Selecting the appropriate fire-rated wall system is an important decision for any construction project. Ensuring the safety and well-being of occupants is critical, and the right choice can make a significant impact. Its important to consider factors such as the specific fire resistance requirements of your building codes, the intended use of the space, and any acoustic considerations. A well-chosen fire-rated wall system not only provides essential protection in the event of a fire but can also contribute to a quieter and more comfortable environment.
Fire Resistance Level
The Fire Resistance Level (FRL) comprises three distinct elements, each expressed in minutes. For instance, a notation like 120/120/120 indicates that all three components maintained a fire resistance of at least 120 minutes. In cases where there is a dash, it signifies that only the other timed elements were tested, and there was no specific requirement for this particular element. An example is -/60/60.
All Fire Resistance Levels undergo testing in Australia according to AS1530 Part 4. The three components include:
- Structural Adequacy: Ensuring that the system did not collapse, such as the main outer frame.
- Integrity of 60 minutes: This assesses whether parts of the system maintained integrity without deterioration, such as avoiding holes in panels or joints.
- Insulation of 60 minutes: Evaluating heat transfer from the fire side to the non-fire side, with a criterion of maintaining a temperature 180 degrees above ambient temperature.
At PMC, we have recently supplied some ‘Speedpanel’ wall systems to various projects around the Far North. These wall systems are great for a large range of applications such as stairwells, corridor walls, bulkheads, separation walls in factories/warehouses and also external walls.
These panels come in three different configurations:
- 51mm has an FRL of -/60/60. This panel is commonly used for party walls, boundary walls and coridors.
- 64mm has an FRL of -/90/90. Commonly used for shafts and risers, and intertenancy and corridor walls.
- 78mm has an FRL of -/120/120. This panel is the most versatile and Is used for a variety of applications such as fire-rated escape stairs, carpark and plantroom walls as well as factory separations and boundary walls.
The prefabricated panels are not only lightweight and easily manageable but also boast a quick installation process thanks to the tongue-and-groove click-together system. Speedpanel can be installed both vertically and horizontally making it simple to connect to existing structures. When horizontally stacked (with a maximum span of 4.5 meters), Speedpanel can be erected to unlimited heights *subject to design constraints*, making it the perfect wall solution for warehouses and factories with high roofs.
If youre interested in ordering these panels for your project, whether small scale or a large commercial job we can supply and deliver across the Far North region. Get in contact with our office for more information.
