- “CBFR” – Can Be Made Fire Retardant
"CBFR" stands for "Can Be Made Fire Retardant", indicating that a fabric, while not inherently fire-retardant, can be treated or processed to become flame-resistant. This treatment typically involves applying a topical or immersion-based flame retardant solution.
Elaboration:- CBFR vs. CNFR:In contrast to "CBFR," "CNFR" (Cannot Be Made Fire Retardant) refers to fabrics that cannot be made fire-retardant through any known treatment.
- Public Space Regulations:CBFR fabrics may be suitable for use in public spaces after undergoing appropriate fire-retardant treatment, provided they meet the relevant standards like NFPA 701.
- Examples:Certain synthetic and/or metallic fabrics can be labeled as CNFR due to their inherent resistance to fire-retardant treatments, says a post from RM COCO
- “CNFR” – Cannot Be Made Fire Retardant
Fabric labeled “NFR” is not. If “CBFP” is indicated for a fabric, that fabric can be treated for fire retardancy. Such treatment would include topical treatment in an immersion process, making the fabric “FR.” Some synthetics can be made fire retardant. IF “CNFR” is indicated for a fabric, that fabric cannot be treated for fire retardancy and, as such, should not be used in public venues. Among the types of fabrics that cannot be made fire retardant are certain synthetic and/or metallic fabrics.
- “FR” – Fire Retardant (aka Flame Retardant)
Fabric that is certified as FR has been topically treated in an immersion process with a chemical fire retardant after the fabric has been woven. All cottons and other natural fibers certified as flame retardant are FR topically treated. Some synthetic fabrics are also topically treated. Because the treatment is topical, it will wear out in time, and repeated cleanings will cause the flame retardancy to dissolve sooner. Most flameproofing chemicals are water soluble and will lso dissipate through dry cleaning. Draperies made from FR fabrics should be re-tested periodically for flame retardancy, as retreatment may be required. For this reason, “FR” flame retardancy is certified for only one year. A Certificate of Flame Retardancy is furnished to customers upon request.
- “IFR” – Inherently Fire Retardant
It refers to fabrics where the flame retardancy is an inherent property of the fabric's fibers, rather than a treatment applied externally. This means the fabric is inherently resistant to ignition and burning, and this resistance will last for the life of the fabric.
IFR fabrics are non-combustible:They are designed to resist ignition and burn very slowly or not at all.- IFR fabrics do not lose their flame retardancy:Unlike fabrics treated with flame retardant chemicals, which can degrade over time with washing or exposure, IFR fabrics maintain their flame retardancy for the duration of their lifespan.
- IFR fabrics are often made from naturally flame-resistant fibers:Materials like wool, silk, and certain synthetic fibers can be inherently flame-resistant.
- IFR fabrics are often used in situations where permanent fire retardancy is required:This includes applications like stage curtains, upholstery, and certain types of clothing.
- “NFR” – Not Fire Retardant
NFR, or Non-Flame Retardant, refers to fabrics that do not have any flame retardant treatment or inherent resistance to fire. These fabrics are not designed to resist burning and can readily ignite and spread flames. In essence, NFR fabrics lack the properties that make a fabric fire-resistant.
Key points about NFR fabrics:- Not Flame Retardant: NFR fabrics are not treated with chemicals to make them flame-resistant.
- Lack of Resistance: They do not have any inherent or applied flame-retardant properties.
- High Flammability: NFR fabrics can easily ignite and burn quickly, posing a fire hazard.
- Not Suitable for Public Spaces: Due to their high flammability, NFR fabrics are generally not suitable for use in public spaces where fire safety is a concern.
- Contrast with FR, IFR, and DFR: NFR fabrics differ from fabrics labeled as Flame Retardant (FR), Inherently Flame Retardant (IFR), or Durably Flame Retardant (DFR). FR fabrics have been treated with chemicals to resist burning, while IFR fabrics are inherently flame-resistant, and DFR fabrics have a durable flame-retardant treatment.
- “PFR” – Permanently Fire Retardant
Fabric that has been certified as “IFR” or “PFR” has been woven from fibers that are noncombustible for the life of the fabric. For this reason, the fire retardancy of “IFR” and “PFR” fabrics will last for the life of the fabric and will not dissipate after cleaning. A Certificate of Fire Retardancy is furnished upon request.
