Research on Flame-Retardant Performance of Passenger Seats in Electric Multiple-unit Trains

Abstract

Electric multiple-unit (EMU) trains are an important means of transportation. Train fire is a dangerous event that can occur on trains. The proportion of non-metallic materials used in the seats on EMU trains are high. These nonmetallic materials are typically the main cause of train fire. Therefore, the fire performance of train seats is crucial for train safety. The whole chair combustion of a typical passenger seat, incision combustion and the combustibility of seats must be evaluated in accordance with DIN and EN. These tests aim to study the comprehensive fire protection performance of a passenger seat from an EMU train. Simultaneously, the temperature at different positions of the seat during combustion are measured, and then obtain the temperature curve of the combustion test. The ignition test and analysis of non-metallic fabric masks, fireproof felt and elastic cushions are conducted to determine the flame retardancy of nonmetallic materials for train seats. Test results suggest the reduction of seat flammability and the provision of data to improve the fire safety.