AS 1530.

4—2005
AS 1530.4—2005

Australian Standard™

Methods for fire tests on building

materials, components and structures

Part 4: Fire-resistance test of elements

of construction
Accessed by SWINBURNE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY on 23 Aug 2007
 This Australian Standard was prepared by Committee FP-018, Fire Safety. It was
approved on behalf of the Council of Standards Australia on 11 July 2005.
This Standard was published on 9 September 2005.

The following are represented on Committee FP-018:

AWTA Textile Testing

Australian Fire Authorities Council
Australian Building Codes Board
Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Australian Industry Group
Australian Institute of Building
Building Research Association of New Zealand
Bureau of Steel Manufacturers of Australia
CSIRO Manufacturing and Infrastructure Technology
Fire Protection Association Australia
Fire Protection Association New Zealand
Plastics and Chemicals Industries Association
Property Council of Australia
Society of Fire Protection Engineers New Zealand

Additional Interests:

Testing Interests (Australia)

Keeping Standards up-to-date

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Standards may also be withdrawn. It is important that readers assure themselves

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This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 04100.

 AS 1530.4—2005

Australian Standard™

Methods for fire tests on building

materials, components and structures

Part 4: Fire-resistance test of elements

of construction
Accessed by SWINBURNE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY on 23 Aug 2007

First published as part of AS A30—1935.

Second edition 1958.
Revised and redesignated in part as AS 1530.4—1975.
Fifth edition 2005.

COPYRIGHT
© Standards Australia
All rights are reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or copied in any form or by
any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, without the written
permission of the publisher.
Published by Standards Australia GPO Box 476, Sydney, NSW 2001, Australia
ISBN 0 7337 6866 0
 AS 1530.4—2005 2

PREFACE
General
This Standard was prepared by the Joint Standards Australia/Standards New Zealand
Committee FP-018, Fire Tests on Building Components, Materials and Structures, to
supersede AS 1530.4—1997.
After consultation with stakeholders in both countries, Standards Australia and Standards
New Zealand decided to develop this Standard as an Australian Standard rather than an
Australian/New Zealand Standard.
Development and International Standards
This Standard follows the general principles and procedures contained in the ISO 834
series, Fire-resistance test—Elements of building construction, of Standards and other
related ISO documents but has consolidated them in one document, in line with previous
editions of AS 1530.4. Reference was also made to relevant European Standards, as
appropriate.
The development process for this revision was to consider the relevant ISO Standards and
adopt the ISO requirements unless there was a sound technical basis for retaining and/or
providing different requirements, that is, the ISO requirements were not consistent with
Australian Building design and construction practices or the changes would impose a
substantial cost on industry without an appreciable gain.
It is the intention of the Committee to participate in the ISO TC92 process and propose
changes to ISO 834 and related Standards such that full adoption of ISO 834 can be
proposed during the next review of AS 1530.4.
Variations to ISO 834
Typical examples of significant variations from ISO requirements include the following:
(a) The retention of the specification for furnace thermocouples from the previous edition
with an option to use the plate thermocouple prescribed in ISO 834-1:1999. The use
of the plate thermocouple is described in Appendix B. The use of the plate
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thermocouple was not adopted in full because of concerns about the durability of the
design and the disruption this would cause to industry with little apparent advantage.
These issues are being debated internationally. The impact of the plate thermocouple
is to reduce the performance of some forms of construction. This would lead to
increases in construction cost. The non-mandatory option of including plate
thermocouples in tests enables manufacturers to generate data for international
markets whilst causing minimum disruption to the Australian industry.
(b) The retention of duct test methods based on earlier versions of AS 1530.4 because the
ISO 6944 Fire resistance tests: Ventilation ducts Standard is not applicable to many
Australian applications.
(c) The retention of thermocouple positions for structurally critical temperatures and test
procedures for structural elements to maintain compatibility with design Standards.
(d) The inclusion of test methods for critical services and alternate test methods in the
Appendix that relate to BCA applications that are not addressed in ISO Standards.
(e) Test methods and standard configurations for service penetrations, test methods for
control joints and some failure criteria for doorsets have been retained to be
consistent with Australian construction practices, other standards and materials of
construction.
 3 AS 1530.4—2005

Changes to the 2004 edition

Major changes to the 2004 edition of AS 1530.4 include the following:
(a) A general transition towards ISO 834 and greater accuracy in the test procedures,
which is expected to lead to greater consistency and uniformity of test data, to
facilitate international applicability.
(b) The inclusion of permissible variations from tested specimens in each section, to
facilitate greater direct application of test data (this has required transfer of material
from AS 1905 and AS 4072.1).
(c) The adoption of the cotton pad test for determining performance under the criteria of
integrity.
(d) The adoption of methods based on the ISO 10294 series, Fire-resistance test—Fire
dampers for air distribution systems, for testing fire dampers and performance criteria
has been established in line with currently approved damper. This will also encourage
the development of combined heat and smoke dampers.
(e) The inclusion of test procedures for critical services.
(f) The inclusion of informative appendices to facilitate testing under alternate heating
regimes to provide data for evaluation of alternate building solutions for compliance
with the BCA.
(g) Details of test procedures for assessing the ability of ceiling systems to protect
structural elements.
(h) Provisions of additional guidance assist with the reporting of test results.
Building Code of Australia (BCA)
This Standard will be referenced in the Building Code of Australia (BCA) by way of
BCA 2006 to be published by 1 May 2006, thereby superseding the previous edition of
AS 1530.4—1997.
Referenced documents
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This Standard references documents in clauses of both a normative and informative nature.
Normative referenced documents, are listed in Clause 1.5 and a complete list of both
normative and informative referenced documents are provided in Appendix H.
Normative and informative
The terms ‘normative’ and ‘informative’ have been used in this Standard to define the
application of the appendix to which they apply. A ‘normative’ appendix is an integral part
of the Standard, whereas an ‘informative’ appendix is only for information and guidance.
Notes and commentaries
The use of Notes in this Standard is of an advisory nature only. They provide explanations
and guidance on recommended design consideration or technical procedures, as well as an
informative cross-reference to other documents or publications.

This Standard incorporates a Commentary on some clauses. The Commentary directly

follows the relevant clause is designated by ‘C’ preceding the clause number and is
printed in italics in a panel. The Commentary is for information only and does not need to
be followed for compliance with the Standard.
 AS 1530.4—2005 4

CONTENTS

Page

SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL

1.1 SCOPE ........................................................................................................................ 7
1.2 OBJECTIVE................................................................................................................ 7
1.3 PRINCIPLE ................................................................................................................. 8
1.4 APPLICATION ........................................................................................................... 8
1.5 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS .................................................................................. 8
1.6 DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................................ 9
1.7 LINEAR DIMENSIONS ........................................................................................... 13
1.8 UNCERTAINTY OF MEASUREMENT OF FIRE RESISTANCE........................... 14
1.9 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ........................................................................................ 14

SECTION 2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

2.1 FURNACE LININGS ................................................................................................ 15
2.2 MEASUREMENT OF TEMPERATURE.................................................................. 15
2.3 MEASUREMENT OF TIME..................................................................................... 19
2.4 MEASUREMENT OF DEFLECTION ...................................................................... 19
2.5 MEASUREMENT OF RECEIVED TOTAL HEAT FLUX....................................... 19
2.6 MEASUREMENT OF INTEGRITY ......................................................................... 20
2.7 ACCURACY OF MEASURING EQUIPMENT........................................................ 22
2.8 TEST SPECIMEN ..................................................................................................... 23
2.9 LOADING AND RESTRAINT ................................................................................. 24
2.10 TEST PROCEDURE ................................................................................................. 25
2.11 MEASUREMENTS AND OBSERVATIONS AND RECORDS............................... 27
2.12 CRITERIA OF FAILURE ......................................................................................... 29
2.13 TEST RESULTS ....................................................................................................... 30
2.14 DETERMINATION OF FIRE RESISTANCE LEVEL (FRL)................................... 31
2.15 REPORTING RESULTS ........................................................................................... 31
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SECTION 3 WALLS—VERTICAL SEPARATING ELEMENTS

3.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................ 36
3.2 TEST SPECIMEN ..................................................................................................... 36
3.3 INSTRUMENTATION ............................................................................................. 40
3.4 LOADING ................................................................................................................. 56
3.5 SPECIMEN ORIENTATION .................................................................................... 56
3.6 MEASUREMENTS AND OBSERVATIONS ........................................................... 56
3.7 CRITERIA OF FAILURE ......................................................................................... 56
3.8 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN............................... 57

SECTION 4 FLOORS, ROOFS AND CEILINGS HORIZONTAL SEPARATING

ELEMENTS
4.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................ 58
4.2 TYPES OF HORIZONTAL SEPARATING ELEMENTS ........................................ 59
4.3 TEST SPECIMEN ..................................................................................................... 60
4.4 INSTRUMENTATION ............................................................................................. 64
4.5 LOADING ................................................................................................................. 66
4.6 RESTRAINT ............................................................................................................. 66
4.7 SPECIMEN ORIENTATION .................................................................................... 66
4.8 MEASUREMENTS AND OBSERVATIONS ........................................................... 66
4.9 CRITERIA OF FAILURE ......................................................................................... 67
 5 AS 1530.4—2005

Page
4.10 TEST RESULTS ....................................................................................................... 67
4.11 PERMISSIBLE VARIATION TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN ................................. 67
4.12 TEST REPORT ......................................................................................................... 68

SECTION 5 COLUMNS
5.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................ 69
5.2 TEST SPECIMEN SIZE ............................................................................................ 69
5.3 INSTRUMENTATION ............................................................................................. 69
5.4 LOADING AND RESTRAINT ................................................................................. 69
5.5 TEST PROCEDURE ................................................................................................ 70
5.6 OBSERVATIONS ..................................................................................................... 70
5.7 CRITERIA OF FAILURE ........................................................................................ 70
5.8 DETERMINATION OF FIRE RESISTANCE........................................................... 70
5.9 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN............................... 70

SECTION 6 BEAMS, GIRDERS AND TRUSSES

6.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................ 71
6.2 TEST SPECIMEN ..................................................................................................... 71
6.3 INSTRUMENTATION ............................................................................................. 71
6.4 LOADING AND RESTRAINT ................................................................................ 73
6.5 TEST PROCEDURE ................................................................................................. 73
6.6 OBSERVATIONS ..................................................................................................... 74
6.7 CRITERIA OF FAILURE ......................................................................................... 74
6.8 DETERMINATION OF FIRE RESISTANCE........................................................... 74
6.9 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN............................... 74

SECTION 7 DOORSETS AND SHUTTER ASSEMBLIES

7.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................ 75
7.2 TEST SPECIMEN ..................................................................................................... 75
7.3 INSTRUMENTATION ............................................................................................. 77
7.4 TEST PROCEDURE ................................................................................................. 79
7.5 OBSERVATIONS ..................................................................................................... 79
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7.6 CRITERIA OF FAILURE ......................................................................................... 80

7.7 DETERMINATION OF FIRE RESISTANCE........................................................... 81
7.8 TEST REPORT ......................................................................................................... 81
7.9 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN............................... 82

SECTION 8 UNINSULATED GLAZING

8.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................ 86
8.2 TEST SPECIMEN ..................................................................................................... 86
8.3 INSTRUMENTATION ............................................................................................. 87
8.4 TEST PROCEDURE ................................................................................................. 87
8.5 CRITERIA OF FAILURE ......................................................................................... 88
8.6 DETERMINATION OF FIRE RESISTANCE........................................................... 88
8.7 TEST REPORT ......................................................................................................... 88
8.8 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN............................... 88

SECTION 9 AIR DUCTS

9.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................ 89
9.2 TEST SPECIMEN ..................................................................................................... 89
9.3 POSITIONING OF THERMOCOUPLES ................................................................. 90
9.4 PROCEDURE ........................................................................................................... 90
9.5 OBSERVATIONS ..................................................................................................... 91
9.6 CRITERIA OF FAILURE ......................................................................................... 91
 AS 1530.4—2005 6

Page
9.7 TEST REPORT ......................................................................................................... 92
9.8 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN............................... 92

SECTION 10 SERVICE PENETRATIONS AND CONTROL JOINTS

10.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................ 93
10.2 TEST LIMITATIONS ............................................................................................... 93
10.3 PURPOSE OF TEST ................................................................................................. 93
10.4 TEST SPECIMEN ..................................................................................................... 93
10.5 POSITIONING OF THERMOCOUPLES ................................................................. 96
10.6 INTEGRITY.............................................................................................................. 98
10.7 INSULATION ........................................................................................................... 99
10.8 TEST PROCEDURE ................................................................................................. 99
10.9 CRITERIA OF FAILURE ....................................................................................... 100
10.10 TEST REPORT ....................................................................................................... 100
10.11 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN............................. 100

SECTION 11 FIRE DAMPER AND AIR TRANSFER GRILLE ASSEMBLIES

11.1 GENERAL .............................................................................................................. 106
11.2 TEST METHOD...................................................................................................... 106
11.3 APPARATUS.......................................................................................................... 106
11.4 TEST CONSTRUCTION ........................................................................................ 116
11.5 TEST ....................................................................................................................... 118
11.6 CRITERIA OF FAILURE ....................................................................................... 120
11.7 TEST REPORT ....................................................................................................... 120
11.8 TEST CONSTRUCTION ........................................................................................ 121
11.9 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN............................. 121

SECTION 12 CRITICAL SERVICES

12.1 GENERAL .............................................................................................................. 123
12.2 TEST SPECIMEN ................................................................................................... 123
12.3 APPARATUS AND INSTRUMENTATION........................................................... 125
12.4 PRINCIPLE ............................................................................................................. 126
12.5 PROCEDURE ......................................................................................................... 126
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12.6 CRITERIA OF FAILURE ....................................................................................... 126

12.7 REPORTING OF RESULTS ................................................................................... 127
12.8 VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN....................................................... 127

APPENDICES
A RADIANT HEAT FLUX MEASUREMENTS ........................................................ 128
B ALTERNATIVE AND ADDITIONAL TEST PROCEDURES FOR ELEMENTS
OF CONSTRUCTION............................................................................................. 132
C GUIDELINES FOR THE ATTACHMENT OF SPECIMEN THERMOCOUPLES 144
D ELECTRICAL AND COMMUNICATIONS CABLES........................................... 147
E TEST PROGRAM FOR SEALING SYSTEMS PROTECTING METAL
PIPE PENETRATIONS........................................................................................... 150
F FIRE-RESISTANT DOORSETS............................................................................. 151
G REVIEW OF AS 1530.4.......................................................................................... 152

BIBLIOGRAPHY .................................................................................................................. 160

 7 AS 1530.4—2005

STANDARDS AUSTRALIA

Australian Standard
Methods for fire tests on building materials, components and structures

Part 4: Fire-resistance test of elements of construction

SECT ION 1 SCOPE AND GENERA L

1.1 SCOPE
This Standard provides methods for determining the fire resistance of various elements of
construction when subjected to standard fire exposure conditions.
NOTES:
1 Radiant heat measurements are given in Appendix A.
2 Alternative heating and radiation exposure conditions, which may be used for evaluation of
alternative solutions, voluntary upgrades and other applications where the standard heating
regime may not be applicable, and additional procedures to meet special requirements are
given in Appendix B.
3 Unless one of the alternative heating regimes is specifically required, the standard time
temperature curve applies (see Figure 2.10.1).
4 AS 1720.4, AS 3600, AS 3700 and AS 4100 may also be used to determine the fire resistance
of an element of construction.
5 The assessment of smoke production and smoke spread when testing specimens is outside the
scope of this Standard. Significant smoke spread or smoke production can occur even though
an element of construction may have achieved high FRLs. Other test methods, such as
AS 1530.7, may be considered when evaluating the potential for smoke spread.

1.2 OBJECTIVE
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The objective of this Standard is to provide building designers, manufacturers, test

laboratories and regulatory authorities with a set of uniform requirements for heating
conditions, test procedures, and criteria for the determination of fire resistance of an
element of building construction.
NOTE: Test reports include information that may assist building designers. Records of
temperature at critical times may be used by a designer to assess the fire resistance of a variant of
the tested prototype where the procedure for such an assessment is defined in the appropriate
design Standard or code. In certain cases, the test methods described herein provide information
for the determination of—
(a) resistance to the incipient spread of fire through ceiling systems;
(b) safe distances for the spacing of combustible materials from elements that provide a
separating function;
(c) radiant heat flux from doorsets, shutter assemblies, and glazing; and
(d) the cross-sectional area of air ducts to provide functional operation while providing fire
resistance.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 8

1.3 PRINCIPLE
A representative specimen of an element of construction is exposed to heat under controlled
conditions in a furnace, which is operated to satisfy a specified time-temperature curve.
Where it is not possible to model the element or system of construction satisfactorily with
one specimen, it may be necessary to test more than one specimen. Observations are made
on the performance of the specimen while it is subjected to thermal and, where applicable,
physical loading. The elapsed times at which various failures occur are recorded.
NOTE: Where a specimen has been tested under a particular set of test conditions, an identical
specimen should not be resubmitted for test without modification unless the test is carried out for
surveillance on similar purposes to confirm the original performance.

1.4 APPLICATION
1.4.1 Fire hazard assessment
Each test shall be performed in accordance with the general requirements of Section 2 and
the following Sections, as appropriate:
(a) Walls .........................................................................................................Section 3.
(b) Floors, roofs and ceilings............................................................................Section 4.
(c) Columns.....................................................................................................Section 5.
(d) Beams, girders and trusses ..........................................................................Section 6.
(e) Doorsets and shutter assemblies ..................................................................Section 7.
(f) Uninsulated glazing ....................................................................................Section 8.
(g) Air ducts ....................................................................................................Section 9.
(h) Service penetrations and control joints ......................................................Section 10.
(i) Fire damper and air transfer grille assemblies ............................................Section 11.
(j) Critical services........................................................................................Section 12.
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The requirements in Sections 3 to 12 shall take precedence over the general requirements of
Section 2.
NOTES:
1 The results of the fire tests may be used to directly assess fire hazard, but it should be
recognized that a single test method will not provide a full assessment of fire hazard under all
fire conditions.
2 The test methods follow the basic principles and procedures contained in international
Standards, including ISO 834.

1.5 NORMATIVE REFERENCES

The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document.
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest
edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
NOTE: For a list of informative documents referenced in this Standard, see Bibliography at the
end of the document.

AS
1530 Methods for fire tests on building materials, components and structures
1530.1 Part 1: Combustibility test for materials
1905 Components for the protection of openings in fire-resistant walls

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 9 AS 1530.4—2005

1905.2 Part 2: Fire-resistant roller shutters

3013 Electrical installations—Classification of the fire and mechanical performance of
wiring systems
4072 Components for the protection of openings in fire-resistant separating elements
4072.1 Part 1: Service penetrations and control joints
AS/NZS
1905 Components for the protection of openings in fire-resistant walls
1905.1 Part 1: Fire-resistant doorsets
ANSI
MC96 Temperature measurement thermocouples
IEC
60584 Thermocouples
60584.1 Part 1: Reference tables
ISO
5167 Measurement of fluid flow by means of pressure difference devices inserted in
circular cross-section running full
5167.1 Part 1: General principles and requirements
5221 Air distribution and air diffusion—rules to methods of measuring air flow rate in
an air-handling duct

1.6 DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this Standard, the definitions below apply.
1.6.1 Access panels
A removable component protecting an opening in a fire-resistant vertical or horizontal
separating element used to access services and the like and may be either fixed or hinged.
1.6.2 Alternative solution
A Building Solution which complies with the Performance Requirements of the Building
Code of Australia other than by reason of satisfying the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions.
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1.6.3 Applicant
A company, corporation, organization, association, partnership, individual or
manufacturer’s authorized agent that proposes a test in accordance with this Standard.
1.6.4 Approved
Accepted for use by the regulatory authority or other authority having jurisdiction.
1.6.5 Blank penetration seal
A component that seals an aperture of specified size in a fire-separating element but does
not incorporate any penetrating services.
1.6.6 Combustible
The classification of a material based on its reaction to defined elevated temperature
conditions and which—
(a) has been deemed combustible in accordance with the BCA; and
(b) has been subjected to the test conditions of AS 1530.1 and has exceeded flaming or
temperature rise limits specified in that Standard.
1.6.7 Connecting duct
The duct section between the damper or separating element and the flow-measuring station.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 10

1.6.8 Control joint

A joint between or within discrete elements of construction, which allows for relative
movement of the elements.
1.6.9 Criteria of failure
1.6.9.1 Structural adequacy
The ability of a load-bearing element of construction to support a load when tested in
accordance with this Standard.
1.6.9.2 Integrity
The ability of an element of construction to resist the passage of flames and hot gases from
one space to another, when tested in accordance with this Standard.
1.6.9.3 Insulation
The ability of an element of construction to maintain a temperature on the surface that is
not exposed to the furnace, below the limits specified, when tested in accordance with this
Standard.
1.6.10 Critical service
A system or component that operates to identify an emergency or intended to operate during
an emergency, and is primarily associated with—
(a) the safety of persons evacuating a building;
(b) firefighting operations; or
(c) fire suppression.
1.6.11 Damper-actuating system
The system that causes the damper to change from the ‘open’ to the ‘closed’ position.
1.6.12 Damper assembly
A movable closure in a duct or opening for the passage of air, which operates automatically
to restrict the passage of fire or products of combustion past the damper.
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1.6.13 Damper, insulated

A damper that satisfies the integrity, leakage and insulation (temperature rise) requirements
of this Standard.
1.6.14 Damper, intumescent fire
A closure that operates by intumescing (swelling on application of heat), and is designed to
prevent the passage of fire through the duct.
1.6.15 Damper, mechanical fire
A mechanical closure operated automatically or manually and designed to prevent the
passage of fire through the duct.
1.6.16 Damper, smoke
A closure designed to prevent the passage of smoke through a duct.
1.6.17 Damper, uninsulated
A damper that satisfies the integrity and leakage requirements of this Standard.
1.6.18 Doorset
A complete assembly as defined in AS 1905.1.
NOTE: See also definition of terms related to fire-resistant doorsets in AS 1905.1.

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 11 AS 1530.4—2005

1.6.19 Element of construction

Either—
(a) a distinct part of a building constructed by assembling material or materials; or
(b) a test specimen representing such a part.
1.6.20 Exhaust equipment
The equipment consisting of a fan and balancing or dilution dampers (if any), to apply and
maintain the under-pressure in the connecting duct.
1.6.21 Exposed and unexposed surfaces
In relation to fire resistance testing—
(a) the exposed surface is the surface that is subjected to the heating regime contained in
this Standard; and
(b) the unexposed surface is the external surface that is exposed to the ambient
temperature within the test laboratory.
1.6.22 Fire damper and fire damper assembly
A closure device (mechanical or intumescent) that is located within or forms part of a
separating element that may have reticulation ducting on one or both sides of the damper or
damper assembly.
1.6.23 Fire exposure
The thermal actions, differential pressures, and products of combustion to which an element
of construction is exposed as the result of a fire.
1.6.24 Fire-resistant air transfer grille assembly
A closure device (mechanical or intumescent) that is located within a separating element
and has no reticulating ductwork on one or both sides of the penetration.
1.6.25 Fire resistance
The ability of an element of construction, component or structure to fulfil, for a stated
period of time, the required structural adequacy, integrity, thermal insulation or other
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expected duty specified during exposure to a fire.

1.6.26 Fire resistance level (FRL)
The nominal grading period, in minutes, that is determined by subjecting a specimen to the
standard time temperature curve regime set out in this Standard, to specify—
(a) structural adequacy;
(b) integrity; and
(c) insulation,
which are expressed in that order.
1.6.27 Fire-stopping
The system or materials used to maintain the fire resistance of the fire-separating element at
joints or where services pass through the element.
1.6.28 Flow-measuring station
An area where equipment is installed to measure the gas flow rate through the duct/damper
system.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 12

1.6.29 Glazing
An element or elements of construction intended for transmission of light.
1.6.30 Heat flux
The quantity of heat energy per unit area incident on the target of the measuring device. It
includes heat transferred by convection and radiation.
1.6.31 Lift-landing door assembly
A complete assembly comprising multiple leaves, or single leaf, door that open(s) and
close(s) the landing entrance together with its associated frame and supports.
1.6.32 Loading
The load applied to an element of construction during a load-bearing test.
1.6.33 Load-bearing wall
A wall designed to support an externally applied vertical load or a load transferred from
other components.
1.6.34 Multiple penetration systems
Systems where large service openings are provided in a fire-separating element and are
filled with infill material through which the services penetrate and are sealed individually
or in groups to the infill material rather than to the parent element.
1.6.35 Non-load-bearing wall
A wall not designed to be subjected to an external load, other than its self-weight.
1.6.36 Penetration
An aperture through a fire-separating element for the passage of a service or services.
1.6.37 Penetration seal
The system used to maintain the fire resistance of the fire-separating element at the position
where there is provision for services to pass through the element.
1.6.38 Penetration system
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The assembly for test consisting of the penetrating service or services and the penetration
seal, media or devices, together with any service-supporting construction.
1.6.39 Radiation
Total heat flux as measured by a total heat flux meter.
1.6.40 Resistance to the incipient spread of fire (in respect of a ceiling membrane)
The ability of the membrane to insulate the space between the ceiling and roof, or ceiling
and floor above, so as to limit the temperature rise of materials in this space to a level that
will not permit the rapid and general spread of fire throughout the space to adjoining fire
compartments.
1.6.41 Restraint
The constraint to expansion, shrinkage or rotation (induced by thermal or mechanical
actions) afforded by the conditions at the ends, edges or supports of a test specimen.
1.6.42 Registered testing authority
An organization that—
(a) is described in the BCA as a registered testing authority; and
(b) conducts a fire-resistance test in accordance with this Standard.

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 13 AS 1530.4—2005

1.6.43 Separating elements (horizontal and vertical)

Elements, such as horizontal (floors) and vertical (walls), that divide buildings into fire
compartments or zones or separate a building from an adjoining building to resist the spread
of fire (see Clause 1.7).
1.6.44 Service
A system or element used for the functioning of a building, for example, a cable, conduit,
pipe, duct, flue, or the like.
1.6.45 Service-supporting construction
Mechanical support provided in the form of clips, ties, hangers, ladder racks or trays, or any
device designed to carry the load of the penetrating service.
1.6.46 Shall
Indicates that a statement is mandatory.
1.6.47 Should
Indicates a recommendation.
1.6.48 Shutter assembly
A complete assembly defined as a ‘fire-resistant roller shutter’ in AS 1905.2.
1.6.49 Structurally critical temperatures
Temperatures at locations that are judged to be critical to the structural adequacy of a load-
bearing element.
1.6.50 Supporting construction
The construction that may be required for the testing of some building elements into which
the test specimen is assembled, such as the wall into which the door is fitted or the support
structure for a ceiling system.
1.6.51 Test assembly
The test specimen together with its supporting construction.
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1.6.52 Test load

The load applied to the element when tested in accordance with this Standard.
1.6.53 Test construction
The complete assembly, consisting of the separating element, damper and duct sections and
penetration seals (if any).
1.6.54 Test specimen
An element (or part) of building construction including hangers, fixtures, insulating
materials and features such as lighting, ventilation ducts, joints and penetrations provided
for the purpose of determining either its fire resistance or its contribution to the fire
resistance of another building element.

1.7 LINEAR DIMENSIONS

All linear dimensions given in this Standard are nominal values, unless tolerances are
specified.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 14

1.8 UNCERTAINTY OF MEASUREMENT OF FIRE RESISTANCE

There are many factors that may affect the result of a fire resistance test. The factors
concerned with the variability of the specimen including its materials, manufacture and
installation, are not related to the uncertainty of measurement.

1.9 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Fire testing may be hazardous and there is the possibility that toxic and/or harmful smoke
and gas may evolve during the test. Mechanical and operational hazards may also arise
during the construction of the test elements or structures, their testing and disposal of test
residues.
An assessment of all potential hazards and risks to health shall be made and safety
precautions identified and provided. Written safety instructions shall be issued. Appropriate
training shall be given to relevant personnel. Laboratory personnel shall ensure that written
safety instructions are followed at all times.
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 15 AS 1530.4—2005

SEC T I O N 2 G E N E RA L RE Q U IRE M E NT S

2.1 FURNACE LININGS

Furnace linings shall consist of materials with densities less than 1000 kg/m3 . Such lining
materials shall have a minimum thickness of 50 mm and shall constitute at least 70% of the
internally exposed surface of the furnace.
Where, to accommodate a particular specimen, it is necessary to extend the furnace
chamber, the lining of the extension shall comply with the above requirements.

2.2 MEASUREMENT OF TEMPERATURE

2.2.1 Thermocouples
All thermocouples used to measure temperature shall be Type K, in ‘standard’ tolerance,
i.e., ±2.2°C or 0.75%, whichever is the greater, complying with ANSI, MC96 or
IEC 60584.1. Each batch shall be calibrated by an accredited laboratory, for example a
laboratory with appropriate registration (see Note). Single point thermocouple calibration is
adequate using 200°C for specimen thermocouples and 900°C for furnace thermocouples.
NOTE: The appropriate registration in Australia is the National Association of Testing
Authorities (NATA).
The thermocouple insulation material shall be suitable for application; that is, consideration
shall be taken as to the melting temperature or moisture resistance of the insulation.
2.2.2 Furnace temperature measurement
2.2.2.1 General
The furnace thermocouples shall be mineral insulated, metal sheathed (MIMS) with a
stainless steel sheath having wire diameter less than 1.0 mm and an overall diameter of
3 mm, with the measuring junction insulated from the sheath to minimize ground-loop
problems. The MIMS thermocouple shall be supported by a heat-resisting tube with or
without additional insulation with the measuring junction protruding a minimum of 25 mm
as shown in Figure 2.2.2.1. The thermocouples shall be replaced every 40 h.
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A visual inspection of thermocouples shall be made and any damaged thermocouples likely
to affect the accuracy of the measurement shall be discarded.
NOTE: If the plate thermometer is to be included in the test, reference should be made to
Appendix B.

NOTE: Thermal insulation is optional

FIGURE 2.2.2.1 FURNACE THERMOCOUPLE ASSEMBLY

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 AS 1530.4—2005 16

2.2.2.2 Number and location of thermocouples

The minimum number of thermocouples used to measure furnace temperature shall be the
greater of four or—
(a) for planar or multiple specimen tests, the nearest whole number to the area of the
furnace opening in square metres multiplied by 0.6; and
(b) for columns, beams, trusses and girders, two per linear metre of specimen.
2.2.2.3 Thermocouple arrangement
Thermocouples shall be arranged symmetrically relative to the face of the test specimen(s),
and shall be as follows:
(a) Initially 100 ±10 mm from the face of the test specimen and shall be maintained,
where practicable, at a distance of 50 to 150 mm during the test. The thermocouples
used to measure the temperature of the furnace shall be uniformly distributed so as to
give a reliable indication of the average temperature in the vicinity of the test
specimen. The number and position of thermocouples for each type of element is
specified in Sections 3 to 12 in this Standard. The method of support shall ensure that
thermocouples do not fall away or become dislodged during the test.
(b) Not closer than 100 mm to the furnace wall or the burner flames.
Furnace thermocouples should be used at a single insertion depth only, as significant errors
can result from a change in the position of the temperature gradient on the thermocouple.
The insertion depth may be increased but shall not be reduced. If reduction is required due
to specimen configuration, a new set of thermocouples shall be used. The insertion depth
shall be marked on each MIMS thermocouple on initial use.
2.2.3 Measurement of temperature on elements providing a separating function
2.2.3.1 Thermocouples
In addition to the requirement of Clause 2.2.1, thermocouples used for insulation
measurement shall have a wire diameter not exceeding 0.5 mm (see Figure 2.2.3.1).
Each thermocouple shall have the tail of its measuring junction attached by silver soldering
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to the face of a 12 mm diameter by 0.2 mm copper disc.

Each thermocouple shall be covered with a 30 ±0.5 mm × 30 ±0.5 mm × 2.0 ±0.5 mm thick
inorganic insulating pad (such as asbestos-free millboard), unless specified otherwise for
specific elements. The pad material shall have a density of 900 ±100 kg/m 3. The insulation
pads shall be cut to accommodate the thermocouple wires. The measuring and recording
equipment shall be capable of operating within the limits specified.
The disc and pad shall be pressed against the surface in such a way as will ensure that the
disc is in firm contact with the surface of the test specimen. For portable thermocouples
positioned during the heating period, the disc shall be in firm contact with the specimen
surface for at least 90 s.
The attached thermocouple wires shall be on the disc surface away from the surface of the
test specimen.

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 17 AS 1530.4—2005

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 2.2.3.1 TYPICAL SPECIMEN THERMOCOUPLE CONSTRUCTION

2.2.3.2 Attachment of thermocouples

Thermocouples shall be attached to the surface of the specimen by—
(a) heat-resistant adhesive, with no adhesive between the copper disc and the specimen or
between the copper disc and the pad, taking care to ensure that the air gap between
them is minimal; or
(b) pins, screws or clips that are only in contact with those parts of a pad that are not over
the disc.
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NOTE: Details on attachment for the various materials and surfaces are given in Appendix E.
2.2.3.3 Positioning of the thermocouples
The positioning of the thermocouples used for insulation measurement shall be as follows:
(a) The thermocouples shall be positioned on the unexposed face of the test specimen,
excluding any glazing and the locations specified in Item (b) below.
(b) Thermocouples shall not be positioned opposite or on top of fasteners such as screws,
nails or staples if—
(i) the aggregate area of any part of such fasteners, projected to the unexposed
face, is less than 125 mm 2 within any 125 mm square area; and
(ii) the fasteners do not extend through the assembly.
(c) When the unexposed surface comprises a compressible material such as thermal
insulation, the thermocouples as specified in Clause 2.2.3.1 shall be fixed so that the
thickness of the material is not reduced by more than 5%.
(d) Thermocouples attached to intumescent materials, sealants, thermoplastics, foams,
fibrous insulated materials and similar surfaces, subject to swelling shrinkage,
flowing and melting, shall be secured in such a manner that they are free to follow the
surface movement and conform to the surface curvature.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 18

(e) In the case of non-planar surfaces, the disc and pad shall be deformed to follow the
surface profile. If there is difficulty in fixing the standard pad, the size of the pad,
shall be reduced subject to a minimum diameter of 12 mm.
2.2.3.4 Roving thermocouples
One or more roving thermocouples of the design shown in Figure 2.2.3.4 or alternative
temperature-measuring devices, which can be shown to have at least the accuracy and a
response time equal to or less than the design illustrated by Figure 2.2.3.4, shall be
available to measure the unexposed surface temperature during a test for a minimum period
of 90 s in positions where higher temperatures are suspected. If the temperature rise after
90 s exceeds 175 K, the roving thermocouple(s) shall continue to be applied for a further
90 s and then removed.
The measuring junction of the thermocouple consists of 1.0 mm diameter thermocouple
wires soldered or welded to a 12 mm diameter, 0.5 mm thick copper disc. The thermocouple
assembly shall be provided with a handle so that it can be applied over any point on the
unexposed surface of the test specimen.
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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 2.2.3.4 ROVING THERMOCOUPLE ASSEMBLY

2.2.4 Thermocouples for structurally critical temperatures

In addition to the requirements of Clause 2.2.1, thermocouples used for measuring
structurally critical temperatures in appropriate elements shall have a diameter not
exceeding 0.5 mm.
Each thermocouple shall be fitted by means of the following procedure, as appropriate:
(a) The thermocouple wires shall be spot-welded or discharge-welded so that the two
wires are not more than 5 mm apart.
(b) Where spot-welding or discharge welding cannot be adopted, the measuring junction
shall be fixed in such a way as will ensure that it remains in position throughout the
test.

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 19 AS 1530.4—2005

NOTES:
1 When information concerning the internal temperature of a test specimen or particular
component is required, it should be obtained by means of thermocouples having
characteristics appropriate to the range of temperatures to be measured as well as being
suitable for the type of materials in the test specimen.
2 For concrete specimens, the thermocouple wires should be tied to the reinforcement, to ensure
that the thermocouple remains in position during placement of the concrete or if MIMS
thermocouples are used, the overall sheath diameter should not exceed 3.0 mm.

2.3 MEASUREMENT OF TIME

The elapsed time during the test shall be measured.

2.4 MEASUREMENT OF DEFLECTION

The relevant deflection of the test specimen shall be measured and recorded throughout the
test, at intervals adequate to present a history of movement during the test to an accuracy of
±2 mm.
NOTE: To comply with some international Standards, for load-bearing elements, horizontal and
vertical deflections are required to be measured at 1 min intervals.

2.5 MEASUREMENT OF RECEIVED TOTAL HEAT FLUX

2.5.1 General
A total heat flux meter shall be used to measure the total heat flux received at a point near
the specimen or any particular feature of the specimen as required in the relevant section of
this Standard.
2.5.2 Positioning of radiometer
The heat flux meter shall be positioned at a distance of 1 m along an axis normal to the
centre of the specimen, and shall have the field of vision modified so as not to receive heat
flux from sources other than the specimen.
NOTE: Where a particular feature of the specimen is to be tested, the term ‘specimen’ in this
Clause refers to that feature.
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The heat flux meter shall comply with the following:

(a) Target .............................................................................................. the target of the
instrument shall not be shielded by a window or subject to a gas purge that is, it shall
be subject to convection as well as radiation.
(b) Suggested range ................................................................................. 0 to 50 kW/m 2 .
(c) Accuracy ......................................................................... ±5% of maximum in range.
(d) Time constant (time to reach 64% of target value) ............................................ <10 s.
(e) View angle ..................................................................................................may vary
depending on the specimen size.
NOTE: Complying radiometers are available from Vatell Corporation and Medtherm Corporation.
2.5.3 Procedure
2.5.3.1 General
Each heat flux meter shall be positioned 1.0 m from the unexposed surface of the test
specimen.
At the start of the test, the target of each heat flux meter shall be parallel (±5°) to the plane
of the unexposed surface of the test specimen. The target shall be pointing towards the
unexposed surface of the test specimen.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 20

There shall be no significant radiating surfaces other than the specimen within the field of
vision.
2.5.3.2 Specific locations
Measurements shall be taken at either one of the following locations:
(a) Opposite the geometric centre of the specimen, this is referred to as the average heat
flux.
(b) At the point at which the maximum heat flux can be expected. Often this follows
logically or can be calculated from the geometry of the specimen.
If the specimen is symmetrical about its centre and a uniform radiator, this will
coincide with position (a).
If the specimen has areas of differing insulation and/or transmission, then it may be
difficult to predict the point of maximum intensity with any degree or certainty. In
these cases the following procedure shall be used:
(i) Identify all areas where it is anticipated that the temperature will exceed 300°C
and that also have an area in excess of 0.1 m2 (or 65 000 mm 2 for doorsets).
Measure the heat flux opposite the notional centre of each such area.
(ii) Two or more identical parts of the specimen having the same height or width,
separated by less than 0.1 m, may be treated as a single radiation surface.
(iii) Treat the area or sub-area as a single radiating surface if the area, or sub-area,
of the specimen, that is expected to remain below 300°C, is less than 10% of
the total area, or sub-area, under consideration. This allows for breaks such as
glazing bars.
2.5.3.3 Measurement data
Measurements taken at each of the locations specified in Clauses 2.5.3.1 and 2.5.3.2 shall
be recorded throughout the test at intervals not exceeding 1 min.

2.6 MEASUREMENT OF INTEGRITY

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2.6.1 Cotton pad

The cotton pad used in the measurement of integrity shall consist of 100% new, undyed and
soft cotton fibres, 20 mm thick × 100 mm square, and shall weigh between 3 g and 4 g. The
cotton pad shall be conditioned prior to use by drying in an oven at 100 ±5°C for at least
30 min. and stored in a desiccator or other moisture-proof container until required.
The cotton pad shall be mounted in a wire frame, as shown in Figure 2.6.1.

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 21 AS 1530.4—2005
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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 2.6.1 COTTON PAD APPLICATION

2.6.2 Gap gauges

Two types of gap gauges (see Figure 2.6.2) shall be available for the measurement of
integrity.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 22
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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 2.6.2 TYPICAL GAP GAUGE CONSTRUCTION

2.7 ACCURACY OF MEASURING EQUIPMENT

For conducting fire tests, the measuring equipment shall meet the following levels of
precision:
(a) Temperature measurement:
Furnace .......................................................................................................... ±15°C.
Ambient and unexposed face............................................................................. ±4°C.
Other.............................................................................................................. ±10°C.

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 23 AS 1530.4—2005

(b) Pressure measurement...................................................................................... ±2 Pa.

(c) Load level .................................................................................... ±2.5% of test load.
(d) Axial contraction or expansion measurement ............................................... ±0.5 mm.
(e) Other deformation measurements ................................................................... ±2 mm.
(f) Radiant heat measurement .................................................................................±5%.
(g) Time .............................................................................................................. ±1 s/h.

2.8 TEST SPECIMEN

2.8.1 Verification
In order for the test laboratory to verify the test specimen, the applicant shall provide the
following information to the laboratory, prior to testing:
(a) All constructional details.
(b) Drawings.
(c) Schedule of major components.
(d) Name of the manufacturer or supplier.
(e) Assembly procedures.
The information shall be supplied sufficiently in advance of the test to assist the laboratory
in preparing for the test.
The laboratory shall verify the conformity of the test specimen from the information
provided, as far as reasonably practicable, and any area of discrepancy shall be resolved by
the laboratory prior to testing.
The laboratory shall either verify the fabrication of the element or request one or more
additional test specimens in order to ensure that the description of the element, and in
particular its construction, is in conformity with the element to be tested.
The laboratory shall state clearly in the test report the circumstances where it has been
necessary to rely on information provided by the applicant.
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2.8.2 Size
The specimen shall be full size. Where the dimensions of the full size specimen exceed that
of the furnace opening, the minimum dimensions of the specimen shall be
3000 mm × 3000 mm for vertical specimens and 4000 mm × 3000 mm for horizontal
specimens.
2.8.3 Form and composition
The test specimen shall be constructed in accordance with the documentation supplied.
2.8.4 Properties of materials
The testing laboratory may request or carry out tests to establish those properties of the
materials that may be necessary for interpretation of the results of a fire resistance test.
2.8.5 Conditioning
At the time of the test, the strength and moisture content of the test specimen shall
approximate the conditions expected in normal service. If the test specimen contains or is
liable to absorb moisture, it shall not be tested until it has reached an air-dry condition.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 24

Accelerated conditioning is permissible, provided the method does not alter the properties
of component materials or the moisture distribution in the specimen so that it has influence
on the fire behaviour of the specimen. High temperature conditioning shall be below
temperatures critical for the materials.
NOTES:
1 Conditioning temperatures above 60°C are not recommended, unless it can be demonstrated
that the material properties are not significantly modified.
2 It is desirable that the moisture content of timber be between 10% and 15%.
3 It is desirable that the moisture content of concrete be less than 5%.
2.8.6 Specimen clearances inside the furnace
A minimum clearance of 200 mm shall be maintained between the wall, floor and ceiling of
the furnace and any specimen or part of the specimen internal to the furnace chamber (e.g.,
service penetrations and the like).
2.8.7 Specimen orientation
For vertical elements, where the fire risk can be identified as being from one nominated
side only, or the specimen is fully symmetrical, the specimen need only be tested with the
appropriate face exposed to the furnace.
For asymmetrical constructions, where it can be clearly established that there is a weaker
direction of exposure, the specimen may need only to be tested with the weaker face
exposed to the furnace. A full justification for the adopted procedure shall be included in
the test report or letter of opinion obtained from the registered testing authority.
In all other cases, not less than two tests shall be carried out, with at least one being from
each direction of exposure.
For horizontal elements, the test specimen shall be exposed to heating from the underside
only.

2.9 LOADING AND RESTRAINT

2.9.1 General
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The loading system shall be capable of compensating for the maximum allowable
deformation of the test specimen as defined in this Standard.
The loading system shall not inhibit the free movement of air at the unexposed surface and,
other than at the loading point, no part of the loading apparatus shall be closer than 60 mm
from the surface.
A load-bearing element shall be subjected to the test load determined in accordance with
Clause 2.9.2 and restrained in accordance with Clause 2.9.3 for a total time comprising the
following:
(a) A pre-loading period of not less than 15 min and imposed at such a rate as to avoid
any dynamic effects.
(b) The heating period.
2.9.2 Determination of test load
The test load shall be determined on the basis of one of the following:
(a) The actual material properties of the test specimen and a design method specified in
the appropriate Australian Standard or, where this does not exist, in a recognized
structural Standard.

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 25 AS 1530.4—2005

(b) The characteristic material properties of the test specimen and a design method
specified in the appropriate Australian Standard or, where this does not exist, in a
recognized structural Standard. The relationship between the actual material
properties and the characteristic material properties of the test specimen shall be
given or shall be experimentally determined.
(c) A load nominated by the applicant.
2.9.3 Application of restraint
The role of the elements in service shall be considered so that the methods adopted for
supporting or restraining the ends or sides of a test specimen during a test are, as far as
practicable, similar in nature to those that would be applied to a similar element in service.
If restraint is applied in the test, then the restraint conditions shall be specified with regard
to free movements of the element and, as far as practicable, those external forces and
moments that are transmitted to the element by restraint during the test. Where the result is
intended for general application, the specimen shall be tested in the least favourable
condition, as specified in the relevant section.

2.10 TEST PROCEDURE

2.10.1 Standard heating conditions
The temperature of the furnace shall be controlled to vary with time, as closely as possible
in accordance with the following relationship:
T = 345 log 10 (8t + 1) + 20
where
T = furnace temperature at time t, in degrees centigrade
t = time into the test, measured from the ignition of the furnace, in minutes
NOTE: The relationship is illustrated by the following, calculated by means of the above equation
to give the standard time-temperature rise curve (see Figure 2.10.1):

Time (t) Prescribed furnace

Min temperature (T)°C
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0 20
5 576
10 679
15 738
30 841
60 945
90 1006
120 1049
180 1110
240 1153
360 1213

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 AS 1530.4—2005 26

FIGURE 2.10.1 STANDARD TIME VS TEMPERATURE CURVE

2.10.2 Control of furnace temperature

2.10.2.1 Measurement
The furnace temperature shall be measured at intervals not exceeding 1 min.
2.10.2.2 Accuracy of control
The accuracy of furnace control shall be as follows:
(a) At any time after the first 10 min, the average furnace temperature shall not differ
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from the standard curve by more than ±100 K.

(b) For test specimens incorporating a significant amount of combustible material, the
deviation may be exceeded for a period not in excess of 10 min, provided that excess
deviation is clearly identified as being associated with the sudden ignition of
significant quantities of combustible materials increasing the average furnace
temperature.
The percentage deviation in the area of the curve of the average temperature recorded by
the specified furnace thermocouples versus time from the standard time-temperature curve
shall be within the following parameters:
(a) For 5 < t ≤ 10 .................................................................................................... 15%.
(b) For 10 < t ≤ 30 ............................................................................. 15 – 0.5 (t – 10)%.
(c) For 30 < t ≤ 60 ........................................................................... 5 – 0.083 (t – 30)%.
(d) For t > 60 ......................................................................................................... 2.5%.
where t = time into the test, measured from the ignition of the furnace, in minutes.
All areas shall be computed by the same method, that is, by the summation of areas at
intervals not exceeding 1 min for Item (a) and 5 min for Items (b), (c) and (d), and shall be
calculated above an axis of 0°C from time zero.

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 27 AS 1530.4—2005

2.10.3 Furnace pressure differential

2.10.3.1 General
A linear pressure gradient exists over the height of the furnace, and although the gradient
will vary slightly as a function of the furnace temperature, an average value of 8.0 Pa per
metre height shall be assumed in assessing the furnace pressure conditions.
The value of the furnace pressure shall be—
(a) the average value disregarding fluctuations of pressure associated with turbulence and
other disturbances;
(b) established relative to the pressure outside the furnace; and
(c) controlled so that the calculated pressure at the sensor location does not deviate by
more than—
(i) for 5 < t < 10 .......................................................................................... ±5 Pa.
(ii) for t≥ 10 ................................................................................................ ±3 Pa.
where t = time from the commencement of the test, in minutes.
2.10.3.2 Vertical elements
The furnace shall be operated such that a pressure of zero is established at a height of
500 mm above the notional floor level for the specimen.
2.10.3.3 Horizontal elements
The furnace shall be operated such that a pressure of 20 Pa is established at a position
100 mm below the underside of the test specimen above that of the laboratory atmosphere.
2.10.4 Deviation from required test condition
Where the average furnace temperature, pressure conditions and ambient conditions in the
laboratory create more severe conditions than those specified in Clauses 2.10.1, 2.10.2 and
2.10.3, the actual test results may be accepted as valid. Such variations shall be fully
described in the test report.
2.10.5 Duration of test
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The test may be terminated for one or more of the following reasons:
(a) Safety of personnel or impending damage to equipment.
(b) Attainment of selected criteria.
(c) Request of the applicant.

2.11 MEASUREMENTS, OBSERVATIONS AND RECORDS

2.11.1 General
Throughout the course of the test, observations shall be made of the behaviour of the
specimen with particular emphasis on structural adequacy, integrity and insulation. All
significant events shall be recorded, and the time of their occurrence shall be noted.
Measurements shall be recorded at sufficient frequency to produce a plot that will permit
reliable interpolation.
2.11.2 Structural adequacy
The following aspects of structural adequacy shall be recorded:
(a) The deflection of the specimen following the commencement of heating.
NOTE: The relevant sections of this Standard indicate the locations where deflection is to be
measured in each particular case.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 28

(b) Dislodgment or detachment of any part.

(c) Collapse or deflection in excess of that specified in the relevant Sections of this
Standard.
(d) Any other factor that could affect structural adequacy.
2.11.3 Integrity
In elements that have a separating function, the presence of cracks, fissures, other openings
or other relevant occurrences shall be noted.
2.11.4 Insulation
The following requirements apply to elements that have a separating function:
(a) The temperature of the unexposed face shall be recorded at intervals not exceeding
1 min.
(b) When emitted radiant heat flux is to be measured, the radiometer readings shall be
recorded at intervals not exceeding 1 min.
2.11.5 Structurally critical temperatures
Where design Standards specify methods of assessment of fire resistance based on
temperature, the temperature shall be measured at locations that are judged to be critical to
the structural adequacy of load-bearing elements, subject to the following:
(a) The applicant and the testing laboratory shall determine, prior to the test, the
particular steel bars, tendons and the like whose temperatures are to be monitored
throughout the test.
(b) The procedures shall be carried out as detailed in the applicable section of this
Standard.
These temperatures shall be recorded at intervals not exceeding 1 min.
NOTE: By reference to the appropriate design code, the fire resistance of a column or beam may
be deduced, account being taken of the particular grade of steel used, the degree of applied
loading, the condition of support and other relevant factors.
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2.11.6 Additional observations

During loading and throughout the test, observations shall be made of changes and
occurrences, which, although not criteria of performance, could create hazards or impair
performance.
NOTE: Examples of such effects include cracking, fusing, change of colour, falling of material,
spalling, explosive spalling, melting, flaming, charring, and the emission of appreciable volumes
of smoke or noxious vapours from the unexposed face of a separating element.
2.11.7 Computation of radiant heat reflux
Where required, the average intensity of radiant heat flux emitted by the specimen shall be
determined by the following equation:
Io = I r /ϕ

where
I o = average intensity of radiant heat flux emitted by the specimens, in kilowatts per
square metre
I r = intensity of radiant heat flux recorded by the radiometer, in kilowatts per square
metre
ϕ = configuration factor applicable to the measurement

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 29 AS 1530.4—2005

NOTE: For radiant heat flux measurement, see Appendix A.

2.12 CRITERIA OF FAILURE

2.12.1 Structural adequacy (load-bearing capacity)
Failure in relation to structural adequacy shall be deemed to have occurred upon collapse,
or when the following occurs:
(a) When the following criteria for axially loaded elements has been exceeded:
h . . . 2.12(1)
Limiting axial contraction, C = mm ; and
100
dC 3h . . . 2.12(2)
Limiting rate of axial contraction, = mm
dt 1000
where h = the initial height
(b) When the following criteria for laterally loaded elements has been exceeded:
Deflection of L2/400d mm . . . 2.12(3)
Where the rate of deflection is (in millimetres per minute), calculated over 1 min
intervals, starting at 1 min from the commencement of the heating period, exceeds the
limit set by—
Rate of deflection = L2/9000d mm/min . . . 2.12(4)
where
L = clear span of the specimen, in millimetres
d = distance from the top of the structural section to the bottom of the design
tension zone, in millimetres
Since relatively rapidly deflections can occur before stable conditions are reached, the rate
of deflection limit shall not apply before a deflection of L/30 is exceeded.
2.12.2 Integrity
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2.12.2.1 General
Failure in relation to integrity shall be deemed to have occurred when evaluated in
accordance with Clauses 2.12.2.2 to 2.12.2.4.
For an element intended to separate spaces and resist the passage of flame from one space
to another, failure in relation to integrity shall be deemed to have occurred upon collapse,
the development of cracks, fissures, or other openings through which flames or hot gases
can pass, or upon other occurrences as set out in the relevant section.
The measurement of the integrity of the test specimen shall be made by cotton pad, gap
gauges or sustained flaming. For uninsulated assemblies, other than service penetrations,
the use of the cotton pad is inappropriate and the gap gauges shall be used to determine
failure. If a specimen contains elements of different thermal resistance, the cotton pad may
be used against those parts deemed to be insulating.
C2.12.2.1 The radiant heat transfer from uninsulated specimens is likely to be sufficient
to cause unpiloted ignition of the cotton pad and, therefore, its use is not considered
appropriate. Users of this Standard should be aware that fire spread due to radiant heat
transfer could occur prior to the stated integrity period for uninsulated specimens.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 30

2.12.2.2 Cotton pad

The cotton pad in its frame shall be applied against the surface of the test specimen over the
crack, fissure or flaming under examination, until ignition of the cotton pad (defined as
glowing or flaming) or for a maximum of 30 s. A small adjustment in the position of the
cotton pad may be made to achieve the maximum effect from the hot gases.
Where there are irregularities in the surface of the test specimen, care should be taken to
ensure that the legs of the support frame are located such as to maintain clearance between
the cotton pad and any part of the test specimen surface during the measurement.
2.12.2.3 Gap gauges
Gap gauges are used to evaluate the size of any opening in the surface of the test specimen
at time intervals that will be determined by the apparent rate of the specimen deterioration.
Two gap gauges shall be employed, in turn, and without undue force to determine when—
(a) a 6 mm gap gauge can be passed through the specimen so that the gap gauge projects
into the furnace and can be moved a distance of 150 mm along the gap; or
(b) a 25 mm gap gauge can be passed through the specimen so that the gap gauge projects
into the furnace.
Any small interruptions to the passage of the gap gauge, which would have little or no
effect upon the transmission of hot gases through the opening, shall not be taken into
account; for example, small fastenings across a construction joint that has opened due to
distortion.
2.12.2.4 Flaming
Sustained flaming on the surface of the unexposed face for 10 s or longer constitutes
integrity failure.
2.12.3 Insulation
Failure in relation to insulation shall be deemed to have occurred when measurement of
insulation is made by thermocouples on the unexposed face, the initial temperature is the
average temperature on the unexposed face measured less than 5 min before commencement
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of the test. The specimen is deemed to have failed when—

(a) the average temperature of the unexposed face of the test specimen, as measured by
the thermocouples specified in Clause 2.2.3.1, exceeds the initial temperature by
more than 140 K; or
(b) the temperature at any location on the unexposed face of the test specimen exceeds
the initial temperature by more than 180 K.
2.12.4 Radiation
Failure in relation to radiation shall be deemed to have occurred when the calculated total
heat flux at a distance of 365 mm exceeds 10 kW/m2 .

2.13 TEST RESULTS

The test results shall be stated in terms of the time in elapsed whole minutes, from the start
of the test until failure has occurred under each or any of the criteria in Clause 2.12, as
applicable, or, if no failure has occurred, until the test is terminated.

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 31 AS 1530.4—2005

NOTES:
1 The following test results would indicate that a floor/ceiling system failed in respect of
resistance to incipient spread of fire, insulation and integrity after the stated times, but
complied with the requirements for structural adequacy when the test was terminated at
136 min:

Test results example 1

Structural adequacy No failure at 136 min
Integrity 118 min
Insulation 106 min
Resistance to incipient spread of 65 min
fire

2 The following test results would indicate that an uninsulated doorset failed in respect of
radiation and insulation after the stated times and that the structural adequacy criteria is not
applicable:

Test results example 2

Structural adequacy (not applicable)
Integrity 118 min
Insulation 5 min
Radiation 75 min

2.14 DETERMINATION OF FIRE RESISTANCE LEVEL (FRL)

The fire resistant levels of an element shall be assigned in the form, structural
adequacy/integrity/insulation with the values rounded down to the appropriate regulatory
values. For some elements, all of the criteria of failure are not applicable and in these cases
the value is indicated by a dash, for example for a structural beam or column, xx/–/–, or for
a non-load-bearing wall, –/yy/zz.

2.15 REPORTING RESULTS

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2.15.1 General
The test report shall include the following statement:
THE RESULTS OF THESE FIRE TESTS MAY BE USED TO DIRECTLY
ASSESS FIRE HAZARD, BUT IT SHOULD RECOGNIZED THAT A SINGLE
TEST METHOD WILL NOT PROVIDE A FULL ASSESSMENT OF FIRE
HAZARD UNDER ALL FIRE CONDITIONS.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 32

2.15.2 Test report

The description and the drawings, which shall be included in the test report, shall, as far as
practicable, be based on information provided by the applicant and verified by a survey of
the test specimen. When full and detailed drawings are not produced by the laboratory for
inclusion in the report, the applicant’s drawing(s) of the test specimen shall be
authenticated by the laboratory and at least one copy of the authenticated drawing(s) shall
be included in the report. The report shall state that the drawings are those provided by the
applicant.
The test report shall contain the following information:
(a) The name and address of the testing authority.
(b) The name and address of the applicant.
(c) The date of the test.
(d) The unique reference number of the test
(e) The name of the manufacturer (if known) of the test specimen and of the products and
components used in the construction, together with identification marks and trade
names.
(f) The construction details of the test specimen, including description and drawings and
principal details of the components.
(g) The relevant properties of materials or components that have a bearing on the fire
performance of the test specimen. Where it is impractical to measure some of these
properties, this shall be reported.
(h) The method of assembly and installation of the test specimen.
(i) Details of pre-test conditioning of the test specimen.
(j) A statement concerning the laboratory’s involvement in the selection of the test
specimen.
(k) For load-bearing elements, the load applied to the test specimen, the basis for its
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calculation as provided by the applicant and the method of loading.

(l) The support and restraint conditions employed and the rationale for their selection.
(m) For asymmetrical separating elements, the direction in which the specimen was tested
and the reason for this choice.
(n) Information concerning the location of all thermocouples specified in Clause 2.2.3
and 2.2.4, pressure measurement and deflection measurement devices, including
drawings that clearly illustrate the positions of the various devices and identify them
relative to the data provided.
(o) The ambient temperature of the laboratory at the commencement of the test.
(p) The location of the pressure sensor.
(q) Temperature curves of the furnace heating conditions.
(r) The reasons validating the test in the event of the tolerances on the temperature/time
curve, pressure conditions or ambient laboratory conditions being inadvertently
exceeded.

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 33 AS 1530.4—2005

(s) The result stated in terms of time, in elapsed whole minutes, between the
commencement of heating and the time of failure with respect to the relevant criteria
including—
(i) the rate of deflection when this is the criterion used to assess load-bearing
capacity, including the value of d (see Clause 2.12.1) used in calculating the
limiting rate of deflection for flexural members;
(ii) the maximum deflection and the time and position at which it occurred,
supported by adequate graphical data;
(iii) the mode of failure with respect to all integrity criteria;
(iv) the position(s) at which the maximum temperature rise was measured should
this be the case of insulation failure; and
(v) any alternative and additional tests in accordance with Appendix B, e.g., plate
thermometers.
(t) Tabulation or graphical depiction of the output from all pressure-measuring devices,
deflection measuring devices, radiometers, unexposed face thermocouples and, where
applicable, internal thermocouples.
NOTE: The report only needs to include a selection of the measured data sufficient to provide
a history of the performance of the test specimen. For example, it is not necessary to tabulate
the temperature of every thermocouple fixed to a beam at 1 min intervals for the whole
duration of a 90 min test; however, it is recommended that all of the measurements are
included at around the time of failure of all the criteria being considered. Before and after this
period, the interval at which measured data needs to be included in the report may be longer,
for example, 5 to 10 min.
(u) A description of any significant behaviour of the test specimen.
(v) The field of direct application of the results for the specimen to be evaluated, for
example, applicable for fire exposure from direction tested.
(w) The following statements:
THIS REPORT DETAILS METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION, THE TEST
CONDITIONS AND THE RESULTS OBTAINED WHEN THE SPECIFIC
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ELEMENT OF CONSTRUCTION DESCRIBED HEREIN WAS TESTED

FOLLOWING THE PROCEDURE OUTLINED IN THIS STANDARD.
ANY SIGNIFICANT VARIATION WITH RESPECT TO SIZE,
CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS, LOADS, STRESSES, EDGE OR END
CONDITIONS, OTHER THAN THOSE ALLOWED UNDER THE FIELD
OF DIRECT APPLICATION IN THE RELEVANT TEST METHOD, IS
NOT COVERED BY THIS REPORT.
BECAUSE OF THE NATURE OF FIRE RESISTANCE TESTING AND
THE CONSEQUENT DIFFICULTY IN QUANTIFYING THE
UNCERTAINTY OF MEASUREMENT OF FIRE RESISTANCE, IT IS NOT
POSSIBLE TO PROVIDE A STATED DEGREE OF ACCURACY OF THE
RESULT.
NOTE: Appendix A provides guidelines on the measurement of radiant heat flux.
(x) The FRL assigned to the test specimen.
2.15.3 Regulatory information report
In addition to the full test report, a regulatory information report may be issued to provide
the minimum information required for regulatory compliance.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 34

The regulatory information report shall contain the following:

(a) The name and address of the testing authority.
(b) The name and address of the applicant.
(c) The date of the test.
(d) The unique reference number of the test.
(e) The name of the manufacturer (if known) of the test specimen and of the products and
components used in the construction, together with identification marks and trade
names.
(f) The construction details of the test specimen, including description and drawings and
principal details of the components.
(g) The relevant properties of materials or components that have a bearing on the fire
performance of the test specimen. Where it is impractical to measure some of these
properties, this shall be reported.
(h) The method of assembly and installation of the test specimen.
(i) For load-bearing elements, the load applied to the test specimen.
(j) The support and restraint conditions employed and the rationale for their selection.
(k) For asymmetrical separating elements, the direction in which the specimen was tested
and the reason for this choice.
(l) Statement that conditions complied with the Standard.
The result stated in terms of time, in elapsed whole minutes, between the
commencement of heating and the time of failure with respect to the relevant criteria
(m) A description of any significant behaviour of the test specimen.
(n) The field of direct applicability of the results for the specimen to be evaluated, for
example, applicable for fire exposure from direction tested.
(o) The following statements:
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THIS REPORT DETAILS THE METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION, TEST

CONDITIONS AND THE RESULTS OBTAINED WHEN THE SPECIFIC ELEMENT
OF CONSTRUCTION DESCRIBED HEREIN WAS TESTED FOLLOWING THE
PROCEDURE OUTLINED IN AS 1530.4. ANY SIGNIFICANT VARIATION WITH
RESPECT TO SIZE, CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS, LOADS, STRESSES, EDGE OR
END CONDITIONS, OTHER THAN THOSE ALLOWED UNDER THE FIELD OF
DIRECT APPLICATION IN THE RELEVANT TEST METHOD, IS NOT COVERED
BY THIS REPORT.
BECAUSE OF THE NATURE OF FIRE RESISTANCE TESTING AND THE
CONSEQUENT DIFFICULTY IN QUANTIFYING THE UNCERTAINTY OF
MEASUREMENT OF FIRE RESISTANCE, IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO PROVIDE A
STATED DEGREE OF ACCURACY OF THE RESULT.
(p) The FRL assigned to the test specimen.
2.15.4 Test certificate
In addition to the full test report and short-form report, an abbreviated version may be
provided for commercial purposes, at the specific request of the applicant, which shall
include the following:
(a) Description of specimen (attach a drawing where appropriate).
(b) Test results, including the FRL.

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 35 AS 1530.4—2005

(c) The following statement:

THIS CERTIFICATE IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION
ONLY AND DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE REGULATORY
REQUIREMENTS FOR EVIDENCE OF COMPLIANCE.
(d) Reference to the relevant test report or regulatory information report and a statement
that reference should be made to the relevant test report or regulatory information
report to determine the applicability of the test result to a proposed installation.
NOTE: For some specimens, multiple certificates may be provided, for example, where the
specimen contains multiple penetrations.
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 AS 1530.4—2005 36

S E C T I O N 3 W A L L S— V E RT I CA L
SE PAR AT ING E L E ME NT S

3.1 GENERAL
3.1.1 Application
This Section sets out the procedures for determining the fire resistance of masonry,
prefabricated and framed walls, access panels, and insulated glazed elements when forming
part of a wall. It shall be read in conjunction with Section 2.
NOTE: Access panels and insulated glazed elements are considered part of the separating
elements and are subject to the relevant criteria of failure.
The performance of doorsets, glazing, dampers, service penetrations and similar
components, often found in walls, are covered by other sections of this Standard.
3.1.2 Vertical separating elements
A vertical construction serving as an enclosure, barrier, division, support, protection, or the
like, and may be solid, framed, or combinations, such as cavity walls. Vertically separating
elements include the following:
(a) Masonry wall A wall, for example, brickwork, concrete blockwork, and gypsum
blocks, that is generally constructed from identical units. Where a bonding material is
used, it is of a type generally used with the masonry unit. See examples in
Figure 3.3.1.1 (A) and (C).
(b) Prefabricated wall Discrete prefabricated panels that are fixed to each other along
the long edges. Examples are gypsum board with a paper honeycomb core, wood-
based panels, strawboard panels or laminated sheets with tongued and grooved edges.
See example in Figures 3.3.1.1(E) and (G).
(c) Framed wall Wall comprising framing members clad with board, which may be
framed product such as steel, wood or aluminium whilst the board may be typically
gypsum board, calcium silicate board, cement particle board, wood composite board,
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steel or mineral fibre board. A framed wall has a cavity that may be wholly or partly
filled with an insulating material. See examples in Figures 3.3.1.1 (I) and (L).

3.2 TEST SPECIMEN

3.2.1 General
The wall system shall be installed and tested in a manner representative of the intended
application.
3.2.2 Size
The specimen size shall comply with Clause 2.8.2.
3.2.3 Construction
3.2.3.1 Configuration
Walls shall be tested with horizontal or vertical joints where these form part of the wall in
practice. Stiffeners, or the like, that form part of the wall shall be incorporated in the test
specimen.
NOTE: In-built features such as access panels, light fittings, power outlets and any other
openings should be included in the specimen.
All load-bearing walls shall be constructed with the vertical edges unrestrained.

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 37 AS 1530.4—2005

When simulating a non-load-bearing wall intended to be greater than 3000 mm in length, it

shall be fixed at one vertical edge and be free at the other edge. At the free edge, a nominal
gap shall be left and packed with a non-restraining and non-combustible material such as
mineral fibre so that it does not restrict the freedom of movement due to frictional forces.
NOTE: For framed walls, a gap of 25 mm is usually sufficient but for masonry walls, a gap of
50 mm may be required.
3.2.3.2 Prefabricated walls
Where the size of the prefabricated panels are less than half the width of the furnace
opening, the outside edge of the full size panel shall be unrestrained.
Where the difference between the size of the furnace opening and the full width of the panel
is less than 1000 mm, then one small panel shall be attached to the restrained edge of the
specimen. Where the difference is greater than 1000 mm then the full size panel shall be
fixed in the centre of the specimen with smaller panels of equal width on both sides (see
Figures 3.2.3.2(A) and 3.2.3.2(B)).
Where through-joints occur in practice, at least one vertical joint in the test specimen shall
be arranged to simulate this condition.
3.2.3.3 Masonry walls
A masonry wall, for example, brickwork, concrete block work, and gypsum blocks, shall
generally be constructed from identical units. Where a bonding material is used, it shall be
of a type used with the masonry unit.
3.2.3.4 Framed walls
Where sheets are vertically installed, there shall be at least two vertical joints and one
horizontal joint in the specimen, if these are intended to be used in practice. Where sheets
are horizontally installed, there shall be at least two horizontal joints and one vertical joint
in the specimen, if these are intended to be used in practice.
Where the test specimen can incorporate at least two full width sheets, the outside edge of
the full size board on the exposed face shall be unrestrained.
Where the difference between the size of the furnace opening and the full width of the sheet
is less than 1000 mm, then one small sheet shall be attached to the restrained edge of the
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specimen on the exposed face. Where the difference is greater than 1000 mm, then the full
size sheet shall be fixed in the centre of the specimen with smaller sheets of equal width on
both sides (see Figures 3.2.3.2(A) and 3.2.3.2(B)).

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 AS 1530.4—2005 38
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FIGURE 3.2.3.2(A) POSITION OF FREE EDGE—LOAD-BEARING FRAMED AND

PREFABRICATED WALLS VIEWED FROM THE FURNACE-EXPOSED FACE

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 39 AS 1530.4—2005
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FIGURE 3.2.3.2(B) POSITION OF FREE EDGE—NON-LOAD-BEARING FRAMED AND

PREFABRICATED WALLS VIEWED FROM THE FURNACE-EXPOSED FACE

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 AS 1530.4—2005 40

3.3 INSTRUMENTATION
3.3.1 Measurement of temperature
3.3.1.1 General
Specimen thermocouples shall comply with Clause 2.2.3 and shall be positioned in
accordance with Clauses 3.3.1.2 and 3.3.1.3 (see Figures 3.3.1.1(A) to 3.3.1.1(N)).
3.3.1.2 Average temperature measurement
To measure the average temperature rise on the unexposed face of the specimen, five
thermocouples shall be used. One thermocouple shall be placed close to the centre and the
rest shall be placed close to the centre of each quarter section. These thermocouples shall
not be attached to the specimen over thermal bridges, joints, junction, through connections
and fixings such as bolts, screws or nails. Thermocouples shall not be placed over a ridge or
in a depression unless it is wide enough for a disc to make full contact.
For specimens of non-uniform thickness, for example surfaces with corrugations or ribs, the
thermocouples may be appropriately positioned in order to determine average temperatures.
Access panels and insulated glazed elements shall include at least one thermocouple in the
geometric centre.
3.3.1.3 Maximum temperature—General
Additional thermocouples complying with Clause 2.2.3 shall be attached to the specimen to
measure the maximum temperature rise at locations that are considered to have a higher
heat transfer.
A roving thermocouple shall be provided for measuring the maximum temperature at any
point on the surface of the specimen during the test.
3.3.1.4 Maximum temperature—Load-bearing
Thermocouples shall be attached as follows:
(a) At the head of the specimen at mid-width.
(b) At the head of the specimen in line with a stud.
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(c) At the junction of a stud and noggin in a framed wall system.

(d) At the mid-height of one free edge, 100 mm from the edge.
(e) At mid-width, where possible, with the centre of the pad 15 mm from the edge of a
horizontal joint (positive pressure zone).
(f) At mid-height, where possible, with the centre of the pad 15 mm from the edge of a
vertical joint (positive pressure zone).
Examples of thermocouple positions are shown in Figures 3.3.1.1(A) to 3.3.1.1(N).
3.3.1.5 Maximum temperature—Non-load-bearing
Thermocouples shall be attached as follows:
(a) At the head of the specimen at mid-width.
(b) At the head of the specimen in line with a stud.
(c) At the junction of a horizontal and vertical joint in a framed or prefabricated wall
system.
(d) At the mid-height of one fixed edge.
(e) At the mid-height of one free edge, 100 mm from the edge.

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 41 AS 1530.4—2005

(f) At mid-width, where possible, with the centre of the pad 15 mm from the edge of a
horizontal joint (positive pressure zone).
(g) At mid-height, where possible, with the centre of the pad 15 m from the edge of a
vertical joint (positive pressure zone).
Examples of thermocouple positions are shown in Figures 3.3.1.1(A) to 3.3.1.1(N).
3.3.1.6 Inside wall temperatures
Thermocouples, which are used to measure temperatures inside the wall for additional
information or field of application purposes, shall be attached at appropriate positions
without damaging the specimen. The first 25 mm of each thermocouple, where practicable,
shall be in the isothermal plane.
3.3.2 Measurement of deflection
3.3.2.1 General
Instrumentation complying with Clause 2.4 shall be used to measure horizontal and vertical
deflection.
3.3.2.2 Measurement of horizontal deflection—Both load-bearing and non-load-bearing
Measurements shall be made at mid-height, at the centre of the specimen and 50 mm from
the free edge.
NOTE: The Information on the deformation of the walls may be used to extend the application of
the test results.
3.3.2.3 Measurement of vertical deflection—Load-bearing only
At least two measurements shall be made, one at each vertical edge of the specimen (see
Figures 3.3.1.1(A) to 3.3.1.1(N)).
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 AS 1530.4—2005 42
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FIGURE 3.3.1.1(A) TYPICAL CONFIGURATION FOR MASONRY WALLS—

LOAD-BEARING

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 43 AS 1530.4—2005
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FIGURE 3.3.1.1(B) TYPICAL CONFIGURATION FOR MASONRY WALLS—

LOAD-BEARING

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 AS 1530.4—2005 44
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FIGURE 3.3.1.1(C) TYPICAL CONFIGURATION FOR MASONRY WALLS—

NON-LOAD-BEARING

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 45 AS 1530.4—2005
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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 3.3.1.1(D) TYPICAL CONFIGURATION FOR MASONRY WALLS—

NON-LOAD-BEARING

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 AS 1530.4—2005 46
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FIGURE 3.3.1.1(E) TYPICAL CONFIGURATION FOR PREFABRICATED WALLS—

LOAD-BEARING

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 47 AS 1530.4—2005
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FIGURE 3.3.1.1(F) TYPICAL CONFIGURATION FOR PREFABRICATED WALLS—

LOAD-BEARING

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 AS 1530.4—2005 48
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FIGURE 3.3.1.1(G) TYPICAL CONFIGURATION FOR PREFABRICATED WALLS—

NON-LOAD-BEARING

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 49 AS 1530.4—2005
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FIGURE 3.3.1.1(H) TYPICAL CONFIGURATION FOR PREFABRICATED WALLS—

NON-LOAD-BEARING

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 AS 1530.4—2005 50
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FIGURE 3.3.1.1(I) TYPICAL CONFIGURATION FOR FRAMED WALLS—LOAD-BEARING

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 51 AS 1530.4—2005
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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 3.3.1.1(J) TYPICAL CONFIGURATION FOR FRAMED WALLS—

LOAD-BEARING WITH TIMBER FRAMEWORK

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 AS 1530.4—2005 52
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FIGURE 3.3.1.1(K) TYPICAL CONFIGURATION FOR FRAMED WALLS—

LOAD-BEARING WITH METAL FRAMEWORK

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 53 AS 1530.4—2005
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FIGURE 3.3.1.1(L) TYPICAL CONFIGURATION FOR FRAMED WALLS—

NON-LOAD-BEARING

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 AS 1530.4—2005 54
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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 3.3.1.1(M) TYPICAL CONFIGURATION FOR FRAMED WALLS—

NON-LOAD-BEARING WITH TIMBER FRAMEWORK

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 55 AS 1530.4—2005
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FIGURE 3.3.1.1(N) TYPICAL CONFIGURATION FOR FRAMED WALLS—

NON-LOAD-BEARING WITH METAL FRAMEWORK

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 AS 1530.4—2005 56

3.4 LOADING
3.4.1 General
When subjected to loads, all load-bearing walls shall be tested and calculated in accordance
with Clause 2.9 and in consultation with the applicant.
3.4.2 Vertical load
Vertical load shall be applied to either the top or bottom edge, with the vertical edges left
free to deform.
3.4.3 Method of loading
The load shall be applied either uniformly across the width of the specimen by a loading
beam or by individual loading jacks at selected points, where this is more representative of
the use of the construction. If the test specimen is designed to be eccentrically loaded, or if
only one leaf of a cavity construction is to be loaded, these conditions shall be reproduced
in the specimen.
3.4.4 Loading frame
The test specimen shall be erected within a loading frame having appropriate stiffness in
relation to the test construction and to the loads that will be imposed upon it during the test.
As a guide, the load distribution members should not deflect more than 1 mm under a force
of 10 kN applied at the centre span, in the plane of the frame.
3.4.5 Loading system
The loading system shall be capable of compensating for the maximum allowable
deformation of the specimen.

3.5 SPECIMEN ORIENTATION

3.5.1 Fire resistance from either direction
Where an element is required to resist fire from either direction, specimens shall be tested
from each direction, except that where the testing laboratory considers that one particular
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direction will give a lower fire resistance, the first test shall be conducted in that direction
and the testing authority may, at its discretion, waive the second test.
3.5.2 Fire resistance from one direction
Where an element is to resist fire in one direction only, the test specimen shall be tested in
that direction.

3.6 MEASUREMENTS AND OBSERVATIONS

In addition to the requirements of Clause 2.11 and Clause 3.3, observations shall be
recorded of any behaviour or occurrence that may be relevant to the performance of the
specimen.

3.7 CRITERIA OF FAILURE

The fire resistance shall be determined in terms of structural adequacy, integrity and
insulation in accordance with Clause 2.12.

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 57 AS 1530.4—2005

3.8 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN

The results of the fire test contained in the test report are directly applicable, without
reference to the testing authority, to similar constructions where one or more of the
following changes have been made provided no individual component is removed or
reduced:
(a) Increase in the length of a wall of identical construction if the specimen was tested
with one vertical edge unrestrained.
(b) Increase in thickness of the wall.
(c) For framed walls—
(i) increase in timber density;
(ii) increase in cross-sectional dimensions of the framing element(s);
(iii) Increase in steel thickness up to a maximum of 2 mm;
(iv) decrease in sheet or panel sizes;
(v) decrease in stud spacing; or
(vi) decrease in fixing centres of wall sheet materials.
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 AS 1530.4—2005 58

SECT ION 4 F L OORS, ROOFS AND CE I L I N GS

HOR I Z ONTA L SEPARAT I NG E L EMEN TS

4.1 GENERAL
4.1.1 Application
This Section sets out the procedures for determining the fire resistance of load-bearing and
non-load-bearing horizontal separating elements when exposed to heating from the
underside. It applies to floors, roofs, ceilings, combinations of floor/ceiling systems,
roof/ceiling systems, access panels, and insulated glazed elements when forming part of a
horizontal separating element.
This Section shall be read in conjunction with Section 2.
NOTE: Access panels and insulated glazed elements are considered part of the separating
elements and are subject to the relevant criteria of failure.
The testing procedures in this section are also applicable to ceilings, either suspended by
hangers or fixed directly to a supporting frame or construction, and to self-supporting
ceilings. These systems intrinsically possess fire resistance independent of any building
element above.
This Section also includes a procedure for assessing incipient spread of fire, which only
applies where the ceiling system is the primary barrier between compartments by way of the
ceiling void.
4.1.2 Horizontal separating elements
Horizontally orientated separating elements include the following:
(a) Floor A load-bearing element of a building providing horizontal fire separation.
When the floor assembly includes a protective membrane, its performance is assessed
as an integral part of the complete assembly.
(b) Floor-ceiling systems A composite load-bearing element of a building comprising
both a floor and ceiling providing horizontal fire separation. When the floor assembly
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includes a horizontal protective membrane, its performance is assessed as an integral

part of the complete system.
(c) Roof A load-bearing element of a building that resists the spread of fire. When the
roof assembly includes a protective membrane, its performance is assessed as an
integral part of the complete assembly.
(d) Roof-ceiling system A composite load-bearing element of a building comprising both
a roof and ceiling providing resistance to the vertical spread of fire. When the roof
assembly includes a horizontal protective membrane, its performance is assessed as
an integral part of the complete system.
(e) Ceiling system A non-load-bearing element of a building providing horizontal fire
separation. The ceiling may be direct fixed or suspended below a roof or floor or may
be self-supporting and span from wall to wall, without any additional suspension
devices.
(f) Ceiling system for resistance to the incipient spread of fire A ceiling used to prevent
the spread of fire from one compartment to another through a floor-ceiling or a roof-
ceiling cavity. It is only applicable in those configurations where the ceiling is the
primary separating element (see Figure 4.1.2).

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 59 AS 1530.4—2005

(g) Ceiling system for protection of structural members A ceiling system that is
designed to act as a horizontal separating element to provide full or partial protection,
supplementing other forms of protection, to maintain the structural adequacy
requirements of a structural member.
NOTES:
1 A ceiling system may be used to supplement spray protection, or the like, already applied
to a structural member.
2 A ceiling system that has an established level of performance to the resistance of the
incipient spread of fire will provide structural protection for at least an equivalent period
of time.
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FIGURE 4.1.2 DIAGRAMATIC REPRESENTATION OF INSTALLATIONS WHERE

CEILING SYSTEMS REQUIRE RESISTANCE TO THE INCIPIENT SPREAD OF FIRE

4.2 TYPES OF HORIZONTAL SEPARATING ELEMENTS

For testing purposes, the various types of horizontal separating elements are as follows:
(a) Floor systems.
(b) Floor-ceiling systems.
(c) Roof systems.
(d) Roof-ceiling systems.
(e) Ceiling systems.
(f) Ceilings systems for the resistance of the incipient spread of fire.
(g) Ceilings systems for protection of structural members.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 60

4.3 TEST SPECIMEN

4.3.1 General
The specimen shall be installed and tested in a manner representative of the intended
application and shall include all fittings, access panels and hatches, as intended for use in
practice (see Figure 4.3.1).
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FIGURE 4.3.1 DIAGRAMMATIC REPRESENTATION OF HORIZONTAL SEPARATING

ELEMENTS

4.3.2 Size
This specimen size shall comply with Clause 2.8.2.
4.3.3 Floor systems
Floor systems, acting as horizontal separating elements without the aid of a protective
membrane, shall comprise a representative portion of the proposed system including all
structural, support and suspension systems.

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 61 AS 1530.4—2005

4.3.4 Floor-ceiling systems

Floor-ceiling systems, acting as horizontal separating elements in combination with a
protective membrane, shall comprise a representative portion of the proposed system
including all structural, support and suspension systems.
4.3.5 Roof systems
Roof systems, acting as horizontal separating elements without the aid of a protective
membrane, shall comprise a representative portion of the proposed system including all
structural, support and suspension systems.
4.3.6 Roof-ceiling systems
Roof-ceiling systems acting as horizontal separating elements in combination with a
horizontal protective membrane shall comprise a representative portion of the proposed
system including all structural, support and suspension systems.
4.3.7 Ceiling systems
Ceiling systems, either suspended or self-supporting, shall act as horizontal separating
elements independent of a floor or roof structure (see Figure 4.3.7).
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 AS 1530.4—2005 62
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FIGURE 4.3.7 TYPICAL TEST CONFIGURATION FOR A CEILING WITH AN

OPEN SUPPORTING SYSTEM

4.3.8 Ceiling systems for resistance to the incipient spread of fire

Ceiling systems, either suspended or self-supporting, shall provide resistance to the
incipient spread of fire and act as horizontal separating elements independent of a floor or
roof structure (see Figure 4.3.7).
4.3.9 Ceiling systems for protection of structural members
Ceiling systems acting as horizontal separating elements protecting structural members,
which shall be installed below the supporting structure as intended for use in practice (see
Figure 4.3.9).

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 63 AS 1530.4—2005

FIGURE 4.3.9 TYPICAL TEST CONFIGURATION FOR A CEILING SYSTEM

PROTECTING STRUCTURAL MEMBERS

4.3.10 Construction
4.3.10.1 General
The specimen shall incorporate—
(a) longitudinal and transverse joints;
(b) services, such as lighting or air-handling systems, that are an integral part of the
design of the element; and
(c) beams that are an integral part of the design of the element, instrumented as required
by Section 6.
4.3.10.2 Ceilings
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Where the ceiling design includes longitudinal and transverse joints, the test specimen shall
include such joints in both longitudinal and transverse directions. The profiles bearing the
various components or panels of the ceiling shall be installed against each other without any
gap, unless a gap (or gaps) is required for design purposes. In this case, the gap (or gaps)
shall be installed within the specimen and not at its perimeter.
The test specimen shall be mounted in a test frame, to prohibit thermal elongation of the
specimen and component members so that the thermal expansion behaviour of grid
members and expansion devices can be correctly evaluated.
If the horizontal and transverse components vary in cross-section, the component that is
closer to the ceiling membrane shall be orientated parallel to the longitudinal axis.
Self-supporting ceilings, smaller than full size, shall incorporate one free edge at the end of
the longest span and no allowance shall be made for longitudinal movement or thermal
expansion around the perimeter.
Supported ceilings smaller than full size shall be fixed to the specimen support frame and
no allowance shall be made for longitudinal movement or thermal expansion around the
perimeter.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 64

4.3.10.3 Ceiling systems providing resistance to incipient spread of fire

For the universal application of results, ceilings with a resistance to the incipient spread of
fire shall be constructed under a floor or roof structure with the minimum plenum depth.
4.3.10.4 Ceiling systems providing protection of structural members
The ceiling shall be constructed not closer than 5 mm or more than 400 mm from the soffit
of the structural member. Where fittings, e.g., lighting units, ducts or grills, require a larger
cavity, the ceiling shall be fitted as close as possible to the soffit of the structural member.
For the universal application of results for ceilings protecting steel members, the beams
used shall be 200 UB 30, or a solid rolled section having an exposed surface area to mass
ratio greater than or equal to 31.0 mm2 /kg × 10 3 and subjected to four-sided exposure shall
be used.
NOTE: 1 m 2 /kg × 103 = 1 m 2 /t.
The ratio of the exposed surface area of the steel beams and the plan area of the suspended
ceiling shall be less than 0.8:1.
For the protection of timber members, the beams shall be of sufficient size to determine
char depths for the duration of the test.

4.4 INSTRUMENTATION
4.4.1 Measurement of temperature
Temperatures shall be measured using thermocouples complying with Clause 2.2.3 and
positioned in accordance with Clause 2.2.3 at the locations given in Clauses 4.4.2 to 4.4.5.
4.4.2 Temperature measurement of the unexposed specimen surface
4.4.2.1 General
The following applies:
(a) Surface thermocouples of the type specified in Clause 2.2.3 shall be attached to the
unexposed surface of the test specimen to measure the average and maximum
temperature rise.
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(b) The thermocouples shall not be placed closer than 100 mm from an uninsulated
glazed element or 100 mm from the free edge(s) of the test specimen.
4.4.2.2 Thermocouples for measuring the average temperature rise
The following applies:
(a) Five thermocouples shall be evenly distributed over the test specimen to monitor the
temperature of the unexposed surface of the specimen as defined in Clause 4.2. They
shall be placed one in the centre of the specimen and one at the centre of each quarter
section.
(b) For test specimens that contain discrete areas ≥0.1 m 2 and expected to exhibit
different levels of insulation performance, e.g., glazing, each discrete area shall be
individually monitored for average temperature rise. The average temperature rise
shall be measured by thermocouples distributed over each discrete area. One
thermocouple shall be provided for every 1.5 m2 , or part thereof, of the test specimen.
A minimum of two thermocouples for each discrete area shall be provided.
(c) For wooden floors or roof constructions, the distance of these thermocouples to the
side of the nearer joist shall be at least 50 mm.
(d) For wooden floors or roof constructions, the distance of the thermocouples to the
joints of the floorboards, panels or slabs shall be at least 50 mm.

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 65 AS 1530.4—2005

(e) Where the test specimen is covered only with one layer of floorboards with a board
width of less than 100 mm, the distance shall be half the width of the boards.
(f) Where the test specimen has insulated parts of differing thicknesses, the number of
thermocouples on the unexposed face shall be increased to six to provide equal
numbers of thermocouples at the maximum and minimum thicknesses.
4.4.2.3 Thermocouples for measuring the maximum temperature rise
The following applies:
(a) If the test specimen incorporates discrete areas of different thermal insulation, which
are evaluated separately, the evaluation of maximum exposed face temperature of
these areas shall also be undertaken separately. This may require additional
unexposed surface thermocouples.
(b) For floors or roofs with wooden beams or joists, the distance to the nearest side of the
beam or joist shall be at least 50 mm.
(c) The distance of the thermocouples to the joints shall be 15 ±2 mm.
(d) Additional thermocouples shall be positioned as follows:
(i) Before the heating period—at any point, including a joint, which, in the opinion
of the testing authority, is likely to become hotter than those points specified in
Clause 4.4.2.1.
(ii) During the heating period—at any time during the test, thermocouples at any
point, including a joint, that appears to be hotter than those being measured.
4.4.3 Temperature measurement of structural elements
4.4.3.1 Reinforced or prestressed concrete elements
Where temperature-measurement procedures in accordance with Clause 2.11.5 are adopted
for reinforced or prestressed concrete elements, thermocouples shall be positioned on the
steel surface, nearest the heated face as a minimum, and on the element, or not less than
four representative tendons or bars at not less than three positions. One position shall be
located within 100 mm of the centre of the test specimen and two other positions shall be
located not less than 500 mm from the wall of the furnace. In addition, not fewer than two
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thermocouples shall be positioned on at least one stirrup, if any, at each end of the test
specimen.
4.4.3.2 Beams, joists, girders or truss elements
Where a beam, joist, girder or truss is incorporated in the test specimen, thermocouples
shall be positioned in accordance with the requirements of Clause 6.3.1.
Additional fixed thermocouples shall be used for determining the maximum temperature
rise on the unexposed face of the ceiling at locations where higher temperatures might be
expected, for example, joints for metal fixtures.
4.4.3.3 Temperature measurement for resistance to incipient spread of fire
Where a ceiling system is required to have resistance to incipient spread of fire to a space
between ceiling and roof, or ceiling and floor above, five thermocouples complying with
Clause 2.2.3(c) (with insulating pads) shall be evenly distributed within the plenum to
monitor the temperature of the unexposed surface of the ceiling membrane. They shall be
placed with one in the centre of the specimen and one at the centre of each quarter section.
When testing corrugated or ribbed specimens, the number of thermocouples on the
unexposed face shall be increased to six to provide an equal number at points of maximum
and minimum specimen thickness, as specified in Section 2.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 66

4.4.4 Measurement of deflection

Deflection shall be measured, relative to the datum point determined at the beginning of the
heating period, at the following positions:
(a) Midspan of the floor or midspan between supporting beams.
(b) Midspan of each beam incorporated in the floor.
(c) Any other point where, in the opinion of the testing authority, a significant deflection
is likely to occur during the test.

4.5 LOADING
4.5.1 Loading of suspension devices
In addition to the requirements of Clause 2.9, a static load shall be applied to any
suspension rod, or the like, that penetrates ceilings, where such suspension devices in
service support loads that may influence the behaviour of these devices during a fire
exposure and consequently affect the fire endurance of the ceiling system.
4.5.2 Load distribution
The contact area between a loading point and the surface of a floor or trafficable roof shall
be through a pad not less than 100 mm × 100 mm and no more than 200 mm × 200 mm
individually and shall not exceed 16% of the total surface area.

4.6 RESTRAINT
4.6.1 General
Where restraint conditions required under Clause 2.9.3 cannot be defined, the test specimen
shall be simply supported and unrestrained.
4.6.2 Horizontal separating elements
Test specimens representing horizontal separating elements shall be tested simply supported
unless the boundary conditions (with respect to restraint and number of edge supports)
representative of practice can be simulated.
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4.6.3 Simply supported constructions

Test specimens representing simply supported constructions shall rest on a smooth bearing
surface.
4.6.4 Sealing of gaps
Where gaps exist at the boundaries, they shall be sealed with a non-restraining and non-
combustible material.

4.7 SPECIMEN ORIENTATION

The specimen shall be exposed to fire from below.

4.8 MEASUREMENTS AND OBSERVATIONS

The performance of the specimen shall be recorded in accordance with Clauses 2.12 and
4.4.

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 67 AS 1530.4—2005

4.9 CRITERIA OF FAILURE

Fire resistance shall be determined in terms of structural adequacy, integrity and insulation
in accordance with Clause 2.12.
Failure in relation to incipient spread of fire shall be deemed to have occurred when the
average temperature of the thermocouples specified in Clause 4.4.3 exceeds 250°C.

4.10 TEST RESULTS

In addition to the requirements of Clause 2.13, where Clause 4.3.8 applies, the test results
shall be stated also in terms of the time elapsed, in whole minutes, from the start of the test
until failure has occurred under incipient spread of fire.
NOTE: Incipient spread of fire is not taken into account in the determination of fire resistance.

4.11 PERMISSIBLE VARIATION TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN

4.11.1 General
The results of the fire test contained in the test report are directly applicable, without
reference to the testing authority, to similar constructions where one or more of the
following changes have been made, provided no individual component is removed or
reduced:
(a) The stress level is reduced and the location and distribution of the load is unchanged.
(b) The rotational and longitudinal restraint is increased.
(c) Thermal insulation is not reduced at any point over the whole area.
(d) The plenum depth in assemblies containing a horizontal protective membrane is
increased.
4.11.2 Self-supporting ceilings
4.11.2.1 Size
The following shall apply:
(a) For self-supporting ceilings of size less than 4 m × 3 m and which are tested full size,
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the results may be applied to ceilings of the same size or less than that tested.
(b) For self-supporting ceilings of practical span less than 4 m but of a width equal to or
greater than 3 m (and tested at a practical span and 3 m in width) and in which the
most onerous direction lies in the 4 m direction of the furnace, the results may be
applied to ceilings of the same span or less than that tested. There shall be no
restriction on application of the results in the width direction. The provisions with
respect to the most onerous configuration, as given in Clause 4.3.10.2, shall be
followed in direct application of the results.
4.11.2.2 Fixtures
Spacing of the tested fixtures, such as lightfittings, may be increased.
4.11.3 Suspended ceilings
4.11.3.1 Size
Test results obtained on a 4 m × 3 m test specimen may be applied to ceilings of the same
size or less than that tested.
4.11.3.2 Fixtures
Spacing of the tested fixtures, such as lightfittings, may be increased.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 68

4.11.4 Ceiling for protection of structural members

4.11.4.1 Size
Test results obtained on a 4 m × 3 m test specimen may be applied to ceilings of the same
size or less than that tested.
4.11.4.2 Fixtures
Spacing of the tested fixtures, such as lightfittings, may be increased.

4.12 TEST REPORT

In addition to the requirements of Clause 2.14, the test report shall include the incipient
spread of fire results.
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 69 AS 1530.4—2005

S E C T I O N 5 CO L U M N S

5.1 GENERAL
This Section sets out the procedure for determining the fire resistance of columns. It shall
be read in conjunction with Section 2.

5.2 TEST SPECIMEN SIZE

Where the length of the full-sized element exceeds that which can be accommodated by the
test equipment, the testing authority shall test a representative portion of the full-sized
element in which the curtailed length is not less than 3000 mm.
Where a series of columns is to be tested to determine the effectiveness of different
thicknesses of protective materials, it shall be permissible to use specimens of minimum
length of 1000 mm subject to the requirements of Clause 5.4.

5.3 INSTRUMENTATION
5.3.1 Thermocouples for structurally critical temperatures
Where temperature-measurement procedures in accordance with Clause 2.11.5 are adopted,
thermocouples shall be attached in accordance with Clause 2.2.4 and positioned as follows:
(a) For a 3000 mm steel specimen, a minimum of four transverse sections shall be
selected. At each of these sections, a minimum of two thermocouples shall be
positioned. For a steel specimen less than 3000 mm long, a minimum of two
transverse sections shall be selected not closer than 300 mm from the ends of the
specimen. At each of these sections a minimum of four thermocouples shall be
positioned.
NOTE: Figure 6.3.1.2 provides recommended locations for thermocouples.
(b) For other than a steel specimen, thermocouples shall be positioned at all locations
considered to be critical.
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5.3.2 Deflection measurement

Deflection-measuring equipment shall be positioned to measure the axial movement.

5.4 LOADING AND RESTRAINT

5.4.1 Axial loading
Where the specimen is tested under axial load conditions, it shall be permitted to expand
during the test.
5.4.2 Loading of specimens subject to temperature-measurement procedures
Where temperature-measurement procedures in accordance with Clause 2.11.5 are adopted,
the loading may be waived subject to the following conditions:
(a) If it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the test laboratory by means of full-
scale testing that the applied fire insulation system will remain in place throughout
the test.
(b) Where a series of columns is to be tested to determine the effectiveness of different
thicknesses of protective materials, loading applied to those specimens having the
thickest and the thinnest protection in range.
NOTE: Insulation system includes materials, fixings, joints and application techniques.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 70

(c) The requirements for loading specimens with the maximum and minimum protection
thicknesses may be waived subject to agreement between the test laboratory and
applicant, provided the following is observed:
(i) The columns are subjected to the specified axial load in accordance with
Clause 2.9.2.
(ii) The height of each test specimen is 3 m ±200 mm.

5.5 TEST PROCEDURE

The specimen shall be exposed to heat on all faces except, where the column forms part of a
wall, the specimen may be suitably shielded to represent the reduced exposure.

5.6 OBSERVATIONS
5.6.1 Displacement
The longitudinal displacement versus time shall be recorded.
5.6.2 Structurally critical temperatures
Where temperature-measurement procedures in accordance with Clause 2.11.5 are adopted,
a record shall be made of temperature versus time for all the thermocouples positioned in
accordance with Clause 5.3.1.

5.7 CRITERIA OF FAILURE

The fire resistance shall be determined in terms of structural adequacy, in accordance with
Clause 2.12.

5.8 DETERMINATION OF FIRE RESISTANCE

Fire resistance shall be determined in terms of structural adequacy, in accordance with
Clause 2.12.1 (i).

5.9 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN

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The results of the fire test contained in the test report are directly applicable without
reference to the testing authority to similar constructions where a change has been made in
the reduction of the height of a column without an increase in the load.
Reference should be made to the relevant structural design Standards for other permissible
variations.

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 71 AS 1530.4—2005

SECT ION 6 BEAMS, G I RDERS AND TRUSSES

6.1 GENERAL
This Section sets out the procedures for determining the fire resistance of beams, girders
and trusses including those incorporated in or supporting floors or roofs. It shall be read in
conjunction with Section 2.

6.2 TEST SPECIMEN

6.2.1 Size
Where the length of the full-sized element exceeds that which can be accommodated by the
test equipment, the testing authority shall test a representative portion of the full-sized
element in which the curtailed length is not less than 3000 mm.
Subject to the requirements of Clause 6.4.2.2, specimens of minimum length of 1000 mm
may be used to determine the effectiveness of different thicknesses of protective material.
6.2.2 Beams to be incorporated in concrete roof or floor systems
Where a beam(s) is to be incorporated in a concrete floor or roof system for which the
design details are not available to the testing authority, the test specimen shall comprise—
(a) the beam(s) and its fire-protective material, if any; and
(b) a symmetrically located concrete deck or slab in intimate contact with the beam,
which is—
(i) not less than 1000 mm wide; and
(ii) 100 mm thick.
NOTE: It has been established that certain types of lightweight concrete offer less of a heat sink
than other concrete, and this results in appreciably higher temperatures in supporting steel
members. Consequently, a test carried out using lightweight aggregate concrete will produce a
result that may be applied conservatively if dense aggregate concrete is used in practice.
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6.3 INSTRUMENTATION
6.3.1 Thermocouples for structurally critical temperatures
6.3.1.1 General
Where temperature-measurement procedures in accordance with Clause 2.11.5 are adopted,
Clause 6.3.1.2, 6.3.1.3 or 6.3.1.4 shall apply, as appropriate (see also Clause 2.2.4).
6.3.1.2 Steel elements
For a 3000 mm steel specimen, a minimum of four transverse sections shall be selected. At
each of these sections, a minimum of two thermocouples shall be positioned. For a steel
specimen less than 3000 mm long, a minimum of two transverse sections shall be selected
not closer than 300 mm from the ends of the specimen. At each of these sections a
minimum of four thermocouples shall be positioned.
Where the element is a truss, at least one thermocouple shall be positioned on each member
of the truss.
NOTE: Figure 6.3.1.2 shows recommended locations for thermocouples.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 72
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FIGURE 6.3.1.2 RECOMMENDED LOCATION OF THERMOCOUPLES ON TYPICAL

STRUCTURAL SECTIONS

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 73 AS 1530.4—2005

6.3.1.3 Reinforced and prestressed concrete elements

For a reinforced or prestressed concrete element, not less than three transverse sections
shall be selected. One section shall be located within 100 mm of the centre of the specimen
and two other sections shall be tested not less than 500 mm from the wall of the furnace. At
each of the sections, thermocouples shall be positioned on the steel surface, nearest the face
of the element on each bar or tendon, or on not less than four representative tendons or bars.
In addition, not less than two thermocouples shall be positioned on at least one stirrup, if
any, at each end of the test specimen.
NOTE: For those elements for which the testing authority considers that concrete strength may be
critical, measurements of concrete temperatures should be made at the appropriate locations.
6.3.1.4 Elements other than steel or concrete
For an element other than steel or concrete, thermocouples shall be positioned at all
locations considered to be critical.
6.3.2 Deflection measurement
Deflection-measuring equipment shall be positioned so as to measure the maximum
deflection.
NOTE: Measurement of maximum deflection may require some relocation of the equipment
during the test.

6.4 LOADING AND RESTRAINT

6.4.1 General
In addition to the requirements of Clause 2.9, where the restraint conditions required under
Clause 2.9.3 cannot be defined, the test specimen shall be simply supported and
unrestrained.
6.4.2 Loading
6.4.2.1 Beams to be incorporated in concrete roof or floor systems
The loading of beams incorporated in concrete roof or floor systems shall be calculated in
accordance with Clause 2.9, except that where the test is intended to provide results for
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universal application, the load applied to the beam shall equal the maximum loading that
may be applied to the beam for the various methods by which the beam may be connected
to the heat sink in practice.
6.4.2.2 Loading of specimens subject to temperature-measurement procedures
Where temperature-measurement procedures in accordance with Clause 2.11.5 are adopted,
the loading may be waived subject to the following conditions:
(a) If it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the test laboratory by means of full-
scale testing that the applied fire insulation system will remain in place throughout
the test.
NOTE: An insulation system includes materials, fixings, joints and application techniques.
(b) Where a series of beams is to be tested to determine the effectiveness of different
thicknesses of protective materials, loadings are applied to those specimens having
the thickest and the thinnest protection in the range.

6.5 TEST PROCEDURE

The test specimen shall be exposed to heating to simulate its anticipated exposure in service
(typically three-sided exposure).

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 AS 1530.4—2005 74

6.6 OBSERVATIONS
6.6.1 Structurally critical temperatures
Where temperature-measurement procedures in accordance with Clause 2.11.5 are adopted,
a record shall be made of temperature versus time for all the thermocouples positioned in
accordance with Clause 6.3.1.
6.6.2 Deflection
A record shall be made of deflection versus time for each point of measurement.

6.7 CRITERIA OF FAILURE—STRUCTURAL ACEQUACY

For the purpose of Clause 2.12.1(b), failure of the specimen shall be deemed to have
occurred when either of the two conditions specified in Clause 4.9 have been met.

6.8 DETERMINATION OF FIRE RESISTANCE

Fire resistance shall be determined in terms of structural adequacy, in accordance with
Clause 2.12.1.

6.9 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN

The results of the fire test contained in the test report are directly applicable, without
reference to the testing authority, to similar constructions where a change has been made in
the reduction in the span without an increase in the load.
Reference should be made to the relevant structural design Standards for other permissible
variations.
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 75 AS 1530.4—2005

SECT ION 7 DOORSETS AND SHUTTER

ASSEMB L I ES

7.1 GENERAL
This Section sets out the procedures for determining the fire resistance of—
(a) doorsets with hinged or pivoted leaves;
(b) doorsets with horizontally sliding or vertically sliding leaves or panels, including
articulated sliding panels or sectional leaves;
(c) steel, single-skin folding shutters;
(d) other sliding folding door leaves or panels;
(e) tilting doorsets;
(f) lift landing doorsets; and
(g) rolling shutter doors.
NOTE: AS 1905.1 for fire doorsets, AS 1905.2 for fire shutters and AS 1735.11 for lift-landing
door assemblies should be read in conjunction with this Standard in order to determine any
provisions dealing with orientation and mounting of the test specimen.
This Section shall be read in conjunction with Section 2.
This Section does not apply to access panels and hatches, which shall be tested in their
respective separating elements, as specified in the relevant section of this Standard.

7.2 TEST SPECIMEN

7.2.1 General
The doorset or shutter assembly shall be installed and tested in a manner representative of
the intended application.
7.2.2 Number of specimens
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7.2.2.1 Side-hung doors

Two like specimens of a side-hung doorset shall be tested, one mounted so that the leaf
swings towards the fire and the other swings away from the fire.
The fire resistance may be determined from a single test where—
(a) one-way fire resistance is specified by the applicant;
(b) the assembly, including the hardware, fixings and seals, is fully symmetrical (this is
possible with double-swing doorsets); or
(c) the side that is the weaker against fire attack can be clearly identified on the basis of
previous experience of the behaviour in test of the specific doorset design, and that
side is subject to the test.
If testing is carried out from one side only, i.e., one specimen, the reason for this shall be
clearly stated in the report and, where applicable in accordance with Items (b) and (c)
above, provide the basis of a classification for fire resistance for exposure from either
direction.
7.2.2.2 Sliding doorsets and shutters
All sliding doorsets and shutters shall be tested in the direction that gives the greatest fire
exposure to the suspension system, unless one-way fire resistance is specified (for example,
lift landing doors are normally tested with the occupancy side exposed to fire conditions).
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 AS 1530.4—2005 76

7.2.2.3 Vision panel

Vision panels up to 65 000 mm 2 need not be taken into account when determining failure
with respect to the insulation and radiation criteria of the fire resistance test.
NOTE: For fire-resistant doorsets including a non-insulated vision panel, it has been established
that, provided the vision panel does not exceed 65 000 mm 2 , the received radiation at 365 mm
from the panel will not exceed 10 kW/m 2 . For this reason a vision panel up to 65 000 mm 2 is not
required be taken into account when determining failure with respect to the insulation and
radiation criteria fire resistance test.
7.2.3 Size
The specimen size shall comply with Clause 2.8.2.
7.2.4 Installation
The specimen shall be mounted in a construction representative of the element as intended
for use in practice and of fire resistance at least to that of the doorset. The design of the
connection between the doorset or shutter assembly and the construction, including any
fixings and materials used to make the junction, shall be representative of the doorset or
shutter as intended for use in practice and it/they shall be regarded as part of the test
specimen.
NOTE: For guidance on specimen installation, see Appendix F.
The adjustment of the door leaf or leaves, panel or shutter curtain and relevant clearance
gaps shall be representative of the use intended in practice so that appropriate clearances
exist between the fixed and moveable components.
7.2.5 Function
The testing laboratory shall satisfy itself that the door leaf, panel or shutter curtain operates
satisfactorily and clearances are in accordance with AS 1905.1 and AS 1905.2. A series of
50 opening/closing cycles of at least 75° for side-hung doorsets and at least 300 mm for
sliding doorsets and shutters shall precede the fire test.
7.2.6 Clearance gap measurements
The clearance between moving components and fixed components of the doorset or shutter
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assembly (e.g., between door leaf/leaves and the frame) shall be measured prior to the test.
Sufficient measurements shall be made to describe adequately the nature of the gaps and
these shall be at not less than 750 mm apart and there shall be a minimum of three
measurements to each edge of the leaf.
The dimensions of clearance gaps shall be given to an accuracy not exceeding ±0.5 mm.
Inaccessible gaps shall be measured indirectly.
7.2.7 Final setting
Prior to the fire test, the doorset, lift-landing door or shutter assembly shall be subjected to
a final closing involving opening the assembly to a distance of approximately 300 mm and
returning it to the closed position. Where applicable, this shall be done by the closing
device. If the doorset does not contain any closing mechanism, then it shall be closed by
hand without undue force.
Doors may be latched prior to the fire test but shall not be locked unless the door can only
be retained in the closed position during normal use by utilizing the lock (that is, there is no
latch or closing device to hold the door in the closed position). No key shall be left in the
lock.
If the final setting procedures are carried out with the specimen in position on the furnace,
then the furnace shall be at ambient pressure conditions (that is, with no air input or
extraction).

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 77 AS 1530.4—2005

7.3 INSTRUMENTATION
7.3.1 Heat flux meter
A heat flux meter shall be positioned in accordance with Clause 2.5.2, to measure the total
heat flux from the specimen or any feature of the specimen (see Clause 2.5).
NOTE: This measurement provides data for an assessment of a safe distance for the location of
combustible materials from a protected opening together with the passage of people. Sufficient
information should be included in the report to identify the nature of the radiating surface and any
non-uniform features shall be specifically identified.
7.3.2 Thermocouples
7.3.2.1 General
Thermocouples complying with Clause 2.2.3.1 shall be attached in accordance with
Clause 2.2.3.2 on the unexposed face of the doorset or shutter assembly. Thermocouple
locations shall be as follows in accordance with Clauses 7.3.2.2 to 7.3.2.3.
7.3.2.2 Non-insulated
Where the applicant does not require evaluation of the doorset or shutter, or any part
thereof, against the insulation criteria, no temperature measurements are required and the
specimen shall be reported as having zero insulation.
7.3.2.3 Location
For doorsets and shutter assemblies not covered by Clause 7.3.2.1, the thermocouple
locations shall be as follows:
(a) Where the door leaf or shutter has a width of not less than 750 mm and an area of not
less than 1.5 m 2 , there shall be a total of five thermocouples; one at approximately the
centre of the specimen and one at the centre of each quarter section.
(b) Where the door leaf or shutter has a width of less than 750 mm or an area of less than
1.5 m 2, there shall be one thermocouple at approximately the centre of each door leaf
and at least one thermocouple for each 0.3 m2 of area of each door leaf or shutter.
The thermocouples shall be located not less than 50 mm to any joint, stiffener or through-
component. For doorsets or shutters that incorporate non-insulated areas not greater than
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0.1 m 2, these areas shall be disregarded for the purpose of ascertaining the average
unexposed face temperature.
7.3.2.4 Maximum temperature
Maximum temperature shall be determined from the five thermocouples fixed to determine
the average temperature rise (as given in Clause 7.3.2.2), the roving thermocouple and from
the following additional thermocouples:
(a) Thermocouples shall be fixed to areas of the leaf or shutter where the temperature
may be higher than the mean for the surface, e.g., over stiffeners.
(b) Thermocouples shall be fixed to the doorframe, including the frame containing any
transom panel or side panel—
(i) at mid-height of each of the vertical members;
(ii) at mid-width of the horizontal top member of the frame, and transom if fitted,
for single-leaf doors or for double-leaf doors or assemblies, coincident with the
mid-width of each leaf and one above the meeting stiles; and
(iii) on the horizontal top member of the frame or transom at a distance of 50 mm in
from the corner of the leaf opening.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 78

At each of the positions, thermocouples shall be fixed as close as possible to the edge
of the frame at the junction between the frame and the supporting construction, i.e.,
with the centre of the disc 15 mm from the edge and the pad flush with the edge,
except that the distance of these thermocouples from the inside edge of the frame
shall be not greater than 100 mm.
(c) The thermocouple shall be fixed on the unexposed face of the element where the
specimen is mounted as follows, but subject to the requirements of Clause 7.3.2.4:
(i) Before the heating period—at the locations shown in Figure 7.3.2.3 and at any
point, including a joint, which, in the opinion of the testing laboratory, the
temperature rise is likely to be more than 180°C.
(ii) During the heating period—at any point, including a joint, where the
temperature rise appears to be more than 180°C.
(d) Thermocouples shall be fixed to the face of any over panels and transom panels above
the door leaves and any side panels on the basis of one thermocouple per 0.3 m2 of
panel area.
7.3.2.5 Positioning of thermocouples
The thermocouples specified in Clause 7.3.2.2 and Clause 7.3.2.3, Item (a) and (b), shall be
located not less than 100 mm to the edge of the leaf/leaves or curtain or any standard item
of hardware and shall not be located on any metal through-fastenings or uninsulated glazed
areas (see Figure 7.3.2.5).
The thermocouples specified in Clause 7.3.2.3(c) and Clause 7.3.2.3(d) shall be located not
less than 100 mm from the edge of the doorframe.
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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 7.3.2.5 POSITIONING OF THERMOCOUPLES ON SURROUNDING ELEMENTS

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 79 AS 1530.4—2005

7.3.3 Deflection-measuring equipment

Appropriate instruments shall be used to provide a record of all relevant deflections.
Usually it will be adequate to note significant deflections (i.e., greater than 3 mm) of the
door leaf or shutter relative to the frame and/or supporting construction by observation and
measurement against a fixed datum. The interval of measurements shall be adequate to
present a history of deflections during the test.
Any curvature or distortion of the door leaf, panel or shutter curtain shall be measured and
reported as shall any deflection of the frame and/or element in which the specimen is
mounted. These may be determined in a similar manner to that given above for movements
of the door or shutter.
NOTE: Although deflection of the specimen is a not a criteria of failure, measurements are taken
to enable greater application of the results.

7.4 TEST PROCEDURE

7.4.1 General
The test specimen shall be subjected to the fire resistance test set out in Section 2.
7.4.2 Roving thermocouple
When monitoring the unexposed face of the specimen for compliance with the criteria of
maximum unexposed face temperature rise, the roving thermocouple shall be used. The
roving thermocouple shall not be used in positions where fixed thermocouples are not
permitted according to Clause 7.3.2.
7.4.3 Monitoring for integrity
The cotton pad shall be applied to any gaps or fissures occurring on the unexposed face of
the test assembly, as described in Clause 2.12.2.2. The sill of the assembly shall be
monitored by means of the 25 mm diameter gap gauge.

7.5 OBSERVATIONS
7.5.1 Average temperature of unexposed face of door leaf or shutter
The mean of the temperatures measured by the thermocouples positioned in accordance
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with Clause 7.3.2.2 shall be determined and recorded.

7.5.2 Maximum temperature of unexposed face of leaf or shutter or side/over panels
The temperature measured by the thermocouples positioned in accordance with
Clause 7.3.2.3(a) and, where applicable, Clause 7.3.2.3(d) shall be recorded.
7.5.3 Maximum temperature of unexposed face of frame
The temperature measured by the thermocouples positioned in accordance with
Clause 7.3.2.3(b) shall be recorded.
7.5.4 Maximum temperature of unexposed face of surrounding element
The temperature measured by the thermocouples positioned in accordance with
Clause 7.3.2.3(c) shall be recorded.
7.5.5 Cracks and openings
A record shall be made of any cracks, fissures or openings that develop—
(a) in the unexposed face of the leaf/leaves or curtain;
(b) between the leaf/leaves or curtain and the frame;
(c) between the frame and the wall; and

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 AS 1530.4—2005 80

(d) in the element where the specimen is mounted.

Any significant change of doorset clearance gaps shall be recorded.
7.5.6 Deflections
Whilst deflection of the specimen is not a failure criterion, where possible a record shall be
made of the deflections of the frame and leaf or shutter and relative movements between—
(a) the frame and leaf/leaves of the doorset;
(b) the leaves of multi-leaf doorsets; and
(c) for sliding doors, the leaf and the frame or the wall.
7.5.7 Disengagement of the latching mechanism
For elements having latching mechanisms, where it is practicable to monitor the
disengagement of the latching mechanism, the time of disengagement shall be recorded.
Where disengagement cannot be monitored, the mechanism shall be checked at the
conclusion of the test and it shall be recorded whether or not it is engaged.
NOTE: Monitoring of latching engagement is normally undertaken by visual observations. Minor
modifications that do not compromise the fire performance, such as the drilling of observation
holes, are permissible.
7.5.8 Heat flux measurements
The heat flux measured by the heat flux meter(s) positioned in accordance with Clauses 7.1
and 2.5 shall be recorded.

7.6 CRITERIA OF FAILURE

7.6.1 General
The fire resistance of a door or shutter assembly shall be expressed in elapsed whole
minutes, before failure, in accordance with the criteria for integrity and insulation (see
Clauses 7.6.2 and 7.6.3).
7.6.2 Integrity
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7.6.2.1 Determination
Fire resistance shall be determined with respect to integrity as given in Clause 2.12.2 except
that the 6 × 150 mm gap criterion shall not apply to the sill.
7.6.2.2 Side-hung doorsets
For side-hung doorsets with door leaf or leaves having a latching mechanism, failure in
respect to integrity shall be considered to have occurred when this mechanism ceases to be
engaged. If the latching mechanism is disengaged at the end of the test and the time to
disengagement is not recorded during the test, a zero integrity level shall be assigned.
7.6.3 Insulation
7.6.3.1 General
For doorsets and shutter assemblies not covered by Clause 7.3.2.1, compliance with the
insulation criteria specified in Clause 2.12.3 shall be in accordance with Clauses 7.6.3.2 and
7.6.3.3.
7.6.3.2 Mean temperature rise (temperature on unexposed face of specimen)
For the specimen, the average temperature criterion of Clause 2.11.3(a) shall apply, taking
into consideration thermocouples positioned in accordance with Clause 7.3.2.2.

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 81 AS 1530.4—2005

7.6.3.3 Maximum temperature rise

The following apply to all doorsets and shutters:
(a) Temperature on unexposed face of leaves or shutter Only the maximum temperature
criterion shall apply, taking into consideration the temperatures measured by the
thermocouples positioned in accordance with Clause 7.3.2.3(a) and, where applicable,
Clause 7.3.2.3(d) and the roving thermocouple.
(b) Temperature on unexposed face of the frame For the frame, only the maximum
temperature criterion shall apply, taking into consideration the temperatures measured
by the thermocouples positioned in accordance with Clause 7.3.2.3(b) and the roving
thermocouple.
(c) Temperature on unexposed face of surrounding element For the element where the
specimen is mounted, only the maximum temperature criterion shall apply, taking
into consideration the temperatures measured by the thermocouples positioned in
accordance with Clause 7.3.2.3(c) and the roving thermocouple.
7.6.3.4 Radiation
For the period of integrity the radiation criterion of Clause 2.12.4 shall apply. The value of
radiation shall be calculated in accordance with Clause 2.11.7 and, for a uniform radiator,
from the heat flux measured by the heat flux meter positioned in front of any specimen or
feature of the specimen (vision panel).
NOTE: Guidance on calculating radiant heat flux is given in Appendix A.

7.7 DETERMINATION OF FIRE RESISTANCE

Fire resistance shall be determined in accordance with the failure criteria given in
Clause 7.6.

7.8 TEST REPORT

In addition to the requirements of Clause 2.15, the test report shall include the following:
(a) Justification, where applicable, for testing a single specimen, as required by
Clause 7.2, or the specimen, as required by the applicant, to be tested for fire
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resistance in one direction only.

(b) Details of the development if any, of cracks, fissures or gaps.
(c) Details of the openings formed by deflections, if any, measured during the test.
(d) A graph of the average and maximum temperature measured on the unexposed face of
a door leaf/leaves for the duration of the test.
(e) A graph of the maximum temperature measured on the doorframe for the duration of
the test.
(f) A graph of the maximum temperature measured on the surrounding element for the
duration of the test.
(g) A graph of the received radiation from the doorset, or feature of the doorset, for the
duration of the test (see Clause 2.5).
(h) A statement as to the observed behaviour in accordance with Clauses 7.5.5, 7.5.6 and
7.5.7, including any sustained flaming on the unexposed face of the specimen or
surrounding element.
(i) Where relevant, information concerning conditioning of the specimen.
(j) A description of the supporting or associated constructions employed and the
rationale for their selection.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 82

(k) Result, stated in terms of the elapsed whole minutes, from the commencement of
heating before failure with respect to the relevant criteria given in Clause 7.6.

7.9 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN

7.9.1 General
The results of the fire resistance test contained in the test report are directly applicable,
without reference to the testing authority, to similar constructions where one or more of the
changes permitted in accordance with Clauses 7.9.2 to 7.9.3 have been made.
7.9.2 Decrease in size of opening
The height or width of the doorset may be reduced, but no alteration shall be made to—
(a) the nominal thickness of the door leaf;
(b) other dimensions of the doorframe or component parts of the door leaf; or
(c) the nominal clearances as tested.
7.9.3 Door leaf
Variations to the door leaf may be made as follow:
(a) Facings of low-carbon steel may be substituted for facings of stainless steel provided
that—
(i) such facings are fixed by adhesive to the face or faces of the door leaf and are
not returned around any edge; and
(ii) the clearances between the main body of the door leaf and the doorframe are
not increased.
(b) Decorative laminates and timber veneers up to 1.5 mm thick may be added to the
faces (but not edges) of hinged doors that satisfy the insulation criteria for the full
period to which the Integrity rating applies. For all products tested with decorative
laminate faces the only variations shall be within similar types and thickness of
material, e.g., colour, pattern, manufacturer.
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7.9.4 Doorframe
Variations to the doorframe may be made as follows:
(a) Interchanging single-rebated and double-rebated doorframes.
(b) Increasing the doorstop depth and width.
(c) Increasing or decreasing the metal thickness by ±15%.
(d) Fixing in accordance with AS 1905.1.
The dimensions of steel wrap around frames may be increased to accommodate increased
supporting construction thickness. Where the paint finish is not expected to contribute to
the fire resistance of the door, alternative paint or surface finish is acceptable and may be
added to the door leaves or frame provided it does not exceed 0.5 mm thickness, or have a
nitro-cellulose base.
7.9.5 Wall of masonry or concrete construction
Fire-resistant doorsets tested in walls of masonry or concrete construction may be installed
in any one of such types of walling having the same fire resistance level (FRL).

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 83 AS 1530.4—2005

7.9.6 Fixings
The number of fixings used to attach fire-resisting doorsets to supporting constructions may
be increased but not decreased and the distance between fixings may be reduced but may
not be increased.
7.9.7 Hardware
Variations to hardware may be made as follows:
(a) Variations may be made in electroplated or other metallic finishes and in powder
coats and non-nitrocellulose paint finishes not greater than 0.5 mm thick.
(b) Any push-plate, metallic plate for a hold-open device, or kickplate, which is not held
on by and which does not form part of the latchset or lockset furniture, may be
reduced in either dimension but may not vary in material of construction.
(c) The arm configuration of a surface-mounted closer may be interchanged between
regular-arm and parallel-arm.
(d) The location of the door closer may be varied provided that the distance between the
nearest edge of the closer and the hinge stile is not reduced.
(e) An alterative closer manufactured by the same manufacturer and of a smaller size
closer in the same series of closers may be used provided the closer—
(i) is manufactured from the same materials;
(ii) has the same operating mechanism design; and
(iii) uses the same hydraulic fluids.
(f) The location of the latchset or lockset may be varied up to 80 mm vertically up or
80 mm vertically down.
NOTES:
1 It is recommended that the latch handle be located between 900 mm and 1100 mm above
the finished floor.
2 Reference should be made to AS 1428.1 for the location requirements applicable to
particular types of door hardware and to the relevant Building Code for sanctions
applicable to particular types of buildings.
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(g) The backset of a mortice lockset or mortice latchset may be reduced.

(h) The backset of a cylindrical lockset or latchset may be varied, provided that no
additional encroachment is made on any structural framework of the door leaf and the
fixing method remains identical.
(i) Changes may be made in the operating characteristics of latchset or lockset hardware,
provided that these do not require modification of the door leaf or doorframe and
changes to the functions of latchsets involving the operating mechanism.
(j) Changes may be made to the materials of the essential latching components, provided
that the melting point of any part is the same or higher.
(k) Variations may be made in the hydraulic system controlling the delay in the action of
the door closer.
(l) Where locksets or latchsets are operated by a steel shaft, their surface-mounted
furniture may be varied provided that—
(i) the melting point of any part is not reduced;
(ii) any replacement handle or knob is not so massive or asymmetrical as to
introduce a turning moment about the operating shaft which exceeds 0.07 Nm;

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 AS 1530.4—2005 84

(iii) any replacement lever handle is not so massive or asymmetrical as to increase

the turning moment about the operating shaft by more than 10%; and
(iv) any replacement escutcheon plate adequately covers any hole in the door leaf
formed to accommodate the lockset or latchset, but does not increase the area of
the face of the door leaf covered by the escutcheon by more than 20%.
(m) A surface-mounted self-latching additional lockset may be fitted to the fire-resistant
doorset in addition to the tested lockset, for additional security in residential
occupancies, provided that—
(i) the diameter of the hole drilled through the door leaf to accept the locking
cylinder is not greater than 32 mm;
(ii) the locking cylinder and its fixing plate are made of brass or metal of higher
melting point, and the head diameter of the cylinder or its escutcheon is larger
than the cylinder hole in the door leaf;
(iii) the cylinder assembly is fixed to the door leaf by steel screws through a steel
mounting plate that effectively covers the hole in the door leaf; and
(iv) the diameter of the connecting bar clearance hole in the mounting plate is not
greater than 15 mm.
(n) Hinges may be fixed to doorframes by welding in lieu of metal thread steel screws,
and vice versa.
(o) The number of glazed apertures and each of the dimensions of glass in each pane
included within a test specimen of timber or steel may be decreased but not increased
beyond the tested pane size.
7.9.8 Shutters
Variations to shutters are as follows:
(a) Where it is required to protect an opening smaller than that of the prototype tested,
the height or width of the fire shutter may be reduced, but no alteration is permissible
to the materials of construction or nominal thickness, of any component parts of the
shutter except as allowed by Clauses 7.9.8(c) and 7.9.8(d); the overlap between the
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shutter curtain and the vertical guides cannot be reduced for size decreases.
(b) For uninsulated shutters, the material thickness may be increased up to 50% but
cannot be reduced beyond acceptable steel industry tolerances.
(c) The material thickness of side guides and end plates carrying the barrel may be
increased by up to 50% but cannot be reduced beyond acceptable steel industry
tolerances.
(d) The mode of operation may be varied from the tested specimen provided that the
proposed mechanism does not impose a greater load on the brackets and barrel
assembly, and no alteration is made to the nominal thickness, materials of
construction, or temperature of fusion of any component parts of the fire-resistant
roller shutter.
(e) Additional or alternative sensing devices may be used from that of the tested
specimen provided that—
(i) they comply with AS 1905.1;
(ii) a fusible link is used;
(iii) they do not alter the automatic operation of the fire resistant roller shutter.
(f) An alternative speed-governing device may be used from that of the tested specimen
provided that—
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 85 AS 1530.4—2005

(i) it adds no additional load to the brackets and barrel assembly from that in the
tested specimen; and
(ii) it does not alter the automatic operation of the fire resistant roller shutter.
(g) An alternative construction of the threshold may be used, provided that the material is
not deemed combustible in accordance with AS 1530.1, or forms a fire barrier of
same FRL to the fire resistant roller shutter, and the dimensions of the threshold are
maintained in accordance with AS 1905.2.
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 AS 1530.4—2005 86

SECT ION 8 UN I NSU L ATED G L A Z I NG

8.1 GENERAL
This Section sets out the procedure for determining the fire resistance of uninsulated
glazing systems. It shall be read in conjunction with Section 2.
Insulated glazing shall be evaluated in accordance with Sections 3 and 4 and vision panels
within doorsets shall be evaluated in accordance with Section 7.

8.2 TEST SPECIMEN

8.2.1 General
The glazing system shall be installed and tested in a manner representative of the intended
application.
8.2.2 Size of specimen
The size specimen shall be in accordance with Clause 2.8.2.
8.2.3 Number of specimens
8.2.3.1 General
In addition to Clause 2.8.7, the fire resistance may be determined from a single test
where—
(a) one-way fire resistance is specified by the applicant;
(b) the assembly, including the hardware, fixings and seals, is fully symmetrical; or
(c) the side that is the weaker against fire attack can be clearly identified on the basis of
previous experience of the behaviour in test of the specific window design, and that
side is subject to the test.
If testing is carried out from one side only, i.e. one specimen, the reason for this shall be
clearly stated in the report and, where applicable, in accordance with Items (b) and (c)
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above, provide the basis of a classification for fire resistance for exposure from either
direction.
NOTE: An openable component or a glazing bead to one side only renders the glazing
asymmetrical.
8.2.3.2 Horizontal or inclined specimens
Horizontal specimens shall be orientated in accordance with Clause 2.8.7. For inclined
specimens, where it is intended that exposure may occur from either side, then both sides
shall be tested.
8.2.4 Test construction
8.2.4.1 Specimen holder
Where the test specimen is both the same size as the opening in the specimen holder and
installed in masonry, concrete or a similar rigid element of construction, then the specimen
shall be installed directly into the specimen holder.
8.2.4.2 Other instances
In all other instances, the specimen shall be surrounded with construction representative of
that intended to be used in practice.

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 87 AS 1530.4—2005

8.2.4.3 Test specimen

If the system is intended to incorporate shared transom(s) or mullion(s), at least one
transom and mullion shall be positioned in the positive pressure zone of the furnace for a
vertical specimen. Where any glazing can be opened, a representative section shall be
included in the specimen.
8.2.5 Installation of the specimen
8.2.5.1 Specimen holder
The glazed element and any surrounding construction shall be installed in the specimen
holder in a manner representative of that intended to be used in practice.
8.2.5.2 Connections, fixings and junction
The design of the connections, fixings and junction details shall be representative of that
intended to be used in practice and shall be regarded as part of the system under test. The
exposed face shall be flush with the frame unless the fixing system requires it to be set
back. The whole area of the test construction shall be exposed to the heating conditions of
the furnace.
8.2.5.3 Restraint
Where the test specimen is not larger than the test furnace opening, the edges of the
specimen shall be restrained as intended in practice. Where the construction is likely in
practice to exceed the furnace size, a vertical edge shall be unrestrained and have freedom
of movement. The remaining edges shall be restrained as intended in practice.

8.3 INSTRUMENTATION
8.3.1 Heat flux meter
A heat flux meter shall be positioned in accordance with Clause 2.5.2, to measure the total
heat flux from the specimen or any feature of the specimen (see Clause 2.5).
For heat flux measurements of vertical or horizontal specimens, the heat flux meter shall be
placed on the line normal to the geometric centre of the specimen and with the plane of the
measuring element parallel with the plane of the specimen.
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For heat flux measurements of inclined specimens, the heat flux meter shall be placed on a
line passing through the geometric centre of the specimen but normal to the plane of the
furnace.
8.3.2 Deflection measurement
Although deflection of the specimen is a not a criteria of failure, measurements may be
taken to enable greater application of the results.

8.4 TEST PROCEDURE

In addition to the requirements of Clause 2.9, the furnace pressure for an inclined glazed
element shall be 20 ±3 Pa at 100 mm below the top of the construction.
The integrity of the glazed element and any surrounding construction shall be checked
during the test. The 6 mm and 25 mm diameter gap gauges shall be used to check the
formation of openings.
Observations shall be made of the general behaviour of the specimen during the course of
the test and shall be recorded, and the occurrences of deformation, cracking, softening,
smoke emission shall be noted.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 88

8.5 CRITERIA OF FAILURE

Integrity shall be deemed to be lost when the element collapses or when a gap or fissure
exceeding 6 mm × 150 mm or a hole exceeding 25 mm diameter develops in the glazing or
its surrounding construction or when flaming for 10 s or of longer duration occurs.

8.6 DETERMINATION OF FIRE RESISTANCE

Fire resistance shall be determined in accordance with the integrity criteria of Clause 8.5

8.7 TEST REPORT

The test report shall include all the information required by Clause 2.15 and the following:
(a) A statement of the restraint or provision for expansion of the glazing.
(b) Observations of the size and times at which gaps develop.
(c) Graphs of the radiation measured at the position of the measuring device.

8.8 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN

The results of the fire-resistance test contained in the test report are directly applicable,
without reference to the testing authority, to similar constructions where a decrease in any
linear dimension of the individual panes of glazing is made and/or variations to the angle of
tested inclination are within the limits specified in Table 8.1.

TABLE 8.1
VARIATIONS TO THE ANGLE OF TESTED INCLINATION
Test specimen angle Applicable to glazed element angles in use
Between 80º and 90º 80º to 90º
25º to ≤ 80º α ±15º
0 ≤ 25º 0º to 25º
NOTE: If tests are conducted at 0º, 45º and 90º on the same glazing system, the
minimum rating for the three tests applies to all angles (0º to 90º).
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 89 AS 1530.4—2005

S E C T I O N 9 A IR D UCT S

9.1 GENERAL
This Section sets out the procedure for determining the fire resistance of ducts that are
required to—
(a) operate while exposed to an external fire, e.g., air-pressurization or supply ducts; or
(b) conduct hot products of combustion, e.g., smoke-spill or exhaust ducts.
This Section shall be read in conjunction with Section 2.
Penetration details of the air duct shall be evaluated during the fire test.
NOTE: As well a determining the fire resistance of the duct under fire conditions, the test may
provide information about reduction in cross-section and heat transfer from the duct walls, which
could allow the designer to determine the duct’s ability to function under fire conditions.

9.2 TEST SPECIMEN

9.2.1 Length
The specimen shall be of sufficient length to ensure compliance with the following:
(a) For external fire testing, the length of exposure to heat shall be not less than
2000 mm and each end of the specimen shall protrude approximately 500 mm away
from the furnace.
(b) For internal fire testing, the specimen shall protrude not less than 2000 mm away
from the furnace and 100 mm inside the furnace.
9.2.2 Cross-section
Where any duct is of large size relative to the furnace chamber, the following applies:
(a) For external fire testing, the duct cross-section shall be modelled so that the
configuration of specimen and furnace complies with the clearances specified in
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Clause 2.8.6 except it may be mounted against the wall or the floor slab.
(b) The depth of the specimen shall be adjusted so that the aspect ratio is not more
favourable structurally than that of the duct being modelled.
9.2.3 Construction
The specimen shall incorporate the intended methods of jointing, penetration seals and any
special features of construction including methods of support.
9.2.4 Mounting
The specimen shall be mounted as follows:
(a) For external fire testing, the specimen shall extend through the furnace and both ends
of the duct shall be left open to allow the flow of air through the duct.
(b) For internal fire testing, the specimen shall be mounted to penetrate a horizontal or
vertical element of construction as appropriate, protruding in and out of the furnace as
indicated in Clause 9.2.1(b), and it shall permit the exhaust of products of combustion
from the furnace.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 90

9.3 POSITIONING OF THERMOCOUPLES

9.3.1 External fire testing
Thermocouples complying with Clause 2.2.3 shall be positioned on the duct wall, in
accordance with Clause 2.2.3, in groups of not less than two at not less than three sections
within the duct. These sections shall be arranged so that the following is ensured:
(a) There is one group located at or near the centre of the duct and another two groups
are located on either side at not less than 500 mm from the centre, but not closer than
500 mm to the walls or floor of the furnace.
(b) There is one group located within 25 mm of each transverse joint.
One group may be positioned to fulfil the conditions of Items (a) and (b) above
simultaneously. In addition, thermocouples shall be positioned at any point where, in the
opinion of the testing authority, that point is likely to become hotter than the above-
mentioned locations. Where it is not practicable to position thermocouples inside the duct,
and the duct is of sheet metal construction, the thermocouples may be positioned on the
outside wall of the duct without pad covering and welded in position in accordance with the
provisions of Clause 2.2.4 before placing any layer of insulating material to cover the duct.
Thermocouples to assess the performance of the penetration sealing system shall be
provided in accordance with Section 10 of this Standard.
9.3.2 Internal fire testing
9.3.2.1 Gas temperatures inside the duct
At least two thermocouples complying with Clause 2.2.2.1 shall be positioned inside the
duct so as to obtain a representative measurement of the temperature of the hot gases
passing through the duct, at a cross-section situated at 100 mm from both ends of the duct.
For vertical ducts, the thermocouple shall be located centrally in the duct. For horizontal
ducts, the thermocouple shall be located halfway between the centre of the duct and its top.
9.3.2.2 Insulation measurement
Thermocouples complying with Clause 2.2.3 shall be positioned in accordance with
Clause 2.2.3 on the external face of the duct, as follows:
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(a) Groups of not less than two thermocouples at cross-sections located 25 mm and
400 mm from the unexposed face of the penetrated element, and one additional group
at the end of any step or taper on the external duct insulation at the likely hottest
position of the step or taper.
(b) Additional thermocouples at any point where, in the opinion of the testing laboratory,
that point is likely to become hotter than the locations specified in Item (a).
(c) During the heating period, additional thermocouples at any point, which, at any time
during the test, appears to be hotter than those being measured.
Thermocouples to assess the performance of the penetration sealing system shall be
provided in accordance with Section 10 of this Standard.

9.4 PROCEDURE
9.4.1 External fire testing
The specimen shall be heated on the outside. Airflow of 1 ±0.1 m/s shall be established
prior to the start of the test and the fan speed maintained for the duration of the test. It shall
be measured at the mid cross-section of the duct at the air inlet point.

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 91 AS 1530.4—2005

9.4.2 Internal fire testing

The inside of the duct shall be exposed to the furnace environment. A pressure differential
of 15 ±3 Pa at the mid-depth of the duct between the laboratory and furnace shall be
maintained after the first 10 min of the test with the duct vented as specified in
Clause 9.2.4(b) to induce a flow through the duct.

9.5 OBSERVATIONS
9.5.1 Structural adequacy
A record shall be made of the time when the suspension or fixing devices can no longer
retain the duct in its intended position or when sections of the duct collapse.
9.5.2 Integrity
The following shall be observed and recorded together with the time of the observations:
(a) For external fire testing, any hot gases passing into the duct.
(b) For internal fire testing, any hot gases passing to the unexposed side, except for the
open end.
NOTE: Provision may be made to introduce into the furnace a tracer gas or a substance that
will produce a clearly discernible coloured smoke or gas.
9.5.3 Temperatures
For external fire testing, the temperatures measured by thermocouples located in accordance
with Clause 9.3.1 shall be recorded at maximum 1 min intervals.
9.5.4 Cross-sectional area
Significant changes in the cross-section of the specimen shall be observed and recorded
together with the time of the observation.

9.6 CRITERIA OF FAILURE

9.6.1 Structural adequacy
Structural adequacy failure of the duct shall be deemed to have occurred when the duct
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collapses in such a manner that the duct no longer fulfils its intended function.
9.6.2 Integrity
Integrity of the duct shall be deemed to be lost—
(a) for internal fire testing, when hot gases can pass to the unexposed side, except for the
open end; and
(b) for external and internal fire testing under the criteria given in Section 10 for service
penetrations.
9.6.3 Insulation
Insulation of the duct shall be deemed to be lost when the temperature rise of any
thermocouple positioned in accordance with Section 10 of this Standard exceeds 180 K.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 92

9.7 TEST REPORT

In addition to the requirements of Clause 2.14, the test report shall include the records
obtained in accordance with Clause 9.5.3 and 9.5.4. For ducts subject to internal fire
exposure, the test report should also include the calculated difference in average air
temperature measured by thermocouples at the entry and exit of the duct expressed as the
temperature rise/m of exposed length of the duct.
NOTE: A conservative estimate of the temperature of delivered air can then be estimated by
multiplying the length of the duct by the temperature rise/m at a nominated fire-resistance period.
For normal applications this temperature rise should not exceed 30°C.

9.8 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN

A test result obtained for the largest air duct in the range may be applied to all air ducts of
the same type (including any aspect ratio) provided that the maximum dimensions do not
exceed those tested and that the components remain in the same orientation as that tested.
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 93 AS 1530.4—2005

SECT I ON 1 0 S E RV ICE PE N E T RA T I O NS A N D
C O N T RO L J O I N T S

10.1 GENERAL
This Section sets out the procedure for determining the fire resistance of elements of
construction penetrated by services such as electrical and plumbing services, pipes,
conduits and control joints. It shall be read in conjunction with Section 2.
Dampers are covered by Section 11.

10.2 TEST LIMITATIONS

This test does not supply any information on the ability of the penetration sealing system to
withstand stress caused by movements or displacements of the penetrating services.
NOTE: AS 4072.1 should be read in conjunction with this Standard in order to determine any
provisions dealing with orientation and mounting of the test specimen. Definitions given in that
Standard apply herein.

10.3 PURPOSE OF TEST

The purpose of the test covering service penetrations and control joints is to assess—
(a) the effect of the penetration or control joint on the integrity and insulation of the
element; and
(b) insulation or integrity failure of the penetrating service or control joint.
NOTE: The methods by which fire can be transmitted through such elements are—
(a) through an opening, if any, formed between a service and the element it penetrates or
through an opening formed within the service;
(b) by a rise in surface temperature on the penetrated element in the vicinity of the
penetration; or
(c) by a rise in surface temperature on that part of a penetrating service that is in the non-
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fire-affected compartment.
It is not the intention of this test to provide quantitative information on the rate of leakage
of smoke and/or hot gases or on the transmission or generation of fumes. Such phenomena
are only to be noted in describing the general behaviour of specimens during the test.
NOTE: This Standard covers the method of test for service penetrations and control joints, while
AS 4072.1 is a product Standard that covers the construction and installation of service
penetrations and control joints.

10.4 TEST SPECIMEN

10.4.1 General
The service penetrations and control joints system shall be installed and tested in a manner
representative of the intended application. Care shall be taken to avoid any artificial support
that could be provided to the service or penetration element.
Standard test configurations may be used for the following services:
(a) Electrical and communications cables (see Note 1).
(b) Metal pipes (see Note 2).
NOTES:
1 For guidance on electrical and communications cables configuration, see Appendix D.
2 For guidance on sealing systems for metal pipes, see Appendix E.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 94

10.4.2 Size
The specimen shall comply with Clause 2.8.2
For control joints, the specimen shall be not less than 1 m × 1 m and the length of the
control joint exposed to the furnace chamber shall be not less than 1 m.
The service(s) shall be installed so that it projects a minimum of 500 mm on each side of
the supporting construction, of which at least 200 mm shall extend beyond the extremities
of the penetration sealing system. The penetration sealing system shall include any coating,
wrapping or other protection to the services. The length of unprotected service on the
unexposed face shall not be greater than 500 mm. For plastic pipes, the external projection
away from the furnace shall be increased to a minimum of 2000 mm. These measurements
shall not include any part of the plug or cap used to seal a pipe within the furnace.
10.4.3 Test mounting
10.4.3.1 General
Where a particular penetration sealing system is intended for use in both horizontal and
vertical elements of construction, each orientation shall be tested.
Where multiple penetrations through the one specimen are to be tested, the configuration
shall be such that an unimpeded view of all parts of the sealing system is possible for the
purpose of determining integrity failure.
Control joints may only need to be tested horizontally, if, in the opinion of the testing
authority, the horizontal orientation represents the most severe test.
10.4.3.2 Vertical elements
For vertical elements, where the fire risk can be identified as being from one nominated
side only, or the sealing system is fully symmetrical, the specimen need only be tested with
the appropriate face exposed to the furnace.
For asymmetrical constructions, where it can be clearly established that there is a weaker
direction of exposure, the specimen may only need to be tested with the weaker face
exposed to the furnace. A full justification for the adopted procedure shall be included in
the test report or letter of opinion obtained from the registered testing authority.
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In all other cases, not less than two tests shall be carried out, with at least one being from
each direction of exposure.
10.4.3.3 Horizontal elements
For horizontal elements, the test specimen shall be exposed to heating from the underside
only.
10.4.4 Supporting construction
The supporting construction shall have a fire resistance level equal to or greater than that of
the proposed penetration and representative of that used in practice. The fire resistance
level obtained shall apply only to that particular type of separating element except for
variations permitted in Clause 10.11 and AS 4072.1.
10.4.5 Service end conditions
Service end conditions shall be representative of those intended to be used in practice.
For general pipe systems, e.g., SWV (soil waste vent), water supply and reticulation, the
fire side capped non-fire side open configuration shall be adopted, i.e., closed/open.
The pipe shall be capped on the exposed side only by welding, gluing or mechanically
fixing a disc or cap of the same material as the pipe, onto the end of the pipe or
ceramic/mineral fibre disc.

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 95 AS 1530.4—2005

Floor waste configurations shall be subjected to a separate fire test evaluation.

For special applications such as toilet and bathroom exhaust systems, fume cupboard
exhaust systems, and the like, both ends of the system shall be open, that is, open/open with
the normal in service conditions simulated by utilizing the general principles contained in
Section 11.
For other exhaust systems and heating ventilation and airconditioning (HVAC) requiring
the protection of penetrations through fire-separating elements, tests shall be conducted in
accordance with Section 11.
10.4.6 Electrical and communications systems
For maximum application for non-standard configurations, the requirements in
Clauses 10.4.6.1 to 10.4.6.4 shall apply.
NOTE: Standard configurations for general cable applications should be as given in Appendix D.
10.4.6.1 Electrical and communication cables
The maximum and minimum sizes of electrical and communication cables shall be tested to
evaluate the performance of a fire-stopping system. If the fire-stopping system is to be used
to protect bundles of cables penetrating an opening, then the maximum bundle size shall be
tested.
Cables shall be allocated to the groupings by type, conductor materials and
sheathing/insulating materials, in accordance with Table 10.4.6.1.

TABLE 10.4.6.1
CABLE GROUPINGS
Type Conductor material Sheathing/insulating material
Single core power PVC
Multicore power (e.g., two core XLPE
plus earth) Copper
Multicore communications Aluminium Rubber
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Mineral insulated Others Copper/steel

(mineral-insulated cables)
Others Others

10.4.6.2 Conduits
The maximum and minimum size of cable enclosure and support systems (cable trays and
the like) shall be tested with the maximum and minimum (usually empty) fill of cables (see
Note) that unless a registered test laboratory is able to ascertain that a particular
configuration represents the worst case.
NOTE: The cables may be selected from the provisions given in Appendix D.
For plastic pipes and enclosures, the requirements set out in AS 4072.1 shall apply when
determining suitable test configurations.
10.4.6.3 Busbars and busways
The maximum and minimum size and number of conductors shall be tested to evaluate a
type of busbar or busway over a range of sizes, unless a registered test laboratory is able to
ascertain that a particular configuration represents the worst case.
NOTE: In some instances the performance of busbars may be assessed using test data on pipes of
the same material (e.g., copper).

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 AS 1530.4—2005 96

10.4.6.4 Optical fibres

The maximum and minimum sizes of optical fibres shall be tested to evaluate the
performance of a fire-stopping system. If the fire-stopping system is to be used to protect
bundles of optical fibres penetrating an opening, then the maximum bundle size shall be
tested.

10.5 POSITIONING OF THERMOCOUPLES

10.5.1 Unexposed face thermocouples
Thermocouples shall be positioned in accordance with Clause 2.2.3 at the following
locations (see Figure 10.5.1):
(a) At not less than two points located approximately 25 mm from the edge of the hole
made for the passage of the service.
(b) At the discretion of the testing authority and at the point or points on the surface of
any exposed framing members that support the penetrating service on the penetrated
element.
(c) At points on the surface of the penetrating service or its fire-stopping encasement,
located as follows:
(i) At least two thermocouples located approximately 25 mm from the plane of the
general surface of the penetrated element and its insulating topping, if any.
(ii) Where the insulation of packing is tapered or stepped, two additional
thermocouples beyond the step or the end of any taper if it is expected that
temperatures will be higher at these points.
(d) Where practicable, at two points on the packing around the penetrating service.
(e) During the heating period, additional thermocouples at any point, which, at any time
during the test, appears to be hotter than those being measured.
(f) For unpenetrated blank seals and control joints, as follows:
(i) At least three on the surface of the seal, with one thermocouple for each 0.3 m2
of surface area, up to a maximum of five, uniformly distributed over the area
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(one thermocouple being located at the centre of the seal).

(ii) On the surface of the seal 25 mm from the edge of the opening, with one
thermocouple for each 500 mm of the perimeter.
(iii) On the surface of the separating element 25 mm from the edge of the opening,
with one thermocouple for each 500 mm of the perimeter.
(g) Where the service passes through a vertical separating element, one thermocouple of
the pair located on the service 25 mm distant from the element shall be located
uppermost in the vertical plane. Similarly, one thermocouple of each pair on the
element and penetration seal shall be located in the uppermost position in the vertical
plane relative to the service.
(h) For floor waste configurations, where the insulation criterion is applied,
thermocouples shall be fitted to the centre of the grating (unless in the opinion of the
test laboratory another position is likely to record a higher temperature in which case
the thermocouple may be offset from the centre of the grating) and on the separating
element 25 mm from the penetration opening.

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 97 AS 1530.4—2005

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES
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FIGURE 10.5.1 TYPICAL ARRANGEMENT OF THERMOCOUPLES ON THE EXTERNAL

SURFACES OF ELEMENT AND PENETRATING SERVICE OF A MULTIPLE
PENETRATION SYSTEM

10.5.2 Multiple penetration systems

If the performance of a system is to be judged against the criterion of insulation,
thermocouples shall be positioned as follows (see Figure 10.5.2):
(a) On the main fire-stopping materials and on the local fire-stopping material around
each service for which the insulation performance is to be evaluated.
(b) On the main fire-stopping material as far as possible from the services and the
element with at least one thermocouple for each 1.0 m2 of seal, up to a maximum of 5.
(c) On both materials in at least two positions 25 mm from the interface of the separating
element and the main penetration seal.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 98
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DIMENSION IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 10.5.2 TYPICAL THERMOCOUPLE POSITIONS ON SEPARATING ELEMENT

AND PENETRATION SEALS FOR MULTIPLE PENETRATION SYSTEMS

10.5.3 Control joints

Thermocouples used for the evaluation of the insulation performance of control joints shall
be positioned on the unexposed face of the sealing system and the separating element,
except where the unexposed face of the seal is recessed within the separating element.
Where this occurs, thermocouples shall only be fitted to the seal when the joint width is
greater than or equal to 12 mm. Under these circumstances, the size of the pad may be
reduced to facilitate the fitting of the thermocouple.

10.6 INTEGRITY
In addition to the cotton pads specified in Clause 2.6.1, additional cotton pads shall be
provided with a reduced size of 30 mm × 30 mm × 20 mm. An additional wire frame holder
as described in Clause 2.6.1 modified to accommodate the smaller cotton pad shall also be
provided.

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 99 AS 1530.4—2005

All service penetration systems are deemed to be insulated for the purposes of assessing
integrity and therefore, the cotton pad test is applicable for the duration of the test.

C10.6 Without the cotton wool pad there would be no control over gaps less than 6 mm
around services and the application of grilles with openings less than 150 mm which would
allow fire spread. The introduction of the cotton wool pad test is a relaxation of the existing
requirements.

10.7 INSULATION
10.7.1 General
At the request of the applicant and with the agreement of the testing authority, the
performance of a penetration system with respect to the criterion of insulation failure need
not be evaluated. Under these circumstances, thermocouples on the non-fire side may be
omitted and a zero insulation rating recorded in the test report.
10.7.2 Cable penetrations
If during the test, fissuring of the insulating materials occurs, exposing conductors before
the temperature rise measured on the cables has exceeded 180 K, the temperature of the
exposed conductors shall be measured by a roving thermocouple, provided that the fissure
is wider than 12 mm. This temperature shall be used in the determination of the insulation
rating.

10.8 TEST PROCEDURE

10.8.1 General
The test shall be carried out using the equipment and procedures in accordance with
Section 2.
10.8.2 Pressure conditions
Furnace pressure shall be controlled in accordance with the following;
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(a) A pressure of 15 ±3 Pa shall be established at the centre of a single vertical

penetration that has a maximum height of ≤1 m.
(b) If a single vertical penetration sealing system is tested, which has a height of more
than 1m, it shall be tested with a pressure of 20 ±3 Pa at its top and in such cases
penetrating services shall be included in the zone where positive pressure exceeds
10 Pa.
(c) If more than one penetration sealing system is tested in a single vertical supporting
construction, the pressure conditions specified in Item (a) or (b) shall apply to the
lowest penetration.
(d) For horizontal separating elements, the pressure of 20 ±3 Pa shall be maintained in
the horizontal plane 100 ±10 mm below the underside of the supporting construction.
10.8.3 Integrity
Where difficulties arise in attempting to use the cotton pad for the assessment of loss of
integrity in accordance with Clause 2.12.2 because the penetration carries a high density of
services, the reduced size cotton pad specified in Clause 10.6 shall be used.
The gap gauges shall not be used to evaluate integrity.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 100

10.8.4 Insulation
Temperatures recorded from thermocouples that become embedded in softening material or
covered by intumescent material shall be disregarded.
10.8.5 Additional observations
Any occurrences in the furnace of any artificial support to a service under test, for example,
if it sags and is supported by the floor or the furnace or another test specimen, shall be
recorded.

10.9 CRITERIA OF FAILURE

10.9.1 Penetrated element
If the fire resistance of the penetrated element has not been established previously, the
failure criteria given in the relevant Section of this Standard shall apply.
10.9.2 Penetrating service
10.9.2.1 Integrity
Integrity of the penetrating service shall be assessed in accordance with Clause 2.12.2.
10.9.2.2 Insulation
Only the insulation criterion of Clause 2.12.3 (b) shall apply, taking into consideration the
temperatures measured by the thermocouples specified in Clause 10.5.
10.9.3 Multiple penetrations
Any failure with respect to a single service incorporated in a penetration seal system shall
constitute a failure of that system. If multiple penetrations are included in a single test, then
the performance of each penetration seal system shall be assessed separately subject to
Clause 10.5.2.

10.10 TEST REPORT

Tests shall be reported in accordance with the requirements of Clause 2.15. Additionally,
the effect of any artificial support provided to the service during the test shall be reported.
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10.11 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN

10.11.1 General
The results of the fire test contained in the test report are directly applicable without
reference to the testing authority to similar constructions where one or more of the changes
set out in Clauses 10.11.2 to 10.11.6 have been made.
10.11.2 Separating elements
Results obtained for sealing systems in various types of masonry and concrete construction
may be applied as follows:
(a) For elements manufactured from similar types of concrete or masonry, the results of
the prototype test may be applied to materials of density within ±15% of the tested
specimen. For greater variations, the opinion of a registered testing authority shall be
obtained.
(b) Test results obtained in conjunction with hollow concrete blocks may be used to
assess the performance of a sealing system in a solid concrete element of the same
overall thickness. The reverse does not apply.

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 101 AS 1530.4—2005

(c) Results obtained from framed wall systems may be applied to the performance of a
system in concrete, masonry or solid gypsum blocks of greater or equal thickness to
that of the tested prototype. The reverse does not apply.
(d) Results obtained from framed wall systems may be applied to similar walls having
studs of the same material with sizes greater than the tested prototype.
(e) Results obtained from a prototype test may be applied to framed wall systems of
similar construction but having thicker facings of the same material applied to the
studs.
10.11.3 Metal pipes
10.11.3.1 Sealing systems tested in accordance with Appendix E
The results may be applied to brass pipes of the same composition up to maximum outside
diameter of 101.6 mm (normally 70/30 arsenical brass) and to copper and ferrous metal
pipes having wall thicknesses greater than or equal to those listed in Table 10.11.3.1.
Provided that the same penetration sealing system was used for the above penetrations in
the same type of separating element and all the specimens achieved the required FRL.

TABLE 10.11.3.1
METAL PIPE DEEMED TO HAVE EQUIVALENT
FIRE RESISTANCE LEVELS
Nominal size Actual OD Actual wall thickness
(mm) (mm) (mm)
32 31.75 0.91
40 38.10 0.91
50 50.80 0.91
65 63.50 0.91
80 76.20 1.22
90 88.90 1.22
100 101.60 1.22
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125 127.00 1.42

150 152.40 1.63

10.11.3.2 Sealing systems not tested in accordance with Appendix E

Results obtained with a penetration sealing system protecting the opening around copper or
brass pipes may be applied to pipes of the same material and to ferrous metal pipes having
outside diameters not greater than the tested diameter, and wall thicknesses not less than the
tested thickness.
10.11.3.3 Shape and size of openings for penetration seals
For mineral-fibre, cast and gun-applied mastic seals, results obtained in openings with a
smooth surface texture may be applied to openings having a rough surface texture.
Except for multiple penetration sealing systems, the penetration seal should be tested in a
circular opening having a smooth surface texture and parallel sides that run perpendicular to
the plane of the separating element. Where this is not the case, the registered testing
authority shall include a statement in the report giving reasons for variations from this
practice and specifying any limitations on the application of the results.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 102

10.11.3.4 Insulated (lagged) metal pipes

Where fire test data on the insulation system are not available, penetration sealing systems
that have been subjected to the standard test with uninsulated metal pipes may be used
provided that the appropriate requirements of Clause 10.11.3.2(b) are satisfied and the
following procedures are followed:
(a) If the insulation is non-combustible or is manufactured solely from mineral fibre, it
shall be cut away where the service penetrates the separating element and the opening
shall be fire-stopped in accordance with the tested method.
(b) If the insulation is combustible, it shall be cut away for 1000 mm either side of the
separating element (provided that the pipe did not vent hot gases during the fire
resistance test) and the pipe shall be fire-stopped in accordance with the tested
method. A non-combustible lagging may be placed over the bare pipe. If venting
occurs during the fire-resistance test at a time less than the required FRL, a fire test
shall be carried out to evaluate the insulated pipe system.
10.11.3.5 Alternative pipe materials
If an element is penetrated by—
(a) a pipe other than brass, copper or ferrous alloys;
(b) a pipe of cross-section other than circular;
(c) a pipe outside the field of application specified in this Standard for the standard test
configuration, the results obtained from a single test may be applied to these pipes
provided that the—
(i) melting point of the material is equal or greater than the tested specimen;
(ii) surface area to mass ratio of a cross-section of the pipe is equal to or less than
the tested specimen; and
(iii) thermal conductivity is equal to or less than the tested specimen diffusivity of
the material.
10.11.4 Electrical and communication cable
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The test results on the standard configurations specified in Appendix D may be applied to
all PVC-insulated and sheathed power and communications cables with copper conductors.
10.11.5 Plastic pipes
10.11.5.1 General
In addition to the requirements of Clause 10.11.2, test results may be directly applied to
masonry and concrete elements thicker than the tested prototype when installed in
accordance with Figure 10.11.5.
Results obtained from a particular test shall not be applied to plastic pipes of different
diameters, wall thicknesses or material types, except for the following applications:
(a) The fire protection system shall be subjected to the fire-resistance test when
protecting 40 mm, 50 mm, 65 mm, 80 mm and 100 mm nominal size PVC-U DWV
for separating elements and all sizes shall achieve the required FRL.
(b) For other types of plastic pipes and pipe wall thicknesses, if the maximum and
minimum sizes have also been tested and achieved, the required FRL in the subject
separating element, a registered testing authority may provide an opinion of the
performance of intermediate sizes provided the outside diameter of the largest pipe
does not exceed 120 mm and the outside diameter of the smallest pipe is not less than
40 mm.

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 103 AS 1530.4—2005

Results obtained from tests on penetrations through vertical separating elements shall not be
used to assess performance in horizontal elements, and vice versa.
As penetration seals for plastic pipes are dependent for activation upon exposure to fire
conditions, they shall always be installed with the same orientation and fire exposure as was
established in the fire-resistance test.
10.11.5.2 Services not perpendicular to the fire separation
Penetrations not perpendicular to the plane of the element are acceptable provided that the
fire-stopping system has similar exposure and dimensions to the tested prototype.
10.11.6 Control joints
The following variations are permitted:
(a) Results obtained with butt-joints may be applied to contoured joints (see
Figure 10.11.6) provided that, if only one specimen has been tested, the results may
be applied to joints of the same configuration having—
(i) equal width and equal or greater depth of sealant; and
(ii) equal or greater thickness of fire-separating element.
(b) Facings may be applied to the surface of the fire-stopping system.
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 AS 1530.4—2005 104
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FIGURE 10.11.5 EQUIVALENT EXPOSURE OF UPVC

PIPE FIRE-STOPPING SYSTEMS

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 105 AS 1530.4—2005

FIGURE 10.11.6 CONTOURED CONTROL JOINTS

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 AS 1530.4—2005 106

SE C T I ON 1 1 F I RE D A M PE R A N D A I R
T R ANS F E R G R I L L E A SSE M B L I E S

11.1 GENERAL
This Section specifies the procedure for determining the fire resistance of fire dampers and
air transfer grilles that are used to prevent the passage of fire from one fire compartment to
another. It shall be read in conjunction with Section 2.
This Section may also be used to provide data for the assessment of the ability of dampers
to resist the spread of hot smoke, although limiting leakage rate for these purposes are not
specified in this Standard.
This Section does not include the evaluation of smoke control dampers under ambient and
medium temperature exposures.

11.2 TEST METHOD

11.2.1 General
The damper assembly shall be installed and tested in a manner representative of the
intended application
11.2.2 Principles of the test
Tests shall be performed starting with the damper in the open position to expose the
actuating mechanism of the damper to furnace conditions. Temperature and integrity
measurements shall be carried out at various locations on the test specimen. The leakage of
the damper assembly shall be measured during the fire test by direct flow measurements
while maintaining a constant pressure differential across the closed damper of 300 Pa.
The damper with its fixing device is built into, attached directly to, or remotely via a
section of ducting, a fire-separating building element in a manner representative of practice.
Tests are performed starting with the damper in the open position so as to expose the
actuating mechanism of the damper to furnace conditions. During the test, temperature and
integrity measurements are carried out in various parts of the test construction. The
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tightness of the damper system is measured by direct flow measurements whilst maintaining
a constant pressure differential across the closed damper of 300 Pa. For special
applications, alternative differential pressures may be employed.

11.3 APPARATUS
11.3.1 General
The test apparatus specified in Clause 11.3.1 to 11.3.7, including the instrumentation, shall
be in accordance with Section 2 except where specifically stated otherwise in
Clauses 11.3.2 to 11.3.8.
An example of a test arrangement is shown in Figure 11.3.1.

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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 11.3.1 EXAMPLE OF A GENERAL TEST ARRANGEMENT—DAMPERS

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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 11.3.2 EXAMPLE OF AN ALTERNATIVE ARRANGEMENT—DAMPERS IN

FLOORS

11.3.2 Connecting duct

The connecting duct shall be of all-welded construction fabricated from 1.5 ±0.1 mm thick
steel with a width and height appropriate to the size of the damper being tested. The duct
shall have a length of twice the diagonal dimension of the damper up to a maximum of 2 m.
The connecting duct shall be provided with a gas-tight observation port.
The damper shall be attached to the connecting duct in a manner representative of the
intended application.

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11.3.3 Flow-measuring station

The flow-measuring station shall comprise an orifice plate, venturi or other suitable device,
an airflow straightener (if required) and straight lengths of pipe sized in accordance with
ISO 5167-1 and ISO 5221, installed between the connecting duct and the exhaust fan to
determine the volume flow rate of gases passing through the damper under test. When
testing dampers installed in floors it is still possible to use the measuring station
horizontally. A suitable mounting detail is shown in Figure 11.3.2.
11.3.4 Exhaust fan system
The exhaust fan system shall be capable of controlling flow rates and maintaining the
required pressure difference between the connecting duct and the furnace when the damper
is closed within ±5% of the required pressure.
NOTE: A balancing damper may be fitted at the outlet of the fan to adjust the pressure range of
the systems to suit the damper under test.
11.3.5 Instrumentation for measuring and recording the furnace temperature
Furnace temperatures shall be measured using thermocouples complying with Clause 2.2.3
and positioned in accordance with Clause 2.2.3 at the locations given in Figures 11.3.6(A)
to 11.3.6(F).
The gas temperature flow-measuring device shall be measured with a 0.25 mm bare wire
thermocouple enclosed in a 6 mm diameter porcelain twin wall tube with its measuring
junction located at the centre-line of the measuring duct and at a distance equal to twice the
diameter of the measuring duct downstream from the flow-measuring device. A similar
thermocouple shall be located at the exit from the connecting duct plenum (see
Figures 11.3.1 and 11.3.2). Alternative thermocouples may be used provided it can be
shown that they have equivalent response time. A MIMS thermocouple in accordance with
Clause 2.2.2.1 is deemed to have an equivalent response time.
11.3.6 Instrumentation for measuring and recording surface temperature
The instrumentation for measuring and recording surface temperature shall be in accordance
with Section 2.
Thermocouples shall be located, depending on the method of mounting the damper selected,
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in the positions shown in Figures 11.3.6(A) to 11.3.6(F).

In addition, thermocouples complying with Section 2 shall be positioned on the unexposed
face of the separating element where the specimen is mounted, located 100 mm from the
edge of the hole made for the damper, one thermocouple provided for each 500 mm
perimeter of the damper with a minimum of two thermocouples. Where the damper is
installed in a vertical separating element, one thermocouple shall be located uppermost in
the vertical plane.
A roving thermocouple shall be provided for measuring the maximum temperature at any
point on the surface of the specimen during the test.
11.3.7 Instrumentation for measuring pressure differential between the furnace and
the connecting duct
A pressure tapping shall be located on the centre-line of one vertical sidewall of the
connecting duct. Instrumentation shall have a 300 Pa measurement capacity higher than the
test pressure, i.e., 600 Pa. Instrumentation shall also be provided for measuring the pressure
difference between inside and outside (ambient) of the furnace.

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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 11.3.6(A) POSITION OF SURFACE THERMOCOUPLES WHEN DAMPER IS

INSTALLED IN AN INSULATED DUCT

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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 11.3.6(B) STANDARD POSITION FOR FURNACE THERMOCOUPLES

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 AS 1530.4—2005 112
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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 11.3.6(C) DAMPER MOUNTED ONTO FACE OF SUPPORTING

CONSTRUCTION WITHIN THE FURNACE

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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 11.3.6(D) DAMPER MOUNTED ONTO FACE OF SUPPORTING

CONSTRUCTION OUTSIDE THE FURNACE

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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 11.3.6(E) DAMPER MOUNTED REMOTE FROM THE SUPPORTING

CONSTRUCTION AND WITHIN THE FURNACE CHAMBER

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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 11.3.6(F) DAMPER MOUNTED REMOTE FROM THE SUPPORTING

CONSTRUCTION AND OUTSIDE THE FURNACE CHAMBER

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 AS 1530.4—2005 116

11.3.8 Gap gauges and cotton pad

Gap gauges and cotton pad shall be applied according to Section 2 in order to judge the
integrity of the joints between the damper and its connecting duct and the damper assembly
and the supporting construction of the test arrangement.

11.4 TEST CONSTRUCTION

11.4.1 General
The test specimen and method of mounting shall be representative of that intended to be
used in practice.
11.4.2 Side to be tested
Dampers shall be tested from both sides (i.e., two specimens) unless the assembly,
including the hardware, is entirely symmetrical, or unless by its construction it can only be
installed in such a way that it can only be exposed to fire from one side.
If testing is carried out from one side only (that is, one specimen), the reason for one side
testing shall be clearly stated in the report.
11.4.3 Dampers installed in both walls and floors
Dampers that are to be employed in both walls and floors shall be tested in both the vertical
and horizontal orientations.
11.4.4 Dampers installed within a structural opening
Dampers to be positioned within a structural opening shall be tested as shown in
Figure 11.3 when installed in a wall, and as shown in Figure 11.3.2 when installed in a
floor.
11.4.5 Dampers mounted onto face of wall or floor
Uninsulated dampers mounted on a wall or floor and attached to the face of a structure shall
be tested with the damper positioned within the furnace as shown in Figure 11.3.6(C).
Insulated dampers shall be tested from both sides so that the insulation properties of the
damper body and where appropriate the duct can be evaluated. An example of a damper
mounted to the wall/floor outside the furnace is shown in Figure 11.3.6(D).
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11.4.6 Dampers remote from wall or floor

11.4.6.1 Within the furnace
Dampers mounted remote from the wall or floor and separate from the structure shall be
attached to a length of ductwork. For test purposes, the duct shall be attached to the
supporting construction with the damper installed at the duct end within the furnace, as
shown in Figure 11.3.6(E). This length of ductwork shall be 150 ±50 mm long and insulated
to the extent necessary to ensure that it remains intact throughout the test. The distance
between the outer surface of the duct and the furnace wall or floor shall be not less than
500 mm.
11.4.6.2 Outside the furnace
For dampers that are to be mounted onto a section of duct outside the furnace, as shown in
Figure 11.3.6(F), the length of duct shall be 500 ±50 mm.
11.4.7 Minimum separation between dampers
Where more than one specimen is to be tested at the same time, the distance between the
dampers shall be not less than 200 mm, as shown in Figure 11.4.7(A). Where the dampers
are mounted in a wall and are not located in the same horizontal plane, the required furnace
pressure shall be determined at the horizontal plane of the lower damper Figure 11.4.7(B).

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 117 AS 1530.4—2005

11.4.8 Thermal release mechanism

The thermal release mechanism shall be included in the specimen construction. If there are
alternative release mechanisms in series with the basic thermal release, which can be shown
to not inhibit the primary release, then only the one thermal release mechanism shall be
tested.
NOTE: Where a damper design is modified solely with respect to the thermal release mechanism,
it is not necessary to continue the test after closure provided that the release mechanism does not
affect the maintenance of the closed state of damper.
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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 11.4.7(A) MINIMUM SEPARATION BETWEEN TWO DAMPERS

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 AS 1530.4—2005 118

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE 11.4.7(B) DAMPERS MOUNTED IN DIFFERENT HORIZONTAL PLANES

11.4.9 Size of specimen

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The maximum size of the test specimen shall be 1200 mm × 1200 mm. For multiple
modular systems, the largest single modular shall have been tested up to a maximum size of
1200 m × 1200 mm and additional supporting test data shall be required to assess the
performance of larger modular damper assemblies.
11.4.10 Specimen installation
The dampers shall be installed, as in practice, in a supporting construction using methods
that are in accordance with the applicant’s instructions. Where the applicant requires the
damper to be tested in a length of insulated ductwork, the length over which the duct is to
be insulated, as shown in Figure 11.3.6(A), shall be specified.

11.5 TEST
11.5.1 Determination of background leakage of connecting duct and measuring
station
The procedure for determining the background leakage of connecting duct and measuring
station is as follows:
(a) Shut the fire damper manually and seal the inlet aperture using impervious material.
(b) Assemble the connecting duct, measuring station and exhaust fan as shown in
Figure 11.3.1 or Figure 11.3.2. The joints between each component shall be well
sealed with high temperature gaskets and/or sealants.

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 119 AS 1530.4—2005

(c) Connect the flow-measuring device to a suitable recording instrument calibrated and
complying with the requirements of ISO 5167-1 and ISO 5221. It may be necessary to
use a different size of orifice plate, venturi or other suitable device for the
determination of the leakage of the connecting duct to that used for the leakage tests
described in Clause 11.5. The leakage shall be calculated from the recorded pressure
differential from the flow-measuring device using the formulae for volume flow rates
given in ISO 5167-1 and ISO 5221 or by calibration.
(d) Adjust the exhaust fan so that the air leakage through the connecting duct and
measuring station can be measured at 200 Pa, 300 Pa, 400 Pa and 500 Pa. The
pressure differential at each value should be maintained for 60 s before the leakage is
recorded.
(e) Plot the values on graph paper or use a regression analysis to determine the leakage at
300 Pa.
(f) If the leakage at 300 Pa is more then 12 m 3/h, improve the sealing of joints and
stability of the test construction until the leakage criterion referred to above can be
met.
(g) Remove the sealing from the inlet aperture of the damper.
11.5.2 Combined fire and leakage test
11.5.2.1 Test set-up
The combined fire and leakage test shall be conducted in accordance with the following:
(a) Subject the damper to 50 opening and closing cycles.
(b) Mount the test specimen onto the furnace with the fire damper in the open position.
(c) Connect all instrumentation required by this Section.
(d) With the damper fully open, set the exhaust fan system to produce an air velocity of
0.15 m/s through the damper. This may be measured by the flow-measuring device
located within the measuring duct. The air velocity shall be maintained to an accuracy
of ±15%.
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(e) Switch off the exhaust fan, but leave at its pre-set value given in Clause 11.5.2.1(d).
(f) Ignite the furnace. Start the timing device and switch on all measuring devices.
(g) Switch on the exhaust fan as soon as the furnace has ignited.
(h) When the damper has closed or at 300 s, whichever occurs first, adjust the exhaust
fan to maintain an under-pressure of 300 Pa in the connecting duct, relative to the
furnace.
11.5.2.2 During the test
During the test the following shall be carried out:
(a) Control and record the furnace temperature and pressure in accordance with
Section 2. The furnace pressure at the horizontal centre-line of a vertical damper shall
be maintained at 15 ±3 Pa.
(b) Maintain a pressure differential between the connecting duct and the furnace of
−300 ±15 Pa.
(c) Record the pressure differential across the flow-measuring device and the local gas
temperature at not more than 1 min intervals.

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Constants for flow measuring shall be calculated in accordance with ISO 5167-1 over
the range of anticipated gas temperatures. As a function of time and measured gas
temperatures, select the corresponding flow-measuring device constant and calculate
the volume flow rate at the measuring station gas temperatures using the formulae for
volume flow rates given in ISO 5167-1 and ISO 5221.
(d) Record the temperature on the external surface of the connecting duct.
(e) The effect of gaps, orifices or openings on the integrity at the junction between the
supporting construction and connecting duct shall be determined by the use of the
cotton pad and/or gap gauges as defined in Section 2.
(f) Where practicable, record any observations of the general behaviour of the damper
assembly during the test. In practice this will be limited to observations taken on the
furnace side and to the duct/damper junction and on the non-furnace side.

11.6 CRITERIA OF FAILURE

11.6.1 Penetrated element
If the fire resistance of the penetrated element has not been established previously, the
failure criteria given in the relevant section of this Standard shall apply.
11.6.2 Damper assembly
11.6.2.1 Integrity
The damper assembly shall be deemed to have failed the integrity criterion of Section 2
when—
(a) flaming on the unexposed surface of the specimen is sustained for longer than 10 s;
(b) the cotton pad provisions apply; or
(c) leakage rate exceeds 360 m 3/(h/m 2) corrected to STP (standard temperature and
pressure) at any time after the first 5 min of the test.
Criteria (a) and (b) above shall apply to the penetration between the damper and the
supporting construction.
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C11.6.2 Tests in accordance with the test method described in ISO 10294-1 were
undertaken on a range of European and North American fire dampers, all of which satisfied
conventional measurements for integrity. It was established that the existing products were
capable of satisfying a leakage limit of 360m3/(h/m 2 ), and this limit was adopted for
evaluation of compliance of integrity using gas flow measurements (E designation). In
relation to smoke leakage, available analytical data was examined, taking into account
such parameters as acceptable concentrations of smoke, required degree of dilution, time
for escape, which led to an acceptable smoke leakage of 200 m3/(h/m2 ) being derived. This
is the limit used for checking compliance with the S designation.

11.6.2.2 Insulation
Only the maximum temperature criterion of Section 2 shall apply, taking into consideration
the temperatures measured by the thermocouples specified in Clause 11.3.5.
11.6.2.3 Leakage
The leakage rate specified in Clause 11.6.2.1(c) shall apply to the assessment of the
potential for fire spread under the criteria for integrity only.
Substantially lower leakage rates may be specified for applications where the damper is
required to resist the spread of hot smoke in addition to resisting the spread of fire.

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 121 AS 1530.4—2005

11.7 TEST REPORT

In addition to the requirements of Section 2, the report shall state the following:
(a) Details of construction and conditioning of the test specimen, including detailed
information on the specification of materials and components used, together with
drawings illustrating the essential features and installation details, including the
dimension from the exposed face of the supporting construction to the centre-line of
the plane of operation of the damper.
(b) Description of the method and materials used to seal the damper into the test
construction.
(c) The test duration.
(d) A record of the following relating to the fire test as a function of time:
(i) Furnace pressure.
(ii) Furnace temperature.
(iii) Connecting duct pressure.
(iv) Temperatures measured by all surface-mounted thermocouples.
(v) Gas temperature at exit of connecting duct.
(vi) Measuring station gas temperature and pressure differentials.
(vii) Calculated leakages through the damper during the test (volume flow rate)
converted to actual temperature corrected to STP (standard temperature and
pressure).
(viii) Closure of mechanical damper.
(e) Any observations that were made during the course of the test, particularly with
respect to loss of integrity at the joints between the damper and its connecting duct
and the damper assembly and the supporting construction of the test arrangement.

11.8 TEST CONSTRUCTION

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A test result obtained for a fire damper mounted in a supporting construction made of
masonry, concrete or solid portions (without any cavity) is applicable from the same type
and construction with a thickness and density equal to or greater than those at the
supporting construction used for the test.

11.9 PERMISSIBLE VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN

11.9.1 Size of fire damper
A test result obtained for the largest fire damper in the range may be applied to all dampers
of the same type (including any aspect ratio) provided that the maximum dimensions do not
exceed those tested and that the components remain in the same orientation as that tested.
11.9.2 Fire dampers installed within structural openings
A test result obtained for an installed fire damper may only be applied to dampers installed
in the same orientation as that tested.
11.9.3 Fire dampers mounted onto the face of a wall or floor
A test result obtained for a fire damper installed onto the face of a wall or floor may only be
applied to dampers installed onto the face of a separating element in the same orientation as
that tested.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 122

11.9.4 Fire dampers remote from a wall or floor

A test result obtained for a fire damper remote from a wall or floor (of the same fire
resistance as the damper) may be applied to the following dampers:
(a) Mounted remote from a wall and attached to a length of a horizontal fire-resisting
ductwork when tested remote from a wall.
(b) Mounted remote from a floor and attached to a length of vertical fire-resisting
ductwork on the side above the floor when tested above the floor.
(c) Mounted remote from a floor and attached to a length of vertical fire-resisting
ductwork on the side below the floor when tested below the floor.
11.9.5 Damper separation
Unless tested otherwise, the minimum damper shall be—
(a) 200 mm between dampers installed in separate ducts; or
(b) 75 mm between the damper and a construction element (wall/floor).
11.9.6 Supporting constructions
A test obtained for a fire damper mounted in or on the face of a supporting construction
made of masonry, concrete or homogeneous partition (without continuous cavity) may be
applied for the same type of supporting construction with a thickness and density equal to
or greater than those of the supporting construction used in the test. The test result may
apply to cellular or hollow masonry blocks or slabs that have a fire resistance time equal to
or greater than the fire resistance required for the fire damper installation.
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 123 AS 1530.4—2005

S E C T I O N 1 2 CR IT I C A L SE RV ICE S

12.1 GENERAL
This Section sets out the procedure for determining the test method for assessing the ability
of systems to protect critical services under fire conditions. It shall be read in conjunction
with Section 2.
This Section is applicable to, but is not limited to, the following services:
(a) Current-carrying cables and busways.
(b) Fibre optical cables.
(c) Data cables.
(d) Communication systems.
(e) Fire detection and alarm wiring.
(f) Hydrant systems.
(g) Emergency control systems.
(h) Any other services that may be required to operate at some level in the event of fire.
Wiring systems requiring to be classified for fire performance shall be tested in accordance
with AS 3013.
This Section may also be applied to the enclosure of hazardous services such as pipes
carrying flammable fluids and medical gas lines.
Guidance is provided on the selection of appropriate criteria for some critical services,
which may be applied in lieu of testing specimens with operating services.
These performance criteria of services may vary depending on the usage of the building and
may be specified as part of a deemed-to-satisfy solution or a performance-based solution.
This method may be applied to enclosed systems (ducts/shafts) and coated systems and is
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intended to encourage innovation.

Services subjected to a fire-resistance test in accordance with this section shall be tested in
the horizontal orientation.
This Section shall be read in conjunction with Section 2.

12.2 TEST SPECIMEN

The following requirements, as appropriate, apply to specimens for testing:
(a) The test specimen shall be tested with operating services where practicable, unless
appropriate alternate criteria have been adopted.
(b) Test specimens shall include all elements for which a fire rating is sought including
any joints or components of the system.
(c) For electrical cable the cable configurations of AS 3013 may be adopted.
(d) The specimen (services and protection system) shall to be supported in a manner
representative of normal installations from a normal weight concrete slab of minimum
thickness 100 mm.
(e) The test configuration shall include two 90° bends and span the width or height of a
furnace having minimum dimensions 1000 mm × 1000 mm. Typical configurations
are shown in Figure 12.2.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 124

(f) The minimum clearances between the specimen and the furnace lining or other
specimens shall be at least 200 mm except at the position where the service penetrates
the furnace unless the application being evaluated requires the service or enclosure to
be in contact or in close proximity to the slab (e.g., three-sided exposure).
(g) The specimen shall incorporate access panels if appropriate to the system.
(h) For safety requirements temperature measurements on services shall be taken on (non
active) service(s), which shall be representative of the active services being tested.
For enclosed systems, these services shall be placed within the enclosure and shall
have a minimum length of 500 mm. For coated systems, these services shall be coated
in the same manner as and fixed alongside the active services and shall have a
minimum length of 500 mm.
NOTE: For other services, representative configurations should be selected.
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 125 AS 1530.4—2005
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FIGURE 12.2 TYPICAL TEST SPECIMEN CONFIGURATIONS

12.3 APPARATUS AND INSTRUMENTATION

The following is required:
(a) A furnace complying with the requirements of Section 2 having minimum dimensions
of 1000 mm × 1000 mm.
(b) Equipment to simulate and monitor service operational status. For electrical cables
equipment specified in AS 3013 shall be adopted.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 126

(c) Thermocouples complying with Clause 2.2.4 shall be positioned on each non-active
service on the upper and lower surfaces, at the quarter and mid-span positions as
shown in Figure 12.2 and at any other positions considered to have the potential for
higher heat transfer.
For additional information, the internal temperatures of an enclosure may be
measured at the quarter and mid-span positions and at any other positions considered
to have the potential for higher heat transfer using thermocouples complying with
Clause 2.2.3.

12.4 PRINCIPLE
A specimen is placed in a furnace, and exposed to the standard time-temperature heating
regime (or other regime as selected) and pressure conditions in order to determine the
ability of the system to operate at design capacity under fire conditions.

12.5 PROCEDURE
The procedure shall be as follows:
(a) Mount the test specimens on the slab, forming the roof of the furnace.
(b) Activate services at least 5 min before the commencement of the test if required to be
operational during the test.
(c) Operate furnace in accordance with the test procedures of Section 2.
(d) Record the performance of the protection system and service(s) under test at intervals
of no more than 1 min.
(e) The test may be terminated, subject to agreement between the testing authority and
the test sponsor.

12.6 CRITERIA OF FAILURE

The failure of a service is deemed to occur when it can no longer operate to its design
capacity.
Failure to maintain the design operating capacity may be judged by monitoring the
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performance of the service or comparing measurements of critical service temperatures with

the values given in Table 12.6.
During a fire test subject to agreement between the laboratory and test applicant, the design
capacity can be reduced to obtain data on the performance of a service for a range of design
capacities. Results of the fire test should clearly show the relationship between the duration
of the fire test and reduction in operating capacity at that time.
NOTE: A suggested thermal failure criteria is given in Table 12.6.

TABLE 12.6
THERMAL FAILURE CRITERIA
Critical temperature,
Service
°C
Steel pipe at design capacity (with pressure relief) 550
Copper pipe at design capacity (with pressure relief) 250
PVC insulated/PVC sheathed power cables at design capacity 75 (see Note)
NOTE: Refer to cable rating for continuous use

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 127 AS 1530.4—2005

12.7 REPORTING OF RESULTS

Results shall be reported in accordance with Clause 2.15.
In addition, the report shall include details of the derivation of the design capacity(ies)
adopted during the test and period(s) for which the service(s) were continuously maintained
or exceeded the design capacity.
The results shall be reported in a tabular format in accordance with the example shown in
Table 12.7.

TABLE 12.7
TYPICAL RESULTS TO BE REPORTED
Average
Time to Max temp.
Heating temperature Mode of
Service Design capacity operational at failure,
regime to at failure, failure
failure, min °C
°C
1 Cable AS 1530.4 240V/0.25A 90 130 135 Service
2 Steel pipes AS 1530.4 Ambient capacity 120 53 600 Service

12.8 VARIATIONS TO THE TESTED SPECIMEN

Results of horizontal tests may be applied to vertical systems.
Results of enclosed systems may not be used on enclosures with a smaller cross-sectional
area.
Results obtained may be applied to services at a lower design capacity.
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 AS 1530.4—2005 128

APPENDIX A
RADIANT HEAT FLUX MEASUREMENTS
(Informative)

A1 SCOPE
This Appendix provides guidelines on the use of measurements of radiant heat flux emitted
by an element of construction that undergoes the fire-resistance test.

A2 GENERAL
In a fire, radiant heat emitted from the unexposed face of an element of construction can
cause the ignition of combustible materials in the vicinity.
The insulation criteria of the fire resistance test would ensure that radiant heat flux levels
would be below those necessary to ignite combustible materials or to cause burns to humans
in the vicinity. However, with uninsulated elements radiant heat flux levels may be unsafe
for humans and could ignite combustible materials in the vicinity.
The measurement of radiant heat flux during the test provides information on the likely
intensity of the emitted radiant heat flux during a fire and enables safe distances to be
calculated.
The theory presented in this Appendix assumes that the source of radiant heat is uniform in
intensity although this is seldom realized in practice. However, if the distance at which the
intensity of radiant heat measured in the test is similar to the distance of interest, a useful
approximation of the emitted flux can be obtained. If the non-uniformity of the source of
radiant heat is known or can be estimated, this can be incorporated in the calculations of
radiant heat.
The emitted radiant heat flux/time curve is applicable to the specimen during the test. This
curve will not necessarily relate to the time history of emitted radiant heat during a real fire.
Real fires have been shown to increase their temperature more rapidly than indicated by the
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standard time-temperature curve. The most appropriate value for calculations would
normally be the value at the end of the rating period.

A3 INTENSITY OF RADIANT HEAT FLUX

The intensity of radiant heat flux received at any point in front of a source of radiant heat
may be calculated from the following equation:
Ir = φ × Io . . . A3
where
Ir = intensity of radiant heat flux received at the point under consideration, in
kilowatts per square metre
φ = ageometric view factor called the configuration factor, which is related to the
solid angle subtended by the source at the point under consideration
Io = emitted radiant heat flux, in kilowatts per square metre
The test data provides the values of I o during the test. The configuration factor applicable to
a particular installation can be calculated and then the intensity of radiant heat flux to be
received at a point in front of the element can be determined by the above equation.

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 129 AS 1530.4—2005

Alternatively, if what is needed is to limit to a safe value the received radiant heat flux, a
safe distance can be evaluated at which the configuration factor will yield sufficient
attenuation of the emitted radiant heat flux.
Typical radiant heat flux intensities to cause various phenomena are tabulated in Table A3.

TABLE A3
TYPICAL RADIANT HEAT INTENSITIES FOR VARIOUS PHENOMENA
Phenomena kW/m 2
Maximum for indefinite exposure for humans
4
Pain after 10 s to 20 s
Pain after 3 s 10
Piloted ignition of cotton fabric after a long time 13
Piloted ignition of timber after a long time 13
Non-piloted ignition of cotton fabric after a long time 25
Non-piloted ignition of timber after a long time 25
Non-piloted ignition of gaberdine fabric after a long time 27
Non-piloted ignition of black drill fabric after a long time 38
Non-piloted ignition of cotton fabric after 5 s 42
Non-piloted ignition of timber in 20 s 45
Non-piloted ignition of timber in 10 s 55

A4 CONFIGURATION FACTOR
Means for calculating the configuration factor for a specific situation are outlined in Heat
Transfer by Radiation by J H McGuire, DSIR FOC HMSO Special Report No. 2 1953. Two
special cases are as follows:
(a) Circular source with receiver on axis of source and with plane of receiver and source
parallel—
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R2
φ= . . . A4(1)
R2 + D 2
where
φ = configuration factor
R = radius of source
D = distance between source and receiver

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 AS 1530.4—2005 130

(b) Rectangular source with receiver on centre-line of source and with plane of receiver
parallel to plane of source—

2  W H H W 

φ= tan −1 + tan −1 . . . A4(2)
π
 (W 2
+ 4D 2 ) (W 2
− 4D 2 ) (H 2
+ 4D 2 ) (H 2
+ 4D 2 ) 

where
φ = configuration factor
W = width of source
H = height of source
D = distance between source and receiver

A5 ESTIMATING SAFE DISTANCE

The safe distance, that is the distance at which the radiant heat intensity falls below a
nominated value I r, may be determined for rectangular sources from calculations of
configuration factor, or estimated from Table A5.
The required configuration factor is first calculated from the following equation:
φ = Ir / Io . . . A5(1)
To utilize Table A5, the aspect ratio of the source, that is the ratio of the shorter side to the
longer side, needs to be evaluated.
The factor C is then obtained from Table A5.
The ‘safe distance’ (the distance at which the radiant heat intensity has decreased to I r) is
calculated from the equation:
Safe distance = C AS . . . A5(2)
where
C = dimensionless factor, obtained from Table A2
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A S = area of the source

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 131 AS 1530.4—2005

TABLE A5
FACTOR C FOR USE IN THE DETERMINATION OF SAFE DISTANCE
Factor C
Configuration
Aspect ratio
factor
0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0
0.001 17.8 17.8 17.8 17.8 17.8 17.8 17.8 17.8 17.8 17.8
0.002 12.6 12.6 12.6 12.6 12.6 12.6 12.6 12.6 12.6 12.6
0.003 10.2 10.3 10.3 10.3 10.3 10.3 10.3 10.3 10.3 10.3
0.004 8.82 8.88 8.89 8.89 8.89 8.89 8.89 8.91 8.91 8.91
0.005 7.88 7.93 7.94 7.95 7.95 7.95 7.96 7.96 7.96 7.96
0.006 7.16 7.23 7.25 7.25 7.26 7.26 7.26 7.26 7.27 7.27
0.007 6.62 6.68 6.70 6.71 6.71 6.72 6.72 6.72 6.72 6.72
0.008 6.17 6.24 6.26 6.26 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28
0.009 5.80 5.87 5.89 5.90 5.91 5.91 5.92 5.92 5.92 5.92
0.010 5.50 5.56 5.59 5.60 5.60 5.60 5.61 5.61 5.61 5.61
0.020 3.78 3.88 3.92 3.93 3.94 3.94 3.94 3.94 3.94 3.94
0.030 3.00 3.13 3.17 3.18 3.19 3.20 3.20 3.20 3.21 3.21
0.040 2.53 2.67 2.71 2.74 2.75 2.75 2.76 2.76 2.76 2.76
0.050 2.20 2.35 2.40 2.43 2.44 5.45 2.45 2.45 2.46 2.46
0.060 1.95 2.12 2.17 2.20 2.21 2.22 2.23 2.23 2.23 2.23
0.007 1.76 1.93 1.99 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.05 2.05 2.05
0.080 1.60 1.78 1.85 1.87 1.89 1.90 1.90 1.91 1.91 1.91
0.090 1.47 1.66 1.72 1.75 1.77 1.78 1.78 1.79 1.79 1.79
0.100 1.35 1.55 1.62 1.65 1.67 1.68 1.68 1.69 1.69 1.69
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0.200 0.75 0.94 1.02 1.07 1.09 1.11 1.12 1.12 1.12 1.12
0.300 0.50 0.66 0.75 0.79 0.82 0.84 0.85 0.85 0.85 0.86
0.400 0.36 0.49 0.57 0.62 0.65 0.66 0.67 0.68 0.68 0.68
0.500 0.27 0.38 0.45 0.49 0.52 0.54 0.55 0.55 0.56 0.56
0.600 0.21 0.29 0.35 0.39 0.42 0.43 0.44 0.45 0.45 0.45
0.700 0.16 0.23 0.27 0.31 0.33 0.34 0.35 0.36 0.36 0.36
0.800 0.12 0.17 0.20 0.23 0.25 0.26 0.27 0.27 0.28 0.28
0.900 0.08 0.11 0.13 0.15 0.16 0.17 0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18

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 AS 1530.4—2005 132

APPENDIX B
ALTERNATIVE AND ADDITIONAL TEST PROCEDURES FOR ELEMENTS OF
CONSTRUCTION
(Informative)

B1 SCOPE
This Appendix provides alternative heating conditions and other procedures, which may
need to be adopted to evaluate the performance of elements of construction under fire
conditions when specified by the applicant. It should be read in conjunction with Section 2.
In circumstances where the alternative and additional test procedures for elements of
construction are applicable, the procedures set out in this Appendix should be adopted and
read in conjunction with this Standard.
The additional procedures contained in this Appendix fall into the following categories:
(a) Alternate heating regimes/exposure conditions.
(b) Additional measurements to provide data to assess compliance with other Standards
and/or provide data for fire safety engineering purposes.
(c) Supplementary test methods.

B2 ALTERNATIVE HEATING REGIMES

Details of the following alternative heating regimes are included:
(a) Hydrocarbon.
(b) Slow heating establishment phase fire for barrier systems.
(c) Radiation external fire spread regimes.
The time/temperature heating regime specified in AS 1530.4 (and ISO 834) has changed
little since the publication of A30 in 1935 (the predecessor of AS 1530.4). A30 was, itself,
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based on earlier international work dating from the early 20th century. Therefore there is a
very large existing database of results and experience in the use of the results.
It is widely recognized that the standard heating regime specified in AS 1530.4/ISO 834 is
not necessarily directly applicable to modern buildings. It should be noted that the recorded
FRLs expressed as the time to failure under the relevant criteria do not bear a direct
relationship to the failure times in real fires. However, the standard heating regime has
provided a means of ranking fire-resistant elements of construction for regulatory purposes
and the FRLs prescribed in the BCA and earlier building regulations.
The implementation of the BCA 1996 permitted alternative solutions (commonly referred to
as performance-based solutions) to be accepted in lieu of the traditional prescriptive
(deemed-to-satisfy) approaches. This has created a demand for the performance of elements
of construction to be predicted when exposed to conditions other than the standard heating
regime specified in AS 1530.4 in order to demonstrate compliance of alternate solutions
with the BCA. Fire testing following an alternate heating regime is an appropriate means of
demonstrating compliance but it is important that the tests are performed in a controlled and
repeatable manner.
By specifying ‘standard’ alternate heating regimes and test methods it is more likely that
test data will be able to be correctly applied to a wider range of projects reducing the need
for repeated testing on a project by project basis and thus providing efficiencies to the
building industry.

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 133 AS 1530.4—2005

Since the use of alternate solutions is optional and methods of demonstrating compliance
are subject to approval by the relevant regulatory authorities, this Appendix has been
classified as informative.
An idealized time/temperature curve for the enclosure of fire origin is shown in
Figure B2(A). For simplicity, the fire can be characterized into the following phases:
(a) Establishment phase—slow heating where radiative feedback from the hot layer is
relatively low (typically below 200°C). The period of the establishment phase can
vary from less than 1 min to several hours depending upon fuel and ignition sources,
enclosure size, etc. Most fires will never progress beyond the establishment phase due
to self-extinguishment/manual or automatic fire suppression. The slow heating
establishment phase fire may be adopted to assess barriers under these conditions
(b) Rapid growth phase—typically where radiative feedback increases rapidly which if
the fire progresses unchecked may quickly lead to flashover (the transition from a
localized fire to general conflagration within the compartment when all fuel surfaces
are burning).
(c) Fully developed phase—general conflagration within the compartment when all fuel
surfaces are burning
(d) Decay phase—commonly defined as the period when the average enclosure
temperature has decreased to 80% of its peak.
The standard fire resistance test heating regime and/or the hydrocarbon heating regime may
be used to provide data to assess the performance of barriers during the rapid growth, fully
developed and decay phases.
The Hydrocarbon and slow heating regimes specified in this Appendix are shown in
Figure B2(B).
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FIGURE B2(A) HEATING REGIMES AND FIRE GROWTH WITHIN AN ENCLOSURE

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 AS 1530.4—2005 134

NOTE: The hydrocarbon heating regime is based on EN 1363.2; however, the equivalent regimes for slow
heating/external exposure specified in EN 1363 Part 2 were not considered appropriate or consistent with the
BCA and Australian building/design practices for the particular applications. Therefore, more appropriate
regimes have been specified.

FIGURE B2(B) TEMPERATURE-TIME CURVES FOR HYDROCARBON AND

SLOW-HEATING FIRES

B3 ADDITIONAL MEASUREMENTS
Requirements for the following additional measurements are included
(a) Radiant heat from the non-fire-exposed face of specimens.
(b) Radiant heat exposure measurements during fire-resistance tests.
(c) Furnace plate thermocouple measurements for compatibility with ISO 834.
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B4 SUPPLEMENTARY TEST METHODS

The following supplementary test methods are included:
(a) Pilot fire test for fire doors.
(b) Fire safety engineering test method for doorsets subjected to simulated fully
developed fires.
An explanation is given in the appropriate clauses as to why it would be necessary to adopt
the procedures contained in this Appendix.

B5 HYDROCARBON CURVE
B5.1 General
Section 2 defines the heating conditions, in terms of a specified temperature-time
relationship, for the determination of fire resistance.
It is recognized that, whilst the heating conditions specified are related to those occurring in
real fires, it is not the intent to define an ‘average’ fire for universal application but
generally to rank elements of construction for regulatory purposes. In some practical cases
it is possible to identify scenarios where significant variation from the standard conditions
could exist.

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 135 AS 1530.4—2005

One such example is in the petrochemical and offshore oil industries where there is a threat
of exposure to very intense fires such as liquid pool fires or well-insulated buildings
containing modern furnishings. Such fires are characterized by higher temperatures and a
rapid rate of growth.
Where there is an identified requirement for such a fire exposure, the following
hydrocarbon curve should be considered.
NOTE: If a form of construction has been tested to the hydrocarbon and standard heating regimes,
it may be possible to model the performance of the barrier to enable interpolation of results for
intermediate exposure conditions.
Many modern fully developed fires in buildings and industrial applications are
characterized by a very rapid growth to temperatures significantly higher than those
specified for the standard fire resistance test. The times to failure from the fire resistance
test cannot therefore be applied directly to time lines for fire scenarios when evaluating an
alternative solution. Since heat transfer during a fully developed fire is likely to be
predominately by radiation and will, therefore, vary approximately in proportion to
temperature to the power four, substantial reductions in performance of elements of
construction would be expected. In addition some elements of construction may be
susceptible to thermal shock.
The hydrocarbon heating curve has been included to provide a means for the evaluation of
elements of construction under more rapid heating conditions.
B5.2 Expression of temperature-time curve
A temperature-time curve to be designated as the hydrocarbon curve is to be defined by the
following expression:
[
T = 1080 1 − 0.325e −0.167 t − 0.675e −2.5t + 20] . . . B5(1)

where
t = time from start of test, in minutes
T = average required furnace temperature, in degrees centigrade
See Figure B2(B).
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B5.3 Tolerances
The percentage deviation (de) in the area of the curve of the average temperature recorded
by the specified furnace thermocouples versus time from the area of the specified
temperature-time curve should be within—
(a) 15% .....................................................................................................for 5 < t < 10.
(b) (15 – 0.5 (t-10))%...............................................................................for 10 < t < 30.
(c) (5 − 0.083 (t-30))%.............................................................................for 30 < t < 60.
(d) 2.5% ......................................................................................................... for t > 60.
where
A − AS . . . B5(2)
de × 100
AS
de = percentage deviation
A = area under the actual furnace temperature-time curve
A S = area under the specified temperature-time curve
t = time, in minutes

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 AS 1530.4—2005 136

All areas are to be computed by the same method, that is, by the summation of areas at
intervals not exceeding 1 min and should be calculated from time zero.
At any time after the first 10 min of test, the temperature recorded by any thermocouple in
the furnace should not differ from the corresponding temperature of the specified
temperature-time curve by more than 100ºC.
For test specimens that burn rapidly, a deviation in excess of 100ºC above the specified
temperature/time curve may be exceeded for a period not in excess of 10 min provided that
such excess deviation is clearly identified as being associated with the sudden ignition of
significant quantities of combustible materials increasing the gas temperature in the
furnace.
B5.4 Expression of results
The fire performance determined when exposed to the hydrocarbon fire should be expressed
in a statement as follows:
‘Fire performance of the building element when exposed to hydrocarbon curve—
(a) structural adequacy xx minutes;
(b) integrity yy minutes; and
(c) insulation zz minutes.
NOTE: An alternate heating regime to the standard heating regime specified in Section 2 has
been adopted. The results above should not be used as evidence of performance when subjected to
the standard heating regime.

B6 SLOW HEATING ESTABLISHMENT PHASE FIRE

B6.1 General
This Standard defines the heating conditions, in terms of a specified temperature-time
relationship, for the determination of fire resistance.
The fire resistance of some specimens determined using the standard temperature-fire
curve, as specified in this Standard, might be substantially reduced in a slowly growing fire.
Examples are products that are reactive under the influence of heat. For this reason slow-
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growing temperature-time curves are proposed.

The slow-heating establishment phase fire can be used to evaluate barriers exposed to
sprinkler-controlled fires as well as many non-flashover fires and the establishment phase
of a potential flashover fire.
Where there is an identified requirement for such a fire exposure, the following slow
heating curve should be used.
The slow heating establishment phase fire has been included to provide data for the
assessment of the performance of elements of construction in the enclosure of fire origin
during the establishment phase (i.e., before rapid growth phase), sprinkler-controlled fires
and elements distant from the enclosure of fire origin that may be exposed to medium
temperature smoke.
The maximum temperature of 200ºC was specified to provide consistency with the BCA
provisions for smoke barriers (30 min exposure to 200ºC), the requirements of AS 1668.1
for smoke management equipment in sprinkler protected buildings (120 minutes at 200ºC)
and AS 1530.7 ambient and medium temperature air leakage tests which defined the
temperature of medium temperature smoke as 200ºC. In addition, the 200ºC maximum
temperature is consistent with many experimental results where the rate of growth towards
flashover is rapid once temperatures have exceeded 200ºC. The 200ºC limit is also
consistent with maximum temperatures measured in experiments involving sprinkler-
controlled fires.

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 137 AS 1530.4—2005

B6.2 Expression of temperature-time curve—Slow-heating establishment phase fire

for barrier systems
A temperature-time curve designated as the slow heating establishment phase curve is to be
defined by the following expression and be of maximum duration 30 min, see Figure B2(B):
T = 200t / 30 for t < 30 . . . B6(1)
T = 200 for t > 30 . . . B6(2)
where
t = time from start of test, in minutes
T = average required temperature, in degrees
B6.3 Tolerances
The percentage deviation (de) in the area of the curve of the average temperature recorded
by the specified furnace thermocouples versus time from the area of the specified
temperature-time curve should be within—
(a) 15% .....................................................................................................for 5 < t < 10.
(b) (15 – 0.5 (t-10))%...............................................................................for 10 < t < 30.
(c) (5 − 0.083 (t-30))%.............................................................................for 30 < t < 60.
(d) 2.5% ......................................................................................................... for t > 60.
where
A − AS . . . B6(3)
de × 100
AS
de = percentage deviation
A = area under the actual furnace temperature-time curve
A S = area under the specified temperature-time curve
t = time, in minutes
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All areas are to be computed by the same method, that is, by the summation of areas at
intervals not exceeding 1 min and are to be calculated from time zero.
At any time after the first 10 min of test, the temperature recorded by any thermocouple in
the furnace should not differ from the corresponding temperature of the specified
temperature-time curve by more than 100ºC.
The performance determined when exposed to the establishment phase fire is to be
expressed in terms contained in Paragraph B3.4.
B6.4 Expression of results
The fire performance determined when exposed to the slow heating establishment phase fire
for barrier systems should be expressed in a statement as follows:
‘Fire performance of the building element when exposed to slow heating establishment
phase fire for barrier systems—
(a) structural adequacy xx minutes; and
(b) integrity yy minutes; and
(c) insulation zz minutes.’

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 AS 1530.4—2005 138

NOTE: An alternate heating regime to the standard heating regime specified in Section 2 has
been adopted. The results above should not be used as evidence of performance when subjected to
the standard heating regime.

B7 TEST PROCEDURE FOR ELEMENTS EXPOSED TO RADIANT HEAT

B7.1 General
This Section defines a method for carrying out a fire resistance test on elements exposed to
different levels of radiant heat using a 3 m × 3 m furnace. The test may be used to obtain
data to assess the performance of external walls using verification methods such as CV1
and CV2 of the BCA 1996.
Elements of construction exposed to external fires will be subjected predominately to
radiant heat rather than convective heat if the flame/plume does not impinge on the element
and, therefore, it is more appropriate in some instances to subject external elements of
construction to radiant heat when evaluating their resistance to fire spread rather than rely
on exposure to furnace conditions.
Typical examples of the application of this method would be external walls to buildings
close to fire source features and the external facades of buildings exposed to bushfires
where vegetation has been cleared around the perimeter of a building reducing the potential
for direct flame impingement.
The BCA verification methods CV1 and CV2 recognize such an approach by specifying that
openings in external walls must be able to resist nominated radiant heat fluxes depending
upon the proximity to a fire source feature.
This method provides a means of generating data in a consistent manner in order to assess
the performance of elements of construction exposed to radiant heat, which could be used in
part to assess compliance with CV1 and CV2.
B7.2 General description of the apparatus
The test apparatus is to comprise the following:
(a) A fire resistance furnace with a sheet steel closure or equivalent forming a radiant
heat source at least 3 m × 3 m. If the plate extends beyond the furnace enclosure, the
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external face is to be insulated by 25 mm thick ceramic fibre blanket. The steel sheet
is to be stiffened to prevent excessive distortion.
(b) An insulated test frame to house a representative section of wall at least 3 m × 3 m
constructed in accordance with Section 3 but with a central mounting provided for a
radiometer to measure the incident radiation at approximately the centre of the
specimen.
(c) Shielding panels to prevent exposure of personnel to radiant heat.
B7.3 Instrumentation
B7.3.1 Furnace temperature measurements
The furnace temperature is to be measured using Type K thermocouples as prescribed in
Section 2.
B7.3.2 Furnace pressure measurements
The furnace pressure need not be measured since it is not a critical component of the test.
B7.3.3 Specimen temperatures
Surface temperatures on the non-fire side of each specimen are to be measured in
accordance with Section 3.

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 139 AS 1530.4—2005

A roving thermocouple should be available to measure temperatures at additional positions

of interest on the unexposed face.
B7.3.4 Radiant heat flux
The heat flux at the centre of the test assembly is to be measured by a water-cooled
radiometer mounted within a cored hole. If appropriate radiation from the non-fire-exposed
face of the specimen may also be measured.
B7.3.5 Radiant panel thermocouple
Two Type K surface thermocouples as specified in Section 2 are to be used to monitor the
temperature of the steel sheet.
B7.4 Test procedure
B7.4.1 Pre-test set-up
Prior to commencement of the test the furnace is to be preheated with the specimen shielded
from the radiant heat to ensure the rate of increase of radiant heat specified in
Paragraph B4.4.2 can be achieved.
B7.4.2 Specimen exposure
The set-up panel is to be removed and the test assembly progressively moved towards the
furnace such that the radiant heat flux 5 min, after the start of the test, is 75 ±5% of the
prescribed level and 10 min after the start of the test is maintained at the prescribed radiant
heat flux ±5% for the remainder of the test period. After 10 min, the exposed face of the
specimen should be maintained at a distance of 300 ±150 mm from the initial plane of the
radiant panel to ensure a substantial proportion of the specimen is exposed to the prescribed
radiant heat flux.
Precautions should be taken to ensure personnel are not exposed to hazardous conditions.
The furnace temperature is to be controlled, so that the heat flux measured at the centre of
the panel is maintained within the prescribed radiant heat flux limits.
The average radiant heat flux at the centre of the specimen during the test period after the
first 10 min is to be equal to the prescribed radiant heat flux ±5.0%.
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B7.4.3 Observations
Temperature data and the radiant heat flux should be recorded at a maximum of 60 s
intervals to the levels of accuracy as defined in this Standard and ISO 834.
Any significant visible event is to be recorded.
B7.4.4 Exposure conditions
The heat flux is to be agreed between the laboratory and the applicant prior to
commencement of the test. The levels given in Table B7.4.4 have been extracted from the
BCA for a building element at a specified distance from a boundary or another building on
the same allotment.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 140

TABLE B7.4.4
HEAT FLUX
Location Heat flux (kW/m 2 )
On boundary 80
1 m from boundary 40
3 m from boundary 20
6 m from boundary 10
0 m between buildings 80
2 m between buildings 40
6 m between buildings 20
12 m between buildings 10

B7.4.5 Performance criteria

The performance of the specimen may be assessed against the criteria specified in
Section 3. Additional criteria, such as ignition of the face exposed to radiant heat, may also
be applicable.
B7.4.6 Reporting
The test report is to include the information required in Section 3 and the following:
(a) The incident radiant heat flux/time measurements in lieu of the furnace temperature.
(b) Radiant heat flux from the non fire side of the specimen.
B7.4.7 Expression of results
The fire performance for walls determined when exposed to different levels of radiant heat
is to be expressed in a statement as follows:
‘Fire performance of the walls when exposed to rr kW/m 2 of radiant heat:
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(a) structural adequacy, xx minutes; and

(b) integrity yy minutes; and
(c) insulation zz minutes.’
NOTE: An alternate heating regime to the standard heating regime specified in Section 2 has
been adopted. The results above should not be used as evidence of performance when subjected to
the standard heating regime.

B8 RADIANT HEAT EXPOSURE MEASUREMENTS DURING FIRE

RESISTANCE TESTS
Useful data can be obtained by measuring the incident radiation at the centre of the
specimen during a fire resistance test. This may be achieved by mounting a radiometer
within the specimen. For applications where this cannot be achieved without compromising
the performance, the radiometer should be mounted in front of the specimen ensuring
substantial shielding of the specimen does not occur.

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 141 AS 1530.4—2005

B9 FURNACE PLATE THERMOMETER MEASUREMENTS FOR

COMPATIBILITY WITH ISO 834
B9.1 General
This Clause has been provided to assist applicant and laboratories carry out tests
simultaneously in accordance with this Standard and ISO 834.
B9.2 Furnace plate thermometer
The furnace is to be monitored using plate thermometers that comprise an assembly of a
folded steel plate, the thermocouple fixed to it and containing insulation material. The
measuring and recording equipment should be capable of operating within the limits
specified in ISO 834 (see Clause 5.6).
The plate part is to be constructed from 150 ±1 mm long by 100 ±1 mm wide by
0.7 ±0.1 mm thick nickel alloy sheet strips folded to the design as shown in Figure B6.1.
The measuring junction is to consist of nickel chromium/nickel aluminium (Type K) wire as
defined in IEC 60584-1, contained within mineral insulation in a heat-resisting steel alloy
sheath of nominal diameter 1 mm, the hot junctions being electrically insulated from the
sheath. The thermocouple hot junction is to be fixed to the geometric centre of the plate in
the position shown in Figure B6.1 by a small steel strip made from the same material as the
plate. The steel strip can be welded to the plate or may be screwed to it to facilitate
replacement of the thermocouple. The strip should be approximately 18 mm by 6 mm if it is
spot-welded to the plate, and nominally 25 mm by 6 mm if it is to be screwed to the plate.
The screw is to be 2 mm in diameter.
The assembly of plate and thermocouple should be fitted with a pad of inorganic insulation
material 97 ±1 mm by 97 ±1 mm by 10 ±1 mm thick, density 280 ±30 kg/m 3 .
Before the plate thermometers are first used, the complete plate thermometer is to be aged
by immersing in a pre-heated oven at 1 000°C for 1 h.
NOTE: Exposure in a fire resistance furnace for 90 min under the standard time-temperature
curve is considered to be an acceptable alternative to using an oven. When a plate thermometer is
used more than once, a log of its use should be maintained indicating, for each use, the checks
made and duration of use. The thermocouple and the insulation pad should be replaced after 50 h
of exposure in the furnace.
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 AS 1530.4—2005 142
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FIGURE B9 ILLUSTRATION OF PLATE THERMOMETER

B10 FURNACE PLATE THERMOMETER POSITIONS

The plate thermometers employed to measure the temperature of the furnace is to be
distributed so as to give a reliable indication of the average temperature in the vicinity of
the test specimen. The number and position of plate thermometers for each type of element
is specified in the specific ISO test method.
Plate thermometers are to be positioned so that they are not in contact with flames from the
furnace burners and that they are at least 450 mm away from any wall, floor or roof of the
furnace.

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 143 AS 1530.4—2005

At the commencement of the test the plate thermometers should be 100 ±50 mm from the
exposed face of the test construction and they should be maintained at this distance during
the test, as far as possible.
The method of support should ensure that plate thermometers do not fall away or become
dislodged during the test.
At the commencement of the test, the furnace is to include at least the number of plate
thermometers (n) that are required by the specific test method. If plate thermometers fail so
that they are n − 1 in the furnace, then the laboratory need take no action. If the number
falls below n − 1 during the test then the laboratory is to replace these to ensure that at least
n − 1 are present.
Plate thermometers are resistant to damage but are subject to damage by falling debris and
deteriorate in continued use, becoming slightly less sensitive with age. Before every test
they are to be inspected and checked for proper operation. If there is any evidence of
damage, deterioration or improper operation, they should not be used and should be
replaced.
The support for the plate thermometers should not penetrate or be attached to the specimen
unless the specific requirements for the position of the measuring junction cannot otherwise
be ensured. If the support for the measuring junction has penetrated or been attached to the
specimen, it is to be arranged so as to have minimal effect on the behaviour of the specimen
in relation to the relevant failure criteria or the supplementary information being
determined.

B11 PILOT FIRE TEST FOR FIRE DOORS

Australian and New Zealand Standard AS 1905.1 requires some variations from tested
prototypes to be subjected to a pilot test. This Paragraph specifies suitable procedures.
A doorset of similar construction to a tested full-scale specimen of reduced size having a
minimum clear opening size 800 mm × 800 mm should be mounted in front of a furnace of
minimum size 1000 mm × 1000 mm.
The doorset may include various items of hardware and the like for evaluation.
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The specimen should be subjected to the standard heating regime set out in this Standard
with a positive pressure differential maintained between the furnace enclosure and
laboratory of approximately 8 Pa after the first 5 min of the test.
Observations should be taken during the test to facilitate the assessment of variations from
tested prototypes. Particular attention should be paid to observe the performance against the
relevant performance criteria of this Standard.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 144

APPENDIX C
GUIDELINES FOR THE ATTACHMENT OF SPECIMEN THERMOCOUPLES
(Informative)

C1 INTERNAL THERMOCOUPLES
C1.1 General
Where information is required about the temperatures reached by individual components or
parts of a specimen within its construction, thermocouples of the appropriate type and
design, to suit the type of measurement to be made, should be chosen.
C1.2 Specification
Internal thermocouples for measuring cavity temperatures within test specimens or of
temperatures within materials such as concrete, steel, timber, etc., should be made from
double glass-fibre-insulated bare wire with wires of diameter 0.5 mm and crimped or
welded junctions. The wires should remain insulated as close as possible to the junction.
Any bare wires should be kept as far apart as possible to minimize electrolytic effects. They
should be used once only.
C1.3 Fixing methods and positioning
Appropriate methods should be adopted for fixing the measuring junctions securely to the
components or the construction so that the thermal behaviour is not greatly disturbed.
For example, a junction can be peened to a heavy metal section by drilling a hole in the
section only slightly larger in diameter than the thermocouple junction and deep enough to
accommodate the junction below the surface. The junction may be inserted into the hole and
burred over the edge of the hole with a punch to retain the wires in position. Alternatively,
the hot junction may be welded to the section.
A similar junction may be attached to small metal components, such as screws or wires, by
wrapping the tail around the component. In these applications the first contact between the
pair of thermocouple wires has to be close to the surface whose temperature is being
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measured. The thermal contact can be improved by applying a little solder, which will
remain effective even at temperatures above its melting point.
The thermal contact may be made by inserting the junction and the insulated leads into a
hole with a suitable material of similar properties. Junctions and their leads may also be
cast in to materials such as concrete.
The wires from the junctions should, where possible, be taken along an isotherm for a
distance of at least 50 mm and then to the outside of the specimen in such a way that they
do not experience temperatures higher then the hot junction. There should be no joint or
junction made in the wires until they emerge from the specimen.
The thermocouple wires should be protected against—
(a) excessive temperature rise;
(b) condensation;
(c) short circuiting by any aspect of the specimen construction or resulting from the
heating conditions of test; and
(d) damage resulting form the deformation of the specimen during the test.

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 145 AS 1530.4—2005

C2 UNEXPOSED FACE THERMOCOUPLES

C2.1 Positioning
C2.1.1 Flat surfaces
Mount the measuring junction on flat surfaces so that the whole of the surface of the copper
disc is in intimate contact with the unexposed surface of the specimen. Fix the insulating
pad to the surface of the specimen either by the use of a heat-resisting adhesive or by some
mechanical means fixed through the area outside that covering the copper disc. Ensure that
no adhesive gets between the disc and the surface of the specimen and that any mechanical
device has an insignificant effect on the transmission of heat through the specimen to the
copper disc.
On certain horizontal separating elements, especially those with visible insulation on the
unexposed surface, this may not be suitable due to the fibrous or resilient nature of the
materials in such situations. In these situations thermocouple weights should be used in
such a manner that the air is free to circulate over the upper surface of the insulating pad.
C2.1.2 Irregular surfaces
Where unexposed face copper disc thermocouples are to be attached to an irregular surface,
a smooth surface of size 30 mm × 30 mm should be made to provide full contact. Where the
surface cannot be smoothed, the thermocouple should be attached to the surface, around the
edges of the disc only, by the use of ceramic cement.
C2.1.3 Small features
When it is required to apply a measuring junction to a small feature, do not apply the
junction to a small feature, e.g., groves or recesses, with a diameter less than 12 mm. Where
the temperature of small features is to be measured, attach the thermocouple only where the
small feature diameter is greater than 12 mm. If necessary, distort or cut the insulating pad
but without affecting the part immediately over the disc.
C2.2 Fixing to specific materials
C2.2.1 General
In all cases of adhesive bonding, the adhesive should be applied in a thin film sufficient to
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give an adequate bond. There should be a sufficient lapse of time between the bonding of
the thermocouples and the test for stable moisture conditions to be attained in the case of
the ceramic adhesive and evaporation of the solvent in the case of the contact adhesive.
C2.2.2 Steel
The insulating pad with the thermocouple fitted should be bonded to the cleaned surface of
the steel using water-based ceramic cement produced by mixing the components to form a
high-temperature-resistant adhesive. The adhesive should be of such a consistency that no
mechanical aid is necessary for retention purposes during the drying process. Where
difficulty in bonding is experienced, retention by adhesive tape may be employed provided
the tape is removed sufficiently long in advance of the test to allow complete drying of the
adhesive. Care is required in the removal of the tape to ensure that the insulating pad is not
damaged. If the thermocouple pad is damaged when the tape is removed, then the
thermocouple should be replaced.
C2.2.3 Mineral wool
The thermocouples with insulating pads fitted should be arranged in such a way that if a
surface wire mesh is present it may aid retention, and in all cases the bond to the fibrous
surface should be made using a contact adhesive. The nature of the adhesive necessitates a
drying time before mating surfaces are put together thus avoiding the need for external
pressure.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 146

C2.2.4 Mineral fibre spray

Thermocouples should not be fitted until the mineral fibre spray has reached a stable
moisture condition. In all cases, the bonding technique for steel should be used and, where a
surface wire mesh is present, the thermocouples should be affixed to the insulation in such a
way that the wire mesh aids retention.
C2.2.5 Vermiculite/cement type spray
The technique for mineral fibrous spray should be employed.
C2.2.6 Boards of fibrous or mineral aggregate composition
The bonding technique for steel should be used.
C2.2.7 Timber
For many insulated timber constructions, the most practical way to fix thermocouples to the
construction is to staple them through the pad into the timber. Care should be taken that the
staples do not go through the disc or thermocouple wires or contact them in any way.
Alternatively, a water-based ceramic cement may be used as for attaching to steel
constructions above.
C2.2.8 Surfaces with applied finishes
Where a thermocouple is to be placed on a surface with a thin surface finish, e.g., paint, it is
recommended that the surface finish is removed with an abrasive before fixing the
thermocouple.
C2.2.9 Surfaces subject to swelling
The critical epoxy and resorcinol adhesive are useful for avoiding gaps and conforming to a
curved surface. A thermocouple wire would render the surface at a shallow angle and
provide a slight pressure, thus allowing for swelling and flowing.
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 147 AS 1530.4—2005

APPENDIX D
ELECTRICAL AND COMMUNICATIONS CABLES
(Informative)

D1 GROUP A CABLE CONFIGURATIONS FOR EVALUATION OF PVC-

INSULATED POWER CABLES
The following test program is recommended for use for sealing systems protecting PVC-
insulated power cables (see Figure D1):
(a) One single-core PVC insulated, PVC sheathed for 0.6/1 kV copper conductors
complying with AS 5000.1—
630 mm 2 (127 × 2.52 mm conductors, insulation 2.4 mm thick, OD 41.4 mm).
(b) One three-core plus earth PVC insulated, PVC sheathed for 0.6/1 kV copper
conductors complying with AS 5000.1—
185 mm 2 (32 × 2.52 mm conductors, OD 53.8 mm).
(c) Three three-core plus earth PVC insulated, PVC sheathed for 0.6/1 kV copper
conductors complying with AS 5000.1—
6 mm 2 (7 × 1.04 mm conductors OD 16 mm).
(d) Eight three-core plus earth PVC insulated, PVC sheathed for 0.6/1 kV copper
conductors complying with AS 5000.1—
16 mm 2 (7 × 1.7 mm conductors, OD 20.4 mm).

D2 GROUP B CABLE CONFIGURATION FOR EVALUATION OF LARGE

BUNDLES OF TELECOMMUNICATION CABLES
The following program is recommended for use in sealing systems protecting large bundles
of telecommunication cables (see Figure D2):
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(a) Pack of 60 (10 × 6) 50 pair telecommunication cables.

(b) 100 wires, each wire, OD 0.5 mm.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 148

DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES

FIGURE D1 GROUP A—CABLE CONFIGURATION

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 149 AS 1530.4—2005

FIGURE D2 GROUP B—CABLE CONFIGURATION

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 AS 1530.4—2005 150

APPENDIX E
TEST PROGRAM FOR SEALING SYSTEMS PROTECTING METAL PIPE
PENETRATIONS
(Informative)
The following test program is recommended for use for sealing systems protecting metal
pipe penetrations of various materials wall thickness and outside diameter (OD):
(a) Service A Copper pipe, nominal diameter 150 mm, actual OD 152.4 mm and wall
thickness 1.63 mm, or nominal diameter 200 mm, actual OD 203.2 mm and wall
thickness 2.03 mm.
(b) Service B Brass pipe, nominal diameter 100 mm, actual OD 101.65 mm, wall
thickness 1.22 mm.
(c) Service C Brass pipe, nominal diameter 32 mm, actual OD 31.75 mm, wall thickness
0.91 mm.
(d) Service D Copper pipe, nominal diameter 32 mm, actual OD 31.75 mm, wall
thickness 0.91 mm (only required if the insulation criterion has not been waived).
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 151 AS 1530.4—2005

APPENDIX F
FIRE-RESISTANT DOORSETS
(Informative)

F1 TESTING IN ADVANCE
Where an application is to be made to a regulatory authority for approval to use fire-
resistant doorsets of a particular design for the protection of openings in walls, the
specimen doorset should be tested in a wall agreed in advance by a registered testing
authority as being indicative of the doorset’s potential when ultimately mounted in its
intended location.

F2 COMPATIBILITY BETWEEN THE DOORSET AND THE WALL

Experience in the fire testing of doorsets has emphasized the importance of compatibility
between the doorset and the wall in which it is mounted. A doorset demonstrates its fire
resistance when mounted in an opening in a particular type of wall and the performance of
the doorset is critically dependent on the behaviour of that wall throughout the fire
resistance test. The doorset’s ability to prevent the passage of fire will depend on the
interaction between the wall and the doorframe and on the effect this has on the relative
movement between the doorframe and door leaf. Relative movement of door leaf with
respect to doorframe is a significant factor in the fire performance of a doorset. Therefore,
fire-resistant doorsets should not be mounted in walls where the wall/doorset interaction is
likely to produce differential movements between the door leaf and the frame of a greater
degree than those observed in the test.

F3 PILOT TESTS
For pilot tests, where the purpose of the test is to validate a variation, the direction of fire
exposure and the specimen mounting may differ from the provisions at full scale. In each
instance the mounting and direction may be arranged to gather data needed for the
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validation, subject to each feature under examination for the least favourable conditions.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 152

APPENDIX G
REVIEW OF AS 1530.4—1997
(Informative)

G1 GENERAL
The review of AS 1530.4 for this edition considered many factors and issues including
development of international Standards, such as ISO 834, and the referencing of AS 1530.4
in the BCA.
The following information was included in the Public comment Draft, DR 04100, issued on
18 February 2004 and is included for information and future reference.

G2 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE REVIEW OF AS 1530.4

INCLUDING THE SCOPE AND NATURE OF THE REVISION
G2.1 History and development of AS 1530.4
The 1997 revision of AS 1530.4 was a minor revision to address a significant variation
between testing practices in Australia and New Zealand (permitted by the 1990 version)
that was causing serious problems in the market place. Therefore, this is the first major
review since 1990. During the intervening period there have been major changes to the
building industry with the nationwide adoption of the BCA 90 followed by the introduction
of the performance BCA in 96/97. There are a number of issues with the current 1997
edition of AS 1530.4 that need attention. Many issues and improvements were not
highlighted to the ABCB in previous submissions but are detailed in Attachment 2 of the
BCA and the discussion below.
G2.2 ISO 834
ISO 834 covers only the general conditions of test and the specific elements are
incorporated in a suite of several Standards, a number of which are still in draft form and
are still to be published. Those that are published will probably not be revised for in excess
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of 10 years. The European Community has not adopted ISO 834 but has published its own
suite of similar Standards. There has been and is substantial ongoing debate on some of the
content of ISO 834 and the European Standards, for example, the plate thermocouples. It is
therefore considered prudent to publish a revision of AS 1530.4 now to address a range of
issues and gain substantial benefits whilst working with the international community
towards a next generation ISO 834 Standard that is universally adopted. This has always
been the intention of Committee FP-018.
G2.3 Technical barriers to trade
The revised edition of AS 1530.4 is closely aligned with ISO 834, the plate thermometers
referred to Paragraph G.2.2 above being the exception, and European Standards.
Imported products can be approved by the adoption of an alternative solution, which,
therefore, provides no restraint of trade. The greater alignment will simplify the assessment
of products tested overseas as having been tested to an equivalent or more severe standard
facilitating use as a deemed-to-satisfy solution.
For Australian manufacturers, the greater alignment with ISO and European Standards will
enable many elements of construction to be simultaneously tested to ISO, European and
Australian Standards and also enable products to be developed for the local market that are
compatible with international markets.
The revision of AS 1530.4 will significantly assist international trade whilst work
progresses with ISO TC92 on the next revision of the ISO 834 and test methods.
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 153 AS 1530.4—2005

G2.4 Impact on industry and the community

The fire door industry and damper manufacturing industry are aware of the proposed
changes to the Standard and we have worked with them to minimize potentially negative
impacts.
BCA Specification A1.3 Table 1, note to AS 1530.4 permits existing test data to be used
after the revision is published, and manufacturers will not loose their existing approvals or
need to retest.
G2.5 Changes in failure (performance) criteria—General
Changes that would significantly affect the severity of the test, which could have a major
effect, have been avoided. For example the plate thermometer specified in ISO 834 has not
been adopted since this could substantially alter the severity of the test. However, an
informative appendix has been provided so that plate thermocouples can be included in the
furnace as an additional option to obtain data for international markets so facilitating
international trade without affecting the societal goals specified in the BCA.
G2.6 Changes in failure (performance) criteria—Fire dampers
The failure criteria for dampers (leakage rates) were nominated after consultation with
Standards Australia Technical Committee ME-062, where leakage rate values are still under
review. The intent is to specify a level of performance that is consistent with current
designs of fire dampers so that the current BCA prescribed levels are not altered
significantly. The ability to measure notional leakage rates provides an opportunity for
better specification of alternate solutions and modelling of the performance of dampers
when assessing alternate solutions.
G2.7 Impact of the cotton pad test
The introduction of the cotton pad for assessment of integrity may be considered to affect
the levels of performance but the AS 1530.4—1997 requirements are vague and open to
interpretation.
The cotton pad test is, and has been for the last decade, used by Australian and
New Zealand laboratories to eliminate any inconsistencies regarding interpretation of
integrity failure.
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The fire door industry is represented through the FPAA and other organisations on FP-018.
They are therefore aware of the proposed changes. Additional views will be sought during
the public comment stage but it is understood that most fire door manufacturers have
evaluated some door designs already using the cotton pad test for international markets and
therefore the impact will not be substantial.

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 AS 1530.4—2005 154

TABLE G1
SPECIFIC CONSIDERATIONS AND IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF THE REVISED
AS 1530.4—1997
Potential negative
Clause Description/Reason Benefit
impact
General AS 1530.4 has retained a single Lower production costs Increase in price of
document format unlike making AS 1530.4 cheaper to the Standard due to its
ISO/European Standards that purchase for all users and larger size. However,
publish approximately 10 reduces the risk of a part of this represents a
Standards to cover the same the Standard being unavailable fraction of the cost of
material; however, the page to a user when required. the ISO suite of
numbers of AS 1530.4 have Improved clarity and Standards
increased to reflect additional repeatability due to more
types of construction and include detailed specification of the
more detailed specification of the method. Greater application to
method and permissible newer forms of construction
variations such as suspended ceilings
and critical services. Advice
on application of results will
assist builders, installers and
certifiers to achieve cost-
effective and safe construction
1.7.1(f) Better definition of incipient Correct specification None
ceiling. maintains required levels of
protection and/or prevents
There has been confusion in the
unnecessary expenditure
industry as to when an incipient
spread of fire ceiling is required,
leading to incorrect specification
for compliance with the BCA
1.10 Safety precautions have been Clear advice to laboratories None
clearly identified and people that attend
laboratories on potential
hazards leading to improved
safety
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2.2 and Improved specification of Improved repeatability None

Appendix C thermocouple construction and between laboratories
positioning
2.5 Improved specification of Improved repeatability None
radiometers and identification of between laboratories and
suppliers and advice on assistance identifying
positioning suppliers. More useful data
generated by tests to assist in
evaluation of performance-
based designs
(continued)

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 155 AS 1530.4—2005

TABLE G1 (continued)

Potential negative
Clause Description/Reason Benefit
impact
2.6 Inclusion of cotton pad test to be Consistent method of judging Potentially slightly
consistent with international integrity performance of all less onerous for most
Standards and provide an elements of construction elements since a very
appropriate method for assessing small through-gap
the risk of fire spread due to may not cause ignition
integrity failure. of a cotton pad. The
impact on industry
Current and previous editions of Clearer specification of and life safety due to
AS 1530.4 did not give clear integrity failure criteria this relaxation is
advice on assessing integrity leading to consistent expected to be
performance, which has led to application/interpretation minimal. The criteria
different interpretations being
is more onerous for
applied by laboratories. This was
doorsets but the fire
partially addressed by AS 4072.1.
protection industry is
General interpretation applied by Greater consistency with
aware of proposed
local labs has been any size international Standards
changes. Public
straight through gap constitutes facilitating international trade
comment will provide
failure except for doorsets where
an opportunity for
6 × 150 mm gap criteria are
comment if there are
applied except at sill level. This
any perceived
approach is inconsistent within
Benefits of the change are problems
the Standard as well as with
international Standards expected to outweigh the
potential negative impact

2.8.1 Verification of construction has Clearer details of tested None

been added to help ensure systems minimises the risk of
adequate information is provided, elements being incorrectly
which has been a problem in installed in the future
some instances
2.8.6 The previous edition related Reduced testing costs, None
permitted edge distances to the facilitating development of
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thickness of the element of new and innovative systems

construction if the clearance was
between 200 mm and 300 mm.
Specification of a fixed 200 mm
edge distances is simpler and will
allow, for example, more service
penetrations to be included in a
single test
2.10 Minor change to heating regime Consistency with international None
for compatibility with ISO Standards
Standard
(continued)

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 AS 1530.4—2005 156

TABLE G1 (continued)

Potential negative
Clause Description/Reason Benefit
impact
2.12 Criteria of failure: Limiting Improved repeatability of None
deflections and rates introduced testing for structural adequacy
for consistent assessment of
Structural Adequacy in line with
international Standards.
See Clause 2.6 for introduction of
cotton pad test for integrity
Clarification of failure criteria for Clear specification of None
radiation, which required radiation criteria in one place
reference to BCA and AS 1530.4
and some interpretation to
ascertain with current edition.
2.13 Example of expression of results Improved clarity and None
that include radiation added consistency of reporting to
facilitate use of reports by
practitioners
2.15 Reporting of results. More Manufacturers receive detailed None
guidance provided plus inclusion information for future use in
of the short form report and test reports but can obtain a
certificate requirements together short form (abridged) report,
with appropriate applications. which can be used as evidence
Currently the use of reports, short of compliance with prescribed
form reports and certificates are FRLs allowing a more
not clear in the industry which efficient regulatory
has contributed to regulatory compliance assessment, which
authorities not obtaining is expected to raise the level
sufficient documentation to of compliance and reduce
assess compliance as required by paperwork
A2.3 of the BCA. A full report is
required to be provided to the
sponsor. The short form report
contains the minimum
information required as evidence
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of compliance by the BCA

whereas a certificate is used for
marketing
Section 3 More detailed description of Greater consistency between None
method of test for walls. laboratories
Inclusion of permissible Greater efficiency of None
variations regulatory assessment
removing uncertainty leading
to cost savings
(continued)

 Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 157 AS 1530.4—2005

TABLE G1 (continued)

Potential negative
Clause Description/Reason Benefit
impact
Section 4 More detailed description of Greater consistency between None
method of test for floors roofs laboratories
and ceilings
Use of standard thermocouples in The failure criteria is None
lieu of thermocouples attached to unchanged; however, the
timber blocks and modification of determination of incipient
incipient spread of fire criteria spread has been modified to
for failure to simplify test improve repeatability
procedures
Inclusion of permissible Greater efficiency of None
variations regulatory assessment
removing uncertainty leading
to cost savings
Inclusion of Clause 4.3.9 for Potentially substantial savings None
ceiling systems for protection of in the cost of construction
structural members. This without reducing fire safety
approach is used extensively
overseas for protecting beams in
a cost-effective manner and has
been adopted for some alternate
solutions but the adoption has
been restricted due to the lack of
systems with proven performance
Sections 5 Beams/columns—Minimal None None
and 6 changes
Section 7 Greater detailed description of Greater consistency between None
method of test for doorsets. laboratories
Inclusion of permissible Greater efficiency of None
variations extracted from regulatory assessment
AS 1905.1 removing uncertainty leading
to cost savings
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Requirements for operational Ensures test doors are None

checks before testing representative and operational,
facilitating development of
practical fire protection
systems
Section 8 Greater detailed description of Greater consistency between None
method of test for uninsulated laboratories
glazing
Inclusion of permissible Greater efficiency of None
variations regulatory assessment
removing the uncertainty and
leading to cost savings
(continued)

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 AS 1530.4—2005 158

TABLE G1 (continued)

Potential negative
Clause Description/Reason Benefit
impact
Section 9 The test specification has been Greater consistency between None
clarified laboratories
An internal airflow has been Greater consistency between None
specified for ducts under external laboratories and more efficient
fire conditions to simulate a duct designs
supply air application. This
approach had been adopted on an
ad-hoc basis leading to
differences in reporting
requirements and result
interpretations
Section 10 Greater detailed description of Greater consistency between None
method of test for service laboratories
penetrations and control joints
and consolidation of material
from AS 4072.1
Inclusion of permissible Greater efficiency of
variations and standard regulatory assessment leading
configurations from AS 4072.1 to cost savings
Section 11 The fire damper and air transfer Facilitates the development Existing test data
grilles test methods have been and approval of innovative cannot be directly
substantially changed and aligned devices in addition to assessed against the
with ISO test methods in such a traditional mechanical designs new test method;
way that similar criteria apply to however, the BCA
both intumescent, mechanical and permits old test data
combination devices to be used
indefinitely,
minimizing the cost
penalty. The impact
can be further reduced
by a phase-in period
to give manufacturers
the opportunity to
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develop new designs.

Thus, the cost penalty
There have been a large number Exposes damper to conditions
on the damper
of major issues in the building similar to those in practice.
manufacturing
industry in Australia with respect
Provides data applicable to industry will be
to new innovative devices, which
assessment of alternate substantially reduced
are not necessarily operated by
solutions by the above.
fusible link. The new test method
addresses these issues and the test Test method applicable The change in failure
method provides an internationally—the current criteria may cause a
approximation to leakage through test method varies minor change to the
the damper providing useful considerably from current current level of safety
quantitative data for assessment international practice specified in the BCA;
of alternative solutions. It is however, the failure
recommended that a phased leakage rate has been
introduction approach be adopted selected to be
compatible with
existing dampers,
minimizing any
impact
(continued)

 Standards Australia www.standards.com.au

 159 AS 1530.4—2005

TABLE G1 (continued)

Potential negative
Clause Description/Reason Benefit
impact
Section 12 A new section has been provided The resulting classification of None
for the protection of critical critical services will depend
services. This has been added on the actual properties of the
because applications occur where material being protected and is
services need to carry out a consistent with a performance-
critical function during a fire based building code approach.
emergency. These are quite The provision of the test
common when major method will facilitate the
refurbishments are being evaluation of protection
undertaken as well in as new systems providing cost
buildings. A simple specification effective solutions
of construction having an FRL of
Consistent approaches will be None
120/120/120 is not adequate since
adopted by laboratories
services may be susceptible to
allowing solutions to be
slightly elevated temperatures
confidently specified by
and, therefore, a test procedure is
designers and approved by
required
regulatory authorities

Appendix B Paragraphs B2 and B3 specify Facilitate demonstration of None

alternate heating regimes that can compliance of alternate
be used for evaluation of solutions
alternate solutions.
Paragraph B1.1 provides an
explanation of the basis for Maximize the usefulness of None
selection. The specification of tests undertaken
standard alternate heating
regimes will facilitate consistent
assessment of alternate solutions. Control reporting methods to None
Reporting requirements are minimize the risk of mistaking
provided to minimize the risk of alternate heating regimes for
misuse of the data. the Standard AS 1530.4
regime
The above is expected to yield None
a financial saving to the
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building industry while

maintaining safety levels
Appendix B Paragraph B4 and B5 provide a Facilitate application of CV1 None
(Paragraph B4 method for exposing elements to and other performance-based
and B5) radiant heat. It can be used to approaches by enabling an
demonstrate compliance, of a element’s resistance to radiant
wall for example with CV1, and heat to be measured
ensure similar approaches are
adopted by laboratories
Appendix B Paragraphs B6 and B7 provide a Facilitates export None
(Paragraph B6 specification for a furnace plate opportunities in a cost-
and B7) thermometer to facilitate the effective manner without
inclusion of additional causing problems in the local
instrumentation to facilitate industry
assessment of the performance of
a specimen for international use
under ISO 834 criteria
Paragraph B8 provides a Ensures consistent approaches None
specification for a test method for are adopted
pilot fire tests for fire doors has
been included for compatibility
with AS 1905.1

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 160

BIBLIOGRAPHY

The following documents referenced in this Standard are of an informative nature.

AS 1428.1 Design for access and mobility, Part 1: General requirements for
access—New building work
AS 1720.4 Timber structures, Part 4: Fire resistance of structural timber
members
AS 1735.11 Lifts, escalators and moving walks, Part 11: Fire rated landing doors
AS 3600 Concrete structures
AS 3700 Masonry structures
AS 4100 Steel structures
AS 5000.1 Electric cable—Polymeric insulated, Part 1: For working voltages up
to and including 0.6/1 kV
AS/NZS 1530.7 Methods for fire tests on building material, components and
structures, Part 7: Smoke control door and shutter assemblies—
Ambient and medium test leakage procedure
AS/NZS 1668.1 The use of ventilation and airconditioning in buildings, Part 1: Fire
and smoke control in multi-compartment buildings
DIN EN 1362.1 Identification card systems—Device interface characteristics—
Classes of device interfaces, Part 1: Alternative and additional
procedures
ISO 834 Fire-resistance tests—Elements of building construction
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invited to participate. Through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Commonwealth government,
Standards Australia is recognized as Australia’s peak national standards body. For further information
on Standards Australia visit us at

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other sources. They reflect the latest scientific and industry experience. Australian Standards are kept
under continuous review after publication and are updated regularly to take account of changing
technology.
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International Involvement
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