Whether you're new to the industry or not, the two terms can often be confusing. In our latest blog, we explain some of the important distinctions between the two terms.
Reaction to Fire
Reaction to fire tests look at how a material behaves when it is exposed to fire. The European standard, BS EN 13501-1, is used to determine the reaction to fire classification of construction materials.
BS EN 13501-1 evaluates the fire performance of construction products through a series of tests that assess their reaction to fire, smoke production, and flaming droplets. There are seven classification groups, from A1 which is non-combustible to F which is combustible. The classifications are A1, A2, B, C, D, E, and F.
A1 – Non-combustible materials – do not contribute to the development of a fire.
A2 – Materials with limited combustibility – do not contribute to the development.
B – Combustible – limited contribution to fire.
C - Combustible – minor contribution to fire.
D – Combustible – contributes to fire.
E – Combustible – will only resist a small flame for a few seconds.
F – Materials that have not been classified or have not met the minimum requirements of class E.
To learn more about UKTC's reaction to fire testing, click here.
What is Fire Resistance Testing?
The fire resistance of a product refers to a material’s ability to withstand and endure the effects of a fire, including high temperatures and flames, among other fire-related conditions and preventing it from spreading elsewhere. Fire resistance testing involves a product specimen within a supporting construction mounted to a furnace.
Loadbearing capacity
Integrity
Insultation
Loadbearing Capacity
This is the support system of the building and its occupants. Loadbearing capacity measures the product’s ability to remain intact and fulfil its intended use without collapsing. Some materials may have a significant loss in strength when exposed to the prolonged effects of fire.
Integrity (E)
Integrity refers to the time that a component can withstand and prevent fire and smoke from breaching into the compartmentation of the building.
Insulation (I)
Insulation is a measurement the time it takes for the material to withstand the heat generated from a fire and prevent it from breaching the building’s compartmentation.
To learn more about UKTC's fire resistance testing services, click here.
Why is it important to understand the difference between fire resistance and reaction to fire?
The performance of a material can vary between fire resistance and reaction to fire testing. Therefore, it is crucial for decision makers to review the appropriate fire test evidence to ensure the chosen building material meet the requirements for their intended application.
If you’re looking for fire testing and certification services, contact us today.
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