Some of the most commonly asked questions:

1. I am a manufacturer of materials. Can I obtain FAA certification paperwork to deliver with my material our customers?
   The short answer is no. The FAA does not allow testing for certification unless it is for a known application. A copy of the FAA's answer to this question can be found at the following link: FAA's letter regarding issuing FAA Form 8110-3 to manufacturers
2. If I need an FAA form 8110-3 issued along with the test results, what do I need to do?
   In order for us to issue an FAA form 8110-3 with the test results several conditions must be met prior to us performing the testing. Most of the time we need in hand the following items along with the samples: An FAA project number, an FAA approved test plan that has an accompanying FAA form 8110-3, the samples with an accompanying FAA form 8130-3 showing parts conformity. As always, the FAA has the final guidance on this matter so it is best to confirm with them when the project is opened.
3. Can I send samples for testing without all of the above FAA paperwork?
   We commonly test "engineering qualification" samples without any FAA paperwork. In fact we even encourage it. The reason for this is that if you do the entire FAA paperwork approval process and your samples fail to pass the certification requirements it delays your final approval. Most companies send us various samples to do "preliminary engineering qualification" testing in order to have some assurance that their samples will pass during final certification testing. One word of caution, if the sample changes configuration in between the qualification test and the certification test you should be prepared for possible different results. Also, some airframe manufacturers accept test data sheets without a final FAA form 8110-3 if the sample is used on a non-U.S. registered aircraft.
4. How many specimens should I send?
   For most tests, the results are found by averaging a minimum of three samples. See our specimen requirements page. However, it is always advisable to send at least 4 just in case of an anomaly during testing of one of the specimens. There are exceptions to the three specimens rule. The smoke density requires 3 specimens for each mode (flaming and non-flaming). Another exception is the new flame propagation test, where allowances can be made to test up to 10 specimens for each sample. See the flame propagation advisory circular for guidance: AC 25.856-1
5. Where do I ship the samples to?
   Ship all samples and paperwork directly to our office location. Saturday delivery is acceptable.
6. If I am testing wire, how long should each specimen be?
   See our specimen requirement page and be sure you are looking at the test that you require and read any pertinent notes at the bottom of the page.
7. How do I know if I need flaming and non-flaming mode for the smoke density/toxicity testing?
   The FAA only requires the flaming mode. However some manufacturers (most notably Airbus) require non-flaming mode under certain applications. We have provided a sample of their matrix which would give you an example. This is not kept current and you should consult with the specific manufacturer for your application.
8. What is the turnaround time?
   Most of the testing requires a "conditioning cycle" of 24 hours prior to testing. With that in mind, we routinely receive, condition, test, report within one weeks time. Exceptions to this would be custom setups and/or very large amounts of samples. Expedite service is available on request.