A fire separation is only as strong as its weakest breach. Cables, pipes and ducts that pass through a fire-resistant wall or floor must therefore be sealed with a system whose application is substantiated, so that the WBDBO of the separation is maintained. This article explains which systems exist, which standards play a role and which factors determine the price.
What sealing systems are available?
| System | Application |
|---|---|
| Fire collar | Certain plastic and composite pipes. The intumescent material closes the opening when the pipe softens in a fire. |
| Wrap strip | Certain plastic pipes and insulated pipes, in the prescribed position. |
| Fire-resistant sealant or paste | Depending on the product: cables, pipes, small openings and joints. Some graphite sealants have a substantiated application around certain plastic pipes. |
| Fire-resistant mortar | Certain larger openings in solid walls and floors, possibly combined with collars or wraps. |
| Coated stone wool boards | Cables, cable trays and mixed penetrations, according to a prescribed build-up. |
| Fire-resistant pillows or blocks | Openings where cables are often added later, within the rules for modifications. |
| Special penetration foam | Certain cables, cable bundles and mixed penetrations, with a product-specific build-up. |
The right choice depends on the type of penetration, the wall or floor construction, the required performance and whether more penetrations will be added in future. Read the detailed comparison in fire collar, sealant, mortar or PU foam.
What do the standards mean?
NEN-EN 1366-3 is the European test standard for penetration seals; NEN-EN 1366-4 applies to linear joint seals. On the basis of the test, a system receives a classification according to NEN-EN 13501-2, expressed as EI + time:
- E (integrity): the seal does not let flames or hot gases through.
- I (thermal insulation): the unexposed side does not get too hot (a rise of no more than 140 °C on average and no more than 180 °C at any point).
- For example EI 60: 60 minutes of integrity and insulation in the test.
Not every permitted variant has to have been tested separately. NEN-EN 15882-3 describes how extended applications of test results for penetration seals are substantiated. The installation must fall within that substantiated field of application.
In the Netherlands, NEN 6068 determines the WBDBO between spaces; the fire resistance of a penetration is a building block in that. Smoke resistance is a separate performance: NEN 6075 describes how the resistance to smoke passage is determined. An EI classification does not automatically demonstrate that a smoke resistance requirement is met.
Record every seal
A classification belongs to a system within its field of application, not to a single product. So distinguish between two types of documentation:
- Product documentation: classification report or ETA, declaration of performance (DoP) and installation instructions. These show what the system can do and under what conditions.
- Installation records: location on the drawing, system applied, construction detail, date and photos. These show what was done at this location.
A logbook is not required by law, but it is sensible. The Informatiepunt Leefomgeving cites inadequate checks after penetrations are added or changed as an example of conduct contrary to the duty of care for fire-safe use. Without records, it is also impossible to trace when and by whom a cable was added later.
What determines the cost?
- Type and number of penetrations. Sealing a single cable is usually cheaper than a mixed opening with mortar and collars.
- Structure. Masonry wall, plasterboard wall or concrete floor: the construction helps determine which system is possible.
- Accessibility. Penetrations above a suspended ceiling, in a tight shaft, or at height require more labor.
- Volume. A catch-up programme with many penetrations usually has a lower unit price than individual call-outs.
- Documentation. With us, registration in the logbook is included in the price as standard.
Specific amounts vary too much per situation to mention here. After a short survey you receive a quotation per penetration or per opening. Also read what fire-resistant sealing costs.
Want to know how many penetrations in your building need attention? Request an inventory or view the service fire-resistant seals.
Frequently asked questions
That in the standard fire test the sealing system both stops flames and hot gases (E) and keeps the unexposed side cool enough (I) for 60 minutes. On its own, that says nothing about smoke passage.
Only if the system allows a modification and the work is done according to the system instructions. Some systems, such as pillows or blocks, are designed for later modifications; with others, the seal must be adapted or reinstalled. Agree the work in advance with the manager and have it checked and recorded afterwards.
That depends on the type of penetration, the construction, accessibility and the number. Individual call-outs usually cost more per unit than a bundled catch-up programme; after a survey you receive a specified quotation.
Want to know more about fire-resistant seals?
Sealing penetrations against fire with collars, wrap strips, sealant, mortar or other systems with a substantiated application, so that the WBDBO of your fire separation stays intact.
More about fire-resistant seals
