Radiation performance is vital in ensuring escape routes remain tenable and in reducing the risk of fire spread. Many products within the Flameshield range are approved by fire engineers and building control authorities specifically because of their exceptional radiation resistance.
Understanding Fire and Smoke Curtains
Fire and smoke curtains are deployable barriers designed to compartmentalise fires and contain the spread of smoke. They are automatically activated upon receiving an alarm signal, they descend to create protected escape paths and mitigate fire progression into adjoining areas. Additionally, they are frequently installed to protect boundaries near pedestrian areas or adjacent buildings. Their role is particularly significant in fire strategy planning, especially in modern structures where open layouts and complex evacuation routes are common.
What Is Thermal Radiation and Why Does It Matter?
In fire safety, radiation refers to the heat energy emitted by flames and heated surfaces, which can travel through space and ignite nearby combustible materials or cause injury to individuals. Effective control of this radiated heat is crucial for preventing secondary ignition and ensuring that escape routes and protected zones remain safe for evacuation.
The ability of a curtain to manage thermal radiation is determined by its heat resistance and its capacity to reduce heat transfer. High-performance curtains are engineered to withstand extreme temperatures while limiting the amount of radiated heat passing through. Fire curtains are typically tested to ensure radiation does not exceed 15 kW/m² at one metre.
BS 8524-1 & 2: What the Standard Says
The British Standard BS 8524-1 and BS 8524-2 govern the specification, application, installation, and maintenance of active fire curtain barrier assemblies. According to section 5.3.1 (page 13), "Barrier assemblies replace static partitions and therefore have to descend within a clear space. Therefore the problems of surface temperatures DO NOT APPLY, but integrity, radiation and occupant tenability is still relevant."
It further notes that where thermocouple placement would impede the intumescent reaction of materials, insulation performance cannot be assessed, and thus the curtain must be evaluated solely for integrity and radiation performance.
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Section 5.3.2.1 of BS 8524-2 outlines three approaches to assessing radiation in relation to tenability:
· A simplified approach for horizontal routes in residential dwellings.
· A fully fire-engineered approach for horizontal escape routes, with detailed guidance and data provided on page 25 and subsequent tables in BS 8524-2.
· A fully fire-engineered approach for all other applications.
Benefits of Radiation-Resistant Fire Curtains
1. Enhanced Occupant Safety
Limiting thermal radiation ensures that escape routes remain usable and safe, supporting efficient evacuation during a fire.
2. Reduced Fire Spread
By preventing nearby combustible materials from igniting due to radiant heat, these curtains help to contain the fire within a designated area.
3. Asset Protection
Fire and smoke curtains safeguard critical infrastructure, sensitive equipment, and valuable assets from heat damage.
4. Regulatory Compliance
Many building regulations require radiation control in fire barriers. Specifying radiation-rated curtains helps ensure compliance with relevant fire safety standards.
Technological Advances in Radiation Control
Modern fire and smoke curtains utilise advanced materials and engineering to improve radiation performance. Key innovations include:
· Intumescent Coatings
These expand under heat, forming an insulating barrier that enhances thermal protection.
· Precision Engineering
Ensures consistent, reliable deployment and optimal coverage, which is essential for maximum effectiveness during a fire.
Conclusion
Radiation performance is not merely a technical parameter; it is a critical life safety feature. As buildings become more complex, the demand for robust fire safety solutions intensifies. Specifying fire and smoke curtains with proven radiation control capabilities is essential for protecting lives, limiting property damage, and complying with modern safety standards.
A1S’s Flameshield EW120 S fire curtain offers industry-leading radiation protection and is fully compliant with BS 8524-1 and BS 8524-2.
To learn more about our EW120 S Product visit: https://zma.to/har
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