Fire Test Spotlight: UL 1715

Building materials that meet the UL 1715 standard offer confidence for everyone involved in a project. Manufacturers, designers, builders, and occupants know that the building is compliant with codes, equipped to withstand potential fire incidents, and constructed with safety in mind.  

To earn the UL 1715 fire rating, materials are tested under specific conditions and the flammability contribution is evaluated. Testing must simulate a realistic application of products to inform the safe selection and application of materials. 

This article will explain the UL 1715 test, its scope, how it differs from NFPA 286, and how to choose the best testing partner.

What Is UL 1715?  

UL 1715 is the Standard for Fire Test of Interior Finish Material. It’s also known as the room-corner test.

A full-scale room structure is used to evaluate the flammability contribution of wall material assemblies, ceiling material assemblies, or both, exposed to early fire growth under specified room fire exposure conditions. 

The room corner fire tests go beyond the flame spread index and smoke developed index provided by Steiner Tunnel testing to ASTM E84 or ANSI/UL 723.

These are examples of projects that could use the UL 1715 test:

• Commercial: Office and retail buildings
• Industrial: Warehouses and distribution centers
• Residential: Multi-family apartments and condos

Key Features of the UL 1715 Test

The UL 1715 fire test works with a range of materials, including wall and ceiling finishes, coatings, and composite systems. The large format of the testing area means that you can easily test panels, boards, and sheets. 

Standardized Test Set-Up

The test specimen is mounted in a full-scale room structure with four walls at right angles, a doorway, and a ceiling. The exact measurements of the walls and ceiling are 8 x 12 x 8 ft. and the doorway measures  2.5 x 7 ft.

The UL 1715 test requires the materials being tested to cover at least 8 x 8 ft. area of the ceiling and the same area on the back wall and one side wall next to the fire source corner. The ignition source is a 30-pound wood crib (15 x 15 x 15 in.) with inconsistent heat release and intensity. 

A total of nine thermocouples are required in specific locations in the room to measure the temperature of the plume above the ignition source and other areas. Photographic and video recording evidence of the fire growth within the room and smoke development is documented.

Real-World Simulation

The use of a full-scale room structure and the room corner burn fixture are very important to ensure test conditions mimic typical building environments.

The test should offer valuable insight into fire behavior in real-world scenarios and enable those involved in the project or manufacture of materials to make the best decisions for their business and the end user. An accredited fire testing provider will ensure standardized procedures are used for repeatable and reliable results.

Evaluation Criteria

In the UL 1715 test, the fire performance parameters that are evaluated include temperature development within the room, flame progression, and time to flashover. There is no limiting smoke concentration measurement or requirements in UL 1715.

The post-test inspection must find that the char in the remains of the sample diminishes with increasing distance from the fire source. 

UL 1715 vs NFPA 286

UL 1715 and NFPA 286 (Standard Methods of Fire Test for Evaluating Contribution of Wall and Ceiling Interior Finish to Room Fire Growth) are often considered interchangeable for demonstrating the performance of interior finish materials and thermal barriers.

While both are life safety tests, they have significant differences in the methodology and determination of results. 

Let’s start with the similarities between UL 1715 and NFPA 286 testing, which include:

• Evaluate the flame spread and fire contribution to interior finish materials
• Given a pass/fail result upon test completion
• Set up similarly and conducted for 15 minutes
• Use an enclosed room that is 8 x 12 x 8 ft. with one open door 
• Require detailed reporting and documentation
• Prohibit flames from spreading to the outer extremities of the sample

Differences Between UL 1715 and NFPA 286 Tests

How to Prepare for UL 1715 Testing  

Manufacturers and engineers who are proactive when it comes to fire testing will benefit the most in the long run. They’ll eliminate potential delays that come from a lack of preparation for the test and planning for contingencies. 

Here are three steps to take to ensure products are ready for testing:  

Understand Material Requirements

UL 1715 offers guidance in the mounting of materials for the test (1715 Appendix A), and while it is not required, the mounting can impact the test result, so consider it carefully.

NFPA 286 requirements are very explicit so if you want to meet both UL 1715 and NFPA 286, you should follow the latter requirements. 

Collaborate With Fire Testing Experts  

Working with fire testing experts takes the guesswork out of this critical process. They will help you understand some of the nuances of the process and by working together before the test, you can help to eliminate surprises.

Choosing an accredited testing lab gives you peace of mind and access to the fire testing expertise you need.

Prototype and Pre-Test Materials

It’s always a good idea to work through any kinks before your product gets to the testing facility. Have a backup ready or a couple of ideas in mind that may help your product pass the UL 1715 test.

Choosing a Reliable Testing Partner

Ensure confidence in your fire testing outcomes by partnering with a lab you can trust. Select a provider with the right credentials: accreditation expertise, extensive experience with UL 1715 tests, fast turnaround times, and a proven track record of accuracy.  

Your UL 1715 rating is too critical to leave to chance. It directly impacts compliance, safety, and the trust that it instills in consumers, architects, and regulators alike.  

With 55 years of expertise, NGC Testing Services is one of North America’s most comprehensive, fully accredited, independent testing facilities. When you’re ready to complete a UL 1715 test with confidence, contact us.