IEC 60695-6-2:2018

Overview

IEC 60695-6-2:2018, titled Fire hazard testing - Part 6-2: Smoke obscuration - Summary and relevance of test methods, is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). This standard provides a comprehensive summary of the test methods commonly used to assess smoke obscuration, an important factor in fire hazard evaluation. It covers both static and dynamic test methods referenced in international, national, and industry standards, highlighting their relevance specifically for electrotechnical products and materials.

As a basic safety publication aligned with IEC Guide 104 and ISO/IEC Guide 51, this document serves primarily to guide technical committees in developing related standards rather than manufacturers or certification bodies. IEC 60695-6-2:2018 is a technical revision of the previous 2011 edition and is intended to be used alongside IEC 60695-6-1.

Key Topics

• Test Method Types: The standard categorizes smoke obscuration test methods into static and dynamic types. Static methods evaluate smoke density under controlled and steady conditions, while dynamic methods reflect more realistic fire scenarios via specimen burning in progressive fire conditions.

• Physical Fire Models: Models simulating fire stages and development are discussed to clarify the context in which smoke obscuration tests are conducted and their interpretive relevance.

• Test Specimens: Different forms and configurations of test specimens, from cables to discrete products, are covered to ensure appropriate testing reflecting real-world product use.

• Relevant Standards and Updates: The 2018 edition revises and updates references to important standards such as ISO 5659-2, EN 50399, and ISO 5660-1, while withdrawing obsolete ones including IEC 60695-6-30/-31 and BS 6853.

• Repeatability and Reproducibility: The document emphasizes data reliability by reporting interlaboratory test results, essential for assuring consistent smoke obscuration measurements.

• New Additions: A new subclause (7.5) focuses on smoke generated by discrete or non-continuous products, reflecting evolving testing needs.

Applications

IEC 60695-6-2:2018 is crucial for:

• Technical Committees responsible for preparing standards on fire safety and smoke emissions in electrical and electronic products, helping ensure consistency and relevance across various international regulations.

• Fire Safety Assessment professionals evaluating product performance in fire scenarios, particularly in relation to smoke obscuration which impacts visibility and toxicity in fire emergencies.

• Material and Product Developers seeking to understand which test methods provide meaningful data on smoke generation for different materials used in electrotechnical applications.

• Regulatory and Standardization Bodies harmonizing national and international fire hazard testing protocols with a clear understanding of method applicability and data interpretation.

Related Standards

IEC 60695-6-2:2018 is designed to be used in conjunction with other key standards, including:

• IEC 60695-6-1 - Smoke obscuration general guidance, providing foundational principles for the detailed methods outlined in Part 6-2.

• ISO 5659-2 - Smoke generation rate measurements, referenced for updated test protocols.

• EN 50399 - Fire performance of cables under test scenarios relevant for dynamic smoke testing.

• ISO 5660-1 - Reaction to fire test method focusing on heat release, used alongside smoke obscuration data for comprehensive fire hazard evaluation.

• ASTM and UL standards related to cable smoke testing, particularly for dynamic test setups.

This integration ensures a harmonized approach to smoke obscuration testing critical for electrotechnical product safety assessment, aiding in safer product design and regulatory compliance.

Keywords: IEC 60695-6-2:2018, fire hazard testing, smoke obscuration, smoke density tests, static test methods, dynamic test methods, electrotechnical products, fire safety standards, international fire testing standards, electrical product fire hazards, smoke emission measurement.