Firestop manufacturers

Types of firestops

Firestop manufacturers make products that prevent the spread of fire and smoke in buildings. These products block the openings and gaps in fire-rated walls and ceilings. They come in different types listed below:

• Firestop Sealants

  These are flexible materials that fill openings around cables, pipes, and other building parts that go through fire-rated walls. They make a tight bond to stop fire and smoke from passing through these gaps. Sealants are useful in places with small to medium sized openings. They can adjust to different sizes of openings and movements in the building.

• Firestop Pillows

  Firestop pillows are block-like cushions that fill large openings around cables and pipes in fire-rated walls. They are made of intumescent materials that expand when heated to seal the opening tightly. Pillows are easy to add and remove, so they are good for places with changing or removable services. Their flexibility allows quick adjustments while still meeting firestopping requirements.

• Firestop Mortars

  Firestop mortars are used to fill large openings and openings in concrete masonry walls. They are similar to sealants but have a thicker, paste-like texture. Mortars create a strong, solid fill that matches the surrounding wall's fire-resistance rating. They are applied in a trowelable form, which means they need tools to smooth them over the opening.

• Firestop Blocks and Boards

  These are pre-formed products made of fire-resistant materials. They are used to close off large openings in walls and floors. Blocks and boards fit snugly into the openings without needing extra sealants or caulking. This makes their installation fast and easy. Like pillows, their removable nature allows reuse in different locations if needed.

• Firestop Collar

  Firestop collars are clamp-like devices mounted around pipes that pass through fire-rated walls. When exposed to high temperatures, they expand inward to seal the gap between the pipe and wall, thus blocking fire and smoke. Collars are most effective for through-penetrations where pipes maintain a close fit to the wall. They provide a sturdy closure that resists heat transfer and flame leakage.

How to choose firestop manufacturers

• Reputation and Experience: Look for manufacturers with a strong reputation and extensive experience in the firestop industry. A good track record indicates their expertise and reliability in producing high-quality firestop products. Consider manufacturers who have a history of successful project completions and positive feedback from customers.
• Quality Assurance: Ensure that the manufacturer follows strict quality assurance practices. Look for certifications that show the manufacturer adheres to international quality standards. Quality materials and proper manufacturing processes are essential for effective firestopping solutions.
• Product Range: Choose a manufacturer that offers a wide range of firestop products. Different applications may require seals, caulks, putties, or pillows. Having access to various options allows flexibility in selecting the most suitable firestop solution for specific needs.
• Technical Support: Look for manufacturers who provide excellent technical support. Firestopping can be complex, and having a knowledgeable support team can be beneficial in understanding product applications, installation techniques, and compliance with building codes. Manufacturers who offer training and resources to contractors and engineers can greatly contribute to the effectiveness of firestop systems.
• Customization: If specific project requirements need customized firestop products, choose a manufacturer who can provide such modifications. Customization ensures that the firestop solutions perfectly fit the unique needs of the project, enhancing its fire-resistance capabilities.
• Compliance with Regulations: Ensure that the firestop products meet all relevant fire safety codes and standards. A reputable manufacturer will provide products tested and approved by recognized testing laboratories. Compliance with regulations ensures the effectiveness of firestop systems in preventing fire and smoke spread.
• Environmental Considerations: If sustainability is a priority, look for manufacturers who produce environmentally friendly firestop products. These products may have low VOC emissions or be made from recycled materials, contributing to green building certifications such as LEED.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Consider the cost of firestop products from different manufacturers, but don't compromise on quality. Effective firestopping is critical to fire safety, so choose products that provide the best protection within the budget. Remember that long-term benefits and compliance with safety standards should be the main focus while making cost considerations.

How to use, install, and product safety

How to use

• Identify Fire Hazards: Instruct the use of appropriate firestop solutions in locations where fire could spread, such as walls, floors, and ceilings.
• Sealant Application: If firestop sealants are used, ensure that all gaps and openings around pipes, cables, and vents are sealed. Apply the sealant smoothly and evenly.
• Wrap Technology: For electrical cables in high-risk zones, use fire-rated cable wraps to bundle and protect the cables. This prevents fire from traveling through the cables.
• Firestop Mortar: When utilizing firestop mortar, properly mix and apply the mortar to seal any large openings or penetrations. Shape it to match the surrounding surfaces.
• Fire Barrier Paint: Apply multiple layers of fire barrier paint with a brush or spray gun to cover electrical panels, conduits, and other items. Ensure complete coverage for effective fire resistance.

Installation

• Surface Preparation: Clean the surface where firestop products will be applied to remove dust, grease, or any other contaminating substance. This guarantees good adhesion and sealing properties.
• Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Adhere to the specific installation instructions from the firestop product manufacturers. Different products might have unique requirements for effective usage.
• Apply Adequate Thickness: Ensure that sealants and paints are applied with the appropriate thickness to provide the required fire resistance. Use the right amount of mortar to create proper seals.
• Use Proper Tools: Utilize suitable tools for application, such as caulking guns for sealants and trowels for mortar. This ensures precise and effective application of the products.
• Joint Compatibility: When using firestop products on joints, ensure compatibility with the joint materials and the ability to accommodate joint movement without losing effectiveness.

Product Safety

• Fire Resistance Ratings: Choose firestop products with appropriate fire resistance ratings (FRRs) that meet or exceed the requirements of the locations where they will be used. This ensures proper compliance and safety.
• Non-Toxic Formulation: Select firestop products made with non-toxic materials to reduce any health risks to workers or building occupants during application and throughout the product's life.
• Low VOC Emissions: Use products with low volatile organic compound emissions to improve air quality within the building and comply with strict environmental regulations.
• Adhesion and Durability: Ensure long-term adhesion and durability of the products with proper testing and certification. This prevents the risk of degradation over time and maintains the effectiveness of the seals.
• Regular Maintenance: Perform periodic inspections and maintenance of the firestop systems to identify and rectify any potential damages or wear and tear that could compromise fire protection.

Functions, features, and designs of firestops

Firestops play a crucial role in preventing fire and smoke from spreading through openings and passages in walls and floors. Their primary function is to seal these gaps effectively, thus containing the fire within its origin space and preventing it from spreading to other areas. This characteristic is vital in enhancing the overall fire safety of a building. Firestop products possess several features that make them effective in fire containment. They are generally easy to install, which can be a significant advantage for construction and maintenance teams. Many firestop solutions are also versatile, meaning they can be used in various types of wall and floor assemblies, which simplifies compliance with different building codes and standards.

The design of fire stop products is focused on providing a tight seal that can withstand high temperatures. The materials used, such as intumescent compounds or aggressive caulks, are designed to expand when exposed to heat, thereby filling the gap more completely and blocking the passage of fire and smoke. Some products may also have a layered design, which can help to create a more substantial barrier in certain applications. Manufacturers have made firestop products from various materials to meet these needs, including intumescent seals, mineral wool, and various sealants and caulks. Intumescent seals are particularly effective as they expand in response to heat, closing off gaps tightly. Mineral wool is non-combustible and can be stuffed into spaces to block fire's path. Sealants and caulks are used to fill smaller cracks and crevices, adhering well to different surfaces to create a fire-resistant seal.

In summary, firestops are vital in maintaining the fire-resistive integrity of building components. Their combination of easy installation, versatility, and effectiveness in sealing gaps makes them essential in modern fire safety engineering. By using a range of materials and designs, firestop products can provide varying levels of resistance, which can be tailored to meet specific building requirements and regulatory standards.

Q&A

Q1. What does the firestop rating mean?

A1. The firestop rating means the duration the firestop can withstand flames and smoke. It is tested and rated against the ASTM E-814 and UL 1479 standards. Those with a fire rating of 1-hour can withstand 60 minutes of fire and smoke.

Q2. Do firestopping products need maintenance?

A2. Firestop seals and coatings need regular inspections to ensure they function as required. Any damaged seals should be replaced immediately to maintain the required fire rating for the penetration or opening.

Q3. Can firestop products be painted?

A3. Firestop caulk and putty can be applied to many surfaces. Some firestop products, like sealants and pillows, cannot be painted over. Always check the manufacturer's guidelines to know if a firestop product can be painted.

Q4. Can firestop products be removed?

A4. Yes, some firestop products like pillows and sprays can be removed if the penetrations need to be modified. Caulk and tape can also be removed, but it may be more challenging. The penetration or opening may need to be repaired to remove these products.

Q5. Where should firestopping be installed in a building?

A5. Firestopping should be installed in all locations per building codes. It is required at all rated walls and floors to seal openings and penetrations. Also, apply it in non-rated assemblies to prevent the spread of fire and smoke.