

leading edge of the deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:01 Flame on.

0:21 Distortion of cover to first cover support.

0:49 Melting of asphalt.

1:21 Distortion of cover to second cover support.

2:05 Distortion of cover to third cover support.

4:00 No further action. End of standard 4 min. Flame

exposure, test continued at request of NBS personnel.

4:17 Ignition of shingles.

4:45 Ignition of end of collector.

5:04 Ignition of cover.

5:25 Flame spread to end of collector.

5:27 Test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Cover did not ignite during the 4 minute test period. Once ignited flames spread

rapidly on the cover. Narrow areas on each side of the cover next to the edge of

the collector were not involved in flaming.

38
Test Number: 21

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: None

Test Type: Spread of Flame Calibration Test

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 13 ft (4.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: N. A.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observations

0:01 Flame on.

0:32 Melting of asphalt.

1:42 Ignition of shingles.

2:10 Flame spread 2 ft (0.6 m) on shingles.

2:18 3 ft (0.9 m) spread.

2:35 4 ft (1.2 m) spread.

3:11 4 1/2 ft (1.4 m) spread.

3:19 5 ft (1.5 m) spread.

3:49 6 ft (1.8 m) spread.

4:00 6 1/2 ft (2.0 m) spread; test terminated

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Meets Class C requirements.

39
Test Number: 22

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: None (plywood used to simulate a collector, same deck used

as in Test 20)

Test Type: Burning Brand (no wind)

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 13 ft (4.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 0

Collector Mounting: Plywood mounted 4 in (10.2 cm) above and parallel to

the roof deck, set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading

edge of the deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

2:37 First brand in place on the shingles under the

plywood.

3:06 Second brand in place.

3:29 Third brand in place.

4:03 Fourth brand in place.

NOTE: Due to little action of brands, fTBS personnel directed

that additional brands need not be placed on shingles.

4:41 Flame out on first brand.

5:02 Flame out on second brand.

5:48 Flame out on third brand.

7:49 Flame out on fourth brand; test terminated.

SUIfMARY COMMENTS

No ignition of shingles or plywood.

40
Test Number: 23

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 43L (same collector and deck used as in Test 20)

Test Type: Burning Brand (no wind)

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 13 ft (4.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 0

Collector Mounting: Direct on the roof deck, set back 1 ft (30 cm) from

the leading edge of the deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

NOTE: This test was conducted without any air flow to study

the effect of no air current on the brands. The

brands were placed at random locations on the cover

of the collector trying to avoid areas affected by

the previous test.

2:00 First brand in place.

2:12 Second brand in place.

3:07 Third brand in place.

3:10 Fourth brand in place.

4:02 Fifth and sixth brands in place.

NOTE: Due to little action of brands on collector, NBS

personnel directed that additional brands need not

be placed on collector.

4:20 Ignition of cover at first and second brands, limited

burning in the brand area.

5:30 Ignition of cover at fourth brand.

6:17 All flame out at fourth brand, cover still lightly

burning at brands one and two.

6:58 Flaming of brands one and two out, cover still

lightly burning in area of brands one and two.

7:05 Flaming of brand three out.

7:19 Flaming of brand six out.

41
Test Number: 23 (continued)

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

9:00 Limited burning of the cover at brands one and two,

brand five still lightly burning.

10:40 All flaming out at brand two.

10:48 Flame out at brand five.

14:21 All flame out at brand one; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Burning of the cover was limited to small areas directly adjacent to the

brands. Continued burning of cover at brands one and two may have been

caused by placement of these brands in areas that may have been affected

by previous test.

42
Test Number: 24

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 126L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 13 ft (4.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 4 in (10.2 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:01 Flame on.

0:36 Melting of asphalt.

1:40 Ignition of shingles.

2:18 Flame spread 2 ft (0.6 m) on shingles.

2:36 Flame spread 3 ft (0.9 m) on shingles, bowing of

collector bottom downward.

2:54 Flame spread 4 ft (1.2 m) on shingles.

2:59 Flame spread to end of collector in the space

between the shingles and the collector, paint

burning on bottom of collector.

3:41 Flame spread to end of deck.

3:44 Test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Intensive flaming between the bottom of the collector and shingles.

NOTE: Variation in results of Test Nos. 8 and 24 (with same model collector,

same mounting, and same test conditions) apparently due to unexplained

delay in ignition time of shingles in Test No. 8 as compared with

ignition time in Test No. 24 and other spread of flame tests.

43
Test Number: 25

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 126L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 13 ft (4.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 4 in (10.2 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck. no set back from the leading edge of the deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:01 Flame on.

0:37 Melting of asphalt.

2:38 Ignition of shingles.

2:58 Flame spread 2 ft (0.6 m) on shingles.

3:08 Flame spread to end of collector.

3:23 Flame spread 8 ft (2.4 m), bottom of collector

bowed down to such a degree that it is restricting

the air flow and flame progression.

4:00 Flame spread 8 1/2 ft (2.6 m) at end of standard

4 min test.

5:00 Test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

The excessive distortion of the bottom of the collector retarded the spread of

f lame

.

44
Test Number: 26

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 103L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: No deck used.

Incline of Deck: Collector incline of 5 in 12.

Collector Mounting: Collector mounted in place of the roof deck leading

edge of the collector approximately 3 in (7.6 cm)

above the cornice

.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:01 Flame on.

0:24 Distortion of cover.

1:40 Cover distortion over 1/2 of collector.

2:27 Cover deforming down into the collector - supported

by absorber plate - small holes developing in cover.

3:30 Smoke inside collector.

3:46 Ignition of cover.

4:00 Test flame off - cover still burning, approximately

4 - 6 in (10 - 15 cm) spread.

5:13 Flame spread 2 ft (0.6 m) on cover - flame spreading

laterally toward sides of collector.

6:10 Flame spread 4 ft (1.2 m) on cover - flaming on inside of cover.

6:32 Flame spread to end of collector.

6:40 Test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

At the end of the 4 minute test period, the flame spread was approximately

4 to 6 in (10.2 to 15.2 cm). The test flame was terminated at 4 minutes with

the burning of the cover progressing to the end of the collector at 6 min, 32 sec.

45
Test Number: 27

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 103L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 13 1/2 ft (4.1 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 6 in (15.4 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck, set

back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

Flame on.

Shingle edges melting.

Melting of asphalt.

Ignition of shingles.

Flame spread 1 1/2 ft (0.5 m) on shingles, bottom

of collector bowing downward.

Flame spread 4 ft (1.2 m) on shingles.

Flame spread 6 ft (1.8 m) on shingles.

Flame spread to end of collector.

Flame spread to end of deck.

Bottom of collector bowing down.

Test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

The flame spread to the end of the test deck in 3 min, 26 sec. Intensive

flaming between the bottom of the collector and shingles.

Time, Min: Sec

0:01

0:44

1:13

2.11

2:32

2:54

3:08

3:16

3:26

3:56

4:11

46
Test Number: 28

Test Laboratory: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: 103L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 13 1/2 ft (4.1 m)

Incline of Deck: 4 in 12

Collector Mounting: The leading edge of the collector mounted 2 in (5.1 cm)

and the trailing edge 24 in (61 cm) above the roof

deck, set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of

the deck. The trailing end was supported by nominal

2x4 inch lumber.

Time, Min: Sec

0:01

0:44

1:10

2:21

3:18

3:26

3:53

4:12

4:31

5:00

5:27

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

Flame on.

Shingle edges melting.

Melting of asphalt - some distortion of cover.

Ignition of shingles.

Flame spread 1 1/2 ft (0.5 m) on shingles.

Ignition of cover.

Flame spread 2 ft (0.6 m) on shingles and

1 ft (0.3 m) on cover.

Flame spread 3 ft (0.9 m) on shingles.

Flame spread 6 ft (1.2 m) on shingles and

2 ft (0.6 m) on cover.

Flame spread 7 ft (2.1 m) on shingles and

6 ft (1.8 m) on cover.

Flame spread to end of cover and deck, test

terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

At the end of the 4 minute test period the flame spread was approximately 2 ft

(61 cm) on the deck and 1 ft (30.5 cm) on the cover. At 5 min, 27 sec the flame

spread to the end of the test deck and the cover.

47
Test Number: 29

Test Laboratory; Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

Collector Code: None

Test Type: Spread of Flame Calibration Test

Test Class; C

Size of Deck; 3 1/3 ft (1.0 m) by 13 1/2 ft (4.1 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: N. A.

Time, Min; Sec

0:01

0:29

1:02

2:16

2:38

3:06

3:28

3:48

4:00

4:12

4:30

4:43

5:00

5:35

6:12

8:15

10:00

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

Flame on.

Shingle edges melting.

Melting of asphalt.

Ignition of shingles.

2 ft (0.6 m) spread.

3 ft (0.9 m) spread.

4 ft (1.2 m) spread.

5 ft (1.5 m) spread.

5 1/2 ft (1.7 m) spread - end of Class C test time.

6 ft (1.8 m) spread.

6 1/2 ft (2.0 m) spread.

7 ft (2.1 m) spread.

7 1/2 ft (2.3 m) spread.

8 ft (2.4 m) spread.

9 ft (2.7 m) spread.

11 ft (3.4 m) spread.

11 1/2 ft (3.5 m) spread; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Meets Class C requirements.

48
Test Number : 31

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 54L

Test Type: Burning Brand

Test Class: B

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: Direct on deck, no set back from the leading edge

of the deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

NOTE: 1 Class B Brand used.

0:00 Brand positioned on second cover glass panel

from the leading edge of the collector.

0:10 Panel glass cracked.

0:30 Cover glass panel above brand broke.

0:55 Cover glass shattered in two sections.

7:50 Brand out; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

The collector cover consisted of 4 equal annealed glass panels mounted

perpendicular to the long axis of the collector. The brand resulted in

breakage of two glass panels. Some pieces of the broken glass slid off

the collector. The Brand did not penetrate the absorber plate.

51
Test Number: 32

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 54L (same collector and deck as used in Test 31)

Test Type: Burning Brand

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: Direct on roof deck, no set back from leading edge

of the deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

NOTE: Five Brands were placed on the first cover glass

panel from the leading edge of the collector

approximately 8 in (20 cm) on center. This

panel was undamaged in the previous test.

0:00 First brand placed on cover.

1:00 Second brand placed on cover.

2:00 Third brand placed on cover.

3:00 Fourth brand placed on cover.

4:00 Fifth brand placed on cover.

13:39 All brands consumed, glass not broken, no apparent

damage; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Class C brands had no apparent effect on the annealed glass used.

32
Test Number: 33

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 126L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 4 in (10.2 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

Burner ignited

.

Melting of asphalt.

Shingles ignited burning approximately 1 ft (0.3 m)

up deck.

Shingles burning to 3 ft (0.9 m)

•

Shingles burning to 6 ft (1.8 m) •

Shingles burning to 10 ft (3.1 m)

•

Flames to 3 ft (0.9 m) over end of deck. Collector

did not ignite, cover glass broke during water spray

at test termination.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Intensive flaming between the bottom of the collector and shingles.

Time , Min : Sec

0:00

0:50

1:01

1:13

1:33

1:49

2:00

53
Test Number: 34

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 126L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 2 in (5.1 m) above and parallel to the roof deck, set

back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:00 Burner ignition.

1:19 Shingles ignited.

1:41 Shingles burning approximately 1 ft (0.3 m) up deck

1:58 Shingles burning approximately 3 ft (0.9 m)

up deck, aluminum melting from lower forward edge

of the collector.

2:10 Shingles burning approximately 7 ft (2.1 m) up deck

2:43 Shingles burning approximately 8 ft (2.4 m) up deck

2:59 Shingles burning approximately 10 ft (3.1 m)

up deck, aluminum on collector melted approximately

1 ft (0.3 m) from the leading edge on underside

and foam insulation burning.

3:25 Flames approximately 2 ft (0.6 m) over end of deck.

3:52 Flames approximately 4 ft (1.2 m) over end of deck.

4:16 Flames approximately 4 ft (1.2 m) over end of deck.

Underside of collector burned through approximately

1 1/2 ft (0.5 m) from the leading edge. Water

spray shattered glass and collector buckled at test

termination.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Intensive flaming between the bottom of the collector and shingles.

54
Test Number: 35

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 29L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 2 in (5.1 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of

the deck.

Time , Min : Sec

0:00

0:44

1:33

1:55

2:12

2:20

2:30

2:45

3:00

3:30

4:00

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

Burner ignition.

Melting of asphalt.

Shingles ignited.

Shingles burning to approximately 1 ft (0.3 m)

.

Shingles burning to approximately 2 ft (0.6 m) .

Front edge of collector burning.

Glass in collector broke.

Shingles burning to approximately 3

Shingles burning to approximately 4

Shingles burning to approximately 6

Shingles burning to approximately 6

beneath the collector; Intermittent

end of the deck; test terminated.

ft (0.9 m) ;

ft (1.2 m) .

ft (1.8 m) .

ft (1.8 m)

flames to the

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Flaming of the shingles under the collector. Shingles were not burning to

the end of the roof deck.
Test Number: 36

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: None

Test Type: Spread of Flame (Calibration Test)

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: N. A.

Time , Min : Sec

0:00

1:01

1:35

1:55

2:21

2:42

3:02

3:31

3:55

4:00

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observations

Burner ignition

Melting of asphalt.

Shingles ignited.

Shingles burning to

Shingles burning to

Shingles burning to

Shingles burning to

Shingles burning to

Shingles burning to

Shingles burning to

test terminated.

approximately 1 ft (0.3 m) .

approximately 4 ft (1.2 m) .

approximately 6 ft (1.8 m) .

approximately 6 1/2 ft (2.0 m)

.

approximately 7 ft (2.1 m) .

approximately 8 ft (2.4 m) .

approximately 8 ft (2.4 m) ;

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Meets Class C requirements.

56
Test Number: 37

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 45L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: Direct on the roof deck, set back 1 ft (30 cm) from

the leading edge of the deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:00 Ignition of burner

0:39 Melting of asphalt.

0:53 Shingles burning to approximately 1/2 ft (0.2 m)

,

collector cover burning to approximately 2 ft (0.6 m)

1:35 Flames spread to end of collector cover 9 ft (2.7 m)

,

shingles burning to 1 ft (0.3 m)

.

2:00 Flame extended beyond the end of the collector;

test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Flame spread rapidly on collector glazing.

57
Test Number : 38

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 45L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class : C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 2 in (5.1 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck.

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of

the deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:00 Burner ignition.

0:41 Collector cover ignited, shingles Ignited.

1:00 Shingles burning to approximately 2 ft (0.6 m)

,

collector cover burning to 5 ft (1.5 m)

.

1:24 Shingles burning to approximately 2 ft (0.6 m)

,

collector cover burning to 10 ft (3.1 m).

1:55 Shingles burning to approximately 2 ft (0.6 m).

Flames extended from the cover 3 ft (0.9 m) over

the end of deck; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Flames spread rapidly on the collector glazing.

53
Test Number; 39

Test Laboratory; Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code; 45L

Test Type; Spread of Flame

Test Class; C

Size of Deck; 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck; 5 in 12

Collector Mounting; 2 in (10.2 mm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of

the deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min; Sec Observation

0;00 Burner ignition.

0;40 Cover ignited.

1;15 Shingles ignited.

1;29 Cover burning to end of collector.

1;55 Shingles burning to 6 ft (1.8 m) beneath the

collector.

2;00 Flames extended from the cover to 2 ft (0.6 m) over

the end of the deck, shingles burning to approximately

7 ft (2.1 m); test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Flame spread rapidly on the collector glazing. The bottom of the collector

deflected and melted as a result of the intensive flaming under the collector.

59
Test Number: 40

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 108L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 2 in (5.1 m) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:00 Burner ignition.

0:29 Collector cover burning.

0:47 Collector cover burning to top of the collector.

1:00 Flames extended from the collector cover to 3 ft (0.9 m)

beyond the end of the collector shingles.

1:52 Shingles ingited.

1:57 Shingles burning to approximately 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m)

beneath the collector.

2:03 Shingles burning to approximately 4 ft (1.2 m)

.

2:40 Shingles burning to approximately 4 1/2 ft (1.4 m)

.

3:00 Shingles burning to approximately 5 ft (1.5 m)

.

4:00 Shingles burning to approximately 6 ft (1.8 m)

;

test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Flames spread rapidly on the collector glazing.

60
Test Number: 41

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 108L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: Direct on the roof deck, set back 1 ft (30 cm)

from the leading edge of the deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time , Min : Sec Observation

0:00 Burner ignition.

0:22 Cover burning

.

0:48 Cover burning to top of collector.

1:00 Flames from the cover extended approximately 3 ft

(0.9 m) beyond the end of collector.

1:30 Shingles ignited at top of deck beyond the collector,

shingles burning to 1 ft (0.3 m) at bottom of deck.

2:38 Burning of approximately 1 ft (0.3 m) of the shingles

beyond the collector. Shingles burning up from bottom

approximately 1 ft (0.3 m)

.

3:00 Flames on cover receded to approximately 4 ft (1.2 m)

4:00 Shingles burning top 1 ft (0.3 m) , bottom

1 ft (0.3 m) . Cover burning approximately

3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) ; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Flame spread rapidly on the collector glazing and ignited the shingles beyond

the collector.

6J
Test Number: 42

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 108L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 4 in (10.2 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

Time, Min: Sec

0:00

0:40

1:00

1:24

1:51

2:18

2:53

3:08

3:44

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

Burner ignition.

Melting of asphalt, collector cover ignited.

Shingles ignited.

Shingles burning to approximately 3 ft (0.9 m)

.

Collector cover burning to end of collector.

Flames from the cover extended 2 ft (0.6 m) beyond

the collector.

Shingles burning to approximately 5 ft (1.5 m)

beneath the collector.

Shingles burning to approximately 6 ft (1.8 m).

Flames extended from the cover approximately

5 ft (1.52 m) over end of deck. Shingles ignited

at the top of the deck beyond the collector.

Conditions remained unchanged; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Flames spread rapidly on the collector glazing. Intensive flaming between the

bottom of the collector and shingles.

62
Test Number; 43

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 29L

Test Type; Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck; 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck; 5 in 12

Collector Mounting; 2 in (5.1 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:00 Burner ignition.

0:38 Melting of asphalt.

1:16 Shingles ignited.

1:34 Shingles burning to 1 ft (0.3 m)

.

1:49 Shingles burning to 3 ft (0.9 m).

1:58 Cover glass broke, and front edge

ignited

.

2:50 Shingles burning to approximately

3:23 Shingles burning to approximately

3:38 Shingles burning to approximately

oo Shingles burning to

test terminated.

approximately

of collector

4 ft (1.2 m)

.

5 ft (1.5 m).

5 1/2 ft (1.7 m).

6 ft (1.8 m)

;

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Flaming of shingles under the collector, leading edge and bottom of the

collector melted exposing the collector insulation to the flames. The

same test conditions as Test 35.

63
Test Number: 44

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 126L (Collector used in prior test)

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 9/16 in (1.4 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec

0:00

0:55

1:40

1:57

2:38

3:19

3:59

Observation

Burner ignition.

Melting of asphalt.

Shingles ignited.

Shingles burning to approximately

Shingles burning to approximately

Shingles burning to approximately

Shingles burning to approximately

test terminated.

1 ft (0.3 m).

1 1/2 ft (0.5 m).

2 ft (0.6 m).

3 ft (0.9 m);

SUMMARY COMMENTS

The 9/16 in (1.4 cm) separation between the collector and the roof

prevented extensive flaming under the collector.

64
Test Number; 45

Test Laboratory; Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code; 54L

Test Type; Spread of Flame

Test Class; C

Size of Deck; 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck; 5 in 12

Collector Mounting; 3/4 in (1.9 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

Time, Min; Sec

NOTE;

0;00

0;19

0;41

0;54

1;53

2;51

3;16

4; 01

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

Collector mounted on 3/4 in (19 cm) thick wood

strips perpendicular to the long axis of the test

deck located 28 1/4 in (72 cm) and 80 1/4 in (2.04 m)

from the leading edge of the collector.

Burner ignition.

Leading edge of collector case ignited.

Melting of asphalt, panel glass broke.

Shingles burning to approximately 1 ft (0.3 m)

.

Shingles burning to approximately 1 1/2 ft (0.5 m)

.

Shingles burning to approximately 2 ft (0.6 m)

.

Shingles burning to approximately 2 1/2 ft (0.8 m)

.

Shingles burning to approximately 2 1/2 ft (0.8 m)

beneath the collector. Front edge of collector

totally in flame; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

The wood strips on which the collector was mounted blocked the flame spread between

the collector and the roof.

65
Test Number: 46

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 32L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: Direct on roof deck, set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the

leading edge of the deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:00 Burner ignition.

0:19 Collector cover ignited.

0:36 Flames from the collector cover extended approximately

1 ft (0.3 m) beyond end of collector.

1:33 Shingles burning to approximately 1 ft (0.3 m)

.

1:58 Sides of collector burning to approximately

4 ft (1.2 m)

.

2:40 Flames receding to approximately 3 ft (0.3 m) on cover, sides burning to 4 1/2 ft (1.4 m)

.

3:12 Cover burning to approximately 3 ft (0.9 m)

.

Sides to approximately 4 1/2 ft (1.4 m) . Shingles

burning to approximately 1 1/2 ft (0.5 m) . Test

terminated

.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Flame spread rapidly on the collector glazing.

66
Test Number: 47

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 32L

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 1 in (2.5 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec Observation

0:00 Burner ignition.

0:20 Collector cover ignited.

0:33 Bottom of collector ignited, melting of asphalt.

0:54 Flaming to the end of the collector cover.

1:17 Shingles burning to approximately 1 ft (30 cm)

.

1:55 Shingles burning to approximately 2 ft (0.5 m)

.

2:12 Shingles burning to approximately 2 1/2 ft (0.8 m)

2:30 Flames on cover receded to approximately

3 ft (0.9 m)

.

3:00 Shingles and bottom of collector burning to

approximately 3 ft (0.9 m) .

3:38 Shingles and bottom of collector burning to

approximately 3 ft (0.9 m) . Flames intermittently

out upper end of collector.

oo Test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Flame spread rapidly on the collector glazing.

67
Test Number: 48

Test Laboratory; Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: None

Test Type: Spread of Flame Calibration Test

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: N. A.

Time, Min: Sec

0:00

0:28

0:59

1:38

2:05

2:24

2:56

3:23

3:39

4:00

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

Burner ignition.

Melting of asphalt.

Shingles ignited.

Shingles burning to approximately 4

Shingles burning to approximately 4

Shingles burning to approximately 5

Shingles burning to approximately 6

Shingles burning to approximately 6

Shingles burning to approximately 7

Shingles burning to approximately 8

test terminated.

ft (1.2 m)

.

1/2 ft (1.4 m).

ft (1.5m).

ft (1.8m).

1/2 ft (2.0 m).

1/2 ft (2.3 m).

ft (2.4m);

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Meets Class C requirements.

68
Test Number: 49

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 126L (collector used in prior test)

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting: 1 in (2.5 cm) above and parallel to the roof deck,

set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge of the

deck.

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Time, Min: Sec

0:00

0:28

1:00

1:19

2:09

3:07

3:38

4:00

Observation

Burner ignition.

Melting of asphalt.

Shingles ignited.

Shingles burning to approximately

Shingles burning to approximately

Shingles burning to approximately

Shingles burning to approximately

Shingles burning to approximately

test terminated.

1 ft (0.3 m)

.

1 1/2 ft (0.5 m)

2 ft (0.6m).

2 1/2 ft (0.8 m)

3 ft (0.9 m)

;

SUMMARY COMMENTS

The 1 in (2.5 cm) separation between the collector and the roof prevented

extensige flaming under the collector.

69
Test Number; 50

Test Laboratory: Approved Engineering Test Laboratories

Collector Code: 126L (collector used in prior test)

Test Type: Spread of Flame

Test Class: C

Size of Deck: 3 1/2 ft (1.1 m) by 10 ft (3.0 m)

Incline of Deck: 5 in 12

Collector Mounting; 1 9/16 in (4.0 cm) above and parallel to the roof

deck, set back 1 ft (30 cm) from the leading edge

of the deck.

Time, Min: Sec

0:00

0:24

0:59

1:09

1:59

2:38

3:27

3:51

TEST OBSERVATIONS

Observation

Burner ignition.

Melting of asphalt.

Shingles ignited.

Shingles burning to approximately

Shingles burning to approximately

Shingles burning to approximately

Shingles burning to approximately

1 ft (0.3 m)

.

2 ft (0.6m).

3 ft (0.9m).

3 1/2 ft (1.1 m)

.

Shingles burning to approximately 4 ft (1.2 m)

,

collector restraining wires broke and the collector

slid down the roof deck; test terminated.

SUMMARY COMMENTS

The 1 9/16 in (4.0 cm) separation between the collector and the roof

prevented extensive flaming under the collector.

70
NBS«114A (REV. 2-80

U.s. DEPT. OF COMM.

BIBLIOGRAPHIC DATA

SHEET (See instructions)

1. PUBLICATION OR

REPORT NO.

NBSIR 81-2344

2. Performing Organ. Report No. 3. Publication Date

September 1981

4.

TITLE AND SUBTITLE

Fire Testing of Roof-Mounted Solar Collectors by ASTM E 108

5. AUTHOR(S)

William D. Walton and David Waksman

6. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION (If joint or other than NBS. see instructions) 7. Contract/Grant No.

NATIONAL BUREAU OF STANDARDS

DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE 8. Type of Report & Period Covered

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20234

9. SPONSORING ORGANIZATION NAME AND COMPLETE ADDRESS (Street, City. State, ZIP)

Department of Energy

Office of Solar Heat Technologies

Forrestal Building

Washington, D.C. 20585

10. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES

I I Document describes a computer program: SF-185. FIPS Software Summary, is attached.

11.

ABSTRACT (A 200-word or less factual summary of most significant information. If document includes a significant

bibliography or literature survey, mention it here)

A study was undertaken to investigate the use of ASTM E 108 (NFPA 256, UL 790), Fire

Tests of Roof Coverings, for testing roof-mounted solar energy collectors. The ASTM

E 108 test method is commonly referenced in building codes as the procedure for determining the fire characteristics of roof coverings. To date, no data have been available regarding the influence of solar collectors on the fire characteristics of roof

coverings or on collectors used as roof coverings. This study focused primarily on class C intermittent flame, spread of flame, and burning brand tests, although several

class A and B burning brand tests were conducted. The collectors studied were commercially available and constructed with a broad variety of glazing, casing, and

insulation materials representative of those commonly in use. The collectors were

tested on sloped, asphalt shingled roofs with three types of mountings: integrally

as the roof, directly on the roof covering, and on standoffs above the roof covering.

Data are presented showing the results of the testing conducted. An evaluation of

the testing procedures as they apply to roof-mounted solar collectors is given.

12. K^Y WORDS (Six to twelve entries; alphabetical order; capitalize only proper names; and separate key words by semicolon s)

Fire tests; roofing fire resistance; roofing fire tests; solar collectors

13. AVAILABILITY 14. NO. OF

PRINTED PAGES

Uni imited

1 1 For Official Distribution. Do Not Release to NTIS 74

1

1 Order From Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C,

20402. 15. Price

Order From National Technical Information Service (NTIS), Springfield, VA. 22161 $8.00

USCOMM-DC 6O43-P80
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