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UL testing for Water Based Agent Fire Extinguishers
26 General
26.1 For cartridge-operated extinguishers, unless otherwise specified, an interval of 5 seconds is able to elapse after the cartridge is punctured in order that pressure builds up before discharge of the agent is initiated.
27 Fire Tests
ANSI/UL 711/ CAN/ULC-S508.
27.2 An extinguisher, charged with its rated capacity and conditioned at the minimum storage and use temperature for 16 hours, shall extinguish a Class B test fire having an area numerically equal to 40 percent of the area of the pan used in the rating of the fire extinguisher.
28 Tamper Indicator and Locking Device Test
28.1 The tamper indicator shall break when subjected to a force of 65 N (15 lb-f) or less.
Exception: When the tamper indicator is broken by the action required to start discharge of the extinguisher, or when an internal load is continuously applied to the release mechanism, the force, applied as intended and required to accomplish discharge shall not exceed 130 N (30 lb-f). See 28.4.
28.2 The force required to extract or dislodge a locking device as intended along its axis shall not exceed 130 N (30 lb-f) after the locking device is subjected to the tests specified in 28.3 and 28.4.
28.3 A locking device shall not shear when a force of 220 N (50 lb-f) is exerted upon the operating mechanism for 30 seconds, and the extinguisher then shall be capable of being operated in its intended manner. An extinguisher, with its locking device and tamper indicator attached as intended, is to be secured on the floor in a vertical position and the 220 N (50 lb-f) exerted 13 mm (1/2 in) from the end of the operating lever or lever-operated cartridge-puncturing mechanism, or at the center of a non-lever type cartridge-puncturing mechanism.
28.4 The extinguisher then is to be secured in a test fixture in a vertical position. The locking device is to be pulled with a 130 N (30 lb-f) for 30 seconds at an angle of 45 degrees in an upward direction from the horizontal, and then pulled for 30 seconds at a horizontally rotational angle of 45 degrees. The device shall either:
a) Be capable of extraction at the 45 degree angle; or
b) Not be damaged or the mechanism jammed to the extent that prevents intended extraction of the locking device directly outward along its axis, when a 130 N (30 lb-f) is applied for 30 seconds.
The 130 N (30 lb-f) force exerted on the locking device both at the 45 degree angle and along the axis of the device is to be achieved by increasing the force from zero to 130 N (30 lb-f) at a rate of 260 N (60 lb-f) per minute.
29 Handle and Mounting Device Test
29.1 The method of attachment of the handle and hanger loop of a hand-portable extinguisher weighing 1.4 kg (3 lb) or more, and having a cylinder diameter greater than 75 mm (3 in), shall support a static load of five times the fully charged weight of the extinguisher, or 45 kg (100 lb), whichever is greater applied downward through the vertical axis of the extinguisher for 5 minutes.
29.2 A hand-portable extinguisher charged with its rated capacity is to be placed in the bracket or mounting hook provided with the extinguisher after the bracket or mounting hook has been secured to a wood board. The board is to be secured in a vertical position, and the static load then is to be applied to the top of the extinguisher.
29.3 For a bracket mounting device, the force required to open the bracket shall not exceed 65 N (15 lb-f) for finger actuated assemblies and 130 N (30 lb-f) for hand actuated assemblies measured at the end of the bracket opening device.
29.4 A hand-portable extinguisher, charged with its rated capacity, is to be placed in the bracket provided with the extinguisher after the bracket is secured in the vertical position to a wood board. Using a spring scale, or a similar device, a gradually increasing force is to be applied to the tip of the clasp or lever of the bracket strap or band, at a 90 degree angle to the extinguisher, at a rate of 0.45 kg/s (1 lb/s) and until the band releases the bracket. For hand actuated assemblies, when there is an indent or gripping location, the force is to be applied to the center of that actuating area.
30 Operation Test
30.1 An extinguisher shall discharge a minimum 85 percent (by mass) of its rated capacity of agent solution when operated at an angle of 45 degrees in any direction from the intended operating position.
Exception: Wheeled extinguishers need not comply with this requirement.
30.2 An extinguisher charged with its rated capacity shall be discharged with the extinguisher positioned at an angle 45 degrees from the vertical in the forward, back, and side to side orientations.
31 Discharge Duration Test
ANSI/UL 711/CAN/ULC-S508, for the appropriate Class A or Class B rating, whichever is longer.
31.2 An extinguisher charged to its rated capacity at 21 �3�C (70 �5�F) is to be held in a vertical position, with the discharge nozzle in the horizontal position approximately 0.9 m (3 ft) from the floor or the ground. The extinguisher then is to be discharged, and the duration to gas point and amount of agent solution discharged recorded.
ANSI/UL 711/CAN/ULC-S508, for the appropriate Class A or Class B rating, and then discharged elsewhere for the remainder of the discharge. The weight of agent solution discharged into the container shall be not greater than 95 percent of the total amount discharged.
32 Rate of Flow Test
32.1 An extinguisher shall be discharged to determine the rate of flow at 21 �3�C (70 �5�F) and shall be consistent, as evidenced by the results of three consecutive tests not varying more than 10 percent from their mean value.
32.2 An extinguisher charged with its rated capacity is to be discharged for a period of two-thirds of its average duration at 21 �3�C (70 �5�F), rounded to the nearest second, with the nozzle held in a horizontal position. The rate of flow is to be calculated from the loss in weight during discharge. This test is to be used for identification and countercheck purposes with the rate of flow established as �10 percent of the mean of the three tests conducted.
33 Discharge Range Test
33.1 The initial discharge of agent solution from an extinguisher conditioned at 21� �3�C (70� �5�F) shall be such that the initial discharge of agent solution shall fall at a distance of not less than 3.0 m (10 ft) from the nozzle, and a minimum of 50 percent of agent solution shall fall a distance of not less than 1.5 m (5 ft) from the nozzle.
Exception: An extinguisher having a capacity under 2.3 kg (5 lb) of agent solution shall discharge initially to a distance of not less than 1.5 m (5 ft) from the nozzle and a minimum of 90 percent of the discharged agent solution shall be effectively discharged beyond a point 0.9 m (3 ft) from the nozzle.
33.2 These characteristics are to be based on the operation of an extinguisher charged with its rated capacity with the discharge nozzle held in a horizontal position at a height of 0.9 m (3 ft) from the floor or ground.
34 Intermittent Discharge Test
34.1 An extinguisher shall discharge a minimum 85 percent (by mass) of its rated capacity of agent solution when conditioned at its minimum storage and use temperature, 21 �3�C (70 �5�F) and 49 �3�C (120 �5�F), and shall operate in such a manner that not more than 1 second elapses from the time the discharge valve is opened until the agent solution starts to discharge.
34.2 An extinguisher charged with its rated capacity and conditioned at each of the temperatures specified in 34.1 for a minimum of 16 hours is to be operated intermittently by opening and closing the discharge valve in cycles of 2 seconds "open" and 2 seconds "closed" until the end of discharge is reached. For a wheeled extinguisher, the cycles are to be 5 seconds "open" and 5 seconds "closed."
35 Operating Temperature Limits Test
35.1 An extinguisher shall discharge a minimum 95 percent (by mass) of its rated capacity of agent solution when conditioned for at least 16 hours at the minimum storage and use temperature and 49 �3�C (120 �5�F).
35.2 An extinguisher charged with its rated capacity and conditioned at the temperatures specified in 35.1 for a minimum of 16 hours is to be discharged in its intended operating position. The extinguishers are to be operated with the nozzle held in a horizontal position at a height of 0.9 m (3 ft) from the floor or ground.
36 Temperature Cycling Test
36.1 An extinguisher shall discharge a minimum 90 percent (by mass) of its rated capacity of agent solution when alternately conditioned at the minimum storage and use temperature and at 49 �3�C (120 �5�F).
36.2 An extinguisher charged with its rated capacity is to be conditioned at the minimum storage and use temperature for 24 hours, then conditioned at 49 �3�C (120 �5�F) for 24 hours, and then again at the minimum storage and use temperature for 24 hours. The extinguisher is then to be conditioned at 21 �3�C (70 �5�F) for 24 hours, after which it is to be discharged and the amount of agent solution discharged is to be calculated.
37 30-Day Elevated Temperature Test
37.1 An extinguisher shall discharge a minimum 90 percent (by mass) of its rated capacity of the agent solution when conditioned at 49 �3�C (120 �5�F) for 30 days.
37.2 An extinguisher charged with its rated capacity and conditioned at the temperature specified in 37.1 for 30 days is to be discharged when removed from the conditioning temperature. It is to be removed from the oven and operated with as little delay as possible and not to exceed 1 minute. It then is to be reweighed and the amount of agent solution discharged is to be calculated.
38 High-Temperature Exposure Test
38.1 An extinguisher shall retain its parts, without rupture, during conditioning. The extinguisher is not required to operate.
38.2 An extinguisher charged with its rated capacity shall be conditioned for 7 days at 79 �3�C (175 �5�F).
39 Abnormal Operation Test
39.1 A cartridge operated extinguisher shall discharge not less than 75 percent of its rated capacity at 21 �3�C (70 �5�F) and operated without pressure build-up before discharge of the agent is initiated.
39.2 A cylinder operated wheeled unit, in addition to meeting the requirements in the Discharge Duration Test, Clause 31, shall discharge not less that 75 percent of its rated capacity at 21 �3�C (70 �5�F) and operated without a pressure build up and with the hose in the stored position.
40 Hydrostatic Pressure Test
40.1 Cylinders
40.1.1 An extinguisher cylinder shall withstand for 1 minute, without rupture, a pressure of twice the proof test pressure as specified in 40.1.2 (a), (b), (c), (d), or (e).
40.1.2 The proof test pressure is to be determined as follows:
a) For a hand-portable extinguisher that uses a separate expellant gas cartridge, the proof test pressure shall be:
1) Three times the maximum pressure developed in the cylinder when operated under closed nozzle conditions after being charged with its rated capacity of agent solution and expellant gas and at 21�C (70�F), or
2) One and one-half times the maximum closed nozzle pressure developed when charged as above and at 49�C (120�F), whichever is greater.
b) For a hand-portable extinguisher that uses a single chamber for both the agent solution and expellant gas, the proof test pressure shall be three times the intended charging pressure at 21�C (70�F) except as provided in (c).
c) For cylinders that are tested and marked in accordance with the specifications for shipping containers of the DOT or TDGR, the proof test pressure shall be as specified in the applicable DOT or TDGR specification.
d) For extinguishers of the wheeled type, the proof test pressure shall be twice the intended charging pressure at 21�C (70�F), or twice the maximum pressure developed in the cylinder when operated under closed-nozzle conditions, for cartridge operated extinguishers. For this determination, the extinguisher is to be charged with its rated capacity of agent solution and expellant gas and at 21�C (70�F).
e) The minimum proof pressure shall be twice the charging pressure or 800 kPa (120 psig), whichever is greater.
40.1.3 A non-metallic cylinder for a wheeled extinguisher shall withstand for 1 minute, without rupture, a pressure of six times its intended charging pressure at 21�C (70�F) for stored-pressure extinguishers, or the maximum pressure developed in the cylinder when operated under closed-nozzle conditions, or whichever is greater.
40.1.4 There shall be no permanent volumetric expansion in excess of 10 percent of the total expansion of the cylinder of an extinguisher when the extinguisher is pressurized to the proof test pressure as specified in 40.1.2 (a), (b), (c), (d), or (e) for 30 seconds, after which the pressure then is to be released. For cylinders that have been proof pressure tested, the test pressure is to be increased by 10 percent.
40.1.5 When an extinguisher cylinder, tested to rupture (see 40.5.3), fractures along circumferential joints between the top or bottom dome and the side sheet, or at the collar or collar joint or at the point of attachment of elbows or discharge fittings, the rupture pressure shall be a minimum eight times the operating pressure at 21�C (70�F). Fractures passing through welds but parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder are to be evaluated according to the requirements specified in 40.1.1. For the purposes of this requirement the heat affected zone is considered to be a part of the weld.
40.1.6 The flat dome or bottom of a cylinder shall withstand for 1 minute, without rupture, an internal pressure of eight times its intended charging pressure at 21�C (70�F). During this test, the cylinder sidewall shall be restrained with a close fitting steel sleeve or similar device to prevent rupture of the sidewall.
40.1.7 Extinguishers submitted for a marine type classification shall have a minimum burst pressure of five times the rated working pressure at 21�C (70�F).
40.2 Discharge valves, caps, and closures
40.2.1 A discharge valve assembly, cap, or closure shall withstand, without leakage, the hydrostatic test specified in 40.1.2 (hand portable extinguisher) or 40.1.3 (wheeled extinguisher), whichever is applicable. Caps and closures shall withstand, without rupture, the Hydrostatic Pressure Test in 40.1.1 or 40.1.3, whichever is applicable. In addition, no parts shall be thrown from the valve assembly at a pressure less than eight times the maximum operating pressure at 21�C (70�F).
40.3 Hose assemblies
40.3.1 A hose assembly provided with a shutoff nozzle shall withstand for 1 minute, without leakage, a hydrostatic pressure of:
a) Three times the pressure developed in the extinguisher when operated under closed-nozzle conditions after being charged with its rated capacity and at 21�C (70�F); or
b) 4100 kPa (600 psig), whichever is lower.
40.3.2 A hose assembly that is not provided with a shutoff nozzle shall withstand for 1 minute, without leakage, a hydrostatic pressure equal to two times the operating pressure of the extinguisher at 21�C (70�F).
40.4 Gas cartridges
40.4.1 A gas cartridge exempt from DOT or TDGR requirements because of size and capacity shall not leak when subjected for 30 seconds to the applicable hydrostatic test pressure specified in either (a)(1) or (b)(1). In addition, the gas cartridge shall not rupture at less than the applicable hydrostatic test pressure specified in (a)(2) or (b)(2).
a) For a cartridge having a pressure relief device intended to rupture at pressures from 18.3 to 20.7 MPa (2650 to 3000 psig):
1) 20.7 MPa (3000 psig) leakage test pressure.
2) 41.4 MPa (6000 psig) rupture test pressure.
b) For a cartridge having a pressure relief device intended to rupture at pressures from 27.9 to 31 MPa (4050 to 4500 psig):
1) 31 MPa (4500 psig) leakage test pressure.
2) 41.1 MPa (6000 psig) rupture test pressure.
40.5 Test method
40.5.1 The extinguisher is to be completely filled with water and tested with its own discharge valve or adaptor threaded in place. All air is to be expelled from the test sample before the pressure is applied.
40.5.2 The apparatus for these tests is to consist of a hand- or motor-operated hydraulic pump that produces the required test pressure, a test cage that contains the extinguisher and its parts in the event that parts are thrown off, required valves and fittings for attachment to the test sample, and the required valves and fittings for regulating and maintaining the specified test pressure.
40.5.3 The pressure is to be increased at a rate of approximately 2000 kPa (300 psig) per minute until the test pressure is obtained. This pressure then is to be held for the time specified. The pressure then is to be increased until the cylinder ruptures.
40.5.4 To determine compliance with the requirements specified in 40.1.4, the water jacket test apparatus is to be used. The test is to be conducted in accordance with Methods for Hydrostatic Testing of Compressed Gas Cylinders, CGA C-1.
41 Vibration Test
41.1 General
41.1.1 A hand-portable extinguisher with its rated capacity and mounted in its bracket or in a standard mounting fixture shall withstand the variable frequency and endurance tests specified in 41.1.3 - 41.5.1 without:
a) Becoming inoperable;
b) Causing a risk of injury to persons;
c) Dislodgment of the siphon tube; and
d) Incurring damage to the side handle, hanger loop, or means of attachment that impairs their intended use.
41.1.2 Physical deterioration of components that requires repair or replacement of the extinguisher, components, or bracket before they are able to be returned to service does not meet the intent of the requirement. For example, broken welds in the cylinder, malfunctions of operating parts, or abrading or scoring of the cylinder in excess of 10 percent of the minimum calculated wall thickness do not meet the intent of this requirement.
41.1.3 Following the vibration test, the extinguisher shall discharge a minimum of 95 percent of its rated capacity of agent solution at 21 �3�C (70 �5�F). When there are visible signs of damage or deterioration of the valve or cylinder, the extinguisher shall be subjected to and comply with the requirements of 40.1.1, 40.1.5 and 40.2.1.
41.1.4 For these tests, amplitude is defined as the maximum displacement of sinusoidal motion from position of rest or one-half of the total table displacement. Resonance is defined as the maximum magnification of the applied vibration.
41.2 Mounting of test sample
41.2.1 A representative sample extinguisher charged with its rated capacity is to be mounted in a standard mounting fixture that has been secured to the test fixture of the vibration test apparatus in a vertical position. When the extinguisher is for marine type use, the extinguisher is to be mounted using the bracket specified for use with the extinguisher.
41.3 Test orientation
41.3.1 The extinguisher is to be subjected to variable frequency and endurance tests in each of the three rectilinear orientation axes, horizontal, lateral, and vertical. Both variable frequency and endurance tests are to be completed in one plane of vibration before the sample is tested in another plane.
41.4 Variable frequency test
41.4.1 The extinguisher is to be vibrated from 10 to 60 hertz in discrete frequency intervals of 2 hertz at the displacement indicated in Table 1. The vibration at each frequency is to be maintained for 5 minutes.
41.5 Endurance test
41.5.1 The extinguisher is to be vibrated for 2 hours at the frequency that produced maximum resonance as determined in the variable frequency test or, when no resonance is observed in the variable frequency test, at a frequency of 60 hertz. The table displacement is to be as specified in Table 1.
42 Roadability and Rough Usage Tests
42.1 Roadability
42.1.1 After being towed for 8 km (5 mi) at the rate of 8 to 13 km/h (5 to 7 mph) over concrete, macadam, or gravel roads or a combination thereof, a wheeled extinguisher shall comply with the following:
a) A minimum 90 percent (by mass) of the rated capacity of the extinguisher shall be able to be discharged as intended;
b) The wheels, axles, and carriage assembly shall not be damaged to the extent of impairing mobility by one person;
c) No weld shall be broken; and
d) The siphon tube shall not become dislodged.
42.1.2 After being dropped three times onto a concrete surface from a 305 mm (12 in) high platform so as to land on the wheels; pulled at 8 km/h (5 mph) during which one wheel strikes a vertical wall of concrete, steel, or brick; and pushed over so as to land on the bumper, a wheeled extinguisher shall comply with the following:
a) The extinguisher shall not be damaged;
b) No weld shall be broken;
c) The mobility of the extinguisher shall not be impaired; and
d) The siphon tube shall not become dislodged.
42.1.3 The nozzle of a wheeled extinguisher, as attached to the hose, shall function as intended after being dropped three times onto a concrete surface from a height of 0.9 m (3 ft). The assembly is to be dropped in a random manner so that no effort results in any part of the nozzle, such as the tip or handle, to initially strike the concrete surface.
42.2 Rough usage
42.2.1 A hand-portable extinguisher charged with its rated capacity shall comply with the requirements specified in (a) and (b) below after being dropped three times onto a concrete surface as specified in 42.2.2:
a) The extinguisher shall not rupture.
b) The extinguisher shall comply with the requirements specified in 40.1.1, except that the test pressure is to be equal to the rated charging or maximum operating pressure.
42.2.2 Sample hand-portable extinguishers are to be charged with their rated capacity. A sample is to be tested with the locking device disengaged, and another sample is to be tested with the locking device engaged. When polymeric materials are to be tested, sample extinguishers are to be conditioned to the minimum use temperature and to 49�C (120�F) for 24 hours immediately prior to the test. The distance of the drop is to be measured from the concrete surface to the bottommost part of the extinguisher. For extinguishers having an overall height of 609 mm (2 ft) or less, the drop distance is to be 0.9 m (3 ft). For extinguishers having an overall height of more than 609 mm (2 ft), the drop distance is to be 609 mm (2 ft). For the first test, each extinguisher is to be held in the upright position and dropped. For the second test, each extinguisher is to be held in the horizontal position and dropped. The orientation of the extinguisher is dependent on the extinguisher design. Each extinguisher is to be positioned to impact on the weakest point. For the third test, each extinguisher is to be held upside down and dropped.
42.3 Rough usage - operation
42.3.1 A hand-portable extinguisher, charged as intended, shall comply with (a) - (d) below after being dropped once onto a concrete surface as specified in 42.3.2. After the drop test:
a) The indicated pressure loss shall not exceed 10 percent;
b) The locking device shall disengage when subjected to a force not exceeding 178 N (40 lb-f);
c) The extinguisher shall actuate as intended to accomplish discharge; and
d) Parts of the extinguisher shall not be damaged to the extent that impairs intended use.
42.3.2 Sample hand-portable extinguishers are to be charged with their rated capacity. The test procedure is to be similar to that described in 42.2.2, except that the inverted drop test is to be omitted and the locking device is to be engaged. When polymeric materials are to be tested, sample extinguishers including any polymeric parts are to be conditioned to the minimum storage and use temperature and to 49�C (120�F) for 24 hours immediately prior to the test. Conditioning is to be conducted after air oven aging and after light and water exposure. Each sample is to be subjected to only one drop, and a different sample is to be used for each test. After each drop, the locking device of the extinguisher is to be removed. Each extinguisher shall be subjected to and shall comply with the results obtained in the Discharge Duration Test, Clause 31, and Discharge Range Test, Clause 33.
43 Siphon Pull Test - Polymeric Materials
43.1 Twenty-four charged hand-portable extinguishers are to be divided into six groups. Three groups are to be conditioned in a vertical position at temperatures of 21, 49, and 60 �3�C (70, 120, and 140 �5�F), respectively, for 30 days. The remaining three groups are to be conditioned in a horizontal position at 21, 49, and 60 �3�C (70, 120, and 140 �5�F), respectively, for 90 days. After conditioning, all extinguishers are to be cooled.
43.2 For extinguishers having a press-fit type siphon tube assembly, two samples from each of the six groups then are to be inverted, depressurized, and cut open to allow removal of the siphon tube assemblies. Pull strength tests then are to be conducted on each siphon tube in accordance with the Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics, ANSI/ASTM D638, with the test machine crosshead speed set at 0.021 mm/s (0.5 in/min).
43.3 The siphon tube strength data derived from the tests specified in 43.2 is to be used to determine the "most severe condition" combination of time and temperature, as evidenced by the lowest pull strength. Two extinguishers from those remaining that have not been cut open, and that have the most severe condition combination of time and temperature determined as specified in 43.1 or 43.2 then are to be subjected to the Vibration Test, Clause 41.
43.4 For extinguishers having threaded siphon tube assemblies, the assemblies are to be visually examined for signs of cracking or other deterioration. Following the Vibration Test, Clause 41, the extinguishers shall discharge in the intended manner. The samples then are to be examined. There shall be no evidence of cracking or other deterioration that prevents the intended operation of the extinguishers.
44 Aging Tests - Polymeric Materials
44.1 General
44.1.1 There shall be no cracking of a polymeric valve, valve parts, gauge/ indicator components, cylinder, or bracket after air-oven aging for 180 days at 100 �3�C (212 �5�F). Aged samples shall perform as intended, when tested in accordance with: the Handle and Mounting Device Test, Clause 29; the Hydrostatic Pressure Test, Clause 40; the Vibration Test, Clause 41; the Roadability and Rough Usage Test, Clause 42; and the Burst Strength Test - Gauges and Indicators, Clause 52, as applicable.
44.1.2 There shall be no cracking of a polymeric siphon tube after air-oven aging for 90 days at 100 �3�C (212 �5�F). Aged samples of the siphon tube shall perform as intended, when installed in test extinguishers and tested in accordance with 42.3.1. Ring samples cut from the aged tube shall not exhibit a degradation in excess of 40 percent of the original tensile or ring crushing strength values. See 44.1.4.
44.1.3 When polymeric parts are attached to other polymeric or nonpolymeric parts or assemblies, the securement of the parts shall remain as intended after air-oven aging.
44.1.4 To determine the degradation of a polymeric material used in a siphon tube, ring samples 13 mm (1/2 in) wide are to be cut from the tube and subjected to air-oven aging. See 44.1.5. The ring samples then are to be subjected to a crush test between parallel flat plates using a machine capable of applying a compression load at a uniform rate of 5 mm (0.2 in) per minute and recording the load applied as a function of the deflection. The test is also to be conducted on as-received parts of identical size for comparative purposes. When the nature of the material is such that meaningful test results are not obtained, other tests, such as tension tests of the rings are to be conducted.
44.1.5 The polymeric valve, valve parts including discharge hose assembly and nozzle, bracket, and siphon tube samples to be aged are to be supported in a full-draft, circulating-air oven that has been preheated at full draft to 100 �1�C (212 �2�F). Samples are not to touch one another or the sides of the oven. The samples of the polymeric valve, valve parts including discharge hose assembly and nozzle, and the bracket are to be aged for 180 days and the siphon tube is aged for 90 days at full draft and then allowed to cool in air at 21 �2�C (70 �4�F) for at least 24 hours before conducting any test or dimensional check. As used in this test, the term "full draft" refers to the oven being used with inlet and outlet vents open and the air vent damper control at a maximum setting so as to provide 250 to 350 air changes per hour.
44.1.6 As an alternate to the air-oven aging tests specified in 44.1.1 and 44.1.2, an air-oven aging test at a lower temperature for a longer period of time is able to be used. The equivalent time-temperature for 180 days at 100 �3�C (212 �5�F) is to be 430 days at 87 �3�C (189 �5�F). The equivalent time-temperature for 90 days at 100 �3�C (212 �5�F) is to be 210 days at 87 �3�C (189 �5�F).
44.2 Exposure to extinguishing agent test
44.2.1 Polymeric siphon tubes that have been partially immersed in the agent solution with which they are to be used for 210 days at 87 �3�C (189 �5�F) shall perform as intended, when installed in test extinguishers that are then subjected to the test described in 42.3.1. Ring samples cut from the tube, and completely immersed in the agent solution with which they are to be used for 210 days at 87 �3�C (189 �5�F), shall not exhibit degradation in excess of 40 percent of the original tensile or ring crushing strength values. See 44.2.2.
44.2.2 Complete siphon tubes are to be partially immersed in the agent solution with which they are to be used, and ring samples, 13 mm (1/2 in) wide, cut from as-received siphon tubes are to be totally immersed in the agent solution. The samples are not to touch each other or the container holding the agent solution and samples. The container of agent solution, with the samples in place, is to be loosely capped and placed in a preheated oven at 87 �3�C (189 �5�F) for 210 days. After the test exposure, the samples are to cool in air at 21 �2�C (70 �4�F) for at least 24 hours before any tests or dimensional measurements are conducted. The ring samples then are to be subjected to a crush test between two parallel flat plates using a testing machine capable of applying a compressive load at a uniform rate of 5 mm (0.2 in) per minute and recording the load versus the deflection. When the nature of the material is such that meaningful test results are not able to be obtained, other tests, such as tensile tests, are to be conducted.
44.3 Light and water test
44.3.1 There shall be no cracking of a polymeric valve, valve parts, gauge/ indicator components, cylinders, or bracket following exposure to ultraviolet light and water for 720 hours. Aged samples of the valve or valve part or bracket shall perform as intended when tested as specified in the Handle and Mounting Device Test, Clause 29; the Hydrostatic Pressure Test, Clause 40; the Vibration Test, Clause 41; the Roadability and Rough Usage Test, Clause 42; and the Burst Strength Test, Clause 52, as applicable.
44.3.2 The ultraviolet light is to be obtained from two stationary enclosed carbon-arc lamps. The arc of each lamp is to be formed between two vertical carbon electrodes, 12.7 mm (1/2 in) in diameter, located at the center of a revolvable vertical metal cylinder, 787 mm (31 in) in diameter and 450 mm (17-3/4 in) in height. Each arc is to be enclosed with a No. 9200-PX clear Pyrex glass globe. The samples are to be mounted vertically on the inside of the revolvable cylinder, facing the lamps, and the cylinder continuously revolved around the stationary lamps at one revolution per minute. A system of nozzles is to be provided so that each sample, in turn, is sprayed with water as the cylinder revolves. During each operating cycle (total of 20 minutes) each sample is to be exposed to the light and water spray for 3 minutes and to the light only for 17 minutes. The air temperature within the revolving cylinder of the apparatus during operation is to be 63 �5�C (145 �9�F).
44.3.3 An alternate ultraviolet light exposure is obtainable in accordance with ASTM D2565, Standard Practice for Operating Xenon Arc-Type (Water-Cooled) Light-Exposure Apparatus With and Without Water for Exposure of Plastics. The source of radiation is to be a 6500 Watt, water-cooled xenon-arc lamp with borosilicate inner and outer optical filters. The wattage to the lamp is automatically controlled to provide spectral irradiance of 0.35 W/m2 at 340 nm. The samples are mounted vertically on the inside of a 965 mm (38 in) diameter cylinder, facing the arc, and the cylinder is rotated about the arc at one revolution per minute. During each operating cycle of 120 minutes, each sample is exposed to light for 102 minutes and to light and water spray for 18 minutes. The black-panel temperature during the dry portion of the light-on cycle is regulated to 63 �5�C (145 �9�F).
45 Elastomeric Parts Test
UL 157:
a) For silicone rubber (having poly-organo-siloxane as its constituent characteristic), a minimum tensile strength of 3400 kPa (500 psi) and a minimum ultimate elongation of 100 percent.
b) For fluoroelastomers, a minimum tensile strength of 6900 kPa (1000 psi) and a minimum ultimate elongation of 150 percent.
c) For natural rubber and synthetic rubber other than silicone rubber or fluoroelastomers, a minimum tensile strength of 8300 kPa (1200 psi) and minimum ultimate elongation of 150 percent.
UL 157. The maximum service temperature used to determine the oven time and temperature for oven aging is considered to be 60�C (140�F).
UL 157, provides for the testing of either finished elastomeric parts or sheet or slab material. Sheet or slab material is to be tested when the elastomeric parts are O-rings having diameter of less than 25.4 mm (1 in). The material tested is to be the same as that used in the product, regardless of whether finished elastomeric parts or sheet or slab material is used.
46 Salt Spray Corrosion Test
46.1 All parts of an extinguisher, including the finishes on coated or painted parts, the assemblies of moving parts, the nameplates as secured in place, and brackets or mounting hooks, when provided, shall be subjected to a 240 hour salt spray exposure as described in 46.3 and 46.4, and after exposure shall comply with the following:
a) The extinguisher shall operate and recharge as intended.
b) Any corrosion-resistant coating (such as paint) shall remain intact and shall adhere to the surface so as not to be removable (when such removal exposes a material subject to corrosion) by such action as washing or rubbing with a thumb or fingernail.
c) Dissimilar metals in contact or close proximity with one another shall be provided with a corrosion protection system, so that there is no evidence of galvanic corrosion.
d) The extinguisher and its bracket or mounting hook having no protective coating and paint, when provided, shall not show evidence of pitting, flaking, chipping, spalling, or similar destruction of metal surfaces.
e) The gauge or indicator on a stored-pressure extinguisher shall remain watertight throughout the test.
46.2 Extinguishers with stainless steel cylinders, intended for USCG approval, shall comply with the requirements in 46.1 and be subjected to a duration of 1,000 hour salt spray exposure.
46.3 The test samples are to be supported vertically and exposed to salt spray (fog) as specified by the Standard Practice for Operating Salt Spray (Fog) Testing Apparatus, ASTM B117. The apparatus used for salt spray exposure is to consist of a fog chamber of a size and shape that results in the atomization and quantity of collected solution within the limits of ASTM B117, having a salt solution reservoir, a supply of conditioned compressed air, a dispersing tower for producing a salt fog, specimen supports, provision for heating the chamber, and means of control. The dispersion tower is to be located in the center of the chamber and is to be supplied with salt solution and with warmed, humidified air at a pressure of 120 to 130 kPa (17 to 19 psi), to disperse the salt solution in the form of a fine mist or fog throughout the interior of the chamber. The temperature within the chamber is to be maintained between 33 and 36�C (92 and 97�F). Condensate accumulation on the cover of the chamber shall not drop on the test specimens, and drops of the solution that fall from the specimens are not to be recirculated and are to be removed through a drain located in the floor of the chamber.
46.4 The salt solution is to consist of 20 percent (by mass) of common salt (sodium chloride) and distilled water. The pH value of this solution as collected after spraying in the test apparatus is to be between 6.5 and 7.2, and the specific gravity between 1.126 and 1.157 at 35�C (95�F).
47 10-Day Moist Ammonia Air Stress Cracking Test
47.1 After being subjected to the conditions described in 47.2 - 47.4, a brass part containing more than 15 percent zinc shall show no evidence of cracking when examined using 25X magnification.
Exception: Cracking is not prohibited when the cracking does not impact the ability of the product to comply with the requirements of this standard.
47.2 Each test sample is to be subjected to the physical stresses normally imposed on or within a part as the result of assembly with other components. Such stresses are to be applied to the sample prior to and maintained during the test. Samples with threads, intended to be used for installing the product in the field, are to have the threads engaged and tightened to the torque specified in Table 2. Teflon tape or pipe compound are not to be used on the threads.
47.3 Three samples are to be degreased and then continuously exposed in a set position for ten days to a moist ammonia-air mixture maintained in a glass chamber approximately 300 by 300 by 300 mm (12 by 12 by 12 in) having a glass cover.
47.4 Approximately 600 mL (0.15 gal) of aqueous ammonia having a specific gravity of 0.94 is to be maintained at the bottom of the glass chamber below the samples. The samples are to be positioned 38 mm (1-1/2 in) above the aqueous ammonia solution and supported by an inert tray. The moist ammonia-air mixture in the chamber is to be maintained at atmospheric pressure and at a temperature of 34 �2�C (93 �4�F).
48 Agent Exposure Test
48.1 Disposable (nonrechargeable) fire extinguishers
48.1.1 Three groups, each of eight fully charged and pressurized extinguishers, are to be conditioned at temperatures of 21 and 49 �3�C (70 and 120 �5�F) for 1 year, and 60 �3�C (140 �5�F) for 6 months, respectively. Half of the samples of each group are to be placed on their sides (horizontal).
48.1.2 After conditioning, the rupture pressures shall be not less than two times the proof test pressure when four extinguishers (two upright and two horizontally conditioned samples) from each group are subjected to the Hydrostatic Pressure Test, Clause 40.
48.1.3 There shall be no evidence of corrosion or pitting when the remaining extinguishers from each group are visually examined.
48.2 Rechargeable (refillable) fire extinguishers
48.2.1 Cylinder and/or metallic siphon tube specimens are to be exposed to the agent solution for 120 days at a temperature of 70 �3�C (158 �5�F). After the exposure specified in 48.2.2, the coated specimens are to be aged in an air oven at 100 �3�C (212 �5�F) for 180 days.
48.2.2 A total of 100 specimens, each 76 by 127 mm (3 by 5 in), are to be cut from extinguisher cylinders. If the extinguisher cylinders incorporate welds, 50 of the specimens are to include welds. When the extinguisher incorporates a metallic siphon tube, 50 specimens of the tube, each 152 mm (6 in) long, are to be cut. One-half the specimens are to be fully immersed and the other half partially immersed in the agent solution specified for the extinguisher. When a coating is used, all samples are to be coated with the nominal amount of coating and dried in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. The coating is to be scored to the base metal over the full length of the specimen.
48.2.3 Following the conditioning specified in 48.2.1 and 48.2.2:
a) There shall be no cracking, blistering, softening, or other signs of deterioration of the coated specimens, as evidenced by macroscopic and microscopic examination;
b) There shall be no more than a 10 percent loss of the minimum specified metallic wall thickness; and
c) There shall be no cracking, blistering, softening, or peeling of the coating.
49 Servicing Tests
49.1 After 30 recharging cycles as described in 49.2, a rechargeable extinguisher charged with its rated capacity shall retain its charge during a 24-hour conditioning cycle at minimum storage and use temperature and then shall comply with the requirements of the Discharge Duration Test, Clause 31, and the Hydrostatic Pressure Test, Clause 40. See 31.1 and 40.2.1.
49.2 During each cycle, the extinguisher is to be cleaned, filled with agent, pressurized or fitted with an expellant gas cartridge, and discharged according to the manufacturer's written instructions. The complete valve assembly, including discharge nozzle, stem, pressure gauge, and siphon tube assembly is to be disassembled during the first, tenth, twentieth, and thirtieth cycles, according to the manufacturer's written instructions. After the tenth cycle, an extinguisher having polymeric parts is to be subjected to the Aging Tests - Polymeric Materials, Clause 44, except that the test duration is to be reduced to 90 days at 100�C (212�F) for a valve and valve part, and 45 days at 100�C (212�F) for a siphon tube assembly.
50 One-Year Time Leakage Test
50.1 A stored-pressure type extinguisher shall retain its expellant-gas charge for 1 year at a temperature of 21 �4�C (70 �7�F).
50.2 Twelve sample extinguishers charged with their rated capacity are to be tested with six samples in a vertical position and six samples in a horizontal position and their pressure checked after 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Any loss in pressure is an indication of leakage. When indicated, the leakage shall not exceed the rate when the pressure drops to the lower limit of the operable pressure range in 2 years. At least half of the samples are to be discharged and recharged at the 3 month and 6 month points during the 1-year test period.
50.3 A cartridge for an expellant-gas type extinguisher shall retain its charge, without leakage, for 1 year at a temperature of 21 �4�C (70 �7�F) and at a temperature of 49 �2�C (120 �3�F).
50.4 Twelve samples of the gas cartridge are to be weighed and stored at a temperature of 21 �4�C (70 �7�F) and six samples are to be weighed and stored at a temperature of 49 �2�C (120 �3�F). They are to be reweighed after 1, 3, 6, and 12 months.
51 Calibration Test - Gauges and Indicators
51.1 An indicator shall be accurate to within 4 percent of the charging pressure at the lower limit of the operable range.
51.2 The error of a pressure gauge at the indicated charging pressure and at the upper and lower limits of the operable range shall not exceed �4 percent of the charging pressure. At the zero pressure mark the error shall not exceed plus 12, minus 0 percent of the charging pressure. At the maximum indicated pressure, the error shall not exceed �15 percent of the charging pressure.
51.3 The pressure gauge or indicator is to be installed on a deadweight gauge tester or on a piping apparatus with a master gauge that is accurate to within 1/4 of 1 percent. The pressurizing medium may be oil, water, nitrogen, or air, but all tests on a given type of gauge are to be conducted using the same medium. The pressure is to be applied to the gauge under test in uniform increments until the upper limit of the gauge is reached. The pressure then is to be reduced in the same increments until the zero point is reached. The pressure applied, the gauge or indicator reading, and net error are to be recorded for each increment in both the increasing and decreasing pressure conditions.
52 Burst Strength Test - Gauges and Indicators
52.1 A pressure gauge or indicator shall withstand, for 1 minute, without rupture, a pressure of six times the indicated charging pressure. In addition, if the bourdon tube or pressure-retaining assembly bursts at a pressure less than eight times the indicated charging pressure, no parts of the device shall be thrown.
52.2 The sample gauge or indicator is to be attached to a hydraulic pressure pump after all air has been excluded from the test system. The sample is to be placed in a test cage and the pressure applied at a rate of approximately 2000 kPa/min (300 psig/min) until the required test pressure is reached. The pressure is to be held for 1 minute, then increased until rupture occurs or eight times the indicated charging pressure is reached, whichever occurs first.
53 Water Resistance Test - Gauges and Indicators
53.1 A gauge or indicator for use on an extinguisher shall remain watertight:
a) After being immersed in 0.30 m (1 ft) of water for 2 hours
b) After being subjected to the Salt Spray Corrosion Test, Clause 46; and
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