UL 2043: Standard for Fire Test for Heat and Visible Smoke Release for Discrete Products and Their Accessories Installed in Air-Handling Spaces

Standard: UL 2043 – Standard for Fire Test for Heat and Visible Smoke Release for Discrete Products and Their Accessories Installed in Air-Handling Spaces

Scope: To determine the fire performance response of discrete products (including, but not limited to electrical, mechanical, and plumbing equipment) intended to be installed in air handling spaces, such as above suspended ceilings or below floors. The purpose of this test is to determine the rate of heat release and the rate of smoke release of the burning product samples as they relate to the requirements for fire-resistant and low-smoke-producing characteristics.

Applicable Products: Discrete products (including, but not limited to electrical, mechanical, and plumbing equipment). Additionally, discrete, non-continuous building materials where the Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials, UL 723, is not applicable.

Test Procedure: Products are mounted in the test frame and are subjected to an open flame ignition source and evaluated using a product calorimeter. The ignition source is a propane gas diffusion burner, and the test sample is exposed to the ignition source for 10 minutes. Heat release rate and smoke release rate measurements are collected via the collection hood and exhaust duct system which is equipped with gas sampling instrumentation.

End Result: Test results are reviewed against the following standard acceptance criteria:

The peak rate of heat release (HRRs) measured during each test shall be 100 kilowatts or less.
The peak smoke release rate measured during each test shall be 0.21 m2/s or less, SRRs.
The total smoke released (10 minute test duration) shall be 75 m2 or less, TSR.

A test report is issued with the conclusion of compliance or non-compliance with the acceptance criteria of the standard.

Certification is offered for UL 2043 compliant products which allows the product to bear the Intertek ETL Classified Mark.

Intertek Testing Locations: Elmendorf, TX