Three internal door configurations tested by the Steel Window Association’s (SWA) technical committee have successfully attained a half-hour fire rating (FD30). SWA’s representative has described the achievement as an important step forward for the industry.
Tests were carried out at the Exova Warrington fire research facility, in accordance with BS 476 Part 22: 1987. The SWA can now offer both single and double doors, with and without side screens, tested and assessed from both sides. All were fabricated using the classic W20 steel sections.
David Northam, a director of NSB Casements, which is an SWA member business, conducted the tests for the association. He said: “Some of the steps taken, such as reducing the fixing centres and using steel rather than brass studs, are quite straightforward. But we also investigated a variety of technologies available across the fire industry, particularly for strengthening the lock side of the frame, to prevent bowing under heat.
“These fire tests on W20 fixed-light single and double doors for internal applications have been granted 30-minute fire protection for integrity, by test report and assessment. This means SWA member companies can now make the results available to building control as required. It is a landmark for SWA internal fire screens.”
Kris Bennell, president of the SWA and contracts director for Associated Steel Window Services, added: “This testing, undertaken by Warrington, opens up our industry to a whole new range of possible applications. It addresses an area that we have been lacking in for some time, as well as representing the culmination of efforts from across the membership to come up with a solution that meets the very latest requirements. It is one of the best bits of news to come out of the SWA in the past 20 years.”
The single- and double-hinged W20 doors, with and without fixed sidelights, are available with a range of single glass types and ironmongery options, which have been either tested or assessed. This allows SWA members to ensure that, where 30-minute fire protection is required, they can supply a product that has the same aesthetics as a conventional steel screen.
The fire door’s glazing, including Pilkington Pyrodur safety glass, was seated on intumescent mastic tape. The perimeter was filled with an intumescent silicone sealant. There is also an intumescent strip fitted around the entire doorframe to prevent flames escaping the side where a fire starts.
The new FD30-rated doorsets are available only through members of the SWA. For information about the Steel Window Association or if you’re interested in becoming a member, visit steel-window-association.co.uk.
