California TB 117 Flammability Testing of Upholstered Furniture

The California Technical Bulletin (TB) 117 flammability test is a critical standard for upholstered furniture manufacturers, particularly those operating within or supplying to the state of California. This regulation aims to enhance public safety by ensuring that upholstery materials are resistant to ignition and flame spread under specified conditions.

The primary purpose of TB 117 testing is to protect consumers from potential fire hazards by preventing upholstered furniture from catching fire easily, especially in case of accidental ignition sources like cigarettes or open flames. The standard applies to a wide range of products including sofas, recliners, armchairs, and other seating furniture designed for home use.

The testing process involves placing the upholstery sample on a specially designed test fixture that simulates real-world scenarios where the product might encounter an ignition source. During the test, the fabric is exposed to a flame and evaluated based on its ability to extinguish itself once removed from the heat source or to maintain a specified level of burning.

The test results are crucial for manufacturers as they not only determine compliance with legal requirements but also influence consumer trust and market reputation. Non-compliance can lead to product recalls, fines, and damage to brand image. Therefore, it is imperative that manufacturers understand the nuances of this testing protocol thoroughly.

Test Setup for California TB 117
Parameter	Description
Flame Source	A small flame is applied to the specimen for 12 seconds.
Ignition Time	The time it takes for the specimen to ignite after exposure to the flame source.
Burning Duration	The duration of burning once ignited, measured in seconds.
Flame Spread Index	A quantitative measure indicating the extent to which fire spreads across the specimen.

Applied Standards

The California TB 117 flammability test is governed by internationally recognized standards that ensure consistency and reliability. The primary standard used is ASTM D6413-09, which provides detailed procedures for conducting the test and interpreting results.

ASTM D6413 outlines several key parameters including the type of flame source to be used, the duration of exposure, and specific criteria for passing or failing the test. Compliance with these standards ensures that all tests conducted meet stringent quality control measures and are comparable across different laboratories.

ASTM D6413-09: This standard specifies the procedure for conducting the California TB 117 flammability test on upholstered furniture.
ISO/FDIS 22985: An international standard that provides guidelines for testing textiles used in furnishing products, which can also be referenced for broader context.

Industry Applications

The California TB 117 flammability test is widely applicable across various industries that produce or distribute upholstered furniture. This includes but is not limited to:

Furniture manufacturers and suppliers
Retailers specializing in home furnishings
Interior designers and decorators
Hospitality providers such as hotels and resorts

These entities must ensure that their products comply with TB 117 to avoid legal issues and maintain a safe environment for end-users.

Use Cases and Application Examples

Furniture Design and Development: Manufacturers use the test results to refine their product designs, ensuring that materials meet or exceed TB 117 requirements.
Supply Chain Management: Suppliers must verify that incoming products comply with TB 117 before incorporating them into their own lines.
Retail Compliance: Retailers ensure that all furniture sold in California meets the stringent flammability standards set by TB 117.

The following table illustrates some common test scenarios and outcomes based on different materials and treatments used in upholstery:

Common Test Scenarios
Material Treatment	Burning Duration (Seconds)	Flame Spread Index	Pass/Fail Status
Uncoated Polyester Fabric	15 seconds	High Flame Spread Index	Fails
Treated Polyester Fabric	8 seconds	Moderate Flame Spread Index	Passes

Frequently Asked Questions

Is TB 117 applicable only to California-based businesses?

While it is primarily a requirement for businesses operating within the state of California, its stringent standards are often adopted by other regions seeking comparable safety measures.

What materials need to be tested under TB 117?

All upholstered furniture and coverings that come into contact with the seating surface must undergo testing. This includes fabrics, foam inserts, and any other components.

How long does it take to complete a TB 117 test?

The entire process typically takes around 24 hours from sample preparation to final result analysis. However, this can vary based on specific material properties and testing conditions.

What happens if a product fails the TB 117 test?

Products that fail must undergo corrective measures such as re-treatment or replacement of materials. In severe cases, they may need to be recalled.

Can untreated fabrics pass TB 117?

Untreated fabrics generally do not meet the stringent requirements of TB 117 and would likely fail the test. Treatment with flame retardants is essential for compliance.

Is TB 117 testing mandatory?

Yes, it is a mandatory requirement for upholstered furniture sold or distributed in California. Compliance ensures legal and safety standards are met.

How does TB 117 differ from other flammability tests?

TB 117 is more stringent compared to many international standards, focusing on the specific conditions and materials used in California's climate and home settings.

What are the consequences of non-compliance with TB 117?

Non-compliance can result in product recalls, legal penalties, and damage to brand reputation. It is essential for businesses to ensure full compliance.