American National Standard

for
Evaluating Welding Pads,
Welding Blankets and
Welding Curtains for Hot
Work Operations
ANSI FM 4950-2024
Approved April 4, 2024

©2024 FM Approvals LLC. All rights reserved.

 Foreword
NOTE: This foreword is introductory only and is not part of American National Standard/FM Approvals 4950.

This standard is intended to verify that the products described will meet stated conditions of performance and quality.
The purpose of this Standard is to present the criteria for evaluating various types of welding blankets, pads and curtains
to be used as guidance for manufacturers, users and authorities having jurisdiction.

This American National Standard has been developed by the canvass method of standards development of the American
National Standards Institute (ANSI). FM Approvals is an ANSI-accredited standards developing organization (SDO).

Approval of an American National Standard requires verification by ANSI that the principles of openness and due
process have been followed and that a consensus of those directly and materially affected by the standard has been
achieved. Consensus requires that all views and objections be considered, and that a concerted effort made toward their
resolution. Consensus is established when, in the judgment of the ANSI Board of Standards Review, substantial
agreement has been reached.

The American National Standards Institute does not develop standards nor will it in any circumstances give an
interpretation of any American National Standard. Requests for interpretations of this test standard should be addressed
to FM Approvals.

ANSI regulations require that this American National Standard shall be revised, reaffirmed or withdrawn within five
years of the date of publication.

ANSI FM 4950 was originally published in 2007, re-affirmed in February 2013, and updated in 2024. Changes are as
follows:

• Removed date reference from NFPA 51B, Standard for Fire Prevention During Welding, Cutting and Other Hot
Work;
• American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) G53 96 was updated to American Society for Testing and
Materials (ASTM) G154
• Corrected typographical errors;
• Added US Customary units along with SI units.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Purpose ............................................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Scope ................................................................................................................................................... 1
1.3 Basis for Requirements ..................................................................................................................... 1
1.4 System of Units ................................................................................................................................... 1
2. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS ................................................................................................................. 2
2.1 Applicable Documents ....................................................................................................................... 2
2.2 Glossary .............................................................................................................................................. 2
3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................................ 3
3.1 Background ........................................................................................................................................ 3
3.2 Categories ........................................................................................................................................... 3
3.3 Requirements ..................................................................................................................................... 4
4. TEST REQUIREMENTS .......................................................................................................................... 5
4.1 Welding Pads and Welding Blankets ............................................................................................... 5
4.2 Welding Curtains ............................................................................................................................... 5
4.3 Other Information ............................................................................................................................. 5
5. PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................................... 7
5.1 Welding Pads ...................................................................................................................................... 7
5.2 Welding Blankets ............................................................................................................................... 7
5.3 Welding Curtains ............................................................................................................................... 8
APPENDIX A Units of Measurement ........................................................................................................ 10
APPENDIX B Test Method for Evaluating Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains .............................. 11
APPENDIX C Test Method for Charring Embrittlement ....................................................................... 18
APPENDIX D Accelerated Weathering Test ............................................................................................. 20
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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Purpose

This standard states test requirements for welding pads, welding blankets and welding curtains for use in hot work
operations. These items are intended to be used as fire resistant covers that prevent the ignition of combustibles due
to welding, cutting and other hot work operations.

1.2 Scope

1.2.1 This standard sets performance requirements for welding pads, welding blankets and welding curtains used as
a means of preventing the ignition of combustibles during welding, cutting and other hot work operations.

1.2.2 The performance of a fire resistant cover depends on the type of welding function to which it will be
subjected. In general, welding pads, welding blankets and welding curtains are evaluated on their ability to:
• prevent burn-through of the material and provide adequate protection for adjacent combustibles from
possible sources of ignition;
• limit temperature transmission through the material to a degree that will prevent ignition to
underlying combustibles;
• resist melting, dripping or deformation so as to prevent sparks from spreading outside of confined and
protected areas;
• maintain their flexibility, durability and structural integrity when charred areas are subjected to 90°
bends;
• maintain their fire and temperature rise resistance properties when subjected to accelerated
weathering tests intended to simulate exposure to light and water (ultra violet [uv] and condensation,
respectively) conditions.

1.2.3 This standard is not intended to determine the suitability for all end use conditions of a product. Conditions
under which welding pads, welding blankets and welding curtains are used vary widely. For example, these
materials may be subjected to environments not anticipated by this standard. It is the responsibility of the end
user to determine the suitability of the welding pad, welding blanket or welding curtain for the specific hot
work operation.

1.2.4 This standard does not address the issue of toxicity or out-gassing of the materials when they are subjected to
molten or other fire conditions resulting from hot work operations.

1.2.5 The use of the materials evaluated to this standard does not take the place of or eliminate the need to observe
other hot work precautions such as the issuance of hot work permits, fire watches or the need to practice other
safety precautions recommended NFPA 51B, or whenever Hot Work precautions are required.

1.3 Basis for Requirements

1.3.1 The requirements of this standard are based on experience, research and testing and/or the standards of other
national and international organizations. The advice of manufacturers, users, trade associations and loss
control specialists was also considered.

1.3.2 The requirements of this standard reflect tests and practices used to examine characteristics of welding pads,
welding blankets and welding curtains for hot work operations.

1.4 System of Units

Units of measurement are U.S. customary units. These are followed by their arithmetic equivalents in International
System (SI) units, enclosed in parentheses. Appendix B lists the selected units for qualities dealt with in testing
these products; conversions to SI units are included. Conversion of U.S. customary units is in accordance with
ANSI/IEEE/ASTM SI 10-97, Standard for Use of the International System of Units (SI): The Modern Metric
System.

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2. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS
2.1 Applicable Documents

The following are standards, test methods and practices referenced in this standard:
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) G154, Standard Practice for Operating Light and
Water Exposure Apparatus (Fluorescent UV-Condensation Type) for Exposure of Nonmetallic Materials
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 51B, Standard for Fire Prevention During Welding, Cutting
and Other Hot Work
Test Method for Evaluating Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains (Appendix B)
Test Method for Assessing Charring Embrittlement (Appendix C)

2.2 Glossary

Charring The formation of a carbonaceous residue as the result of pyrolysis or incomplete combustion.
Fill The yarn running selvage to selvage at right angle to the warp. Also commonly referred to as
the cross machine direction.
Hot work Any work involving burning, welding, cutting or similar operations that produces sparks,
flames or heat that is capable of initiating fires or explosions.
Ignition The initiation or continuance of combustion.
Molten substance Metals in their liquified, elevated temperature state, as well as related non-metallic substances
such as slag, dross and salt, handled at elevated temperatures.
Warp The yarn running lengthwise in a woven fabric. Also commonly referred to as the machine
direction.
Welding blanket A heat resistant fabric designed to be placed in the vicinity of a hot work operation. Intended
for use in horizontal applications with light to moderate exposures such as that resulting from
chipping, grinding, heat treating, sand blasting and light horizontal welding. Designed to
protect machinery and prevent the ignition of combustibles such as wood that are located
adjacent to the underside of the blanket.
Welding curtain A heat resistant fabric designed to be placed in the vicinity of a hot work operation. Intended
for use in vertical applications with light to moderate exposures such as that resulting from
chipping, grinding, heat treating, sand blasting and light horizontal welding. Designed to
prevent sparks from escaping a confined area.
Welding pad A heat resistant fabric designed to be placed directly under a hot work operation such as
welding or cutting. Intended for use in horizontal applications with severe exposures such as
that resulting from molten substances or heavy horizontal welding. Designed to prevent the
ignition of combustibles that are located adjacent to the underside of the pad.

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3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
3.1 Background

3.1.1 One of the leading sources of ignition in industrial fires and explosions are sparks and other products of
combustion resulting from hot work operations. Numerous safe practice guidelines exist addressing this
issue; however, hot work operations continue to be a leading cause of industrial fires and explosions. This test
standard was developed as a means of assessing heat resistant fabrics and covers that are frequently used to
protect combustibles in the immediate vicinity of the hot work. The use of materials evaluated in this standard
is not intended to replace any of the currently established and recognized safe practices but is intended to
supplement any such guidelines.

3.1.2 The term hot work encompasses a wide range of operations but is generally used to describe welding and its
allied processes such as, but not limited to, cutting, heat treating, grinding, chipping, molten splash, sand
blasting, thawing pipe, powder driven fasteners, hot riveting and any other similar application that produces a
spark, flame or heat that can become a source of ignition.

3.2 Categories

3.2.1 This document establishes three distinct categories with specific acceptance criteria for each of the
applications most likely to be encountered. The three categories offered in this standard are welding pads,
welding blankets and welding curtains.

3.2.2 Welding pads are intended to be used for the most severe hot work operations. They are typically placed
horizontally directly under the hot work operation and subjected to molten substances. In order to prevent the
molten substances from igniting combustibles located under the welding pad, the welding pad must be
capable of resisting burn-through caused by contact with the molten substance as well as possessing
temperature transmission limiting properties that will keep temperatures on the underside of the welding pad
from reaching temperatures that can ignite typical combustibles. For the purpose of developing this standard,
a typical combustible found under a welding pad was assumed to be paper having an ignition temperature of
500°F (260°C).

3.2.3 Welding blankets are intended to be used for hot work operations that are less severe than those anticipated for
welding pads. They are used in horizontal applications and provide protection for equipment and
combustibles located in the vicinity of the hot work operation but are not expected to be subjected to molten
substances. In order to provide protection for equipment and prevent ignition of combustibles located under
the welding blanket, the welding blanket must be capable of resisting burn-through caused by contact with
sparks, flames and heat resulting from light to moderate hot work operations. In addition, they must also
possess temperature transmission limiting properties that will keep temperatures on the underside of the
welding blanket from reaching levels that can ignite typical combustibles. For the purpose of developing this
standard, a typical combustible found under a welding blanket was assumed to be wood. A limiting
temperature of 500°F (260°C) has been selected as representative of temperatures associated with the
endothermic phase of the thermal degradation of wood.

3.2.4 Welding curtains are intended to be used for hot work operations that are similar to those anticipated for
welding blankets except that welding curtains are designed to be used in vertical applications. They provide
protection for combustibles located in the vicinity of the hot work operation by preventing sparks and other
sources of ignition from escaping a confined area. Welding curtains must be capable of resisting melting,
burning, burn-through and deformation caused by contact with sparks, flames and heat resulting from light
and moderate hot work operations. Welding curtains must also remain flexible and dimensionally stable at all
times thereby preventing sparks from spreading outside the intended confined area.

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3.3 Requirements

3.3.1 For each material submitted for examination, the following product information shall be provided:

• product trade name or designation,

• general description,
• intended usage and category,
• safety data sheets, if applicable

3.3.2 Prior to conducting tests for evaluation as a welding pad, welding blanket or welding curtain, samples shall be
conditioned at 73°F ± 5°F (23°C ± 3°C) at 50% (± 5%) relative humidity for a period of not less than 72 hours.
All samples shall be tested within 2 hours of removal from the conditioning area.

3.3.3 Welding Pads and Welding Blankets –A minimum of eight (8) samples shall be needed for each material that
is tested. Four (4) samples shall be taken with the warp (machine) direction parallel to the long dimension of
the sample and four (4) samples shall be taken with the fill (cross machine) direction perpendicular to the long
dimension. Samples shall be permitted to be taken from the same piece of cloth; however, individual samples
shall be taken from different areas of the same cloth that are separated by a minimum of 1 ft (0.3 m). As an
alternative, the samples may be taken from separate pieces of cloth. All test samples shall be 12 in. ± 1 in. x 18
in. ± 1 in. (0.31m ± 25mm x 0.46 m ± 25 mm).

3.3.4 Welding Curtains –A minimum of two (2) samples shall be needed for each material that is tested. They shall
be taken with the warp (machine) direction parallel to the long dimension of the sample. Samples shall be
permitted to be taken from the same piece of cloth; however, individual samples shall be taken from different
areas of the same cloth that are separated by a minimum of 1 ft (0.3 m).As an alternative, the samples may be
taken from separate pieces of cloth. All test samples shall be 12 in. ± 1in. x 18in. ± 1 in. (0.31 m ±25 mm x 0.46
m ± 25 mm).

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4. TEST REQUIREMENTS
4.1 Welding Pads and Welding Blankets

4.1.1 Each material shall be subjected to the following tests in accordance with the Test Method for Evaluating
Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains (Appendix B).
Sample 1 Fire and Thermal Resistance Test – warp direction parallel to the long dimension
Sample 2 Fire and Thermal Resistance Test – fill direction perpendicular to the long dimension
Sample 3 Paper Ignition Test – warp direction parallel to the long dimension
Sample 4 Paper Ignition Test – fill direction perpendicular to the long dimension

4.1.2 Following the tests shown in 4.1.1, all samples shall be subjected to the Test Method for Charring
Embrittlement (see Appendix C).

4.1.3 Upon completion of the tests shown in 4.1.1 and 4.1.2 above, an attempt will be made to determine which of
the four (4) test specimen(s) is (are) the most critical. A new, previously untested sample of each test
specimen(s) that is (are) deemed to be critical shall be subjected to the Accelerated Weathering Test (see
Appendix D).

4.1.4 Upon completion of the Accelerated Weathering Test, each test specimen shall be subjected to the
corresponding test in the most applicable orientation deemed critical.

4.1.5 Upon completion of the tests shown in 4.1.4, all samples shall be subjected to the Test Method for Charring
Embrittlement.

4.2 Welding Curtains

4.2.1 Each material shall be subjected to the Test Method for Evaluating Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains
(Appendix B).

4.2.2 Upon completion of the test shown in 4.2.1 a new, previously untested specimen shall be subjected to the
Accelerated Weathering Test (see Appendix D).

4.2.3 Upon completion of the Accelerated Weathering Test, the test specimen shall be subjected to the Test Method
for Evaluating Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains.

4.3 Other Information

4.3.1 Based on the test procedures contained in this document, welding pads are exposed to the most severe test
conditions and have the strictest acceptance criteria. As such, samples that meet the performance criteria as
welding pads shall be considered to have qualified for use as welding blankets. They shall be qualified for use
as welding curtains provided that they maintain their flexibility and dimensional stability and do not melt or
deform.

4.3.2 Based on the test procedures contained in this document, welding blankets and welding curtains are exposed to
similar test conditions, with the welding blanket having the more critical acceptance criteria. As such, welding
blankets shall be considered to have qualified for use as welding curtains provided that they maintain their
flexibility and dimensional stability and do not melt or deform.

4.3.3 Welding pads, welding blankets and welding curtains that meet the criteria contained in this standard shall not
be limited in size as it pertains to the length or width of the finished product provided they are of seamless
construction. Seams provided along the outer perimeter of the item shall be allowed.

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4.3.4 Welding pads, welding blankets and welding curtains that incorporate a seamed construction to join two or
more individual pieces together shall be assessed. If the seam construction is judged to be consistent with the
field of the material, no additional testing shall be required. If the construction of the seam is judged to be
different from the field of the material, additional tests shall be conducted on samples that incorporate the
particular type of seam. In these cases, the seam shall be located such that it will be exposed to the most critical
location and orientation during testing. The seamed and non-seamed areas of the samples shall meet all criteria
contained in this standard.

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5. PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
5.1 Welding Pads

In order to qualify as a welding pad, the welding pad must exhibit its ability to protect typical combustibles located
directly underneath it from igniting when subjected to molten substances by satisfying the performance criteria for
each of the tests shown below.

5.1.1 Test Method for Evaluating Welding Pads, Welding Blankets and Welding Curtains
A. Requirement
The ability of a horizontally placed welding pad to resist flame propagation and burn-through and exhibit
temperature transmission limitation properties.
B. Test/Verification
The test arrangement used to obtain this data shall be the Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains Test
Apparatus (see Appendix B, Figures B-1 and B-2).
Performance shall be considered satisfactory if all samples meet the following conditions:
Fire and Thermal Resistance Test
• there shall be no burn-through of the pad;
• no individual thermocouple placed on the underside of the pad shall exceed 500°F (260°C);
• exposed areas that exhibit charring shall not crack when subjected to the Test Method for Assessing
Charring Embrittlement. (See Appendix C).

Paper Ignition Test

• there shall be no sign of ignition on any surface of the paper

5.1.2 Test Method for Evaluating Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains After Exposure to Accelerated Weathering.
A. Requirement
The ability of a horizontally placed welding pad to resist flame propagation and, burn-through and exhibit
temperature transmission limitation properties after exposure to accelerated weathering conditions.
B. Test/Verification
The test arrangement used to obtain this data shall be the Accelerated Weathering Test (Appendix D) and
the Test Method for Evaluating Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains (see Appendix B).
Performance shall be considered satisfactory if the sample meets the conditions shown in paragraph5.1.1
after being exposed to 1000 hours of accelerated weathering and then subjected to the Test Method for
Evaluating Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains (both the Fire and Thermal Resistance Test and the
Paper Ignition Test).

5.2 Welding Blankets

In order to qualify a welding blanket, the welding blanket must exhibit its ability to prevent equipment and
combustibles located directly underneath it from igniting when subjected to sparks, flames and heat resulting from
light to moderate welding by satisfying the performance criteria for each of the tests shown below.

5.2.1 Test Method for Evaluating Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains
A. Requirement
The ability of a horizontally placed welding blanket to resist flame propagation and burn-through, and
exhibit temperature transmission limitation properties.

B. Test/Verification
The test arrangement used to obtain this data shall be Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains Test
Apparatus (see Appendix B, Figures B-1 and B-2). Performance shall be considered satisfactory if all
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samples meet the following conditions:
Fire and Thermal Resistance Test
• there shall be no burn-through of the blanket;
• no individual thermocouple placed on the underside of the blanket shall exceed 500°F (260°C);
• exposed areas that exhibit charring shall not crack when subjected to the Test Method for Assessing
Charring Embrittlement. (See Appendix D). The areas that have been exposed to any molten metal or
slag along the centerline of the burn pattern shall be excluded from this requirement.

Paper Ignition Test

• discoloration of the paper shall be permitted;
• any burn holes in the paper shall be limited such that a 1 in. (25 mm) diameter sphere can not pass
through the opening without making contact with the periphery of the burn area.

5.2.2 Test Method for Evaluating Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains After Exposure to Accelerated Weathering.
A. Requirement
The ability of a horizontally placed welding blanket to resist flame propagation and burn-through, and
exhibit temperature transmission limitation properties after exposure to Accelerated Weathering.
B. Test/Verification
The test arrangement used to obtain this data shall be the Accelerated Weathering Test (Appendix D) and
the Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains Test Apparatus (see Appendix B, Figures B-1 and B-2).
Performance shall be considered satisfactory if the sample meets the conditions shown in paragraph 5.2.1
after being exposed to 1000 hours of accelerated weathering and then subjected to the Test Method for
Evaluating Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains (both the Fire and Thermal Resistance Test and the
Paper Ignition Test).

5.3 Welding Curtains

In order to qualify as a welding curtain, the welding curtain must exhibit its ability to provide protection for
combustibles located in the vicinity of the hot work operation from igniting when subjected to sparks and other
sources of ignition, to maintain its flexibility and dimensional stability.

5.3.1 Test Method for Evaluating Welding Pads, Welding Blankets and Welding Curtains
A. Requirement
The ability of a vertically placed welding curtain to resist melting, burning, burn-through and deformation
caused by contact with sparks, flames and heat resulting from light and moderate hot work operations.
B. Test/Verification
The test arrangement used to obtain this data shall be Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains (see Appendix
B, Figures B-1 and B-2).
Performance shall be considered satisfactory if all samples meet the following conditions:
• there shall be no melting, burning or burn-through on the curtain;
• when hung vertically, it shall remain flexible such that a minimum 2 in. (51 mm) of slack can be laid
flat on the floor at all times

5.3.2 Test Method for Evaluating Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains After Exposure to Accelerated Weathering.
A. Requirement
The ability of a vertically placed welding curtain to resist melting, burning, burn-through and deformation
caused by contact with sparks, flames and heat resulting from light and moderate hot work operations
after exposure to accelerated weathering conditions.

B. Test/ Verification

The test arrangement used to obtain this data shall be the Accelerated Weathering Test (Appendix D) and
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the Test Method for Evaluating Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains (see Appendix B).
Performance shall be considered satisfactory if the sample meets the following conditions after being
exposed to 1000 hours of accelerated weathering and then subjected to the Test Method for Evaluating
Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains.
• there shall be no melting, burning or burn-through on the curtain;
• when hung vertically, it shall remain flexible such that a minimum 2 in. (51mm) of slack can be laid
flat on the floor at all times.

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APPENDIX A Units of Measurement

LENGTH: in. –‘‘inches’’, ft–‘‘feet’’

(mm –‘‘millimeters’’), (m -‘‘meters’’)
mm = in. × 25.4, m=ft × 0.3048
AREA: in2 –‘‘square inches’’, ft2 –‘‘square feet’’
(mm2 –‘‘square millimeters’’)
(m2 –‘‘square meters’’)
mm2 =in2 × 6.4516 × 102
m2 =ft2 × 0.0929

VELOCITY: ft/s –‘‘feet per second’’

(m/s –‘‘meters per second’’)
m/s = ft/s × 0.3048

HEAT: Btu –‘‘British thermal units’’

(kW/h –‘‘kilowatt hours’’)
kW/h = Btu × 0.000293

PRESSURE: psi –‘‘pounds per square inch’’

(kPa –‘‘kilopascals’’)
kPa = psi × 6.8948

TEMPERATURE: °F –‘‘degrees Fahrenheit’’

(°C –‘‘degrees Celsius’’)
°C=(°F – 32) × 5/9

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APPENDIX B Test Method for Evaluating Welding Pads, Blankets and

Curtains
CAUTION – This test uses a high temperature cutting flame. A certified welding cutter is required to
operate all equipment.

B-1 Test Apparatus

B-1.1 The test apparatus consists of a Victor P/N 0200-0220 VCM 200 Portable Cutting Machine mounted on the
upper surface of a 48 in. x 30 in. (1.2 m x 0.75 m) cart. The automatic oxy-acetylene cutting machine travels
on a track fixed on the upper surface (see Figures B-1 and B-2).

B-1.2 A slot, 4 in. x 14 in. (100 mm x 350 mm) is cut in to the upper surface. The slot is located 8in. (200mm)
from the edge so that the sparks can fall to the lower surface which is located 21 in. (0.5 m) below the cutting
operation.

B-1.3 Fire resistant fabric, backed by pieces of plywood, shall be placed attached to two sides of the cart to form an
enclosure to limit sparks and other products of the hot work operation from spreading beyond the test area.
One of the sides shall be located at the end where the cutting machine is located while in the pre-test position
and be perpendicular to the direction of travel. The other side shall be parallel to the direction of travel. The
remaining two sides shall remain open to view the test as it is conducted. The lower shelf shall contain a
cut-out, 11 in. ± ¼ in. x 17 in. ± ¼ in. (280 mm ± 6 mm x 432 mm ± 6 mm) for use during the Paper Ignition
Test.

Figure B-1. Welding Pad, Blanket and Curtain Test Apparatus.

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Figure B-2. Welding Pad, Blanket and Curtain Test Apparatus.

B-2 Operating Conditions and Procedures

B-2.1 A certified cutting operator shall be required to operate the test apparatus.

B-2.2 The operating conditions shall be as follows:

Oxygen Regulator Pressure 43 psis ± 1 psig (296 kPa ± 7 kPa)

Acetylene Regulator Pressure 8.5 psig ± 0.5 psig (59 kPa ± 3 kPa)
Cutting Machine Speed 13 in./min (330 mm/min)
Length of Cut 12 in. (+ 0.25 in., -0 in.)
Travel Time 55 sec ± 5 sec
Steel Plate Size 12 in. (+ 0.25 in., -0 in.) x 8 in. (+ 0.25 in., -0 in.)
Plate Thickness 0.75 in. ± 0.08 in. (19 mm±2mm)
Plate Material ASTM C-1018

B-2.3 The set-up for the cutting torch flame shall be as follows:
a) Set the output pressure for the acetylene regulator at 8.5 psig ± 0.5 psig (59 kPa ± 3 kPa) and the output
pressure for the oxygen regulator at 43 psig ± 1 psig (296 kPa ± 7 kPa).
b) Open the acetylene toggle valve (the local valve at the automatic cutting machine that controls the flow of
acetylene) and then ignite the acetylene flame.
c) Check to ensure that the oxygen cutting valve (the final valve near the torch head that allows full flow of
oxygen) is closed. This allows a limited flow of oxygen in order to prevent pre-heating of the steel plate.
d) Open the oxygen toggle valve and allow oxygen to flow to the torch.
e) Adjust the flame so that it produces a ring of small flame jets at the torch tip. Position the torch flame against

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the steel plate edge. Adjust the flame to ensure that the tips of the flame jets just impinge the upper surface of the
steel plate.
f) With the flame properly adjusted, the cutting machine shall be locked into the drive position using the levers on
the end of the machine.
g) Open the oxygen cutting valve on the torch. This will produce a high temperature cutting flame. If properly
adjusted, the flame should display a double-fluted flame under cutting conditions (see Figures B-3a and B-3b).
h) The torch shall travel the length of the steel plate within the travel time noted above. Upon completing the
cutting operation, the flame shall be extinguished by closing all valves.

Figure B-3a. Figure B-3b.

Torch Tip Flame During Pre-Heating.

B-3 General Test Arrangement

B-3.1 The test arrangement includes a horizontal test specimen (either a welding pad or welding blanket) and a
vertical test specimen (welding curtain) (see Figure B-4).

B-3.2 All test specimens shall be 15 in. ± 1 in. x 21 in. ± 1 in.(380 mm ± 25 mm x 530 mm ± 25 mm).

B-3.3 Welding pad and welding blanket test specimens shall be loosely placed horizontally and centrally located on
top of a 12 in. x 18 in. (350 mm x 457 mm) wooden platform. The wooden platform and test specimen shall
be placed such that their long dimensions are parallel to the direction of travel of the cutting torch with the
centerlines of the wooden platform and test specimen offset a maximum of 0.25 in. (6mm) from the
centerline of the slot located on the upper surface of the test apparatus. The leading edge of the test
specimen shall be located 8 in. ± 0.5 in. (200 mm ± 13 mm) from the trailing edge of the slot located in the
upper surface of the test apparatus (see Figure B-4).

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B-3.4 A welding curtain shall be hung vertically along the side of the horizontal test specimen with its exposed
surface located 8 in. ± 0.25 in. (200 mm ± 6 mm) from the centerline of the slot located in the upper surface
(see Figure B-5). The curtain shall be hung such that an excess of 2in.±0.25in.(50mm± 6 mm) is provided at
the base of the curtain to cover the platform surface. This excess shall be referred to as the curtain slack. Its
purpose is to retain sparks bouncing off the curtain’s vertical surface during the test.

B-3.5 The steel plate shall be placed over the slot in the upper surface such that their centerlines are aligned in both
directions ± 0.25 in. (± 6 mm).

Figure B-4. General Test Arrangement.

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B-4 Fire and Thermal Resistance Test

B-4.1 The Fire and Thermal Resistance Test configuration shall incorporate seven (7) thermocouples located
directly under the welding pad or welding blanket test specimen and directly on top of the underlying
wooden platform. All the thermocouples shall be placed along the center line of the long dimension of the
wooden platform, ± 1/8 in. (± 3 mm). Using the end of the wooden platform where the oxy-acetylene torch
starts the test as a datum, the thermocouples shall be located at 3 in., 6 in., 8 in., 9 in., 10 in., 12 in. and 15 in.
± 1/8 in. (76, 152, 204, 229, 254, 305 and 381 mm, ± 3 mm) respectively from the datum (see Figure B-5).
Each of the thermocouples shall be a K-type (Omega WTK – 6 – 36 – M or equal) thermocouple.

B-4.2 Once all thermocouples and the test specimen are in place, the torch flame shall be lit and the test conducted
in accordance with Paragraph B-2.

Figure B-5. Thermocouple Arrangement – Fire and Thermal Resistance Test

B-4.3 Upon completion of the test, that sample shall be removed from the test apparatus and examined.

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ANSI FM 4950 -2024 April 2024

B-5 Paper Ignition Test

B-5.1 The Paper Ignition Test configuration shall incorporate a recessed expanded open wire metal tray, paper and
a test specimen. The piece of paper is placed directly on top of the metal tray which has been recessed
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2.5 in. ± ⁄4 in. (64 mm ± 6 mm) below the lower shelf of test apparatus (see Figure B-6 and B-7). The
purpose of the paper is to determine if the temperature transmission limitation capabilities through the
specimen is sufficient to prevent typical combustibles located beneath the welding pad from igniting during
hot work operations.

B-5.2 The piece of paper to be used shall be new, previously unused and be specified as white copy paper having a
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nominal basis weight of 20lbs/ream (75 g/m ). The paper shall have nominal sheet dimensions of 11 in. x 17
in. (279 mm x 432 mm). The paper shall be centered under the test specimen such that paper and test
specimen long dimensions are parallel. All paper shall be conditioned at 73°F ± 5°F (23°C ± 3°C) at 50%
(±5%) relative humidity prior to use for a minimum 24 hour period. Individual pieces of paper shall be hung
vertically so that both surfaces shall be exposed while being conditioned. Each sheet shall be used within
two (2) hours of being removed from the conditioning area.

B-5.3 The test specimen shall be placed in clamps located along the top of the lower shelf of the test apparatus such
that it is held taut in the clamps.

B-5.4 Once the paper sheet and the test specimen are in place, the torch flame shall be lit and the test conducted in
accordance with Paragraph B-2.

B-5.5 Upon completion of the test, that sample shall be removed from the test apparatus and examined.

Figure B-6. Tray Arrangement During Paper Ignition Test.

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ANSI FM 4950 -2024 April 2024

Figure B-7. Paper Tray Below Welding Pad or Blanket – Paper Ignition Test.

B-6 Performance Requirements

Performance requirements for each test specimen shall be as shown below:

Welding Pads – see Paragraph 5.1 of this standard.

Welding Blankets – see Paragraph 5.2 of this standard.

Welding Curtains – see Paragraph 5.3 of this standard.

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ANSI FM 4950 -2024 April 2024

APPENDIX C Test Method for Charring Embrittlement

C-1 Test Apparatus and Arrangement

C-1.1 Upon completion of the Test Method for Evaluating Welding Pads, Blankets and Curtains, the test specimen
(Welding Pads and Welding Blankets only) shall be subjected to the Test Method for Charring
Embrittlement. The purpose of the test is to expose the specimen to simulated folding actions likely to occur
during normal usage.
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C-1.2 The test apparatus consists of a smooth 1 in. ± ⁄16 in. (25 mm ± 2 mm) diameter steel rod 24 in. ± 2 in.
(610 mm ± 51 mm) long supported on each end, an eye hook, an ‘‘S’’ hook and a ball clip (or equivalent)
(see Figure C-1).

C-1.3 Prior to subjecting the specimen to this procedure, all slag or molten metal shall be carefully removed from
the sample in a manner that will not damage the fabric.
.

Figure C-1. Charring Embrittlement Test Arrangement

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C-2 Test Procedure

C-2.1 One end of the test specimen is placed in the jaws of the ball clip. With the long dimension of the test
specimen perpendicular to the 1 in. (25 mm) diameter rod and the charred surface face up, the specimen is
placed over the rod with the central location of the charred area directly above the centerline of the rod ± 1
in. (25 mm). The specimen shall be pulled taut and level. Care shall be taken to keep the specimen as flat as
possible prior to the start of the test.

C-2.2 Keeping tension on the specimen, the end away from the clip shall be lowered (to simulate folding of the unit)
using the rod as a pivot point. The end of the specimen shall be lowered using a smooth, fluid motion until it
forms a 90° ±5°angle when looking sideways at the assembly. Keeping tension on the specimen, it shall then
be raised in a smooth, fluid motion (to simulate unfolding of the unit) until it is returned to the starting
position. This procedure shall be repeated four (4) more times on each specimen.

C-2.3 The specimen shall then be turned over such that the charred area is face down. The procedure shown in
C-2.2 above shall be repeated with the specimen in this position a total of five (5) times.

C-2.4 The specimen shall then be turned back over (charred area face up), removed from the ball clip and rotated
90°such that the long dimension of the specimen is parallel to the rod. The specimen is placed over the rod
with the central location of the charred area directly above the centerline of the rod ±1 in. (25 mm). The
specimen shall be pulled taut and level. Care shall be taken to keep the specimen as flat as possible prior to
the start of the test. The procedure shown in C-2.2 above shall be repeated with the specimen in this position
a total of five (5) times.

C-2.5 The specimen shall then be turned over such that the charred area is face down. The procedure shown in
C-2.2 above shall be repeated with the specimen in this position a total of five (5) times.

C-2.6 Upon completion of the above, the specimen shall be examined for evidence of cracking of the charred
material and the development of through openings.

C-3 Performance Requirements

Performance requirements for each test specimen shall be as shown in Paragraph 5.1.1 or 5.2.1 of this standard, as
applicable.

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ANSI FM 4950 -2024 April 2024

APPENDIX D Accelerated Weathering Test

D-1 Purpose

The Accelerated Weathering Test shall be used to determine the effect caused by water and ultraviolet (UV)
exposure on the fire performance characteristics of the product. This test is intended to simulate the deterioration
caused by water such as rain or dew and the ultraviolet energy of sunlight. It is not intended to simulate the
deterioration caused by localized weather phenomena such as atmospheric pollution, biological attack or salt water
exposure.

D-2 Test Apparatus

D-2.1 The test apparatus is constructed of corrosion resistant materials enclosing eight (8) fluorescent UV lamps
(two banks of four), a heated water pan, test specimen racks and provisions for controlling and indicating
operating times and temperatures. For further details, refer to ASTM G154, Standard Practice for Operating
Light and Water Exposure Apparatus (Fluorescent UV-Condensation Type) for Exposure of Nonmetallic
Materials. The UV source shall utilize bipin UV-B type lamps having a nominal rating of 40W when
operated from a ballast providing a controlled current of 430 mA at 102V. The lamps shall have a peak
emission of 313 nm.

D-2.2 This method utilizes an array of fluorescent lamps as the UV source with lamp emission concentrated in the
UV range. The condensation is produced by exposing the test surface to a heated, saturated mixture of air
and water vapor while the reverse side of the test specimen is exposed to the cooling influence of ambient
room air.

D-3 Test Sample

The test sample shall be representative of the product being examined. The sample shall measure 15 in. ± 1 in. x 21
in. ± 1 in. (0.380 mm ± 25 mm x 530 mm ± 25 mm). It shall be mounted in the specimen racks with the test surface
facing the lamps.

D-4 Test Conditions and Duration

Samples shall be placed in the test apparatus and conditioned for 1000 hours (+ 72 hrs, -0 hrs). The cycle time shall
be 8 hours (± 0.1 hrs) UV at 140°F ± 5°F (60°C ± 3°C) followed by 4 hours of condensation at 122°F ± 5°F (50°C ±
3°C).

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