This article is intended to provide an overview of the use of Interbloc for external fire protection walls. It should not be used as a substitute for consulting a quality fire safety engineer.
Fire safety engineering plays a crucial role in designing buildings to protect lives and property during a fire. The main goals include ensuring the safety of occupants, providing time for firefighters to conduct rescue operations, and preventing the spread of fire to neighbouring areas.
Concrete is an excellent material for fire resistance. It is non-flammable, non-combustible, and can absorb substantial heat before reaching critical levels. Unlike plastics and metals, concrete does not emit hazardous smoke or toxic fumes. Its mass provides high heat storage capacity, and its porous structure results in a slow temperature rise.
- To achieve a Fire Resistance Rating of 240 minutes, concrete needs to be approximately 165mm thick.
- Interbloc blocks, at 600mm thick, offer significant protection. However, their modular nature creates
small gaps between blocks, posing a challenge in terms of fire resistance.
To enhance fire resistance, these gaps need sealing. One common solution is using fire-resistant foam or sealants, readily available in the market. Application of these materials, under the guidance of a qualified fire safety engineer, effectively closes the gaps, strengthening the structure's fire protection.
In short, Interbloc should be a good candidate for a fire protection wall. However you should consult a qualified fire safety engineer to insure Interbloc is a suitable option for the specific circumstances of your project.
