PSA D15 5279 Thermal Curtain Insulation Efficiency

The “PSA D15 5279 Heat Curtain Insulation Efficiency” standard, developed by the French car manufacturer PSA Group (now part of Stellantis), describes a procedure that allows determining the efficiency of heat curtains used to limit the transmission of heat generated from a radiation source such as a muffler.

In principle, the heat curtain is exposed to heat radiation from a heat source at a controlled temperature for a specific period of time. The following values ​​are recorded:

• The warmth of the warm side of the curtain
• The warmth of the cold side of the curtain
• Temperatures at different distances from the colder side of the curtain.

The warm side of the curtain is the front side that absorbs the radiant heat. The warm side corresponds to the back side of the curtain.

When preparing test samples,

• Flat screen requirements: Test specimen dimensions should be 200 mm x 335 mm. Specimens should be secured to the frame with a sliding clamp fixed around the perimeter.
• Shaped screens situation: When it is necessary to simulate a heat-emitting heating area (e.g., a silencer), the measurement should be taken on the side of the screen exposed to the temperature of this heat source, as specified in the standards. If a screen is not suitable for measurement, it can be cut, protecting the cut edges with adhesive-coated aluminum foil. For example, protective screens made of aluminum alloy, placed on the slide of the support frame, should protect part of the screen to be measured. Unless specifically stated in the standards, it allows the source to emit radiation on a 50 mm wide strip.

While the process is underway,

• Screen efficiency as if new: The heating system and control device are set to the required temperature. The screen is placed in the frame. The distance between the hot side of the screen and the heat source is adjusted as specified in the standards. If not specified, the distance is taken as 20 mm. Two thermocouples are placed in the center of the hot side of the screen. These two thermocouples are necessary to check that their tips are actually in contact with the material. One thermocouple is placed on the cold side of the screen. Three black plates are positioned on the material at different distances. Temperatures are recorded and at least 30 minutes are waited for the measurements to stabilize. It is checked that the two thermocouples on the hot side show temperatures close to each other. During the test, it is noted whether any special events occur (smoke, onset of combustion, etc.).
• Aging resistance: The heat screen is subjected to a specified aging cycle for 5 days. The efficiency of the screen is measured in temperature tests. At the end of the test, a cross-section is taken and the material is examined in detail.

When expressing the results, the following temperatures are given in degrees Celsius:

• The source temperature
• The temperature of the hot side of the screen
• The temperature of the cool side of the screen
• The temperature of the plates placed at specific distances behind the material

The distance between the source and the hot side of the screen is noted.

The PSA D15 5279 standard is part of the “D15” category of standards, which typically includes physical, chemical, or optical testing of materials-related properties such as plastics, paints, adhesives, solvents, or coatings. This category covers a variety of material testing protocols. Comparable standards include:

• Tests for optical properties (e.g., color measurement, brightness)
• Resistance to high-pressure washing or chemical exposure.
• Mechanical strength of coatings and plastics

The PSA D15 5279 standard fits this framework as a specific thermal performance test and is required for verifying supplier parts in vehicles where exhaust heat management is important for emission compliance and passenger comfort.

In automotive engineering, heat shields (or thermal barriers) are critical components designed to protect sensitive parts from excessive heat generated by the engine, exhaust system, or other high-temperature sources. These heat shields are typically made from materials such as aluminum foil composites, fiberglass, ceramic coatings, or multilayer insulation fabrics. They are commonly used in the following areas:

• Exhaust manifolds and tunnels
• Lower housing protection near the catalytic converters
• Fire wall insulation between the engine compartment and the cabin.
• Battery or electronic component protection

The insulation efficiency aspect refers to the material's ability to reflect radiant heat, inhibit conductive/convective transfer, and maintain thermal barriers under real-world operating conditions. This standard includes a standardized test procedure for making the following measurements:

• Heat transfer rates
• Heat reflectance percentages
• Resistance under prolonged exposure (e.g., temperature cycling)
• Performance decline over time or after environmental stressors (e.g., humidity, vibration)

This standard ensures that heat shields meet PSA's requirements for vehicle safety, comfort (reducing cabin heat absorption), component lifespan, and fuel efficiency (minimizing heat loss or gain that affects systems such as air conditioning).

Modern Stellantis vehicles, particularly electric models where battery heat insulation is critical, utilize similar principles for advanced thermal management systems. However, the PSA D15 5279 standard represents an earlier approach focusing on the exhaust heat shield, contributing to overall vehicle efficiency and safety.

For many years, our organization, with its competent and experienced staff, has been understanding the needs of its customers, providing the advanced testing services they require, and assisting in the establishment, implementation, and improvement of management systems. Within this framework, we also provide testing services to businesses in accordance with the "PSA D15 5279 Thermal Curtain Insulation Efficiency" standard.