Glazed doors are in demand. And for good reason. Not only are they safer in high footfall areas, they’re often an important design choice in commercial and residential buildings. More glass enables more natural light to transfer between different areas. And with that in mind, glazed panels are becoming ever more ambitious, more complex and even larger in many instances.
This cannot be at the expense of fire safety. The continued strategy of compartmentalising and sealing remains crucial to prevent fire spread.
A specialist in passive fire-protection products, Pyroplex manufactures and supplies many tested and certified components to the construction market worldwide. One such example is the 60-minute fire glazing seal system, developed specifically for use in fire-resisting doorsets.
Extended testing delivers wider application
Glazing is often the most vulnerable part of a fire door system. Yet, it’s often overlooked. Without the correct glazing components, a fire door is simply not fit for purpose. And that’s a huge risk, should a fire break out.
A recent programme of in-depth testing has significantly expanded the field of application for Pyroplex’s 60-minute fire glazing seal system. Undertaken to BS476 Standard (parts 20 and 22), larger glazed panels and a higher variance of glass thicknesses can now be securely sealed. This is a high-performance and immensely effective component, suitable for many types of fire door.
Pyroplex’s 60-minute fire glazing seal system is also accredited under the Certifire Scheme TS25 (Certificate CF5287). Third-party certification like this formally assures the performance, quality, reliability and traceability of fire-protection products. Recognised by regulatory authorities worldwide, these schemes are an internationally respected mark of fire safety.
Nanocomposite intumescent technology
At the forefront of technical innovation, Pyroplex’s 60-minute fire glazing seal system is manufactured incorporating an expandable nanocomposite substance. It’s a reactive material with intumescent properties. When exposed to flame or heat, it will react and quickly expand to form a pressured seal around the glass panel.
Specifically developed and designed by Pyroplex to be a fundamental component of an FD60 glazed fire-resisting doorset, the three-part seal system includes two integral glazing fins and an aperture liner. The fins can accommodate a wide variety of glazing thicknesses and door core sizes, whilst maintaining sufficient compression of the glass to ensure that all-important seal, should the worst happen.
Aesthetically, the 60-minute fire glazing seal provides a low visual sightline, sympathising with design aspirations whilst ensuring robust fire safety.
Andy Walsh, Pyroplex Technical Manager comments: ‘Pyroplex is committed to its ongoing testing programme and the 60-minute fire glazing seal system is no exception. Incorporating intelligent, nanocomposite intumescent technology, it’s a robust and secure choice to accompany many different fire-resisting doorsets containing glazed apertures.
‘Extended British Standard testing, to widen its application in the market, is very welcome. And Certifire accreditation makes it a trusted contender for door component manufacturers and specifiers alike.’
For more information, go to www.pyroplex.com
