Test Details
Test Purpose
The purpose of completing propagation testing is to determine whether a reaction from a finished or unfinished article, which was accidentally fired or initiated, will propagate to other articles or parts of the process. Articles are placed in the process configuration (worst case) and initiated or functioned. Example in-process applications include tube feeders, articles on a conveyor, articles in a bowl feeder, etc.
Equivalence
Similar in test principle to UN Series 6 (a), 6 (b), and 6 (d), with the exception that articles are tested without packaging, as they are or may be found in the process, including during process upset.
Key Parameters
| Key Parameter | Objectives | Origin | Specs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Configuration of articles | Simulate a specific in-process configuration (requiring administrative controls to maintain) or a worst-case configuration (confined, random orientation) | Articles placed in a worst-case configuration (e.g. side-by-side, end-to-end, and/or in a pile) | |
| Quantity of articles | Sufficient number to surround the donor and detect the susceptibility for reaction propagation or the presence of a mass reaction hazard | ||
| Confining medium (sand, loose or filled in containers) and quantity | Provide a displaceable confining medium that resists the venting of hot combustion gases | Simulate worst-case processing conditions | |
| Ignition stimulus (device functioning) | Ensure article is functioned as intended or designed (or equivalent) | Most likely incident to be encountered during processing | Cause article to function |
| Number of trials | Sufficient to give a reasonable level of confidence in the reproducibility of the test results | 2 trials minimum (as possible) |
Indicators
| Indicators | Detection Method | Assessment* |
|---|---|---|
| Reaction propagation between articles | Visual post-test inspection | Reaction not limited to the donor only [NOT IP Division 1.4Q for the tested configuration]. Significant reaction propagation (i.e. more than a few) [IP Division 1.1 for the tested configuration]. |
