TM0098
Page 3 of 4
Issue 1.00
It is recommended that the accuracy of the burn period is confirmed using a stopwatch with the red
indicator on the timer before conducting any live tests.
Applicable code wire burn recommendations:
•
BS6266:1992 recommends a burn time of 60 seconds for one metre wire lengths and 180
seconds for 2 metres
•
The NFPA 76 standard also recommends the same tests with an additional test with a burn time
of 60s using 2 x 1m wires connected in parallel.
4.0 Operation
a) Connect the IDE power cable (supplied) to the power input socket at the rear of the unit.
b) Switch on using the rocker switch above the power input socket. This will illuminate red when in
the “on” position. The green “Power” indicator on the timer will illuminate continuously.
c) Set the timer to the required test period.
d) Press the green push-button switch to the left of the timer. The red “Out” indicator will illuminate
continuously and the green “Power” indicator will flash. 6V AC will be delivered to the two screw
terminals on the front of the unit.
e) At the end of the time period, the “Out” indicator goes out and the green ”Power” indicator will
become steady.
f) To repeat the process press the green push-button switch again, having set a different test period
if required.
g) On completion of the tests, switch the unit off using the rocker switch above the power input
socket and remove the power cable.
5.0
Preparation and Connection of the Test Wire
The test wire samples should be carefully measured and cut to the required length. The ends should
be stripped at approximately 15mm using a suitable tool.
If in doubt, please seek guidance from a
qualified electrician. Only use the recommended test wire. Under no circumstances should
test wires be shorter than 60cm or 2x1m in parallel. This is likely to age (or blow) the inlet fuse
and may cause damage to the unit.
Ensure that no power is connected to the Test Box. Insert the test wire between the output terminals
and lay it on a supporting non-combustible platform. It is important to ensure that there are no cross
overs of the wire. It may be helpful to first coil the wire using a pen or pencil as a temporary former
and then lay it out. Alternatively, an arrangement to support the wire may be used with the precaution
of a fire blanket positioned beneath the wire. If the equipment is in a high airflow area then it may be
required to shield the wire from the airflow.
At no time is it appropriate to open the Test Box.
There are no user-serviceable parts inside.
6.0
Smoke Test
Ensure that the local fire panel is isolated from the external fire reporting equipment and that any
automatic extinguishing or suppressant systems are similarly isolated. Connect power to the Test
Box and press the green push button switch. At this point, 6V AC is applied across the test wire, the
red “Out” indicator will illuminate continuously and the green “Power” indicator will flash. The test wire
will become hot and a quantity of smoke will be generated.
The test wire becomes very hot during
the test and will cause burns if in contact with skin. Care must be taken throughout this test
process to protect both personnel and property from the hot wire.
