Fire Rated Compounds

Fire Rated Compounds – Passive Protection for Service Penetrations

Fire rated compounds are passive fire protection materials used to seal gaps in compartment walls, floors, and ceilings where pipes, cables, or ducts pass through. These service penetrations, if left untreated, compromise the fire-resisting performance of the building. Cementitious or ablative in nature, these compounds restore the integrity of the structure by preventing the passage of fire, smoke, and heat. When exposed to high temperatures, some compounds expand while others cure to form a robust seal that complies with national and European fire resistance standards such as BS 476 and EN 1366.

Used in high-risk zones like riser shafts, plant rooms, and data centres, fire rated compounds are commonly part of wider fire stopping systems that include wraps, collars, sealants, and batts. Their formulations can offer up to four hours of certified fire resistance and may support re-penetration for maintenance access. Compatible with masonry, plasterboard, and concrete, they can be poured, trowelled, or pumped depending on site needs. Fire rated compounds also enhance fire protection around retrofitted doors when used with Door Upgrade Kits, particularly in compartment walls with adjacent service runs.

Installation must follow the manufacturer’s system specification and guidance, with third-party certification offering assurance of tested performance. Properly installed compounds play a vital role in maintaining compartmentation and ensuring regulatory compliance across new builds and refurbishment projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do fire rated compounds allow future access for maintenance?

Yes, many fire rated compounds are formulated to allow for re-penetration. This means they can be cut or drilled for future service upgrades or maintenance, and then re-sealed using compatible materials. Always check that the chosen product includes certification for re-entry, and follow the manufacturer’s repair procedures to ensure continued fire performance.

Can fire rated compounds be used in load-bearing situations?

Some fire rated compounds are certified as load-bearing once cured, making them suitable for sealing larger floor openings where structural stability must be preserved. These systems are tested under load conditions and are ideal for areas where foot traffic or equipment placement may occur. Confirm the load-bearing capability in the product’s test certification.

What substrates are compatible with fire rated compounds?

Fire rated compounds are generally compatible with common building substrates such as concrete, brick, blockwork, and plasterboard. However, product selection should always take into account the exact construction material, surface condition, and environmental factors such as humidity and temperature during application. Always consult the manufacturer’s technical data sheet before use.

Are fire rated compounds tested as standalone products?

No, fire rated compounds are tested as part of a complete system, including the specific type of penetration and substrate. Their performance is based on test conditions that replicate real-life installations. This means a product tested in a plasterboard wall may not perform the same way in a block wall unless separately certified. Always follow the tested application detail.

Do fire rated compounds produce smoke or fumes during a fire?

High-quality fire rated compounds are designed to limit smoke and toxic gas release under fire exposure. The level of smoke production is considered in test standards like EN 1366. Products used in escape routes or critical infrastructure should be selected with low smoke emission ratings where possible. Manufacturers may also provide smoke classification ratings as part of test data.