Fire-rated frames: what they are and why they are essential in a building
Fire-rated frames are one of the essential fire protection elements in modern buildings. By fire-rated frames, we refer to doors, windows, or other openings designed to delay the spread of a fire.
Their main function is to:
- prevent the passage of fire
- contain smoke
- reduce heat transfer to adjacent areas
This creates safer zones within a building and facilitates the evacuation process.
Unlike standard frames, fire-rated frames are constructed with special specifications and materials that can withstand very high temperatures for a specific period.
Certification and European standards
For a product to be classified as fire-rated, it must have undergone specific tests. In Europe, the classification of building elements is based on standard EN 13501-2.
This standard defines how the behavior of an element is evaluated when exposed to fire, as well as for how long it can maintain its protective properties.
This certification is important because it ensures that the product meets the safety requirements stipulated by law.
Fire resistance indicators for fire-rated frames – Fire resistance
The performance of a fire-rated frame (fire resistance) is described through specific indicators. The most basic ones are as follows.
- Integrity (E): The E indicator shows whether the frame can remain intact during a fire. That is, if it can prevent the passage of flame or hot gases to the other side. To be considered as maintaining its integrity, it must not show cracks or openings through which fire could pass.
- Insulation (I): The I indicator refers to the frame’s ability to limit heat transfer. This way, the temperature on the protected side remains at safe levels. This is particularly important because it protects both people and materials in the adjacent area.
- Radiation restriction (EW): The EW indicator is mainly used for glass surfaces. It shows that the frame can limit the thermal radiation transmitted to the other side. This significantly reduces the heat reaching the adjacent area.
Fire resistance duration
The above indicators are always accompanied by a number expressing the duration of resistance in minutes.
Some common examples are:
- E30 – integrity for 30 minutes
- EI60 – integrity and insulation for 60 minutes
- EW30 – radiation restriction for 30 minutes
For example, a door with an EI60 rating can withstand fire for one hour without allowing flame passage and without significant heat transfer.
Fire-rated frames are made from materials with high resistance to temperatures and mechanical stresses.
- Steel and aluminum: These metals are often used in the construction of fire-rated doors, as they offer great strength and stability even in extreme heat conditions.
- Fire-rated glass: Fire-rated glass is specially treated to withstand high temperatures without shattering. It allows visibility and light transmission, which is particularly useful in commercial spaces.
- Insulating materials: Special insulating materials are placed inside the structures to help limit heat and increase fire resistance time.
Where fire-rated frames are used
Fire-rated frames are mainly found in buildings where fire protection requirements are increased, such as:
- industrial facilities
- hospitals
- shopping centers
- parking lots
- large multi-story buildings
- office buildings
Their use helps in compartmentalizing spaces and creating safe escape routes.
In conclusion, fire-rated frames are an important safety element for any building. Thanks to their special construction and certification, they can limit the spread of fire and protect people and infrastructure.
The correct selection of fire-rated frames, according to the needs of the space and fire protection requirements, is crucial for a building’s safety.
Which frames protect us best in case of fire
Read our article Which frames protect us best in case of fire. What happened in Mati and what is the opinion of the Polytechnic.
Alternatively, see the fire-rated Europa aluminum frames
