ECE R118 Fire Resistance Test: Essential Guide for Vehicle Material Compliance

The ECE R118 fire resistance test is a critical certification for vehicles, especially buses, coaches, and other commercial transports, to ensure materials meet stringent EU flammability standards. Whether you’re a material supplier, manufacturer, or OEM, understanding ECE R118 compliance is key to accessing European markets. This article breaks down the test’s scope, procedures, and actionable strategies to help you achieve seamless certification.

1. What is ECE R118? Scope and Legal Requirements

ECE R118 (Economic Commission for Europe Regulation No. 118) regulates the fire safety of materials used in vehicle interiors, focusing on:

Applicable Vehicles: Buses, coaches, trucks, and specific M2/M3 category vehicles.

Materials Covered: Seat covers, headliners, insulation, floorings, and other interior components.

Core Objective: Minimize fire spread, toxic smoke emissions, and combustion hazards during vehicle fires.

Key Compliance Markets: EU member states, plus 50+ countries recognizing UNECE regulations.

2. ECE R118 Testing Procedures: Key Steps

2.1 Horizontal Flame Spread Test (Annex 6)

Sample Size: 500mm x 500mm (thickness ≤13mm).

Ignition Source: Propane burner with 100mm flame height.

Test Criteria:

Flame Spread Rate: ≤250mm/min.

Afterflame Time: ≤30 seconds.

Burn Distance: ≤350mm in 5 minutes.

2.2 Vertical Flame Spread Test (Annex 7)

Sample Size: 200mm x 200mm.

Ignition Source: 40mm flame applied for 15 seconds.

Pass Criteria: No flame spread beyond 150mm from the ignition point.

4. ECE R118 vs. Other Standards: Key Differences

Note: ECE R118 uniquely mandates smoke toxicity thresholds, requiring advanced material engineering.

CASfire Technical Co.,Ltd