ASTM E119 is a fire-resistance test method developed by ASTM International. It evaluates how building assemblies and materials—such as walls, floors, ceilings, beams, and columns—perform when exposed to fire under controlled conditions.
The primary goal of ASTM E119 testing is to determine how long a structure can contain fire and maintain its load-bearing capacity before failing. This test provides critical data for architects, engineers, and manufacturers when designing fire-safe buildings.
The test involves exposing a specimen to a controlled fire in a furnace, following a standard time-temperature curve that simulates real fire conditions. The specimen is monitored for:
Structural Integrity – Does the assembly maintain its shape and strength during exposure?
Thermal Transmission – How much heat passes through the material to the unexposed side?
Load-Bearing Capacity – Can it continue to support its intended load under fire conditions?
The duration that the assembly withstands the fire without failure is expressed as its fire-resistance rating (e.g., 1-hour, 2-hour rating).
Walls and Partitions
Floors and Roofs
Beams and Columns
Fire Doors and Protective Assemblies
Compliance with ASTM E119 provides several key benefits:
Building Code Compliance – Many jurisdictions require assemblies to have a specific fire-resistance rating.
Life Safety – Fire-resistant assemblies give occupants more time to escape during a fire.
Property Protection – Limits fire spread and reduces structural damage.
Liability Reduction – Ensures adherence to recognized safety standards.
ASTM E119 testing is essential for:
Commercial Buildings
Residential Complexes
Industrial Facilities
Infrastructure Projects
At Professional Testing Laboratory, we provide accurate and certified ASTM E119 fire testing to ensure your building materials and assemblies meet the highest safety standards.
Contact us today to learn more or request a quote for ASTM E119 fire testing.
1. What does ASTM E119 test for?
ASTM E119 evaluates how building assemblies and materials resist fire exposure. It measures structural integrity, thermal transmission, and load-bearing capacity during a standardized fire test.
2. How long is the ASTM E119 fire test?
The duration depends on the fire-resistance rating being tested. Common ratings include 1-hour, 2-hour, or 3-hour fire resistance, determined by how long the assembly withstands fire conditions without failure.
3. What materials are typically tested under ASTM E119?
Walls, floors, ceilings, beams, columns, and fire-protective assemblies like doors are commonly tested using ASTM E119 methods.
4. Is ASTM E119 the same as UL 263?
They are similar but not identical. Both evaluate fire resistance, but UL 263 is a standard from Underwriters Laboratories, while ASTM E119 is developed by ASTM International. Many building codes recognize both.
5. Why is ASTM E119 important for building safety?
It ensures materials and assemblies can contain fire and maintain structural integrity for a specified time, helping protect lives and property during a fire emergency.
6. Do building codes require ASTM E119 compliance?
Yes, most building codes require certain structural assemblies to meet ASTM E119 or an equivalent fire-resistance standard to ensure occupant safety.
7. Who performs ASTM E119 fire testing?
Independent accredited testing laboratories perform ASTM E119 tests under controlled conditions to provide certified results for manufacturers, builders, and engineers.