j(29) I Yl I(K2)

Fire stopping and

Penetration seals for the
Construction Industry

Associationof Specialist Fire Protection Contractors and Manufacturers

rThis document 1

L
contains 32 pa!J
The Association of Specialist Fire Protection Contractors and Manufacturers (ASFPCM) was
formed in 1976. The objectives of the Association are to: encourage, organise, finance and
undertake research and experimental work related to passive fire protection and promote the
consideration and discussion of the questions affecting the fire protection of structural steel and
buildings.
Association of Specialist Fire Protection Contractors and Manufacturers
(ASFPCM)
0
P Box 111, Aldershot, Hampshire GUll IYW
Tel: 025221322
Fax: 0252333901

Acknowledgements

Richard Earle, Loss PreventionCouncil; Michael Richardson,Fire ResearchStation;

Alan Sayers, Faverdale Technology Centre Ltd; Bob Williams, Warrington Fire Research
Centre; T Baker, Abesco Ltd; Alan Page, (3erco Fire Prevention/Protection (UK) Ltd;
Kevin Williams, Bollom Fire ProtectionLtd; Bob Gilon, Roberts Consultancy Service;
Derek Lavender, Rockwool Ltd; Steve Jewitt, Herberts Construction Division;
Ian Stewart, McCartneyFire ProtectionLtd; Clive Newmanand Nigel Mans, Nullifire Ltd;
David Saunders, SFL Services; John Tillott, Rentokil; Phil Sargent, Bollom Fire ProtectionLtd;
Norman Macdonald, Promat Fire Protection Ltd; Jim Willson, ThermicaLtd;
Ron Smith, ASFPCM Technical Consultant and Lisa Lawrence, ASFPCM Secretariat.

Although care has been taken to ensure, to the best of our knowledge, that all data and
information contained herein is accurate to the extent that it related to either matters of fact or
accepted practice or matters of opinion at the time of publication, the Association of Specialist
Fire Protection Contractors and Manufacturers Limited assumes no responsibility for any errors
in or misinterpretations of such data and/or information or any loss or damage arising from or
related to its use.

C 1993 TheAssociationof SpecialistFireProtection Contractors and Manufacturers

ISBN: 1870409078
FIRE STOPPiNG AND PENETRATION SEALS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Published by:
The Association of Specialist Fire ProtectionContractorsand Manufacturers Limited (ASFPCM)

Foreword

I am pleased to introduce this new publication, the 'Red Book', which is a welcome addition to
the Association'sgrowing portfolio of technicaldocuments.

Recent fires have illustrated the effects of uncontrolled spread of fire and smoke within buildings,
highlighting the importance of ensuring that effective fire stopping systems and penetration seals
are fitted.

There is currently no standard test or uniform appraisal method in the UK for fire stopping
systems and penetration seals, although a EuropeanStandard is in preparation. Consequently it is
difficultfor specifiers to judge the performance of systems which are on the market.

This book sets out the generic types of systems which are available and gives information about
their suitability for different applications. Guidance is also given on test methods, and on the
information required by the ASFPCM for the preparation of data sheets on proprietary products
which will be published at a later date.

The ASFPCMis to be congratulated on taking the lead in publishing this first document.

Dr David Woolley
President,ASFPCM
Director, Fire Research Station
CONTENTS

1. Introduction 3

2. Recommendations for the specifier 5

3. Health and Safety 5
4. Definitions 5
5. Formed in-situ materials 6
5.1 Mortars 6
5.2 Sealants/Mastics 7
5.3 Putties 8
5.4 Room TemperatureVulcanising Foams (RTV's) 8
5.5 Silicone Elastomers and Gels . 9
6. Composites 10
7. Boards 11

8. Mineral Wool Slabs 11

9. Linear Gap Seals 12
10. Bags 13
11. Fire Stopping Blocks 14
12. Bellows Fire Seals 15
13. Pipe Closures 15

14. Duct Penetration Sealing Systems 17

15. Transit Systems 18
16. Test and Appraisal Principles 19
17. Quality Assurance 24
18. Specification Considerations 25

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1. INTRODUCTION manufacturer and the end user, and can lead
The Guidance introduction in Approved to installations which will not provide the
Document B3 of the Building Regulations required standard of protection in a real fire
1991 for England and Wales states, among situation.
other requirements, that "In the Secretary of Effective fire-stopping in fire resisting and
State's view, the requirements of B3 will be
separating elements plays a critical role in
met if any fire separating elements are
containing a fire at its source, thereby
suitably protected in order to maintain the fire reducing its effect on the primary building
integrity of the element". (Page 51 of structure. The degree of spread is controlled
Approved Document B3 - The Building by creating fire resisting compartments which
Regulations 1991). subdivide the enclosure.
Section 10.2 of Approved Document B3 then a major threat from fire in most
However,
states; "If an element that is intended to building structures occurs where concealed
provide separation (and therefore has fire cavities between fire separating walls and
resistance in terms of integrity and insulation) floors are interlinked. It is therefore essential
is to be effective, then every joint, or that all openings and gaps are fire-stopped to
imperfection of fit, or opening to allow restrict lateral and vertical fire spread and
services to pass through the element, should achieve the required degree of containment.
be adequately protected by sealing or fire Failure to do so may cause fire to spread
stopping so that the fire resistance of the uninterruptedin cavities and penetrations in a
element is not impaired". building.
Section 10.12 adds, under the heading of Mechanical and electrical services by
Fire-stopping, a requirement that "all necessity, breach compartment walls and
openings for pipes, ducts, conduits or cables floors allowing failure of integrity and
to pass through any part of an element which insulation to occur where gaps around
serves as a barrier to the passage of fire services have not been adequately
should be:-
fire-stopped. Fire-stopping products must
i) kept as few in number as possible and also be able to provide sufficient insulation to
the penetrating services, in order to reduce
ii) kept as small as practicaland the temperature rise along conductive
materials, in accordance with the required
iii) fire-stopped (which in the case of a pipe insulation criteria of the fire separating
or duct, should allow thermal
element. The movement of smoke is also
movement) often an under-rated feature of fires, and
Reference should also be made to Parts D2, needs to be carefully considered when
16, 17 and 18 of Regulation 12 of the specifying fire-stopping constructions.
Building Standard (Scofland) Regulations In a rapidly developing market it will be
1990, and to Part E12 of the Building obvious that there are a wide range of
Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1990.
materials and systems available which, if
Unfortunately,due to the absence of either a
UK or European Standard Test Method, the correctly specified and installed, will prevent
test and appraisal systems used for penetration the passage of flame and smoke from passing
seals are subject to widely varying through a service opening, or joint, for a
This inevitably leads to given period of time. In many cases
interpretations.
confusion for the specifier, the specialist fire however, the sealing or fire stopping of
the material openings or joints in elements of structure are
protection contractor, treated as an afterthought, and are not given

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the degree of importance essential for fire walls, floors, etc. The effects of expansion,
protective constructions. There have been contraction and deflection of these elements
many cases where loose materials have been will also need to be considered, in order to
indiscriminately packed around services in an fully evaluate the fire performance of the
effort to seal the opening, but such penetration seal. Additional information,
installations would invariably perform such as the load bearing capacity and
inadequately in a fire. See section on Mineral deformation of the supporting structure, will
Wool Slabs. also require to be fully evaluatedto determine
whether or not the construction will provide
The purpose of this publication therefore, is the specified period of fire resistance.
to provide the user with details of recognised
methods for the fire testing, appraisal and It should be noted that the majority of
construction of penetration seals. The lightweight barrier constructions tend to bow
intention is to provide sufficient information towards a fire, as the side exposed to the fire
to enable the specifier and user to judge each expands more than the "unexposed face" or
product or system on an equal basis, and to "cold face". If adequate provision is not
avoid the confusion of attempting to establish made for the relative movement of the barrier
the merits of varying test reports and to the penetration seal, it is possible that an
appraisals. integrity failure may occur within the seal
Various types of seals, their application, the itself, or at the interface of the components
used in the seal.
practical advantages and disadvantages in use,
and their performancein fire are described in It is obvious that services passing through
detail. The publication does not pretend to be unsealed openings in elements of structure
a definitive document, but it is intended to be will allow flames, hot gases and smoke to
treated as a "User Guide" for the supply of pass through, and create an unnecessary fire
materials and systems used to restrict the hazard within the building. Properly
passage of flame, hot gases and smoke constructed penetration seals will however,
through openings in elements of structure. reduce such hazards and provide a safer
environment for the occupants of a building.
The data sheets, and assessment of relevant
information, have been prepared in Before agreeing to the installation of
accordance with the principles defined in penetration sealing systems the user and
Section 16, and have been checked and agreed specifierwill therefore need to:-
by an independent panel of the Association of
i) establish the effects of such penetrations
Specialist Fire Protection Contractors and on the integrity and insulation
Manufacturers. This independent panel
consists of representatives from the Loss performance of the element concerned;
Prevention Council, Faverdale Technology ii) establish the integrity and performance
Centre, Warrington Fire Research Station (all of the penetrationsealing system;
of whom are NAMAS approved laboratories)
and the BRE Fire Research Station. The iii) establish the insulation performance of
information contained within this publication, the penetrating service or services, and
and the details provided in the data sheets, where necessary, the integrity failure of
have therefore been closely evaluated and the service.
checked on a strictly equal basis.
This is especially important if one considers
that, in practice, penetration seals will be
attached to fixed elements of structure such as

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2. RECOMMENDATIONSFOR ThE Fire Separating Element
SPECIFIER
Floors, walls and other separating
Before specifying a particular system, early elements of construction having a period of
advice should be sought from both the fire resistance as determined in accordance
manufacturer and the specialist contractor with BS 476: Part 20 (ISO 834).
regarding the programming, installation
Services
sequence, and suitability.
Services consist of cables, conduits,
An installers' check list should be given to the
main contractor outlining the various stages of pipes, chimneys, ducts, trunking, air
ventilation systems, fire rated ventilation
any type of installation, so that spot checks ducts or fire rated serviceducts and shafts.
can be made by them to ensure that the
correct procedures are being followed. Penetration
After the inspection has been completed by a An aperture through a fire separating
suitably qualified individual, and the element for the passage of a service(s).
installation approved, a label bearing the date,
type of installation and manufacturer and/or Penetration Seal
contractor details should be fitted to the The system used to maintain the fire
finished construction in order that expert resistanceof the fire separatingelement at the
advice may be obtained in the event of
position where there is provision for services
damage to the system. to pass through the element.
3. HEALTH AND SAFETY Blank Penetration Seal
Many systems used to seal penetrations in The system, without the incorporation
floors are unable to support loads, such as
foot traffic, etc, and care must therefore be of services, used to seal or close an aperture,
whilst maintaining the fire resistance of the
taken to establish whether or not the installed
fire separatingelement.
system is load bearing. If the seal is non-load
bearing, access should be made physically Penetration Sealing System
impossibleby installing guard rails, etc, or by
The assembly consisting of the
installing independent walkway systems to
prevent loads being applied directly to the penetrating service or services and the
surface of the seal. Manufacturers/specialist penetration seal, materials and devices,
advice must be sought. together with any supporting construction,
designed to maintain the integrity and
4. DEFiNITIONS insulation performance of the separating
For the purposes of this document the element for the duration of the specified fire
following definitions apply: resistanceperiod.

Fire Stop Cavity Barrier

A seal provided to close an imperfection A construction provided to close a
of fit or design tolerancebetween elements or concealed space against penetration of smoke
components, to restrict the passage of fire and or flame, or provided to restrict the
smoke. movement of smoke or flame within such a
space.
 Service SupportingConstruction 5.1.3 Performance
Mechanical support provided in the Mortars are tested using the
form of clips, ties, hangers, ladder racks or furnace conditions and relevant performance
criteria defined in BS 476: Part 20 1987 for
trays, or any device designed to carry the load
of the penetrating services. various supporting constructions. Protection
periods may vary from one system to another
Construction Joints in differentconfigurations and orientations.
Gaps left by design during the In wall penetrations some systems will be
construction of a building which requires a capable of supporting the penetrating services
rigid or flexible seal to maintain the fire in the fire without the need for additional
resistanceof the structuralelement. mechanical support.

Lightweight Construction In floor penetrations some systems will be

Horizontal or vertical separating capable of supporting light loads such as
elements consisting of metal or timber studs maintenance foot traffic, although it is likely
or joists, including linings and, (if used), that some form of additional reinforcement
will be necessary (ie weld mesh, rebar etc).
insulation materials.

5. FORMED IN-SITU MATERIALS Systems can be expected to have resistance to

cold smoke, halon gas and mechanical
5.1 Mortars damage and may have good resistance to
5.1.1 water, including flooding.
Description
a or 5.1.4 Installation
Generally gypsum
cementitious based powder blended with The mortar is mixed and applied
inorganic lightweight fillers, composite using simple tools, generally withoutthe need
reinforcement and chemical modifiers. The for specialised equipment. For large
installations some materials are capable of
compounds are designed to be mixed with
water and placed around and between being pumpedafter mixing.
penetrating services giving a rigid seal with In floor penetrations a temporary or
typical densities ranging between 800kg/rn3 permanent damming board is normally used
and 2000kg/rn3. With some systems the with the mortar poured in place. Small
fillers give positive expansion whilst curing,
penetrations can sometimes be made by
to overcome the possibility of shrinkage
trowelling the mortar into the openingwithout
cracks. the use of a dammingboard.
5.1.2 Areas of Use
For wall penetrations mortars are often
The systems are mainly used for trowelledusing a single dammingboard or no
sealing penetrations through concrete and damming board, dependent on the opening
masonry constructions although some can be size.
used in conjunction with lightweight partitions
or timber floors. 5.1.5 Maintenance, Inspection
and Repair
Whilst the systems are particularly useful for Mortar seals generally have a long
sealing small or complex penetrations some service life; however, an annual visual
systems are capable of being used to seal inspection is strongly recommended to ensure
large openings. that the seal has not deteriorated in situ. It is
good practice to inspect more frequently to
ensure that, where a seal may have been

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modified for the addition of new and/or the 5.2.3 Performance
removal of existing penetration services, the Sealants/Mastics are tested using
seal has been reinstated. the furnace conditions and relevant
In most cases, the mortar seals may be performancecriteria defined in BS 476: Part
reinstated or repaired using more of the same 20: 1987 for various supporting constructions.
material, strictly in accordance with the Protection periods may vary from one system
to another in different configurations and
appropriateinstallation method.
orientations.
Specialist advice should be sought especially
when reinstating load bearing floor seals. This type of penetration seal would normally
be used for small openingswith the sealant in
5.2 Sealants/Mastics some cases being applied onto a combustible
5.2.1 Description material such as polyethylene or onto a
non-combustible backing material such as
Single or multipack systems mineral wool. In the latter case this may
comprising organic, inorganic or intumescent form a partof the fire design of the seal.
fillers pre-dispersed in a suitable binder (ie
5.2.4 Installation
acrylic, polysulphide, silicone etc). The
materials are of high viscosity and are Normally installed without the
dispensed by gun or trowelled into the need for specialist equipment and often
opening and between penetrating services. without the need for site mixing. Use of
The materials cure by way of evaporation or mastic guns or trowels is common, although
chemical reaction to give either a flexible or for floor penetrations some materials can be
rigid seal, dependentupon the binder system. poured using temporary or permanent
damming boards.
Systems can be expected to have resistance to
cold smoke, halon gas and water, including Dusty/friable surfaces may need additional
flooding. treatment prior to the application of the
sealant/mastic - refer to manufacturer's
instructions.
5.2.5 Maintenance, Inspection
and Repair
Sealants and Mastics generally
have a long service life, however some
materials may deteriorate over prolonged
periods, particularly when subjected to the
elements.
An annual visual inspection is strongly
recommended to check that the seal has not
FOLLOWING FiRETEST TIlE SEAL REMAINS iNTACT deteriorated.

5.2.2 Areas of Use It is good practice to inspect more frequently

to ensure that the seal has been adequately
They are suitable for penetration maintained.
seals in all forms of fire resistant
construction, particularly where openings are These types of seals may last for the life of
small, penetrations are complex and access is the building, however where the seal may
difficult. have deteriorated or suffered mechanical
damage, it should be completely removed and

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replaced in accordance with the Putty seals are not generally repaired but are
manufacturer'sinstructions. normally completely removed and replaced
with fresh material in accordance with
5.3 Putties manufacturer'sinstructions.
5.3.1 Description Care should be taken when removing putty
Single pack materials similar to seals from around electrical cables, to prevent
some sealants/mastics but capable of being
damage to the electrical insulation and risk of
formed and directly installed by hand. When
injury.
cured the materials give a flexible or rigid
seal, dependent upon the binder system. 5.4 Room TemperatureVulcanising
5.3.2 Areas of Use Foams (R.T.V.)
Suitable for seals particularly 5.4.1 Description
where openings are small and access is Normally a two component
difficult. silicone material which, when mixed together,
5.3.3 Performance cause the material to foam and increase its
volume. The material vulcanises at normal
Putties are tested using the furnace
room temperatures resulting in the formation
conditions and relevant performance criteria of a highly resilient seal.
defined in BS 476: Part 20: 1987 for various
supporting constructions. Protection periods Systems can be expected to prevent the
may vary from one system to another in passage of cold smoke, halon gas and have
differentconfigurations and orientations. good resistanceto water, includingflooding.
Physical performance characteristics will be In floors, seals would not be considered load
similar to those for sealants/mastics. bearing.
5.3.4 Installation 5.4.2 Area of Use
Installed without the need for Suitable for seals, particularly
specialist tools or site mixing. where access is difficult and where services
are complex (see Installation).
Dusty/friable surfaces may need additional
treatment prior to the application of the The seals will accommodate small amounts of
sealant/mastic - refer to manufacturer's axial and lateral movement of the penetrating
instructions. services and will achieve a degree of nuclear
5.3.5 radiation attenuation. Refer to manufacturer's
Maintenance, Inspection
and Repair product specifications for actual radiation
performance.
Putty Seals generally have a long
service life, however some putties may dry 5.4.3. Performance
out over long periods in situ. Room temperature vulcani sing
foams are tested using the furnace conditions
An annual visual inspection is strongly and relevant performance criteria defined in
recommended to check that the seal has not BS476: Part2O: 1987 for various supporting
deteriorated. It is good practice to inspect constructions. Protection periods may vary
more frequently to ensure that, where a seal from one system to another in different
may have been modified for the addition of configurations, and orientations.
new and/or removal of existing penetrating
services, the seal has been reinstated. Physical performance characteristics will be
similar to those for sealants/mastics.

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In floors, seals would not be considered load and gels provide a gelatinous compound of
bearing. high resilience.
5.4.4 Installation In the case of the elastomer the physical
Metered mixing is essential and performance will be similar to RTV Foam.
reaction times will vary. Gels are usually softer but have much better
axial and lateral movement capability.
Manufacturer's instructions must be referred
to, ensuring the correct installation of the 5.5.2 AreaofUse
seal. Temporary or permanent damming Suitable for seals particularly
boards are used to contain the expanding where access is difficult and where services
mixture. Where permanent damming boards are complex (see Installation).
are used their presence must not adversely
affect the fire performance of the finished The seals will accommodate small amounts of
axial and lateral movement of the penetrating
seal.
services and will achieve a degree of nuclear
Specialist advice should be sought in the radiation attention. Refer to manufacturer's
choice of damming board materials, which product specifications for actual radiation
form an integral part of the design of the performance.
finished fire seal. 5.5.3 Performance
5.4.5 Maintenance, Inspection Silicone elastomers and gels are
and Repair tested using the furnace conditions and
Room Temperature Vulcanising relevant performance criteria defined in
Foams (R.T.V.'s) generally have a long BS476:Part 20:1987 for various supporting
servicelife. constructions. Protection periods may vary
from one system to another in different
An annual visual inspection is strongly
configurations and orientations.
recommended to check that the seal has not
deteriorated or experienced mechanical 5.5.4 Installation
damage. Metered mixing is essential and
reaction times will vary.
It is good practice to inspect more frequently
to ensure that, where a seal may have been Manufacturer's instructions must be referred
modified for the addition of new and/or the to, ensuring the correct installation of the
removal of existing penetrating services, the seal.
seal has been reinstated.
Temporary or permanent damming boards are
In most cases these seals may be reinstated or used to contain the curing mixture. Where
repaired using more of the same material, permanent damming boards are used their
strictly in accordance with the manufacturer's presence must not adversely affect the fire
instructions. performance of the finishedseal.
Specialist advice should be sought when Specialist advice should be sought in the
reinstating this type of seal. choice of damming board material which
form an integral part of the design of the fire
5.5 SiliconeElastomers and Gels seal.
5.5.1 Description
Damming boards are generally required with
Normally two component systems siliconeelastomer and gelatinous systems.
which cure at room temperature. Elastomers
provide a range of low or high density seals

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Silicone elastomers will have different curing together as a Composite System. For
times, depending upon the individual example, coated mineral wool boards and
formulation and the addition of fillers. bags can be used together, in the same
penetration, where there are both permanent
Ambient conditions may also affect the curing and temporaryservicespassing through.
time of these materials.
6.2 Areas ofUse
Manufacturer's installation instructions must
be adhered to. Composite penetration seals are used
where the nature of the penetration is such
5.5.5 Maintenance, Inspection
that it is difficult to provide a seal by other
and Repair
means. They are generally necessary where a
Silicone elastomer and gelatinous large variety of penetrating services are
seals generally have a long service life. grouped together.
An annual visual inspection is strongly 6.3 Performance
recommended to check that the seal has not
deteriorated. It is good practice to inspect Individual penetration seals will all have
more frequently to ensure that, where a seal been tested using the furnace conditions and
relevant performance criteria defined in
may have been modified for the addition of BS476: Part 20: 1987, but composites may
new and/or removal of existing penetrating
not necessarily have been tested in the exact
services, the seal has been reinstated.
configuration proposed for a particular
In most cases these seals may be reinstated or penetration. Caution is therefore advised
repaired using more of the same material, when contemplating a composite system as
strictly in accordancewith the manufacturer's not all combinations are acceptable. Where
instructions. Specialist advice should be components have not been tested in
sought when reinstating these types of seals. conjunction with each other, specialist advice
should be sought.
6. COMPOSITES
6.4 Installation
6.1 Description
A combination of installation procedures
There are situations where a is used depending upon the individual
combination of penetrations seals can be used
components making up the composite system.
Specialist advice should be sought,
particularly about methods of fixing. Fire
Integrity can be compromised by using the
wrong method of fixing in composite
penetration seals.
6.5 Maintenance, Inspection and
Repair
Maintenance, inspection and repair
schedules are dependentupon the locationand
the various components used in the composite
system.

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7. BOARDS 7.4 Installation
7.1 Description These boards are easily cut and drilled
on site using conventional tools. Fixing in
Many types of Fire Protection Boards place is normally by screwing to a frame
are suitable for this application. Boards may work but in some instances adhesive bonding
be classified as monolithic, multilamina or may be suitable.
composite. They are generally fibre
reinforcedcement, fibre reinforcedgypsum or Specialist advice should be sought,
fibre reinforced autoclaved calcium silicate particularly about methods of fixing, and
for thicknesses up to and including 15mm, or installation should be carried out by a
vermiculite bonded sodium or potassium specialist contractor, strictly in accordance
silicate or vermiculite bonded autoclaved with the Manufacturers instructions.
calcium silicate for thickness up to and Particular attention should be given to any
including 60mm. The thinner boards are joints and edges.
normally available in sheet sizes of 1.2m by 7.5 Maintenance, Inspection and
2.4m and the thicker ones in 0.8m x im.
They are rigid or semi rigid with a density Repair
ranging between 700 and 1 lOOKgs/m3 for the This type of seal has a long life but
thinner boards and less than 500 Kgs/m3 for annual inspection is to be encouraged to
the thicker ones. ensure the retention of the fixing system.

7.2 Areas of use Damaged boards must be replaced and in so

These boards are suitable for use on doing, be in accordance with manufacturer's
instructions.
most types of penetrations but are particularly
advantageous where large gaps are 8. MINERAL WOOL SLABS
encountered.
8.1 Description
They may be used in conjunction with other Mineral wool products for fire stopping
materials to improve their performanceor to
are supplied in a number of forms; typically
impart other specific properties. referred to as mats, slabs, batts or pre-formed
7.3 Performance shapes. These products are usually
manufactured from the range of higher
Boards are tested using the furnace
conditions and relevant performance criteria melting point mineral wools. The usual
defined in BS 476: Part 20: 1987. Protection density range is 75-250kg/m3.
periods and performancewill differ dependent The products can be used in a wide range of
upon configuration and method of assembly. fire stopping applications untreated, but are
These boards are all usually non combustible often finished with a fire resisting coating to
maintain the integrity and insulation of the
and are capable of withstanding continuous
system under a wide range of conditions.
high temperatures; the thicker boards can
accommodate higher temperatures than the 8.2 Areas of Use
thinner boards. The types based on cement
and calcium silicate are normally fully The mineral wool slabs can be used to
fireseal penetrations through compartment
resistant to high levels of humidity but those
based on potassium or sodium silicate may walls and floors and allow additional services
to be readily installed as required. In certain
require additional protection in high humidity circumstances a supporting structure will be
environments. All types are dimensionally
required - refer to manufacturers
stable in normal operatingenvironments.

—
ii —
recommendations. Blank seals can also be Examples of locations of Linear Gap Seals
installed, so that when services are required include the perimeter of floor slabs and walls,
to penetrate a wall or floor, they can be and at joints designed to allow structural,
quickly installed and the seal reinstated. seismic or thermal movement.

8.3 Performance There are several types of Linear Gap Seal,

which may be classified by their material
Mineral wool products are tested using
the furnace conditions and relevant composition.
performance criteria defined in BS 476 Pt 20: Formed in-situ materials(ie mortars, sealants,
1987 for various supporting constructions. mastics and putties, including intumescents,
Individual system designers and room temperature vulcanising foams, silicone
manufacturers should be consulted for the elastomers and gels) may be used and their
design requirements of the proposed properties and application are described in
penetration system. Section 5.
8.4 Installation Preformed boards, such as mineral wool
Mineral wool can be installed as board, can also be cut to strip size, and their
pre-formed shapes or as standard slabs for properties and application are described in
tailoring to fit openings. The slabs can be Section 8.
friction fitted to the sides of the opening and Linear Gap Seals can also be made from a
around the penetrating services. A "fire more flexible organic foam, with or withouta
resistant" sealant is generally applied to all
reinforcing sheet on both sides. The foam
joints and to the raw edges of the slab. Some and/or the reinforcing sheets may be
systems may require secondary support. intumescent. Flexible products based on
Again this will vary from Manufacturer to inorganic materials, which may be covered
Manufacturer. Systems should be installed by with fabric, are also available.
a specialist contractor.
9.2 Areas of Use
8.5 Maintenance, Inspection and
Linear Gap Seals are suitable for sealing
Repair structural joints or gaps between, or in, all
Mineral wool productsgenerally require forms of fire resistantconstruction.
minimum of maintenance during the lifetime
of the building, but annual inspections are Formed in-situ materials are particularly
desirableto recogniseany mechanical damage useful for sealing narrow or complex gaps
and the necessary repairs made. The seals and where access is difficult. For larger gap
must be properly reinstated when services are widths some form of additional reinforcement
re-routed. or temporary shuttering may be necessary.
9. LINEAR GAP SEALS Preformed boards are more suitable for wider
gaps, and may require a fixing adhesive or
9.1 Description coating, which may be intumescent.
Linear Gap Seals are designed to maintain the
The more flexible material systems are
fire resistance at structural discontinuities
which may occur between and within fire particularly suitable for joints or gaps where
there is a risk of structural, seismic or thermal
separating elements. These discontinuities movement.
may range from the horizontal to the vertical,
and would have a typical length to width ratio
of at least 10:1.

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 9.3 Performance 9.5 Maintenance, Inspection and
Linear Gap Seals are tested using the Repair
furnace conditions and relevant performance Linear Gap Seals generally have a long
criteria defined in BS 476: Part 20: 1987 for service life; however, an annual visual
various supporting constructions. inspection is strongly recommended to ensure
that the seal has not deteriorated in situ. It is
NB: A test method for assessing the effect on
good practice to inspect more frequently to
the fire resistance performance of ensure that, where a seal may have been
including a linear gap seal in a fire modified, the seal has been reinstated.
resisting element is being developed by
a CEN team of experts including S Records should be kept of all inspections.
Kettle, WFRC. The draft is scheduled
for completion and first circulation for 10. BAGS
comment by CEN members in 1993. 10.1 Description
The draft is also intended to become an
ISO standard. Reference to this Bags are available in various sizes and
standard, when confirmed, will be shapes and are specified for use in temporary
included in this section. or permanent fire stopping situations where
services such as cables pass through walls and
Protection periods vary from one system to floors. Since they are easily removed, they
another in different configurations and are particularly suited to areas where services
orientations. are frequently re-routed. They can also
provide temporary protection during
9.4 Installation construction work. are made from
Bags
Formed in-situ materials are normally special fabrics and enclose a filling material
installed without the need for specialist which often incorporates an intumescent
equipment, using a caulking gun or trowel. material.
Some materials may require reinforcement or
permanentor temporary shuttering, dependent
on the width and depth of the gap.
Material may need to be applied from both
faces of the gap to ensure that the required
amount is installed.
Preformed boards are cut-to-size and installed
manually, sometimes with a coating or
adhesive sealer, which may be intumescent,
applied to the face and/or edges of the board.
The more flexible material systems are
normally installed manually. The material
can be supplied as small blocks or plugs, or
as strip which is cut to size and adhesive
applied, if required, before compressing and
insertion into the gap. To fill wider gaps
10.2 Areas of Use
material can be joined or laminated to
completethe seal; refer to manufacturer. Bags can be used wherever services,
such as cables, penetrate a fire resistant
element. They are particularly useful where

- 13 -
services are frequently re-routed, and can be for trapezoidal metal decking. Blocks are
used as temporary protection during the formed from materials such as bonded
construction phase of a building. vermiculite, mineral wool,
gypsum/cementitious materials, polyurethane,
10.3 Performance modified rubber, etc. They can be either
Bags are tested using the furnace rigid or flexible. Some fire stopping blocks
conditions and relevant performance criteria are inherently fire resistant, some rely on an
defined in BS476: Part 20: 1987. Protection intumescent coating, and some are
periods may vary from one system to another manufactured using intumescent materials.
and in different configurations, orientations
and packing densities (number of bags per 11.2 Areas of Use
square metre). To fully contain cold smoke, Blocks can be used for a wide variety of
additional precautions will be required. fire stopping requirements. They can be used
individually in small penetrations or in
10.4 Installation
multiple layers for larger openings. They are
Bags must be placed into the opening(s) useful where services require occasional
using the correct orientation, packing density re-routing.
and overlap (staggered joints), to achieve the
desired fire rating. 11.3 Performance
Fire stopping blocks are tested using the
For wall penetrations, bags are normally self furnace conditions and the relevant
supporting, but large openings with few performance criteria defined in BS 476: Part
penetrating services may require a steel 20: 1987.
retaining mesh for support on both sides of
the penetration. The Size of mesh and 11.4 Installation
method of fixing may affect the support of the Fire stopping blocks can be used
bags and the manufacturers fixing
individually where the penetrationis small, or
specification must be adopted. in multiple layers for larger openings. The
Floor penetrations normally require a well various types can be loose laid,
anchored steel retaining mesh or basket to compression/friction fitted, or bonded
support the bags. together. Some types will require a fire
resistant sealant to be applied along joints and
10.5 Maintenance, Inspection and interfaces. For circular penetrations,
Repair cylindrical or conical blocks can be used.
Since bags are easily removed it is Some blocks, such as those based on calcium,
advisable to regularly check that the seal is
potassium or sodium silicate, (eg bonded
intact and that all bags are still in place. The vermiculite blocks) may require additional
seal must be properly re-instated when cables
protection in high humidity environments.
are re-routedor disturbed.
Since there are many different types of fire
11. FIRE STOPPING BLOCKS stopping block, installation should be in
11.1 Description accordance with the manufacturers
instructions. Specialist advice should be
Blocks for fire stopping are available in where these materials are to be used in
sought
a variety of shapes and sizes. They are combination with other fire stopping
generally cuboid for rectangular penetrations materials.
or cylindrical/conical for circular
penetrations. Castellated blocks are available

- 14 -
 11.5 Maintenance, Inspection and By varying the outer topcoat on the seal,
Repair protection can be offered from the effects of
Since blocks are often easy to remove, sea water, ozone, methane, hydrocarbon fuels
it is advisable to regularly check that the seal and ultra violet light.
is intact and that all blocks are still in place. 12.4 Installation
The seal must be properly re-instated when
services are re-routed or disturbed. A The bellows type seals can be quickly
minimum annual inspection is recommended. and easily installed by wrapping around the
pipe and fixing to the surroundingstructure.
12. BELLOWS FIRE SEALS
The installation must be carried out by
12.1 Description Specialist Approved Contractors in strict
accordance with the manufacturer's
These flexible seals are generally based
on a Neoprene coated fabric sleeve. The instructions.
fabric is typically non-combustible and high These penetration seals are usually custom
temperature resistant, and is usually a woven designed for a specific requirement and
glass cloth or woven ceramic textile. specialist advice should be sought in design.
The bellows sleeve is retained in place using 12.5 Maintenance, Inspection and
stainless steel clips or by a split steel flange
Repair
and screws. The overlapping bellows sleeve
is bonded togetherwith an adhesive. The bellows type of seals generally have
a long service life.
Insulation materials are incorporated into the
An annual inspection is strongly
seals where thermal considerations apply both
to the pipe and retaining clips. recommended to ensure that the seal has not
deteriorated. It is good practise to inspect
12.2 Areas of Use more frequently to ensure that no damage has
occurred.
They are suitable for use on pipe
penetration seals in all forms of fire resistant These type of seals are not generally repaired
construction. In particular, where high but completely removed and reinstated with
movement or vibration of the pipe is expected new materials in accordance with
both linearlyand axially. manufacturers instructions and by Specialist
Typically used in computer rooms, ApprovedContractors.
laboratories, nuclear power stations and 13. PIPE CLOSURES
offshore installations.
13.1 Description
12.3 Performance
Pipe closures are designed to preserve
The bellows type of seals have been the integrity of a fire rated compartment
tested using both the furnace conditions where plastic pipes or trunking pass through
defined in BS 476: Part 20: 1987 and those floors or walls. Unlike metal or cable service
recognisedto simulate a Hydrocarbon Fire. penetrations, plastic pipes and trunking soften
This type of penetration seal may be gas tight, and collapse under heating, therefore some
and can withstand water flooding. The levels means of preventing the passage of hot gasses
of and smoke is required. This is achieved by
pressure resistance achieved may vary
from one system to another in different strangling the cross-section of the pipe or
configurations. trunking.

- 15
There are variations in design of pipe It is essential that the method of securing the
closures. The two main types are pipe collars collar to the fire resistant element will not be
and pipe wraps. Both systems confine an compromised by the action of fire. Certain
intumescent compound which expands on types of fixing components may not be
exposure to fire, rapidly exerting pressure suitable. Manufacturers fixing specifications
upon the pipe. The plastic walls, which will must be adopted.
have softened due to the heat, collapse under
this pressure creating a constriction. Some
pipe closures incorporate a mechanical device
which may or may not include an intumescent
compound. Pipe collars incorporate an outer
casing which acts as a restraint for the
intumescent material, enabling the collar to be
either surface fixed to the separating element
or incorporatedwithin it. Pipe wraps have no
casing and hence must be located within the
separating element, which acts as a restraint
for the intumescent.
13.2 Areas of Use
Pipe collars or pipe wraps can be used
where plastic pipes or plastic trunking pass
through fire resistant elements such as floors
or walls. Pipe wraps:
13.3 Perfonnance Pipe wraps are fitted into an
oversize hole in the separating element,
Pipe closures are tested using the
furnace conditions and relevant performance surroundingthe pipe. If there is a fire risk on
both sides of a compartment wall or floor two
criteria defined in BS 476: Part 20: 1987 for
various supporting constructions. Protection wraps may be required.
periods may vary from one system to another For exact details of fitting for any type of
and in different configurations and pipe closure, specialist advice should be
orientations. The performance of a pipe sought.
closure will depend on the type of plastic used
for the manufactureof the pipe, its diameter, 13.5 Maintenance, Inspection and
and its wall thickness. Repair
Some systems may deteriorate under
13.4 Installation adverse environmental conditions, (eg,
Pipe Collars: extremes of temperatureor condensation) and
The normal method is to fit the may require replacement if exposed.
collar to the wall or floor on the fire risk side,
Expert advice should be sought where pipe
although some designs can be recessed into closures are likely to be used in any of these
the structure or fitted on the non-risk side. If conditions.
there is a fire risk on both sides of a
compartment wall or floor, each side may
require protection.

- 16 -
14. DUCT PENETRATION SEALING Many ad-hoc fire tests on dampers have
SYSTEMS been carried out, and may still be
carried out, which adopt the test criteria
14.1 Description for uninsulated doorsets as described in
This section deals with the penetration BS 476: Part 22: 1987.
sealing systems which are installed where
ducts pass through fire separating elements. 14.3 Application
Ducts constitute uninsulated steel ducts, steel The fire resistance test for ducts (BS
ducts insulated on the outside or the inside (or 476: Part 24: 1987) is designed to evaluate
both) with a proprietary fire protection the fire performance of the duct penetration
material (board, spray or intumescent sealing system through a wall or floor
material), or ducts constructed with a construction (the fire separating element), as
proprietary fire protection board material. well as the fire performance of the duct
Guidance on the design and construction of system itself. The purpose of the penetration
steel ventilation ducts is given in DW/142 sealing system is to seal the gap between the
"Specification for sheet metal ductwork- low, duct walls and the surroundingwall or floor.
medium and high pressure/velocity air In a fire situation, an integrity failure of the
systems", published by the Heating and penetration sealing system is often caused by
Ventilating Contractors' Association. the movement or distortion of the duct.
Therefore it is not possibleto separate the fire
14.2 Areas of Use
performanceof the penetration seal from the
The purpose of the penetration sealing construction of the duct. A successful test on
system is to maintain the fire resistance a penetration seal fitted around one type of
performanceof the fire separating element for duct construction does not mean that the
situations where there is fire either inside or penetration seal is suitable for use with a
outside the duct. A fire rated duct must have different type of duct construction. Similar
a fire resistance which has been proved by comments also apply for duct sizes other than
test in accordancewith BS 476: Part 24: 1987 that tested. Usually the penetration seal will
(ISO 6944: 1985) "Method for determination be suitable for duct sizes smaller than that
of the fire resistance of ventilation ducts", or tested, but the construction of the duct may
which has been assessed to the same standard. have to be modified or the duct locally
Fire-rated air handling ducts are divided into strengthened at the penetration, for duct sizes
three categories in BS 476: Part 24: 1987 - air larger than that tested. Most of the fire tests
ventilation ducts, smoke exhaust ducts and on duct penetration sealing systems have been
kitchen extract ducts. The orientation of the carried out through concrete floors or
duct can vary from the horizontal to the masonry/concrete walls. If the fire separating
vertical or any angle in between. If the duct element is of a different type of construction
is not fire rated then a proprietary fire damper from that tested, for example a timber floor
must be fitted within the wall or floor opening or a fire rated partition system, then an
which is mechanically fastened in the position indicative fire test and an assessment should
of the wall or floor. The fire resistance of a be carried out to ensure that the duct
damper is determined in accordance with the penetration sealing system and/or any damper
current draft ISO test standard (DIS 10294 - restraint system is compatible with the
Fire dampersfor air ductwork systems*), in different fire separating element for the
the required orientation and position relative required fire rating. The fire tests on ducts
to the wall or floor. are carried out on specimens in the horizontal
orientation and in the vertical orientation.
The fire performance of the penetration

- 17-
sealing system must be demonstrated for the 15. TRANSIT SYSTEMS
orientation in which the duct is being used, or
have been assessed as being suitable. If the 15.1 Description
penetration sealing system fails to satisfy the Pre-fabricated metal frames containing
test criteria during the test then the duct or fire resistant materials which generally
damper system is also deemed to have failed. operate by producing a char layer. These
devices fall into two categories, Modular
14.4 Installation Cable Transits and Single Unit
The ducts should be adequately Clamping/Sleeving Systems. Both systems
supported from the adjacent floor or wall with are able to accommodate multiple penetrations
protected or unprotected steel hangers or either isolated or grouped together.
brackets as appropriate to the fire test and Cable-transits:
design. In the case of fire rated ducts, Consist of precision fabricated
allowance must be made for some longitudinal
metal frames which are either bolted onto, or
movement of the duct to cater for thermal
cast into, the fire resisting and separating
expansion and contraction. In the case of element. A matrix or series of elastomeric
non-fire rated ducts where dampers are
insert blocks fit around the penetrations and
incorporated, adequate provision should be
made for thermal expansion by means of a vary in size according to the parameter of the
penetrations. Solid filler blocks of the same
proprietary expansion frame or other tested material are inserted into the remaining areas
method. The sealing system should be
within the frame. A compression plating
capable of accommodating any such
movement. Where there is a risk of loads system provides optimum and evenly
distributed pressure throughout the filled
being transmitted from the ducts and fire
frame, ensuring the overall integrity and
damper to a non-loadbearing partition during insulation of the seal is maintained.
a fire, the construction should be so designed
to ensure that the partition will maintain its Clamping/Sleeving systems:
function for the full fire resistanceperiod. Consist of metal frames ofvarying
dimensions which contain either compressible
14.5 Maintenance, Inspection and intumescent materials or fire resistant fillers.
Repair As self contained fire rated units these devices
Duct penetration seals generally have a open and close around the penetrating
long service life, however an annual visual services and are then either bolted onto or
inspection is strongly recommended to ensure cast into the fire resisting and separating
that the seal has not deteriorated in situ. It is element.
good practice to inspect more frequently to
ensure that, where a seal may have been 15.2 Areas of Use
modified, due to a change in the duct Both systems are used for sealing cable
assembly or the separating element, the seal and pipe penetrations throughout a wide
has been reinstated. In most cases the seals variety of substrates.
may be reinstated by using more of the same Cable transits:
material, strictly in accordance with the
Are generally installed where the
appropriateinstallation method.
degree of protection is more onerous and
specialised as in Petrochemical and Marine
environments. They have been designed to
isolate and protect individual cables and
pipes.

- 18-
 Clamping/Sleeving systems: However an annual inspection is strongly
For cable trays, cables, pipes and recommended.
trunking. Are best suited for singular type 16. TEST AND APPRAISAL
penetrations in most forms of fire resistant PRINCIPLES
construction.
16.1 Introduction
To date there have been no standardized
methods for evaluating the contribution of
these products. They have therefore been
tested by analogy with methods for other
separating elements. As a result existing test
data is difficult to compare, there being
inevitabledifferences in methodology.
Considerable guidance is given in the draft
CEN fire test Standards for linear gap and
penetration seals to enable the application of
fire test data to be maximised. The following
15.3 Performance
principles have primarily been established to
Cable transits and Clamping/Sleeving facilitate the application of existing data
systems are tested using the furnace derived from ad-hoc tests.
conditions and relevant performance criteria
defined in BS 476 Part 20: 1987 and those Following the preparation of draft methods of
recognised to simulate a Hydrocarbon Fire. test within BSI and CEN, testing is now more
Protection periods and performancewill differ harmonised and all such testing should be
for each system type and will depend upon conducted in accordance with the latest
configurations and orientations. It is available draft until the relevant published
therefore essential to establish from the Standard is available.
manufacturer the system type best suited for Given the wide range of productsand product
its application.
applications it is not possible to prescribe a
15.4 Installation fixed programme of tests. Any programme
should, however, be designed to cover by test
Are easily installed without the need for and subsequent appraisal the range of sizes,
special personnel some
although applications and periods of fire resistance
manufacturers prefer that installation is
required based on the following principles.
carried out by competent contractors only
Most applications, with the exception of
15.5 Maintenance, Inspection and Linear Gap Seals, involve the sealing of voids
Repair between a fire resisting separating element
Both system types have been designed and a service penetrating it. Alternatively
with retro-fit facility and therefore any future there may be a requirement to seal voids
modifications or repairs can easily be which, at some later date, may be penetrated
undertaken withoutdestroying the seal. by services.
Maintenance and Inspection is wholly The following parameters are identified as
dependent upon location and application but those which maybe required to be varied from
generally the systems have a long service life. the tested prototype(s) and the extent to which
they may be varied without recourse to a

- 19 -
Specialist Fire Safety Engineer. To consider density equal to or greater than that
further variation and/or the combined effect tested.
of more than one change, specialist advice
should be sought. A sealing system tested in a lightweight
separating element may be appraised for
Except where stated otherwise, it is intended use in concrete or masonry elements of
that the following principles should apply to a thickness equal to or greater than the
all types of linear gap and penetration seals. tested element.
16.2 Appraisal Principles for Linear 16.2.2 Orientation
Gap Seals Gaps may occur in the following
situations:
16.2.1 Wallor Floor
Construction (i) as a vertical gap in a floor,
A seal may be required to be used
(ii) as a vertical gap between the edge of a
in an element of different construction from
floor abutting a wall,
that in which it was tested. Constructions are
likely to be steel, or concrete/masonry (iii) as a vertical gap in a wall,
composite, (for example, drylined blockwork
or lightweight partition systems) or (iv) as a horizontal gap in a wall,
combinations thereof. The surface finish, and as a horizontal gap above a wall
(v)
hence adhesion properties, the thermal abutting the underside of a floor, or
transfer and heat sink properties and roof.
dimensional stability of each of these
constructions is significantly different and, Assuming that all other parameters remain
therefore, the performanceof a seal in a gap constant, including the depth of the gap from
in one is likely to be different from its fire to non-fire side, it is considered that a test
performance in the others. The greatest result in one orientation may be applied to
variation within each material type is likely to others as follows:
be found in concrete/masonry constructions
where it is considered that the results of a test Appraisal Verdict
using the lower density material may be
applied to the higher density but not vice Appraisa& Construction
versa.
Tested . ..
Ii ...
Ill .
IV V
I
It is generally considered to be more difficult Construct n
to seal a linear gap in a lightweight separating -
i YES NO YES YES
element, e.g. a steel stud partition. For this
reason it is considered that test results ii NO - NO NO NO
achieved with such elements may be applied
to concrete or masonryelements. iii NO NO - YES YES

Appraisal Verdict iv NO NO NO - YES

The seal shall be tested in each of the v NO NO YES -

NO
generic construction types for which
approval is required. Test results
obtained with concrete or masonry walls 16.2.3 Depth and Width of Gap
may be applied to other concrete or Variations in these dimensions
masonry walls of a thickness and/or may be expected to have a significant effect

- 20 -
upon the fire resistance of a sealing system. Appraisal Verdict
In general a deeper gap (fire side to non-fire Different depths of sealing system may
side) may be considered less onerous as be appraisedby interpolation equating to
would a gap narrower than that tested. Since different periods of fire resistance. A
the amount, and possibly configuration of the seal positioned further from the exposed
sealing system will vary with the width of the face than tested may be appraised
gap it will be necessary to conduct a provided it can be shown that the
minimum of two tests, at the extremes of gap element can tolerate exploitation of the
width, and possibly one or more at gap by fire up to the position of the
intermediatewidths. seal.

Appraisal Verdict For a given gap an increase in the

Gaps deeper than those tested may be volume of the sealant system may be
appraised provided the sealing system appraised.
remains in the same position relative to
the face exposed to fire. Gap widths 16.3 Appraisal Principles For
different from those tested may be PenetrationSeals
appraised by interpolation between the 16.3.1 Wall or Floor
extremedimensions tested. Construction
16.2.4 Sealing System A seal may be required to be used
in an element of different construction from
Sealing systems will generally be
installed in one of four ways; a one or that in which it was tested. Constructions are
multi-component total gap filler; a one part likely to be steel, concrete/masonry,
seal set towards the face exposed to fire; a composite; for example, drylined blockwork
one part seal set towards the face away from or lightweight partition systems, or
the fire or a two part seal with a part being set combinations thereof. The aperture for the
towards each face. Each part may comprisea penetrating service may be preformed or
made post installation. In the latter case, and
varying number of components dependent on
the width of gap to be filled. The depth of the particularly in concrete/masonry, the reveal
of the aperture will be substantially different
sealing system may also vary with the period from a preformed aperture. The results of a
of fire resistance required. The width of the
test in one situation, therefore, will not
seal will be governed by the width of the gap
to be sealed and is covered above. For a necessarily apply to the other. For
constructions, it is
given width of gap and varying depth of seal concrete/masonry
it will be necessary to test the extremes of considered that the results of a test using a
lower density material may be applied to a
depth, representing the extremes of
contribution to fire resistance and possibly higher density one but not vice versa.
one or more intermediatedepths to optimise In general, preformed or manufactured seals
the depth required for each period of fire designed for smooth or regular reveal
resistance. The most onerous position for a surfaces are not readily able to be appraised
seal is flush with the face of the element for use in irregular apertures. Conversely
exposed to fire. In other positions the seal seals formed in situ may benefit from the
will be partially protected from the effects of better keying obtained with an irregular
the fire, although consideration should be opening or rougher surface texture.
given to the effects of fire on the element of
construction where the seal is set back from Appraisal Verdict
the exposed face. The penetration seal shall be tested in
each of the generic wall or floor types

- 21 -
 for which approval is required. Test other types of combustible or
results obtained with concrete or thermosoftening pipes.
masonry walls may be applied to other Seals tested around combustible or
concrete or masonry walls of a thermosoftening pipes cannot be
thickness and/or density equal to or appraised for use with other pipes.
greater than that tested. The
Seals tested around copper pipes can be
applicability of test results to aperture
reveals with different surface textures appraised for use with steel or cast iron
pipes.
will be dependent on the nature of the
sealing system. Seals tested around fibre reinforced
cement pipes or other low conductivity,
16.3.2 Orientation non- thermosoftening pipes cannot be
There may be little or no appraisedfor use with other pipes.
correlation between the performance of Seals tested around glass pipes cannot
penetration seals in a vertical or horizontal be appraised for use with other pipes.
position.
Seals tested around pipes with their own
Appraisal Verdict thermal insulation material may only be
Test results obtained with seals in appraised for use with other pipes, in
vertical elements cannot be used to accordance with the above, if the
thermal insulation is removed in the
appraise the performance in horizontal area of the penetration seal.
elements or vice versa.
16.3.3 Type of Pipe
The effectiveness of a seal around
a pipe penetrating a separating element will be
dependent upon the thermal transfer and
physical properties of the pipe. It is,
therefore, only possibleto appraise pipes with
similar properties to those tested, or those
with a lower thermal conductivity in the case
of pipes which remain rigid under fire test
conditions.
Where pipes are equipped with sleeves to
provide thermal insulation, and this has been 16.3.4 Size of Pipe
removed locally where the pipe penetrates the
For a given pipe material the wall
separating element, the material of which the thickness and pipe diameter will affect the
pipe is made should be considered. Where
the insulating material remains in place performance of the sealing system since these
dimensions will affect the heat transfer
through the separating element the insulation characteristics and hence the effectiveness of
material should be considered.
the sealing system and, in the case of
Appraisal Verdict thermosoftening pipes, the volume of the void
Seals tested around steel or cast iron to be sealed.
pipes cannot be appraised for use with
other pipes. Appraisal Verdict
Pipes of a given, tested, material may
In most cases, seals tested around one be appraised by interpolation between
type of combustible or thermosoftening the maximum and minimum diameters
pipe cannot be appraised for use with

- 22 -
 tested (with commensurate variation in Appraisal Verdict
wall thickness). Pipes of larger The penetrating service cannot be
diameter than those tested cannot be appraised with a system which provides
appraised. less support than that tested.
16.3.5 Dimension of Seal 16.3.8 Seals around fire-rated
There may be a requirement to Ducts
vary the dimension of the seal between the The sealing system around a
penetrating service and the aperture and/or fire-rated duct, where it penetrates the
between penetrating services. The degree of separating element, is evaluated at the time
support afforded to the service will therefore the duct is tested. The seal is designed for the
vary, as will the degree of self support particular duct system to accommodate the
provided by the seal. thermally induced behaviour of the duct. It
is, therefore, essential that any sealing system
Appraisal Verdict be evaluated by test with any particular duct.
The distance between the penetrating
service and the aperture reveal can be Appraisal Verdict
appraised only by interpolation between A seal tested around a fire-rated duct
the minimum and maximum tested. cannot be appraised for use with any
16.3.6 Position of Seal other duct, conversely a duct may only
be used with the sealing system with
The performance of a sealing
which it was tested. Ducts smaller than
system will depend to a greater or lesser that tested, with their sealing system,
extent on the rate and extent of heating of the
may be appraised but ducts larger than
sealing material, which will be a function of that tested cannotbe appraised.
the position of the seal relative to the fire
conditions, and of the conductivity of the 16.3.9 Seals around Dampers
adjacent materials, e.g. the penetrating The sealing system around a
service. For example, a pipe collar damper, where it penetrates the separating
containing intumescent material would be element, acts also as the support/mounting
expected to perform differently if bolted to system of the damper, providing restraint to
the non-fire side of a wall if it were fixed to the damper and an allowance for thermal
the side exposed to fire. movement. An additional seal could be
required around the support frame to seal
Appraisal Verdict gaps between the support frame and the
A sealing system can only be appraised
separating element. In the fire test on a
in positions where it is similarly
damper, the restraint provided by the support
exposed to the heating conditions. frame is a major factor in the behaviourof the
16.3.7 Degree of Support damper.
A penetrating service requires
Appraisal Verdict
support which may be provided by the sealing The combined and
system
system or by an independent support system.
In either case the fire test data should support/mounting system around a
demonstratethat the support is adequate under damper cannot be appraised for use with
other dampers. Also a damper cannot
fire exposure conditions. A reduction in
be appraised for other sealing systems
support of the service may disruptthe seal. or support/mounting systems. Dampers
smaller than that tested, with the same
sealing system and support/mounting

-23-
 system, may be appraised but dampers 16.3.12 Cable Trunking
larger than that tested cannot be For penetrations which comprise
appraised. cables within a lightweight steel or plastic
16.3.10 Cable Trays or Supports trunking system, a seal is required, both
Cable supports may be continuous between the trunking and the penetrated
through a separating element or may stop separating element and within the trunking
either side of it. The two situations present around the cables. For plastic trunking a
different conditions for the sealing system, a seal, for example, an intumescentcollar, may
continuous support being considered the only be required around the outside of the
worse case given the dimensions and trunking. The principles of appraising
variationsbetween the separating element and
conductivity of the component.
the trunking are as for other penetrations.
Appraisal Verdict Within the trunking, the density and cross
A sealing system tested with acable
sectional area of the cables is likely to vary
support which is continuous through the from that tested. If cables are added this may
separatingelement may be appraised for necessitate removal of some of the sealing
situations where the support is
medium and if cables are removed they
interrupted. A sealing system tested should be replaced by more of the sealing
with an interrupted support may not be
system.
appraisedwith a continuous support.
16.3.11 Volumeof Cables Appraisal Verdict
The performance of a sealing Variation in the density of cables within
the trunking may be appraised given the
system around cables (not contained in
trunking) may vary dependent on the number, appropriateadjustment in the quantityof
size, type and cross-sectional area of the the sealing system contained therein.
cables and the size of gaps between cables. 17. QUALITY ASSURANCEFOR
The test Standard prescribes a testing regime PENETRATION SEALS
deemed to be 'representative' of practical
situations to maximise the field of application. British Standard 5750, Quality Systems, is
now widely accepted as being the norm for
Appraisal Verdict the organisation of much production and
From tests carried out in the prescribed contracting work. In some instances clients
manner, appraisal can be made of all are demanding evidence of the
types of insulated cables with copper or implementation of the standard before
aluminium conductors, fibre optic awarding a contract.
cables and bound communication
The standard requires that the companyworks
cables. Appraisal can be made of
clearance gaps smaller, but not larger, in a systematic and organised manner, with
than those tested. All penetration sizes every operation which might affect quality
equal to or smaller than those tested being formally agreed and recorded. Periodic
audits must be taken to confirm that the
may be appraised providing the total standard is being followed. Each section of
amount of cable cross-sectional area
does not exceed 60% of the projected the standard must be addressed.
surface of the opening in the separating Successful companies will already be
element. operating in a systematic manner, and in most
cases the introductionof a quality system will
only mean that the methods of working have

- 24
to be formalised, written down and agreed. 18. SPECIFICATION
Items which will probably be new to a CONSIDERATIONS
company will be the formal checking of The. following tables and check lists provide
equipment, documents and records, but the .
basic information of points to be considered
benefits of these checks are often immediate
and obvious. prior to specifying or installing a system.

When a company believes it is achieving the

requirements of the standard then it can invite
an accrediting body to come in and audit the
operations. If the auditing company is
satisfied it will then issue an accreditation
certificate, and this allows the company to
display the crown and tick logo on their
stationery.
Grants are available from the DTI Enterprise
Initiative, which will assist in the employment
of a consultant by a small company to help
them achieveaccreditation. These grants will
pay for half or two thirds of the cost of a
consultant for fifteen days, depending on the
area in which the company is located.
To achieve accreditation the supplying
company, or the contracting company, must
address each point in the standard, as
mentioned above. Important points for
manufacturers are that operations are carried
out to written procedures and that records are
maintained of raw material and finished
product batches. Important points for
contractors are that materials are identified so
that the area of use can be related to material
batch number, that operators are properly
trained and that they are familiar with written
operating instructions. Clear and adequate
site records need to be maintained.

-25-
 WHICH SYSTEM(S) TO USE

LIMITATIONS OF USE

— Size of Opening
— Penetration services
— Flexibility of seal(s)
— Smoke / gas tightness
— Ambientconditiions
— Design life
— Frequency of change to services
— Parent construction
 SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

I I —i

Non

__
Steel/Cast

IIm]
Plastic I I ferrous I

iron I I I

COMPATABILITY CONSIDERATIONS

POINTS TO CONSIDER

— Intumescent systems in lightweight constructions

— Rigid sealsin 'dynamic' barriers
— Largespans andthermal expansion
— Smoke I toxicity in populated zones
— Dusty / friable materials in clean-room applications
 ASFPCM MEMBER COMPANIES - SEPTEMBER 1993

FULL MEMBERS

CONTRACTORS MANUFACTURERSIDISTRIBUTORS
A W T PaintersLimited Abesco Limited
Aaronite Limited AlphireLimited
BansUK Limited Bollom Fire ProtectionLimited
Barrier Fire ProtectionLimited British GypsumLimited
ChieftainInsulation Limited CafcoEurope SA
CradleyFire & Sound Insulations Limited Cape Boards Limited
Darchem Contracting UK Limited CarborundumCompany Limited
F P Fire Protection Services Limited Cryotherm InsulationLimited
FyldeFire ProtectionLimited ExpametBuildingProductsLimited
G+H McGill Limited FirestoreLimited
HAT Contracting Services Limited Gerco Fire Prevention/Protection (UK) Limited
Hertel (UK) Limited Herberts Construction Division
Kitsons Insulation ContractorsLimited International Paints Limited
McCartneyFire ProtectionLimited Knauf
P S Applications Lafarge PlasterboardLimited
PyrothermLimited W & J Leigh& Company
R & S Fire ProtectionLimited Mandoval CoatingsLimited
Roulston & McLaughlin Limited Mebon Limited
Structural FireproofersLimited NullifireLimited
TayblastFire Protection Limited Pilkington Insulation Limited
PromatFire ProtectionLimited
PyrothermLimited
RhonePoulenc Silicones UK
RockwoolLimited
Sealmaster Limited
Servicised Limited
Sheffield Insulations
Thermal CeramicsLimited
ThermicaLimited
Thermoduric Limited
WormaldAnsul (UK) Limited

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS

FIRE REGULATORYBODIES, TESTING HOUSES

CONSULTANCIES AND RELATED COMPANIES
Fire Protection Consultancy Limited Dublin Corporation - Building Control Section
Roberts Consultancy Services FaverdaleTechnology CentreLimited
Fire Research Station
TheLoss Prevention Certification Board
M & H Plant Hire (Manchester)Limited
OVERSEASASSOCIATES Putzmeister Limited
Moy YuanIndustrialLimited TheSteel Construction Institute
SundartEngineeringLimited Universityof Salford- Dept of Civil Engineering
Warrington Fire Research Centre
 ASFPCM PUBLICATIONS
The ASFPCM publishes a range of useful documents, covering many aspects of specialist fire
protection as follows:

YEARBOOK AND DIRECTORY OF MEMBERS

Provides comprehensive information on the Association and members, including a cross referenced
trade names list and an extensive article concerning 'Fire and the Steel Framework - Fire Safety
Policies'. (109 pages) * Free of charge with any purchase of the 'Yellow' book.

FIRE PROTECTION FOR STRUCTURAL STEEL IN BUILDINGS

- the 'Yellow Book' £30
This revised 2nd edition gives technical information, in a comparable format, on more than 50
products, plus advice on such matters as steelwork preparation and durability in service, as well as
tables of recommended thicknesses for Hp/A values covering most sizes and weights of strucutral
steel members. The publication is referred to in Appendix A of Approved Document B - Building
Regulations1991. (160 pages)

FIRE STOPPING AND PENETRATION SEALS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

- the 'Red Book' £10
Sets out the generic types of systems which are available, gives information about their suitability for
differentapplications and guidanceon test methods. (25 pages)

FIRE PROTECTION OF TIMBER FLOORS

- the 'Green Book' £10
Considers the principles and main factors influencing fire resistance performance of timber floors.
(23 pages)

SPRAY COATINGS FOR FIRE PROTECTION OF CONCRETE FLOORS

Part 1 - ASFPCMGuidanceNote 0001 Free
This is a Technical Guidance Note for the use of Sprayed Man Made Mineral Wool to the
requirementsof BS8110: Part 2: 1985. (3 pages)

If you wish to purchase copies of any of the above publications, please send your order together with
an appropriateremittance direct to the ASFPCM, P0 Box 111, Aldershot, HampshireGUll 1YW.

For all non-UKorders, please add £5forpostage andpackaging to the cost ofeach publication.
£10.00
ISBN: I 870409 07 8