30 MINUTES FIRE RESISTANCE MATERIAL*
When it comes to fire safety, every minute counts. The ability to control and contain a fire in its early stages can make a significant difference in preventing catastrophic damage. In recent years, the introduction of 30-minute fire boards has revolutionised fire protection systems. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of 30-minute fire boards, exploring their features, benefits, and applications.*
WHAT IS 30 MINUTE FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING?
Fire-resistant rating is measured in 30-minute intervals. This means that each subsequent level of protection is designed to provide an additional 30 minutes of fire resistance before the fire can destroy the material and spread to other areas of the building. The fire resistance rating increases in increments of 30 minutes, starting from 30 minutes and progressing to 60, 90, 120, and up to 240 minutes.
In other words, a 30-minute fire-resistant rating refers to the amount of time a building component can withstand exposure to fire without compromising its structural integrity. In simpler terms, it serves as a measure of the material's ability to resist the effects of fire for a specific duration, with each subsequent rating providing an extended period of fire protection
It is important to note that fire resistance is not the length of time that a structure is likely to survive in a real fire, but a standard measure for comparing the performance of different designs in a consistent manner.
EXAMPLE
For example, let's consider a 30-minute fire-rated wall assembly. This means that the wall is constructed using materials that can withstand exposure to fire for at least 30 minutes before the fire spreads to the other side. During this time, the wall acts as a barrier, preventing the flames, heat, and smoke from spreading to adjacent rooms or areas.
Additionally, it should be mentioned that the 30-minute duration is the minimum time required for notifying and the arrival of the fire fighters.
30 MIN FIRE BOARDS
To achieve a 30-minute fire-resistance rating, the wall assembly may consist of various components. It typically includes layers of fire-rated gypsum boards or other fire-resistant materials, such as cementitious boards.
30 MIN MASTERBOARD
One popular option is the Masterboard. Masterboard is a Class O building board with limited combustibility providing up to 30 minutes fire protection.
This board is suitable for external use in semi-exposed applications, whilst adding its fire rating qualities.
Masterboard is an integral element of the Promat moisture resistant ceiling and wall lining system specifically for use in swimming pools and other high humidity environments.
Masterboard is simple to work and install, easy to decorate and suitable for multiple applications.
30 MIN KNAUF, BRITISH GYPSUM, SINIAT FIRE PLASTERBOARD
Other 30-minute fire-resistant boards available in the UK market include the Knauf Fireshield board, the British Gypsum Fireline board, and the Siniat Bluclad board. Irrespective of the brand, these boards are commonly sold in pink colour, and there's a reason behind it.
The pink colour is often used to designate fire-resistant materials, including fire-resistant boards. In the case of fire, the pink hue signifies that the board has been treated with a fire-resistant coating or additive to enhance its fire resistance properties. Moreover, the distinct pink colour helps differentiate fire-resistant boards from other construction materials at a job site, making it easier for builders and contractors to ensure the appropriate materials are used in areas where fire protection is crucial.
Fire-resistant plasterboards are pink on the front side, grey on the back, and have tapered edges along the longer sides. Pink plasterboards typically consist of an aerated gypsum core reinforced with glass fibres and other additives, enclosed and securely bonded between strong paper liners.
In fact, fire boards are stronger, harder, and heavier than standard plasterboards, weighing around 28.80 kg (12.5mm) and 34.50 kg (15mm). During a fire, the chemically combined water within the gypsum core absorbs heat and gradually releases it in the form of moisture vapour.
Approximately 2 litres of water of crystallisation is present in the gypsum core of every square metre of 12.5mm fire-resistant plasterboard. This high water content contributes to up to 90% of the fire resistance protection provided by gypsum boards.
Fire-resistant plasterboard is suitable for dry lining internal surfaces and can be finished with skim plaster or decorated directly. The boards are available in standard lengths of 1800, 2400, 2700, and 3000mm. Only two thickness options are available: 12.5mm and 15mm. Plastering can be done using Gyproc skimcoat, Skim Coat Short Set, Carlite Finish, or Carlite Ultra. Tapered edge finish is available in two dimensions: 12.5 x 1200 x 2400mm and 12.5 x 900 x 1800mm.
On the other hand, when used in partitions or ceilings, two layers of 12.5mm fire-resistant plasterboard can provide up to 1 hour of fire protection. A single layer of 15mm fire-resistant plasterboard offers 60 minutes of fire resistance.
HOW DO YOU MAKE A 30 MINUTE FIRE-RESISTANT CEILING?
During a fire, the ceiling is the most vulnerable to the effects of heat and flames. Heat tends to rise upward, and flames seek to escape towards a source of oxygen. That is why it is crucial to ensure proper fire protection measures for the ceiling area.
According to guidelines, correctly installing a 1x12.5mm fire-resistant plasterboard with a plaster skim can provide 30 minutes of fire protection. However, the true fire rated properties will be governed by the standard of installation, the type of plasterboard used, the type of fixings used, spacing of fixings, size of gaps between sheets and the jointing method adopted.
To achieve a 30-minute fire rating on ceiling, it is advisable to utilise either 2x12.5mm fire plasterboards or a 1x 15mm pink board. Using a double layer of fire-rated plasterboard on the ceiling will also eliminate the possibility of micro-cracks forming at the joints between the boards. It is recommended, therefore, to install them in a crosswise pattern.
Note that a fire plasterboard cannot provide a fire rating on its own. Bear in mind that the 30 minutes applies to Load Bearing Capacity only - not integrity or insulation, so it's not providing a fire separating function for the full 30 mins.
30 MINUTE FIRE PROTECTION PLASTERBOARD
Fire-rated plasterboard, also known as fire-resistant plasterboard, fireproof plasterboard, fire board, or pink plasterboard, is composed of an aerated gypsum core with glass fibre reinforcement and other additives securely bonded between strong paper liners. When exposed to fire, the chemically combined water within the gypsum core absorbs heat and gradually releases it in the form of moisture vapour.
Fire-rated plasterboard is distinguishable by its pink-coloured front surface and grey-coloured back surface, featuring tapered edges along the longer sides. It is suitable for dry lining internal surfaces, allowing for skim plaster finishing or direct decoration. The boards are available in standard lengths of 1800, 2400, 2700, and 3000mm. Two thickness options are available: 12.5mm and 15mm.
Picture credit:siniat.co.uk
Plastering can be carried out using Gyproc skimcoat, Skim Coat Short Set, Carlite Finish, or Carlite Ultra. Tapered edge finish is only available in two dimensions: 12.5 x 1200 x 2400mm and 12.5 x 900 x 1800mm. All boards can be easily cut using the 'score and snap' method.
To find out on how to cut plasterboard click here.
When selecting fire-resistant plasterboard, it is crucial not to base your decision solely on price. Cheaper fire plasterboard may not meet specific requirements, which can potentially lead to tragic consequences. Opting for fire plasterboards from reputable building merchants like Selco, Wickes, or B&Q is recommended, as they offer boards from well-known brands such as British Gypsum, Knauf, Siniat, and Fermacell. The price of fire plasterboard often depends on the supplier's location relative to your project. On average, a fire plasterboard of size 8x4 costs around £16.44, resulting in approximately £5.71 per square metre.
FIRE RESISTANT PLASTERBOARD vs BUILDING REGULATIONS
According to current Building Regulations all structural elements, such as walls, floors and beams should provide fire resistance of at least 30 minutes. This is usually achieved by using fire-rated plasterboard and plaster finishes at least 12.5mm thick or two layers of standard plasterboard at least 9.5mm thick and a plaster set finish. For the internal ceiling finishes, materials need to be Class 1-rated to prevent fire spread. Small rooms of up to 4m2 floor area and domestic garages up to 40m2 can be lined with Class 3 (D-s3 d2) materials. Fire rated ceilings should have double plasterboards with staggered joints. Garage ceilings with a room above should have 2 layers of fire plasterboard to be ‘fire ceiling’. Perhaps it is because a garage can be used to store fuel. In fact, 30mins separation is the minimum fire resistance that the building regulations require in 2 storey houses with integral garages , however 2 layers are normally needed to satisfy the fire insulation, integrity and load bearing resistance standards.
30 MINUTE FIRE PROTECTION TO STEEL BEAMS
Structural steel beams and columns possess a certain level of inherent fire resistance. However, in most cases, additional fire protection is necessary to ensure that the steel remains below the critical failure temperature of 550°C for the required duration, such as 30 minutes.
Requirement B3(1) of the Building Regulations for England states: “The building shall be designed and constructed so that, in the event of a fire, its stability will be maintained for a reasonable period.”
All materials lose their strength as they get hot. Same applies to steel beams. Fully loaded steel beam exposed on 4 sides fails at 55°C, regardless of steel grade. Fully loaded beam exposed on 3 sides fails at 620°C.
Temperature 450-500°C is commonly used as a rather safe limit value.
Picture credit:Paroc.com
Fires in buildings regularly exceed 1000°C within a relatively short period of time (30-60 min), yet heavily loaded steel loses its design margin of safety, about 40% at temperature around 55°C regardless of the grade. As the temperature rises further the loss of strength is rapid and significant.
The design of fire protection is therefore based on this limiting temperature for elements exposed to fire on 4 sides.The aim is to keep the steel beam temperature below its critical temperature.
Steel beams can bend and warp when very hot, so they need to offer at least 30 minutes resistance to fire and this can be provided in a number of ways.
A double layer of plasterboard surrounding the steel is the most common way of achieving building regulations compliance, and the thickness will depend on the manufacturers’ specifications. Fire-rated plasterboard can also be used.
Please note that fire protection requirements may vary based on local regulations and specific project needs.
For more details click here
CONCLUSION
The development of 30-minute fire boards has significantly enhanced fire safety measures, providing an additional layer of protection against the devastating effects of fires. Their outstanding fire resistance, versatility, and ease of installation make them a valuable asset in safeguarding lives and properties. By incorporating these boards into construction projects, we take a significant step toward creating safer environments for everyone.
Remember, fire safety is a collective responsibility, and being proactive in implementing preventive measures is key. So, let's prioritize the use of 30-minute fire boards and ensure the safety of our buildings and communities.
Please note
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