Fire collars are passive fire protection
A fire collar, also known as a firestop collar or pipe collar, is a fire protection device that practitioners use to maintain the integrity of fire-rated barriers when pipes or cables penetrate through them. The design intent to prevent the spread of fire, smoke, and hot gases between compartments or through openings in fire-resistant walls, floors, or ceilings.
Fire collars are typically installed around pipes, conduits, or cables that pass through fire-rated walls or floors. They consist of a metal or plastic collar that surrounds the penetrations, along with an intumescent material inside the collar. The intumescent material is usually a graphite-based compound or a combination of materials that expand when exposed to heat, creating a barrier that seals the opening and prevents fire from spreading.
How does a fire collar work?
During a fire, the high temperatures cause the intumescent material in the fire collar to expand and form a dense barrier, which effectively seals the annular space between the pipe or cable and the wall or floor. This helps to maintain the fire resistance of the barrier by preventing the passage of flames, smoke, and toxic gases to adjacent areas for a specified period. We typically rate this in terms of fire resistance time (e.g., 1 hour, 2 hours).
Fire collars are commonly in various buildings and structures, including:
- commercial buildings,
- residential buildings,
- hospitals,
- schools,
- and industrial facilities.
Installation occurs during the construction or retrofitting process and play a crucial role in compartmentalizing fire and limiting its spread. This provides additional time for occupants to evacuate and emergency responders to intervene.
It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local building codes when selecting and installing fire collars to ensure proper fire protection and compliance with regulations. Regular inspection and maintenance of fire collars are also necessary to ensure their effectiveness and to address any damage or deterioration that may compromise their performance. The fire collar shown on this page is a Boss one, distributed from FlameStop.
Overall, fire protection is essential for protecting people, property, and business continuity. It is important to consult with a qualified fire protection professional to determine the appropriate fire protection measures for your specific needs.
Contact RedMen Fire Protection Management today.
