Pipework is a common way for fire and smoke to spread, even if it is going through a fire resisting wall, floor or ceiling. Plastic piping will easily soften and collapse in the heat of a fire. This then aids the spread of the fire.
So fitting intumescent pipe collars on plastic pipework will help to maintain the fire resisting ability of the surface it is passing through. This can help to protect emergency escape routes, as well as limiting fire damage and the risk to life.
When exposed to extreme heat, the intumescent compound in the collar will expand. This then rapidly crushes the pipe and plugs the opening so that nothing can get through.
Once expanded, they will resist a fire for either 2 or 4 hours, depending on which option you pick. Both will give you plenty of time to raise the alarm and get the fire extinguished.
Pipe collars incorporate a rigid steel casing which firmly secures the intumescent compound in place.
Fixing The Intumescent Pipe Collar
Installing your intumescent pipe collar isn’t as complicated as you might expect.
First of all, ensure you get the right size. They are available in a large variety of sizes, so you should have no problem getting one to fit.
The size refers to the inside diameter of the collar, so to fit around a 55mm pipe, you will need a 55mm pipe collar.
These have a hinge which allows you to put the collar around the pipe with ease when you install the pipework.
With the collar open, simply place the pipe through. The collar should fit where the pipe penetrates through the separating surface.
Then position and close so you can mark the bolt holes to allow you to drill them.
Once drilled, you can put the collar back in position and secure by closing the toggle clasp. It should then fit snuggly around the pipe and against the surface.
If the wall is uneven, then it is then recommended that you bed the collar onto some intumescent mastic.
That way, you’re certain that the seal is as efficient and secure as possible. The slightest gap could make the pipe collar ineffective at stopping the spread of smoke and flames.
About Intumescent Pipe Collars
Once fitted, these will not deteriorate and have a long shelf life. The only time they need replacing is once a fire has triggered the intumescent compound inside.
And depending on the fire risk, you may need to have intumescent collars fitted on both sides of the wall.
Make sure these are also fitted onto all plastic pipes which go through a fire resisting wall. That way, you maintain the fire rating of the wall even when pipework has compromised it.
The intumescent pipe collar will keep your fire exits clear of any risk, and gives everyone the best chance of surviving unharmed.
Click here to see our range pipe collars, available in a choice of sizes