Introduction
J-Flex is pleased to announce that its Flame Retardant (FR) EPDM material has successfully achieved certification to NFPA 130, further strengthening the company’s position as a leading supplier of high-performance elastomer solutions for safety-critical applications.
The FR EPDM sheet material was independently tested and certified by Akron Rubber Development Laboratory, Inc. (ARDL), a globally respected authority in rubber testing, material development and compliance assessment.
What is NFPA 130?
NFPA 130, Standard for Fixed Guideway Transit and Passenger Rail Systems, is one of North America’s most important fire safety standards for rail and mass transit environments. The standard establishes fire protection requirements for passenger rail vehicles, stations, trainways and associated infrastructure, helping to ensure a high level of passenger safety and fire performance throughout transit systems. Materials used within these environments must demonstrate controlled flame spread and low smoke generation to minimise risks during a fire event.
For elastomeric materials, NFPA 130 compliance typically involves stringent ASTM testing for surface flammability and smoke development. These tests evaluate how materials behave when exposed to fire and measure the amount of smoke generated, both critical factors in supporting safe evacuation and reducing fire-related hazards in enclosed transit environments.
Test Methods
To achieve NFPA 130 classification for elastomers, such as: window gaskets, door nosings, intercar diaphragms, seat cushions, suspension diaphragms, and roof mats, the following test methods should be used.
| Test Method | Definition |
| ASTM C1166 |
Flame Propagation of Dense and Cellular Elastomeric Gaskets and Accessories |
| ASTM E662 |
Specific Optical Density of Smoke Generated by Solid Materials |
Committed to Excellence
The latest certification adds to J-Flex’s extensive portfolio of internationally recognised fire-performance approvals and reflects the company’s long-standing expertise in offering Flame Retardant, Low Smoke, Low Toxicity (LSLT) elastomers for safety-critical environments.
J-Flex materials are trusted across rail, infrastructure, construction and industrial sectors where fire safety and regulatory compliance are essential. In addition to NFPA 130, J-Flex compounds have achieved certification to EN 45545-2, the European standard governing fire protection requirements for railway vehicles; LUL S1085, Transport for London’s specification for fire safety performance of materials used across the London Underground network; UL 94, the globally recognised standard for assessing the flammability characteristics of plastic and rubber materials; and EN 13501-1, the European classification system for evaluating the reaction to fire performance of construction products and building elements.
Together, these certifications demonstrate J-Flex’s commitment to delivering independently verified material solutions that meet the stringent fire, smoke and safety requirements of some of the world’s most demanding applications.
A Word from our Managing Director, Sam Kirk
“Achieving NFPA 130 certification is another significant milestone for J-Flex and reflects our continued investment in providing high-performance elastomer materials that meet the most demanding international safety standards. Independent certification by ARDL provides our customers with additional confidence that our FR EPDM delivers proven fire performance for rail and transit applications.”
“We don’t compromise on quality, compliance and safety, and we recognise that the materials used in public transport and infrastructure projects can play a vital role in protecting people and property. This certification reinforces our commitment to supplying reliable, independently verified products that help our customers meet their safety objectives without compromising performance.”
The certified FR EPDM material is available for use in a wide range of rail, transit and infrastructure sealing applications where enhanced fire performance is required.
About J-Flex
Over the last 42 years, J-Flex has positioned itself as the preferred supply partner for rubber-based products within technology-driven markets.
With expertise built since 1984, J-Flex provides high-quality engineered rubber components and specialist rubber sheeting you can rely on. From sheeting, mouldings, gaskets, sleeves, extrusions, bellows and fabrications, to sealants, we offer solutions across a wide range of polymers including Silicone, FKM/Viton™, EPDM, Neoprene, Nitrile and more.
Speak to the experts at J-Flex to find the right solution for your needs!