Fire safety relies on a combination of carefully specified systems. One key area is the ductwork that runs through walls, floors and fire compartments.
Standard ductwork can create potential routes through a building if it is not properly protected. This is why fire resisting ductwork is used in commercial, industrial and public buildings.
What Is Fire Resisting Ductwork?
Fire resisting ductwork is developed to maintain its performance when exposed to high temperatures and fire.
Depending on the application, a duct system may need to provide protection against internal and external fire exposure.
Specialist systems from FIRESAFE FIRE RATED DUCTWORK® are used for buildings where tested fire rated duct systems are required.
Maintaining Fire Compartmentation
Many buildings are split into fire compartments. These compartments are designed to restrict the movement of fire and smoke from one part of a building to another.
Where ductwork travels across a fire resistant wall or floor, the duct system needs to be included within the wider fire safety strategy.
A suitable fire resisting duct system can support the integrity of fire compartments.
Where Is Fire Resisting Ductwork Used?
Fire resistant ventilation ductwork can be found in a broad range of properties.
Common applications can include commercial buildings, healthcare sites, hotels website and industrial facilities.
It can also be used as part of specialist smoke management systems, depending on the fire strategy.
Choosing Suitable Fire Resisting Ductwork
The correct fire resisting ductwork should be selected according to the building specification.
Designers and contractors may need to consider duct size, orientation and fire resistance period.
The installation should also follow the manufacturer's approved installation details. Supports, access doors, joints and associated components can all contribute to the overall fire resistance.
An Important Part of Building Fire Protection
Specialist fire resistant duct systems forms part of a wider passive fire protection strategy.
By specifying a tested system and following the correct installation requirements, contractors and designers can reduce the risk of fire and smoke spreading through duct routes throughout the building.