In this instalment of our ‘Let’s learn’ series, we look at BS EN 1634-:2014 + A1:2018 – the European standard that specifies the test methods for assessing the fire resistance of door and shutter assemblies.
What is BS EN 1634-1?
BS EN 1634-1:2014 + A1:2018 is a European standard that specifies the test methods for assessing the fire resistance of door and shutter assemblies, including openable windows and elements of building hardware. This standard is crucial for evaluating how well these components can withstand fire, aiming to restrict fire development, limit its spread, and protect escape routes.
What is the Scope of BS EN 1634-1?
The scope of BS EN 1634-1 encompasses testing door sets and shutter assemblies to determine their duration of resistance against fire. It evaluates doors based on their ability to maintain structural integrity over time—commonly quantified as thresholds like E30 (30 minutes of resistance) and E60 (60 minutes). The test includes assessments of integrity, insulation, and radiation effects under specified conditions.
What test procedures do we use?
The test procedures under BS EN 1634-1 are detailed and rigorous:
Preparation: Includes the manufacture and conditioning of the doorset.
Installation: The doorset is installed into a furnace setup typical for this kind of test.
Monitoring: The set is continuously monitored with thermocouples and other instruments to evaluate its response to high temperatures.
Assessment: Integrity, insulation, and radiation performances are assessed to determine if the doorset can effectively resist fire.
What is the Criteria for success?
The criteria for success in a BS EN 1634-1 test are:
Integrity (E): The door set must prevent flames or hot gases from passing through and igniting a cotton pad, allow penetration of a gap gauge, or sustain a continuous flame on the unexposed side for no more than 10 seconds within the test duration.
Insulation: Involves limiting the temperature rise on the non-exposed side to prevent damage or ignition of surrounding materials.
Radiation: The door must not allow radiation levels that could ignite nearby combustibles.
Shouldn’t I test for BS 476 Part 22?
BS 476 Part 22 is traditionally used in the UK but does not support CE or UKCA marking, limiting its recognition outside the UK. On the 2nd of September 2024 the British Government confirmed that the National Classes fire testing standards will be withdrawn from ‘Approved Document B’ in favour of the EN 13501 European classification standard.
BS EN 1634-1 offers a more rigorous testing environment and is recognised across Europe. It supports CE and UKCA marking, making it essential for products intended for both the UK and European markets post-Brexit. Given the opportunity to transition to UKCA marking for suppliers to the UK market and the broader recognition of BS EN 1634-1 standards in Europe, BS EN 1634-1 is the appropriate choice for ensuring compliance and marketability of fire door sets and shutter assemblies within Europe and the UK.
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