Passive Fire Protection
One of the key components in fire protection planning is the implementation of passive fire protection or PFP which means that the various segments of the building or facility is protected through compartmentalization. This is achieved by subdividing various compartments inside a structure using fire-proof insulation materials with a one-to-four-hour fire ratings. The goal is to contain the fire and to prevent it from spreading quickly from one area to another and to slow down the burning flame, with the end focus of minimizing the burn rate, thus limiting the movement of the flame and smoke, while allowing the occupants of the structure time to escape. PFP systems are built relatively unseen, inside the walls, ceilings, doors, beams, columns, floors and roofs. Contrast this with active fire protection equipment consisting of alarms and sprinklers which are clearly visible and can easily be activated by anyone in the event of a fire. PFT works silently in the background and provides automatic fire protection without any form of human intervention.
There are various fire ratings that are expressed in minutes from 60 to 240. This shows that the specific building material is able to withstand the onslaught of smoke and flame for an hour and up to 4 hours without collapsing thus preventing the fire from spreading to nearby areas. The materials and assemblies are deemed worthy of the rating depending on their ability to stay up (structural adequacy), preventing the fire and flammable gas from passing through (integrity) and stopping the conduction of heat (insulation). These are the various determinants of fire-resistant level (FRL) of the materials and assemblies. For example, a two-hour fire wall can resist the flame for 2 hours without collapsing nor develop the critical openings that would allow the spread of fire. Fire doors are commonly rated at 25, 45, 60, 90 or 180 minutes meaning the door assembly should be able to contain the fire from spreading within the stated time frame. In choosing the right configuration, the wall fire rating would dictate the type of door rating to be used as these components are interrelated. Failure of one would result in the complete collapse of the whole passive fire protection system. Given this fact, a 4-hour wall should therefore be paired with a 180-minute fire door while a 2-hour wall should be integrated together with the 90-minute door.
PFP is about risk management and developing a fire plan would greatly ensure that the properties and lives are protected in the event of a fire. This is not just about the safety aspect but also in line with ensuring operational excellence, environmental compliance and lessening insurance costs. PFP solutions come in different forms like intumescent coatings, fire-rated boards, blankets and dampers, usage of which depends on the specific areas of application.
Patsum’s calcium silicate boards are one of the best PFP material in the market. It is a critical component in fire-resistant walls, floors, ceilings and ducts. It is also used to line tunnels and enhances the fire resistance of assemblies and exhaust ducts. Our material has a 2–4-hour fire rating and is able to withstand temperatures of up to 2000°C as tested in accordance to ASTM standard. Do not compromise your structure’s safety and the welfare of the building’s occupants. Choose performance. Choose Patsum Insulation for your passive fire protection projects. We are about delivering results that count and not cheap pricing.
