IEC 60695 is the fire hazard testing framework for electrotechnical products. Product standards (for appliances, components, IT and lighting equipment) do not each invent a fire test; they call up a 60695 method and set the severity. Understanding the family means knowing which method simulates which fault.
The three small-source methods
The glow-wire test (IEC 60695-2-11 for end products, -2-12 GWFI and -2-13 GWIT for materials) simulates a glowing overheated element: a wire at 550 to 960 °C pressed to the specimen for 30 s. The needle-flame test (IEC 60695-11-5) simulates a small fault flame with a 12 mm test flame. The 50 W and 500 W horizontal/vertical flame tests (IEC 60695-11-10 and -11-20) are the IEC counterparts of the UL 94 approach for materials and products. Around them sit supporting parts on test specimen preparation and guidance documents.
Which one does your product need?
The one its product standard names, at the severity it names: an appliance standard may ask for a glow-wire end-product test at 750 °C on parts holding connections, and a needle-flame test elsewhere. Our glow wire and needle flame pages describe the two apparatus; the UL 94 chamber page covers the flame tests. Send the product standard number with your inquiry and the configuration follows.