What is the FM4910 Standard?

Highly specialized manufacturing operations often specify materials that are optimized for their unique challenges and risks. For example, cleanrooms and semiconductor manufacturing facilities need to be furnished with pieces constructed from fire-resistant materials. Both are especially at risk for production delays, equipment damage, and safety hazards due to even minor exposure to fire or flames. In the semiconductor industry, for example, contamination due to smoke or particles from fire can disrupt operations and result in major financial losses.

In order to test and identify materials that meet these needs, the FM4910 standard was developed in 1997. FM refers to Factory Mutual Approvals, or FM Approvals, which is a branch of the industrial insurance and prevention loss organization Factory Mutual Group. FM Approvals develops standards and performs extensive research and testing on materials used in industry and manufacturing.

Here, we’ll look at some common FM4910-approved materials and their characteristics and uses.

FM4910 Compliant Materials

The goal of using FM4910 materials is to reduce fire risk as well as smoke or particle contamination, damage, and loss in the event of a fire. FM4910 plastic materials must meet these criteria:

Common FM9410-approved materials for semiconductor manufacturing and other cleanroom applications include:

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

Some types of PET are FM4910-approved. It is a thermoplastic polymer commonly used in manufacturing packaging materials and textile fibers. Introducing brominated flame retardants and other additives creates flame-retardant properties.

Polypropylene (PP)

Some types of PP are FM4910-approved. It is a thermoplastic polymer frequently used for medical devices, packaging materials, and many other applications. Introducing halogenated flame retardants, metal oxides, and other additives can make PP flame-retardant.

FRP-3

One type of Polypropylene, FRP-3, is a fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene that is stiff, impact-resistant, and has good mechanical properties. It is resistant to alkaline substances and many solvents; however, it is not resistant to high concentrations of acids, aromatics, and aliphatic and chlorinated solvents. Common applications include:

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

This versatile thermoplastic polymer is often used in automotive, construction, and electrical applications. Incorporating chlorinated or brominated flame retardants, phosphorous-based retardants, or antimony trioxide enhances the flame resistance of the material. Cleanroom environments rely on chlorinated PVC (PVC/C) and Type 1 PVC (CRP-1), which meet FM4910 standards.

CRP-1

CRP-1 is a type of PVC with high impact strength and ductility. It is also very smooth and easy to clean due to its high-gloss surface finish, which reduces particle contamination. It is resistant to chemicals and can be welded for strong joints.

CRP-1 has a lower weight and density than similar materials but higher flexural modulus and stiffness. Common applications include:

HTP 800

This material has approximately 69% light transmission, high chemical and flame resistance, flame resistance, excellent clarity, and stiffness. It is often used in cleanroom and semiconductor manufacturing settings. Common applications include:

LAM 2000

LAM 2000 is a clear specialty CPVC material with approximately 70% light transmittance and no haze. It has high stiffness and chemical resistance. This cost-effective material is also on the UL 94 V-0 list. Common applications include:

Boltaron

This CPVC material is transparent and corrosion resistant with a smooth finish on both sides. It can be used for thermoformed or machined applications, including cleanroom equipment.

Polycarbonate (PC)

Some types of PC are FM4910-approved. It is a durable thermoplastic polymer that can become flame-retardant by introducing brominated phosphorous-based additives. PC has a transparent surface, which makes it suitable for optical lenses, electrical components, and automotive parts.

PolyTetraFluoroEthylene (PTFE)

Also known by its trademarked name Teflon, PTFE is resistant to chemicals and weathering and can tolerate operational temperatures from about -400°F to 500°F. This material is also known for its extremely low coefficient of friction and self-lubricating characteristics. In cleanroom environments it is often used for tubing, molding, and filtration applications.

PVDF

PVDF is a chemically inert, high-purity fluoropolymer that is extremely resistant to chemicals. It also offers high strength, rigidity, excellent machinability, and abrasion resistance. Common applications include:

FM4910 Compliant Materials from Plastic Design, Inc.

At Plastic Design, Inc., we work with several plastics that are fire-resistant and suitable for use in cleanrooms, semiconductor manufacturing, and similar settings, including:

Flame-Retardant Plastic Materials from Plastic Design, Inc.

FM4910-approved materials are plastics that meet strict requirements for fire resistance; production of smoke, toxic gas, or corrosive byproducts; and chemical resistance. Since 1976, Plastic Design, Inc. has designed and manufactured customized plastic solutions for cleanrooms and other settings that call for specialized materials like these.

Contact us to learn more about our materials and capabilities or request a quote to get started on a solution that meets your requirements.