The FFMA welcomes any suggestion or feedback on the protocol.

Click below to view our guide to the Test Protocol:

Test Protocol Introduction

 

Outline of Tests Performed

TEST 1

The Issue – Coffin strength scenario

The coffin is weighted with a specified load, then checked for deformation or failure. If the coffin remains within the agreed parameters it passes.

TEST 2

The Issue – Slip functionality scenario

A) The coffin is placed on rollers to see if it moves freely without any snagging.

B) The coffin is placed on roller bearings to see if it moves freely without any snagging.

If the coffin snags or sticks it fails.

TEST 3

The Issue – Auto charger scenario

The coffin is placed against a solid load and pressure is applied to the end of the coffin with various loads to simulate the auto charger. If the coffin distorts or breaks beyond the agreed parameters it fails.

TEST 4

*The Issue – TABO – Mechanical Insertion Machine

The coffin is placed on equipment that replicates the TABO charger. If it snags or sags on loading pins, it fails.

*The TABO charger only exists in a dozen or so crematoria, however, suppliers understand that once a coffin is sold, they don’t know where ends up.

TEST 5

The Issue – Ignition/radiant heat scenario

A coffin should not catch fire until it is securely in a cremation chamber. To test this, a sample of coffin material is exposed to a heat source for a specified length of time and temperature simulating a chamber. If it catches fire, it fails.

TEST 6

The Issue – High volume of ash scenario

Calculations can predict the amount of ash volume generated by knowing the sizes of a coffin and a person, respectively. A representation of the coffin is burned back to ash. If the material submitted generates more than 6 litres of ash, it fails.

TEST 7

The Issue – Handle breakage scenario

The coffin’s handles are loaded with the agreed weight. If it breaks or deforms beyond the agreed parameters, it fails.

TEST 8

The Issue – Ash Residue scenario

A sample of the coffin’s material is burned on a ceramic surface. If the ash is not free from unmanageable residue, or anything that may cause an issue, it fails.

TEST 9

The Issue – Coffin Leakage scenario

A sample of material is folded into a cone and filled with a solution that replicates bodily fluids. If it leaks, it fails.