The main reason for ordering and installing special fireproof doors in buildings is, of course, to save lives and property in the event of a fire. Fire doors are sold only by certified manufacturers due to the high standards of requirements for the functionality of the structure and the materials of the product. It is essential that the door leaf slows down the spread of fire, so care must be taken when purchasing and installing fire doors.
When are fire doors required?
Fire doors can vary greatly in design, from functional and simple to attractive solid and glazed designs. The most common type of fire door is the EI-30 model (withstands at least 30 minutes in case of fire). Option EI-60 (60 minutes) is most often used, for example, in shopping centers.
Wherever a fire starts, it is vitally important to use a fire-fighting door system, be it a kitchen with gas and electrical equipment, a living room with a fireplace and TV, any other room with electrical equipment or flammable objects.
There are special building codes for commercial and other premises, how fire doors should be used. The Ministry of Emergency Situations issues a license to organizations that install fire doors, and they, in turn, are responsible for compliance with building codes.
Some characteristics of fire doors
A fire door consists of a frame and a leaf, while the thickness of the doors varies from fifty to ninety millimeters. The canvas is assembled from 2 steel sheets. An important component is the fire-prevention filling, usually a basalt slab, fire-resistant tape and a smoke seal circuit.
EI-30 fire doors are usually 44/45 mm thick, as opposed to the standard 35/40 mm door thickness. EI-60 are 54 mm thick. Some models can withstand up to 130 minutes when exposed to fire. This time is considered the fire resistance limit.
How do fire doors work?
Such doors should be equipped with thermally expanding tapes, which play a decisive role in achieving fire protection. Under the influence of heat, its elements expand and seal the gap between the edge of the door and the frame. Refractory tape is installed around the perimeter of the door to effectively contain carbon monoxide. Parameter advice can be obtained from the manufacturer in the product test report.
The material from which the door frame is made, as well as the dimensions of the sections, must meet the required standards. It is important to order the installation of this type of door from a trusted contractor who can ensure strict compliance with fire regulations.
