FLAMMABILITY OF FIBERS
Information regarding the flammability of fibers is presented in the table below. These figures, however, should not be taken as guides to fabric performance as other factors such as construction, surface characteristics, dyes, finishes, other fiber components and moisture content must be considered.
| Fiber |
Ignition Temperature
|
Melting Point | ||
|
(°F.)
|
(°C.)
|
|||
| COTTON |
734
|
390
|
Decomposes slowly at 350° - 440°F. (177° - 204°C.) | |
| NYLON |
989
|
532
|
480°F. (249°C.) | |
| POLYESTER |
1040
|
560
|
480°F. (249°C.) | |
| GLASS |
Does not ignite
|
Strength loss begins at 600°F. (300°C.) | ||
| PTFE |
Pyrolizes but does not ignite
|
Decomposes slowly at 550°F. (289°C.) Gels at 621°F. (327°C.) | ||
| NOMEX* |
1200
|
650
|
Softens and degrades rapidly above 700°F. (372°C.) | |
*Registered trademarks of Du Pont Company.
