Understanding Fire-rated Wall Assemblies and Why Split Ezy Fire is Beneficial for HVAC Installations

15 February 2021

To date, fires are known to be one of the leading causes of property damages around the world. A fire, after all, can start in an instant and damage everything that it touches. Aside from structural damages, a fire can likewise cause tragic injuries and death. Given the devastating effects of fire in properties, knowing how to prevent it can be effective in mitigating property destruction and civilian fire injuries.

Basic Principles of Fire-rated Wall Assemblies

One way to prevent fires from causing damages and injuries is through the installation of fire-rated wall assemblies. These assemblies are intended to stop the fire from spreading quickly. Most fire-rated wall assemblies in stepped buildings are normally extended for around 30 inches above the lower roof surface and around 15 feet above the lower roof. Exterior walls must have 1-hour fire-resistive construction, while any openings in the protected area should have 45-minute fire-resistive construction.

Fire-rated wall assemblies can be categorised into three.

1. Fire Partitions: Compared to other assemblies, fire partitions are known to be the least restrictive as they only have a minimum fire-resistance rating of an hour. These wall assemblies are recommended to be extended from the top of the floor below to the underneath layer of the floor. They can also be placed to either the underside of or above the fire-resistance-rated floor or ceiling. These wall assemblies are usually placed between separate dwelling, elevator lobbies, and corridors.
2. Fire Barriers: Fire barriers have a fire-resistance rating of between 1 and 4 hours. These wall assemblies are used to minimise the spread of fire. They usually include walls and horizontal assemblies and are advised to be installed continuously through concealed locations. Fire barriers are mostly extended from the top of the floor or ceiling assembly to the underside of the floor or roof. Atriums, exit stairways, and shafts often maximise the features of fire barriers.
3. Fire Walls: Fire walls are known to be the most restrictive fire-rated wall assemblies since they feature a fire-resistance rating of around 2 to 4 hours. They are often used in separating buildings and determining the allowable area. These fire-rated wall assemblies must be made from non-combustible materials so that they will not get affected by the fire. Fire walls must also be prepared for the structural collapse on their surrounding areas, all without causing these wall assemblies to fall.

Secure HVAC Installations with Split Ezy Fire

To make your HVAC system installation safe and secure, you may want to opt for Split Ezy Fire. This innovative wall mount bracket has an integral fire-rated intumescent penetration seal that is tested up to FRL -/120/120 in accordance with AS 1530.4. This specific product can be installed without exposure to elements, helping HVAC system units to be protected from external damages. Split Ezy Fire also features a visual datum point so that brackets and pipes can be easily located. It can likewise be installed anywhere as it can support most types of HVAC systems, particularly split system air conditioners.

If you want to gain access to Split Ezy Fire, feel free to contact us at Split Ezy Pro.

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