Passive fire protection systems are designed to “prevent” the spread of fire and smoke, or heating of structural members, for a limited amount of time as defined by the local building code and fire codes. Firestops, firewalls, and fire doors are subjected to tests to determine their degree of resistance (i.e., ⅓, ¾, 1, 1½ hour), after which they are rated according to their limitations. Passive fire protection (PFP) is an essential component of any building’s fire safety strategy. It involves the use of fire-resistant materials and systems to prevent the spread of fire, smoke, and toxic gases. This approach helps to protect the building’s occupants and assets, allows more time for a safe evacuation, and helps limit the structural damage caused by fire.
With the exception of fire dampers and door closers, passive fire protection systems usually don’t require movement to operate. Intumescent products are an exception because they swell in order to provide enough thickness and fill any gaps. PFP systems are more reliable than active fire protection systems like sprinklers since there aren’t as many components needed for it function correctly.
PFP in a structure is best understood as a collection of systems within systems. An installed firestop system, for example, is part of a fire-resistance rated wall system or floor system, which is in turn part of the building’s fire compartment and thus functions as a whole.
Endothermic materials are used in PFP systems to absorb heat, such as calcium silicate board, concrete and gypsum wallboard. For instance, water can vaporise out of a heated concrete slab. The water molecules inside these substances change from a solid to a gas when they’re heated.
PFP (Passive Fire Protection) involves the installation of specific materials like intumescent coatings and ablative materials to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. By themselves, these materials are not certified for fire resistance. They must be installed in a system that is rated for fire resistance when installed according to certification listings (e.g., DIN 4102 Part 4).
Fire-Resistant Drywall Installation: We install fire-rated drywall boards that offer enhanced fire resistance for up to 120 minutes. These boards are specifically designed to protect the building’s structure and occupants during a fire. With our expert installation, you can have peace of mind knowing that your drywall will help contain the fire and prevent it from spreading.
Fire Compartmentation: We design and install fire compartmentation systems that subdivide your building into smaller, fire-resistant compartments. These compartments help to slow down the spread of fire and provide a safe and protected environment for building occupants during evacuation.
Firestopping Solutions: Our firestopping solutions involve sealing any gaps, joints, or penetrations in walls, floors, and ceilings with fire-resistant materials. This process prevents the spread of fire, smoke, and toxic gases, ensuring that your building remains safe and compliant with fire safety regulations.
Intumescent Coatings: We apply intumescent coatings to structural steel and other building elements to provide fire protection. In the event of a fire, these coatings expand and form a protective barrier that insulates the structural components from the heat, maintaining their integrity and preventing collapse.
Fire Door Installation and Maintenance: We supply and install fire-rated doors, which are an essential component of passive fire protection. Our expert team ensures that your fire doors are correctly installed and maintained, providing an effective barrier against the spread of fire and smoke.
Fire Safety Consultation: Our experienced team offers comprehensive fire safety consultations to ensure that your building is compliant with the latest fire regulations. We help you identify potential risks and provide recommendations for implementing effective passive fire protection measures.
There are broadly two types of materials that provide structural fire resistance: intumescent and vermiculite. Vermiculite materials encase the steel members in a thick layer. Owing to the porous nature of vermiculite, its use is not recommended if there is any chance of water exposure.
Steel corrosion is hard to track. Intumescent fireproofing is a material painted on steel members to form a layer. The thickness of this intumescent coating depends on the steel section used. These coatings are applied thinly (usually 350-700 micrometres), have a smooth finish, and help prevent corrosion.
Invest in the safety of your building and the well-being of its occupants with passive fire protection for drywall construction. Contact us today to discuss your project and receive a no-obligation quote. Together, we can create a safer environment for everyone.
