UL 10C:2021 is a standard that specifies the methods for conducting positive pressure fire tests on swinging door assemblies. These tests are designed to evaluate the ability of the door assemblies to resist the passage of fire and remain intact during a predetermined test exposure. The standard applies to swinging door assemblies of various materials and construction types used in wall openings.
It is important to note that the standard does not provide an evaluation of door assemblies when they are part of larger assemblies, such as sliding fire door assemblies, or when they are intended for use as elevator entrances. The tests conducted in accordance with this standard are meant to register performance during the test exposure, without determining the suitability of the door assemblies for use after exposure to fire.
The purpose of conducting tests in accordance with this standard is to enable regulatory bodies to determine the suitability of door assemblies for use in locations requiring a specific duration of fire resistance. The test methods expose the specimens to a standardized fire exposure, including specified temperatures and a fire hose stream. While the exposure conditions may not represent all possible fire scenarios, they provide a relative measure of fire performance under the specified conditions.
It is important to note that any variation from the tested construction or conditions can significantly impact the performance characteristics of the door assemblies. The standard also outlines certain limitations, including the inability to provide full information on the performance of all door assemblies in walls made of materials other than those tested, the evaluation of smoke or toxic gas generation, temperature limits on the unexposed side of the door assembly, limits on the number and size of openings in glazed areas or lateral openings between the door and frame, and measurement of the degree of smoke control.
