Standards Development

Scope

This standard aims to simulate the mechanical loads that could be imparted to passive fire protection (PFP) materials and systems by explosions resulting from releases of flammable gas, pressurised liquefied gas, flashing liquid fuels or dust that may precede a fire. Explosions can give rise to pressure and drag forces. Damage to PFP materials and systems in an explosion can be caused by the direct effects of pressure and drag loadings and by the distortion of the substrate supporting the PFP material. This standard considers PFP materials applied to panels, plates etc that could be used as divisional elements. The loading on this type of element predominantly results from the explosion pressure applied and drag loadings are typically minimal.

Test laboratories should be aware of the significant potential hazards involved in gas explosion resistance testing and take appropriate steps to ensure the safety of all concerned.