From smoke tests to regulation: Firestop material performance matters
Introduction Fire protection is essential to modern building construction, and it doesn’t have to be “big” to make a difference. Of these, Firestop compound is an essential element as it prevents the propagation of fire and smoke through wall, floor, or ceiling openings. Choosing the right materials and understanding their performance standards helps ensure buildings are safe and meet regulatory requirements. Contractors, as well as architects, are increasingly interested in how firestop materials perform under various conditions. Understanding Firestop Material Types of firestop products Different types of Firestop material can be classified as sealant, collar, putty, board etc. They have a purpose: securities to stop the passage at a pipe penetration, around a cable tray and through a wall assembly. It is thus needful to know which material is applicable to a specific case for proper fire protection. Material properties that matter Critical features are temperature, resi...