Designed to Protect.

Discover how passive fire protection for LED downlights plays a key role in protecting our communities.

Where It Begins.

Energy efficiency, aesthetics, and increased life longevity are some of the key reasons why LED wafer downlights have been setting the lighting standards in modern construction practices. From constructing new Type V-A multifamily complexes to upgrading the current lighting system in a boutique hotel, LED downlights have the ability to offer easy installation for contractors, and the aesthetics for architects and developers – the ultimate combo. In addition to the previously mentioned applications, LED downlights can often be found in the following applications:

  • Commercial Spaces: Includes shopping malls, mixed-use buildings, local boutiques.
  • Residential Buildings: Includes multi-family complexes, student housing.
  • Hospitality Spaces: Includes hotels, motels, lodges, inns.

 

With its ability to be installed in renovation jobs and new construction projects, it is critical to ensure that our current and future communities are fully protected from life safety hazards, such as unprotected ceiling openings.

Look up at your ceiling. It’s important.

Frequently, unprotected ceiling openings are one of the most common life safety hazards found in modern construction applications. When a fire-rated ceiling assembly is penetrated by a recessed fixture, such as a LED wafer, the integrity of the ceiling is compromised. In the event of a fire outbreak, the recessed fixtures disintegrate after several minutes, allowing a clear pathway for smoke and flames to maneuver to the next level of an infrastructure.
As a result, the International Code Council has established a building code requirement to ensure that this life safety hazard is properly resolved within our communities. For reference, Section 714.5.2 of the 2021 IBC states:

“Where floor/ceiling assemblies are quired to have a fire-resistance rating, recessed fixtures shall be installed such that the required fire resistance will not be reduced.”

In addition, it is essential to point out that LED wafers are being installed in both existing infrastructures and new construction. Therefore, it is critical to ensure that the unprotected ceiling openings are properly fire-rated, no matter if the infrastructure is previously existing or currently being built.

Exploring Your Options.

As the popularity of LED downlights reaches new heights in modern construction, it was critical that a proper fire-rated solution was developed. One of the recent trending solutions are “fire-rated” lights. These solutions are budget-friendly and offer quick, easy installation for on-site contractors. However, a huge misconception about these solutions is because they are composed of metal – they automatically have a fire-resistance rating for applications where fire-resistance rated assemblies are required. However, this is a false assumption. Even though metal itself offers some firestopping properties – it is a poor insulator and does not mean that a metal-based solution qualifies as a fire-rated solution. In order for any solution to claim they are fire-rated, it needs to be tested and approved by a third-party laboratory.

Another method of properly firestopping a LED “pancake” light is fire-rated drywall boxes. This firestopping method is where gypsum wallboards surround the LED wafers; however, there are several cons of this practice. Fire-rated drywall boxes are known to be associated with high labor savings, which can increase the cost of installation beyond budget limits. One of the main causes for high installation costs is this solution’s inability to be retrofitted into a pre-existing ceiling – meaning the pre-existing ceiling would need to be deconstructed prior to the installation of these solutions. In addition to its high labor costs, fire-rated boxes are not properly fire tested and certified – which defeats the purpose of installing proper passive fire protection measures.

Spec the Best, Specify Tenmat.

Now, all of the previously listed solutions don’t exactly check off all the boxes – so, the pressing question is “Are there any solutions that can check off all the preferred features of a firestopping solution?”. To answer your question, let us introduce you to – Tenmat’s FF109-200 and FF109-250, 1 Hour Fire Rated LED Downlight Covers. Composed with the latest intumescent technology, the FF109-200 and 250 are able to stop heat and flames from spreading to other parts of a building for up to 60 minutes. In addition, ALL of Tenmat’s Firestopping Solutions and Materials are tested through third-party laboratories, UL and Intertek and all certifications can be found on our website.. In addition to its firestopping components, the ultra-flexible nature of the intumescent material allows the cover(s) to get rolled up for easy retrofit, remodel, or new construction installations – ideal for a multitude of construction practices. To learn more about these optimal solutions, please visit the FF109-200 and FF109-350 product pages.

End Notes.

Incorporating passive fire protection measures is crucial for the safety of our communities, both in the present and future. LED downlight fixtures are very popular in modern-day construction, but without proper fire-rated solutions, they pose a great threat to our communities. By specifying solutions, such as Tenmat’s FF109-200 and 250, it is ensured that a building’s ceiling openings are protected – allowing for a fire-resistance rated ceiling’s integrity to be foolproof. If this article didn’t answer all of your questions and concerns, please feel free to contact one of our on-site specialists at +1-800-821-3435 or email us at info@tenmatusa.com.

Don’t Leave Any Question Unanswered.

Learn More About the Ins and Outs of Passive Fire Protection in the Vast Spectrum of Construction Applications.

In today’s construction landscape, construction professionals are constantly experiencing building code adoptions. One of the key reasons for the consistency in building code updates is the advocacy for up-to-date life safety measures for traditional and modern construction applications. Therefore, the use of passive fire protection has become quite popular on active construction sites and new construction infrastructures; however, there are still questions surrounding this form of life hazard. Here at Tenmat, we understand the monetary costs of a failed building inspection and the liability of installing a falsified fire-rated solution. In this blog, we will be answering some of the most important and frequently asked questions regarding passive fire protection. Well, there’s no time to waste when it comes to safety – let’s get started!

“I just failed a building inspection. The electrical inspector stated that my fire-resistance rated ceilings have been compromised, due to installation of recessed can lights. Why is my ceiling compromised? What building codes are associated with this situation? Are there any available solutions?”

Municipalities across the United States – through adoption of the International Building Code – require fire-resistance-rated ceilings for certain commercial, industrial, institutional, residential, and other occupancies buildings. When a fire-resistance rated ceiling assembly is penetrated by a fixture, such as recessed can light, LED downlight, or troffer luminaire, the ceiling is now compromised. The reason being is when there is a fire outbreak, the flames and heat disintegrate the fixture within several minutes. Once the fixture is non-existent, the ceiling opening no longer works as a barrier to protect flames, heat, and smoke from traveling throughout the rest of the building. As a result, building code professionals have established a requirement for these unprotected ceiling openings. For reference, in section 714.5.2 of the 2021 IBC: “Where floor/ceiling assemblies are required to have a fire-resistance rating, recessed fixtures shall be installed such that the required fire resistance will not be reduced.” To resolve this issue, there are various passive fire protection solutions that accommodate to these life safety hazards, which we will learn more about in this blog.

“I am specifying passive fire protection solutions in a new-construction multifamily complex. I saw various forms of passive fire protection solutions; but I know not all solutions are properly fire-tested. How do I know which solutions are properly fire-tested?”

One of the simplest ways to confirm that a solution is properly fire tested is to visit the manufacturer’s website, and review the solution’s listing, test report, or certification. If you are unable to locate the certification or questioning the authenticity of the certification, you can visit one of the national and international acclaimed independent third-party testing laboratories, such as Underwriter Laboratories (UL) or Intertek, and verify the solution’s testing. If you are unable to find the proper certification, the “fire-rated solution” is not properly fire tested.

“Currently, I am looking for a non-standard passive fire protection solution. How do I accommodate this life safety hazard with the correct passive fire protection solution?”

With the rapid growth of modern construction practices, new life safety hazards spring up on a regular basis. In response, passive fire protection manufacturers are expected to formulate the proper solutions for these hazards; however, modern construction practices are accelerating more rapidly than the evolution of passive fire protection solutions. Here at Tenmat, we understand that all life safety hazards need to be fitted with the proper solution. With our on-site research and development team, we have the accessibility to work one-on-one with construction and building professionals to develop non-standard passive fire protection solutions and test them. Sounds like a current problem you are facing? Contact us at +1-800-821-3436 to learn more about the opportunities Tenmat has to offer you and your team.

“When exploring for passive fire protection solutions, I came across a variety of fire-rated materials. What are the differences between intumescent, mineral wool, fire-rated drywall, and metal solutions?”

With the growing demand for passive fire protection solutions, the availability of different fire-rated materials has significantly increased. One of the traditional firestopping materials is “fire-resistant” gypsum wallboard. This material tends to result in a highly labor-intensive installation, which may increase the cost of installation beyond budget limits. Another commonly used material is metal; however, metal is not very flexible, in terms of aesthetic and product variations. In addition to its lack of flexibility, metal is also known to be a poor insulator and will not sufficiently stop the fire’s heat transfer. In contrast, mineral wool and intumescent are known to be ideal for firestopping applications, due to their flexible nature and their adaptability to produce various forms of firestopping solutions.

Even though the above materials are associated with firestopping capabilities, it DOES NOT mean that the final product offers the same level of firestopping. Therefore, it is critical to review the manufacturer’s testing certification to verify that a solution is properly fire tested.

“I know unprotected ceiling openings caused by recessed lights need to be properly fire-rated. But, what about other recessed fixtures, such as in-ceiling loudspeakers?”

Yes, in-ceiling loudspeakers need to be properly fire-rated in fire-resistance rated ceiling/floor assemblies. In addition to the 2021 IBC Section 714.5.2, the 2017 NEC (National Electrical Code) requires in Section 640.25, “Loudspeakers installed in a fire-resistance rated partition, wall or ceiling shall be listed in an enclosure or recess that maintains the fire resistance rating”. Even though this life safety hazard has been present for several years, there are very few optimal solutions to rectify this hazard. As a direct response to this building code, Tenmat has formulated the optimal fire-rated solution, the FF109-FRSC, a 1 Hour Fire-Rated Speaker Cover. Composed with the latest intumescent technology, the FF109-FRSC has the ability to contain flames, smoke, and heat for 60 minutes – allowing additional time for evacuation of the blazed structure. As an added bonus, the sound absorbing properties of the proprietary intumescent material enhances the acoustic performance and protection of the installed loudspeaker. Learn more about the key benefits of installing Tenmat’s FF109-FRSC by visiting this website.

“I noticed that there a variety of passive fire protection solutions on the market. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each variation of fire-rated solutions?”

There are several different solutions for fire-resistance rated ceiling membrane applications with a diverse range of prices, approvals from third-party testing facilities, and product designs. One of the recent trending solutions are “fire-rated” lights. These solutions are budget-friendly and offer quick, easy installation for on-site contractors. However, a huge misconception about these solutions is because they are composed of metal – they are UL-classified and are suitable for applications where fire-resistance is required. However, this is false. Even though, metal itself, offers some firestopping properties – it is a poor insulator and does not mean that a metal-based solution qualifies as a fire-rated solution. In order for any solution to claim they are fire-rated, it needs to be tested and approved by a third-party laboratory.

One of the more traditional firestopping methods is fire-rated drywall boxes. This firestopping method is where gypsum wallboard surrounds the recessed fixtures; however, there are several cons of this practice. Dry-wall boxes are known to be very labor intensive and may increase the cost of installation beyond budget limits, in addition to possibly not having a proper fire-resistance rating.

Finally, a popular intumescent firestopping solution, which is properly fire-tested by a third-party laboratory (UL and Intertek), are Tenmat’s Fire-Rated Enclosures for in-ceiling fixtures. Tenmat covers are suitable for recessed can lights, LED downlights, troffer luminaires, and in-ceiling loudspeakers – applicable to various sizes and systems. Tenmat Fire Rated Speaker Covers are used in various applications throughout the entire United States and Canada; from multi-residential homes to retail spaces, hospitals, and assisted-living homes. To learn more about Fire Rated Covers, please visit https://www.tenmatusa.com/.

Today, we covered a majority of the most frequently asked questions regarding passive fire protection solutions and their role in the evolving construction landscape. However, we aren’t learning if no additional questions arise. If we didn’t answer your questions today, please feel free to contact one of our on-site specialists at +1 (800) 821-3436 or email us at info@tenmatusa.com.

Tried, Tested, Troffers.

Learn More About Passive Fire Protection for Troffer Luminaires.

When developing the ceiling infrastructure of a new healthcare facility or K12 building, architects and developers tend to favor troffer luminaire fixtures – due to their capability of producing a large lighting output and its affordability for stringent budgets. Often, troffer luminaires can be identified in various applications, such as
• Educational Facilities – includes K12 Buildings, Pre-Schools, University Lecture Halls.
• Government Buildings – includes Post Offices, State and Local Government Offices Spaces, Public Libraries, and Correctional Facilities.
• Commercial Spaces – includes Private Office Spaces, Shopping Centers, and Airports.
• Healthcare Infrastructures – includes Hospitals, Assisted Living Facilities, Rehabilitation Centers, Physical Therapy Offices.

From the previously extensive list, troffer luminaires are a staple lighting fixture in past construction practices and are still present element in current and future construction plans. Due to its popularity, it is critical to address its accompanying life safety hazards when installed into ceiling/floor assemblies. In the unfortunate event of a fire, when a lighting fixture, such as a troffer luminaire, is exposed to heat and flames for 15 minutes, the fixture is completely engulfed – allowing for flames and smoke to escape at an accelerated pace throughout the structure. In consideration of this life safety hazard, building code officials have implemented a building requirement to ensure the protection of the lives and properties within our communities. For reference, section 714.5.2. of the 2021 IBC states:

“Where floor/ceiling assemblies are required to have a fire-resistance rating, recessed fixtures shall be installed such that the required fire resistance will not be reduced.”

In addition to this building code requirement, troffers tend to be associated with high-functioning environments, such as healthcare facilities; therefore, architects and electrical engineers require a fire-rated solutions, which offers a quick and mess-free installation. On account of these two requirements, Tenmat has developed a fire-tested and approved solution to check off both of the priorly mentioned demands.

Tenmat’s FF130 – 2’x2’ and FF130 – 2’x4’ Fire Rated Troffer Covers, composed of the latest in intumescent technology, allows for unprotected ceiling openings to be protected for up to 60 minutes. When subjected to flames and heat, the intumescent expands, forming a tough char, sealing off any gaps in the ceiling opening. In addition to its firestopping capabilities, Tenmat’s Fire Rated Troffer Covers can either be retrofitted into renovation scenarios or fitted into new construction applications – optimal for stringent lead times. With no need for additional tools and screws, the FF130 – 2’x2’and FF130 – 2’x4’ can be installed in a matter of minutes with no mess – ideal for renovations in an elementary school or public hospital.

Here at Tenmat, we are dedicated to proving the latest in passive fire protection technology and advocate for the safety of our communities. If you have any questions regarding the information above, please contact one of our specialists at +1 (800) 821-3436 or email us at info@tenmatusa.com.

http://Learn More about Tenmat’s Fire-Rated Troffer Covers Here.

Don’t Take a Gamble on Passive Fire Protection

Tenmat will be exhibiting at the 2023 EduCode International Conference

The only thing you shouldn’t gamble in Las Vegas is life safety. This is the reason why Tenmat will be exhibiting our line of fire-rated covers for recessed light fixtures, LED downlights, and in-ceiling loudspeakers at the 2023 EduCode Conference.
If you are an inspector, plans examiner, permit technician, code enforcement officer, building official, architect, engineer, manager, leader, director or are otherwise working or interested in a safe built community, please stop by the Tenmat Booth from February 28 to March 1. The Expo is organized by the Southern Nevada Chapter of the International Code Council where building safety professionals, code enforcement officials and inspectors go to learn about the latest products and services needed to keep buildings safe and meet and maintain compliance with accepted codes and standards.

Tenmat will be exhibiting and answering all questions about our product portfolio consisting of fire rated enclosures for recessed lights, luminaires, in-ceiling loudspeakers, and troffers. A large proportion of Tenmat’s business is working with other passive fire protection manufacturers to design, develop and fire test products for them with Tenmat intumescent material as its functioning component.

Our innovative line of UL fire rated light covers for recessed lights, in-ceiling loudspeakers, and troffers are an easy to install and cost saving option to maintain the required fire resistance of the ceiling. Tenmat’s wide product variety gives electrical contractors, architects, and electrical engineers more freedom in fixture selection as the covers are suited to fit a wide range of recessed fixtures and fluorescent luminaires.

We are looking forward to meeting you at our booth! Not Attending? If you or your agency is interested in learning more about the Safety Hazard of Unprotected Ceiling Openings. Please click here to book your FREE webinar.

TENMAT Fire Rated LED Light Enclosures win Top Product Award

Electrical Products & Solutions Magazine selects TENMAT Fire Rated LED Light Enclosures as Top Product

The US trade publication Electrical Products & Solutions (EPS) has named TENMAT UL Fire Rated LED Light Enclosures one of the Top Products for electrical contractors in 2017.

EPS recognizes that TENMAT recessed light enclosures are the most versatile solution to safely fire protect in-ceiling recessed lights and prevent flame spread in case of a fire.

LED luminaires are becoming increasingly popular in both retrofit and new construction applications as they consume less electricity and burn much cooler than incandescent lights. However since these lights still penetrate the fire resistance-rated ceiling, the building code requires them to be enclosed with a solution that will maintain the fire resistance rating of the ceiling assembly.

TENMAT covers were specifically designed to meet this building code requirement and provide a 1 hour fire resistance rating for your LED luminaire.

In addition, the unique design gives the architect, developer and electrical contractor more freedom in light and trim selection as the covers are suited to fit a wide range of light sizes, types and brands.

The flexible and lightweight nature of the covers makes installation quick and easy to provide a fire rated LED light, decreases the stress put on the ceiling and significantly reduces labor costs compared to standard dry-walled box constructions, making it the ideal solution for electrical contractors.

The high expansion and insulating properties of the cover ensure that both, flame spread and heat transmission, are stopped for 60 minutes (FF109-300 and/or FF109-350).

For our full line of fire rated LED light enclosures, please visit www.tenmatusa.com/fire-rated-light-enclosures

Be TENMAT’s guest at the 2017 Building Safety & Design Expo

TENMAT invites you to attend the Building Safety & Design Expo, September 11, 2017 in Columbus, Ohio. The Building Safety & Design Expo provides a platform to education building and design professions, students and others concerned with building safety and design.

We are excited about exhibiting at this premier event and being among the group of industry leaders attending the Building Safety & Design Expo. We invite you to attend and to visit us in booth 516 to learn more about our range of UL tested fire rated enclosures for recessed light, luminaires, LED lights and in-ceiling loudspeakers.

Register today to get your FREE Expo Pass. Registration includes:

– FREE Admission for Monday, September 11, 2017
– FREE Training Sessions on the Expo Floor
– FREE Gift to the first 500 through the door
– Network with industry professionals
– See the latest Building Products, Services, and Technology

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity. Click here to register!

For more information about the TENMAT’s line of Fire Rated Enclosures, please visit www.tenmatusa.com/fire-rated-light-enclosures.

We look forward to seeing you in Columbus!

TENMAT Fire Rated LED Light Covers

Fire Rated LED Light Enclosures for LED Luminaires

In addition to IC and Non-IC rated recessed incandescent and fluorescent light fixtures, TENMAT 1 fire rated enclosures can also be used with modern LED luminaires.

LED luminaires are becoming increasingly popular in both retrofit and new construction applications as they consume less electricity and burn much cooler than incandescent lights. However since these lights still penetrate the fire resistance-rated ceiling, the building code requires them to be enclosed with a solution that will maintain the fire resistance rating of the ceiling assembly.

TENMAT covers were specifically designed to meet this building code requirement and provide a 1 hour fire resistance rating for your LED light.

In addition, the unique design gives the architect, developer and electrical contractor more freedom in light and trim selection as the covers are suited to fit a wide range of light sizes, types and brands.

The flexible and lightweight nature of the covers makes installation quick and easy to provide a fire rated LED light, decreases the stress put on the ceiling and significantly reduces labor costs compared to standard dry-walled box constructions.

The high expansion and insulating properties of the cover ensure that both, flame spread and heat transmission, are stopped for 60 minutes (FF109-300 and/or FF109-350).

For our full line of fire rated LED light enclosures, please visit www.tenmatusa.com/fire-rated-light-enclosures.

TENMAT Fire Rated Enclosures for Speakers

Fire Rated Enclosures for In-ceiling Loudspeakers

Did you know that TENMAT’s popular fire rated enclosures are also available for recessed speakers?

Besides our range of 1 and 2 hour UL fire rated covers for recessed lights and troffers, TENMAT also offers two models of speaker enclosures which will provide a 1 hour fire barrier when installing loudspeakers in a fire rated ceiling.

The FF109-FRSC and FF109-FRSC XL are also made out of an intumescent material, which will not only expand in case of a fire, but also improve the acoustic rating of the structure.

In addition, the unique design gives the architect, sound professional and installer more freedom in speaker selection as the covers are suited to a wide range of speaker sizes, types and brands.

The flexible and lightweight nature of the covers makes installation quick and easy, reduces the stress put on the ceiling and significantly reduces labor costs compared to standard dry-walled box constructions.

The high expansion and insulating properties of the cover ensures that both, flame spread and heat transmission, are stopped for 60 minutes.

For our full line of fire rated enclosures, please visit www.tenmatusa.com/fire-rated-light-enclosures.