Comprehensive information about the needle flame test apparatus and the test

The fire safety of materials used in electrical and electronic devices is of critical importance for both manufacturers and end users. Even a small flame source may be sufficient to ignite device components, leading to serious fire risks. Therefore, products must be tested against such conditions.

One of the methods used for this purpose is the Needle Flame Test. The Needle Flame Test Device, developed by DVT Devotrans, has been designed to perform tests in compliance with the relevant standards, ensuring safe and precise evaluations under laboratory conditions.

What is the Needle Flame Test?

The Needle Flame Test is a method used to examine the burning behavior of materials in electrical and electronic devices when exposed to a small but intense flame source.

In this test, a flame is applied to the surface of the specimen at specific angles and for predetermined durations. Observations are made to determine whether the specimen ignites, continues to burn after flame removal, self-extinguishes, how the flame spreads, and whether flaming drips occur.

This method is critically important for evaluating the behavior of products against small ignition sources that can initiate fires.

Purpose of the Test

The main purpose of the needle flame test is to assess the fire safety of electrical and electronic devices against small flame sources.

Key objectives include:

  • Determining whether the material ignites when exposed to flame

  • Measuring flame persistence and self-extinguishing behavior

  • Observing whether flaming drips occur

  • Evaluating whether the product increases overall fire risk

This ensures that manufacturers can bring their products into compliance with international safety standards, while also guaranteeing end-user safety.

Application Areas

The Needle Flame Test Device is widely used in industries where fire safety testing is mandatory:

  • Automotive: Interior trim, cable insulation, plastic components

  • Home appliances: Electronic components, plastic housings

  • Plastics industry: Various polymer-based materials

  • Electrical and electronic equipment: Circuit boards, insulation materials

Relevant Standard: EN 60695-22

This device is designed in accordance with the EN 60695-22 standard.

This European standard specifies methods for evaluating the behavior of materials used in electrical devices when exposed to a small flame source and includes the following criteria:

  • Flame application angle and duration

  • Measurement of burning duration

  • Evaluation of ignition and self-extinguishing behavior

  • Acceptance and rejection criteria

Technical Features

The device is equipped with features that ensure accurate and reliable testing:

  • Temperature control system: Precisely regulates test conditions

  • Cabinet structure: Equipped with observation window and motor-controlled flame system for safety

  • Dual time indicators: Measures flame application and burning duration separately

  • Specimen holders: Enables both horizontal and vertical testing

  • Gas flow indicator: Provides precise adjustment of gas flow

  • High precision: Test duration measured with 0.1-second accuracy

  • Ventilation system: Fan-assisted exhaust ensures safe laboratory operation

  • Flame height template: Ensures flame height adjustment according to standard requirements

  • Gas connection: Operates with user-supplied combustible gas

Benefits of Use

  • Standard compliance: Fully compatible with EN 60695-22

  • High reliability: Accurate timing ensures consistent results

  • Wide application range: Usable across multiple industries

  • Laboratory safety: Enclosed cabinet and ventilation system provide a safe working environment

Conclusion

The Needle Flame Test Device evaluates how materials used in electrical and electronic devices react to small flames, providing critical data for fire safety. Its compliance with EN 60695-22 makes it a reliable and internationally recognized testing tool for both manufacturers and laboratories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the needle flame test?
A fire safety test that examines how electrical and electronic device materials respond to a small flame source.

2. What is the purpose of the test?
To measure ignition, flame persistence, self-extinguishing behavior, and dripping characteristics.

3. Which standard does it comply with?
The device performs tests in accordance with EN 60695-22.

4. In which positions can specimens be tested?
Specimens can be tested in both horizontal and vertical orientations.