Positive Pressure Fire Tests of Door Assemblies

UL 10C

1 Scope

1.1 These methods of fire tests are applicable to swinging door assemblies, including door frames with lights and panels, of various materials and types of construction for use in wall openings to retard the passage of fire. The method does not provide an evaluation of a swinging door assembly when that assembly is part of a larger assembly (e.g. sliding fire door assembly), or when it is intended to be used as an elevator entrance.

1.2 Tests made in conformity with these test methods are intended to register performance during the test exposure; but such tests shall not be construed as determining suitability for use after exposure to fire.

1.3 It is the intent that tests made in conformity with these test methods allow for the development of data to enable regulatory bodies to determine the suitability of door assemblies for use in locations where fire resistance of a specified duration is required.

1.4 These methods are intended to evaluate the ability of a door assembly to remain in an opening during a predetermined test exposure.

1.5 The tests expose a specimen to a standard fire exposure controlled to achieve specified temperatures throughout a specified time period, followed by the application of a specified standard fire hose stream. The exposure, however, is not representative of all fire conditions, which vary with changes in the amount, nature, and distribution of fire loading, ventilation, compartment size and configuration, and heat sink characteristics of the compartment. It does, however, provide a relative measure of fire performance of door assemblies under these specified fire exposure conditions.

1.6 Any variation from the construction or conditions that are tested is capable of substantially changing the performance characteristics of the assembly.

1.7 The methods do not provide the following:

a) Full information as to performance of all door assemblies in walls constructed of materials other than those tested.

b) Evaluation of the degree by which the door assembly contributes to the risk of fire by generation of smoke, toxic gases, or other products of combustion.

c) A temperature limit on the unexposed side of the door assembly.

d) A limit on the number of openings allowed in glazed areas or of the number and size of lateral openings between the door and frame.

e) Measurement of the degree of control or limitation of the passage of smoke or products of combustion through the door assembly. Note: See limitations for the passage of smoke detailed in the Standard for the Installation of Smoke Door Assemblies and Other Opening Protectives, NFPA 105.