Carpet Smoke Density

Most jurisdictions require a smoke density rating of 450 or less.

Carpet smoke density. We can now use rule 2 to determine the face weight in ounces. To measure carpet density the following formula is used. Density x pile height 36 face weight e g 2160 x 0 50 36 30 in this example what we know is that the pile density is 2160 and the pile height is 0 5 one half inch. Smoke obscuration is measured in the smoke density chamber.

So we keep looking and find another figure called density listed at 5 236 oz. How to calculate carpet density. Once smoke odors get trapped into the fibers of carpet and padding extracting the stench can be extremely difficult. Carpet face weight multiplied by 36 2.

For commercial carpet the range starts around 4 000. Carpet rule 2. In order to determine identification characteristics various elements are measured such as total mass pile mass pile density total thickness pile thickness tuft number and backing thickness. 5 1 this test method provides a means for determining the specific optical density of the smoke generated by specimens of materials and assemblies under the specified exposure conditions.

But we now know that is not what we want. The accumulation of smoke generated is measured by the attenuation of a light beam i e the amount of light transmitted through the smoke. A smoke density value is determined. You want a carpet density with a density of 2 900 for good durability and i d be cautious with anything less than 2 500 in moderate traffic rooms.

Inside this chamber a specimen is exposed to either radiant heat non flaming condition or radiant heat in combination with a pilot flame flaming condition. Smoke density is reported in terms of maximum optical density based on an arbitrary scale of zero to 800. Equals density measured in ounces per cubic yard. You will note another number listed as weight density but that is not what we want.

The carpet and rug institute recommends a minimum carpet density of 5 000 ounces per cubic yard for carpets used in commercial environments e g department stores malls etc where heavy foot traffic can be expected. Carpet rule 3. For additional safety many. Face weight does come into play when you are calculating density however.

Two fire tests and smoke tests are required for a carpet to achieve fire classification under european standards. The result is expressed as a maximum specific optical density as determined by the amount and density of the smoke emitted. Divide by carpet pile height 3. Values determined by this test are specific to the specimen or assembly in the form and thickness tested and are not to be considered inherent fundamental properties of the material tested.

Smoke odors from fire damage cigarette smoke or even burnt food can permeate every inch of your home especially your carpet furniture and rugs. Density is often misconceived as a carpet s face weight but these two terms are completely different. Results are expressed in terms of specific optical density.