Method and means for testing the flammability of combustible materials

Abstract

A method and means for testing the flammability of combustible materials is disclosed with sensor elements for sensing ionization in the vicinity of the material to be tested. The utilization of spaced apart polarized plate elements for sensor elements provides flame detection by sensing the ionization caused by the flame while the alternate utilization of a pair of spaced apart polarized wire elements or sensing elements allows flame height determinations in addition to detecting the presence of a flame. The method for testing the flammability of a combustible material comprises causing combustion of the material to be tested, sensing ionization in the vicinity of the material and measuring the amount of current flow caused by the ionization. Combustion of the material is selectively, alternatively caused by applying electrical power to the material to cause a flame and applying a heat source to the exterior of the material to externally cause combustion. Ionization is sensed at selective predetermined levels above the material to determine flame height.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.