“Reconstruct” the Way You Do PFP.

Explore the process of specifying appropriate passive fire protection solutions into active and future reconstruction projects.

Opening Up the Floor.

In the modern world of construction, we always discuss the latest practices and technological innovations for new construction – so, what about pre-existing buildings? From preserving historical structures to repurposing outdated buildings, redevelopment projects have become an increasing trend in the landscape. However, construction professionals are facing a huge challenge – specifying appropriate passive fire protection systems into these modernized infrastructures – especially when it comes to relighting renovations and audio additions.

To address this growing safety issue, Tenmat will be reviewing the following in this article:

  • The purpose of implementing passive fire protection, and how it coordinates with previously installed active fire protection systems,
  • Why passive fire protection is essential when renewing the lighting and/or audio systems in pre-existing buildings, and the
  • Key strategies and common mistakes that arise when specifying passive fire protection in ceiling upgrades and renovations.

By examining the purpose, benefits, and key strategies of specifying passive fire protection, this discussion aims to equip construction professionals with the insights needed to enhance safety and efficiency in relighting renovations and beyond. Let’s dive into the essential considerations that will allow our present and future buildings to provide true peace of mind for their occupants.

Understanding the Balance of Passive and Active.

Often, when curating the plans and specifications for new construction projects, architectural engineers ensure all 1) building code regulations are properly met, and 2) the appropriate technology and/or solutions are accurately installed. However, if you are a member of the construction landscape, you understand the turnaround of amending building regulations – an almost everyday occurrence. Therefore, it is fairly common that when remodeling a pre-existing building, parts of the structure aren’t aligned with the current version of the building code. Due to this typical complication, the project’s construction team will need to update the structure to meet the current building code requirements – especially when it comes to life safety.

Regardless of whether you are standing present-day in a late 19th century or 21st century building, you will be able to easily detect standard, updated active fire protection systems, such as fire sprinkler systems and fire extinguishers. On the other hand, the rapid adoption of various passive fire protection requirements creates a high level of difficulty for recently built infrastructures to even meet the most up-to-date code. Therefore, it is critical to ensure that these passive fire protection systems are updated properly when a pre-existing building is experiencing a remodel.

Why Does It Matter.

Why? Well, it resides with one the main reasons on why we specify passive fire protection systems in the first place – the safety of lives and property. Often, during remodeling projects, a variety of                 violations of the fire code arise; however, there is one single safety issue that flies under the radar– unprotected ceiling openings. Intermittently, architects and developers tend to be unfamiliar with or overlook Section 714.5.2 of the 2021 IBC, which addresses the significance of properly fire rating unprotected ceiling openings. When installed into a fire-resistance rated ceiling/floor assembly, recessed ceiling fixtures, whether it be a lighting or audio, allows a clear pathway for an active fire to travel. When exposed to the high temperatures of a fire for several minutes, the ceiling fixture is reduced to nothing – allowing heat, flames, and smoke to rapidly accelerate throughout a building.

To tackle this life safety hazard, modern day architects have begun specifying proper passive fire protection measures to certify that these openings are sealed properly, and the assembly’s integrity is reinstated. Alas, this reinstatement process has only been regulated into modern-day construction – which opens the concern surrounding relighting renovations in prior existing infrastructures. In these relighting projects, contractors are being faced with the task to reinforce the ceiling’s unprotected openings. So, how would a contractor go about rectifying this life safety hazard?

Key Tools to Successful Relighting Projects.

When determining your initial steps to confirm the integrity of your fire-rated ceiling, you need to detect if your ceiling needs to be properly fire-rated. As previously stated, it is common for contractors to not recognize the demand for passive fire protection for in-ceiling fixtures – especially if there isn’t any current passive fire protection present. Therefore, it is extremely critical to review your project’s plan and the International Building Code to determine if your relighting project will need a proper passive fire protection system. After this determination, it is critical to select the most appropriate fire-rated solution for the project itself. To name some of criteria to ponder in this selection is:

  • Does the fire-rated solution align with the stringent building code requirements in the Internation Building Code?
  • Has the fire-rated solution been properly tested and certified by an accredited third-party laboratory?
  • Will the installation of this solution meet the project’s personal demands, such as expected lead times and retrofitting demands?

When deciding on which fire-rated solution you will specify into your project, it is important to recognize if the solution can be installed into a pre-existing ceiling. Majority of fire-rated solutions, such as traditional fire-rated drywall boxes, are unable to installed into a pre-existing ceiling – adding major delays in project lead times and astronomical labor costs. Here at Tenmat, we have acknowledged these universal complications and have designed a line of fire-rated solutions to meet not only the building code; but, the demand of the individuals, who will be specifying and installing these solutions. Explore the benefits of choosing Tenmat’s Fire Rated Covers for relighting upgrades in pre-existing ceilings below:

Passive Fire Protection for Recessed Lighting Fixtures.

  • Universally, pre-existing buildings are looking to decrease their monthly energy costs – opting in for energy-efficient light fixtures. Some of the popular lighting fixtures used to complete this request include LED downlight wafers and troffer luminaires. At Tenmat, we have formulated a line of fire-rated enclosures to properly fire rate either an LED downlight or troffer. Understanding that these solutions will need to be placed into a pre-existing ceiling, Tenmat’s Fire Rated Covers for LED downlights and troffer luminaires can easily be retrofitted into the ceiling. To further explore this fire-rated technology, please click here.

Passive Fire Protection for In-Ceiling Loudspeakers.

  • As interior ambience and environment become an essential part of modern-day design, implementing in-ceiling loudspeakers have been a common upgrade in commercial spaces. However, the installation of these loudspeakers does expose the integrity of the fire-rated ceiling’s composition. Engineered to be retrofitted into a pre-existing ceiling, Tenmat’s FF109-FRSC 1 Hr. Fire Rated Speaker Cover is tailored to fire rate a wide range of in-ceiling loudspeakers, regardless of manufacturer or model. To learn more about the FF109-FRSC and its additional benefits, please click here.
If you any additional questions about Tenmat’s technology, please feel free to contact us here.

Common Mistakes in Relighting Projects.

With a clear vision on how an individual should proceed when working with passive fire protection in ceilings, it’s time to address some of the common mistakes one can face during installation. One of the most common mistakes during relighting upgrades is failing to maintain the integrity of specified fire-rated solutions. Cutting through fire-resistant ceilings to install new lighting fixtures or in-ceiling loudspeakers often leads to gaps or penetrations that are not properly sealed afterward. This oversight can significantly compromise the compartmentation of a building, allowing smoke and fire to spread more rapidly in an emergency. Contractors may also use incorrect materials for sealing penetrations, such as non-rated sealants, which do not meet fire protection standards. Ensuring that all penetrations are sealed with tested and approved fire-stopping systems is critical to maintaining the fire-resistance rating of the structure. To avoid this common issue, all Tenmat’s Fire-Rated Solutions do not require any additional tools or materials upon installation.

Still and all, there is one last major mistake that curates an improper fire-rated resistance ceiling– specifying improperly fire tested and certified products and materials. Repeatedly, contractors and specifiers have failed to recognize the difference between a solution that holds a proper vs. improper fire rating. For a solution to uphold a proper fire rating, the solution needs to undergo proper testing and certification from an accredited third-party testing facility, such as UL and Intertek. To review a product’s testing and certification, simply 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. All of Tenmat’s Fire Rated Covers are properly tested and certified testing laboratories, such as UL and Intertek.

Conclusion

To wrap up this entire article into one statement, passive fire protection is a critical and often overlooked aspect of relighting renovations in existing buildings. As urban infrastructure evolves and renovation projects become more common practice, ensuring the safety of both the structure and its occupants must remain a top priority. Properly specifying and installing fire-rated solutions is essential for preserving the integrity of fire-resistance rated assemblies, particularly in ceiling upgrades that are often subject to unprotected openings caused by recessed lights and in-ceiling loudspeakers. By understanding the importance of both curating a cohesive fire protection system that incorporates both passive and active fire protection, construction professionals can not only comply with current building codes but also enhance the overall safety of redevelopment projects.

 

Avoiding common mistakes—such as failing to properly seal penetrations, using untested materials, and neglecting to verify fire ratings—can significantly reduce risks and ensure compliance with the latest safety standards. By taking the time to select high-quality, certified fire-rated products, like Tenmat’s Fire Rated Covers, construction teams can streamline the installation process, reduce delays, and ultimately provide greater peace of mind for building occupants. As the industry continues to innovate, combining modern technologies with reliable, passive fire protection will remain a cornerstone in ensuring the safety and longevity of both existing and future buildings.

A Day in the Life: Morgan Allen

Meet our Marketing Specialist Morgan Allen and learn about her role at Tenmat, as well as what she does in off time.

Give a brief overview of your key responsibilities.

Upholding the position as a marketing specialist tends to have an assortment of responsibilities. From curating illustrative elements for all of Tenmat’s promotional campaigns to tracking the latest trends in the construction industry, it’s fair to say that I don’t have a dull day in my role. One of my favorite key responsibilities that I personally enjoy is creating all of the illustrative elements in our promotional campaigns. Recently, I developed a chocolate bar wrapper for our FF102/50 Samples – like c’mon how fun is that!

If you could describe Tenmat in one word, what would it be?

Innovation. At Tenmat, our entire team is always striving to offer the latest technology in passive fire protection to the nation’s leading construction professionals. From developing a fire-rated speaker enclosure for audiophiles to engineering an intumescent fire block to help maintain the optimal performance and fireblocking requirements of a rainscreen cavity, Tenmat always strives to be one step ahead when it comes to enforcing life safety.

What does a typical day look like in the office?

Honestly, the best part of my job is every day different; however, the one consistent thing is making sure I have my second cup of coffee. Even though one day, I will be designing our next exhibition banner or organizing a live webinar with my colleague, Mirka – I religiously check my emails first thing every morning and review Tenmat’s social media feeds. Other than that, my day is filled with endless possibilities – but it is definitely always exciting.

During your time at Tenmat, what has been your favorite core memory?

One of my favorite core memories is visiting our headquarters in Irlam, UK and sister company, Permali in Gloucester – which I will note this was my first time traveling aboard. From getting a grand tour of our full-scale factory to simply meeting my team in person, it is simply a story I love to talk about again and again. I look forward to the next time I can give my team a visit – hopefully, in the near future!

And lastly, what do you like to do in your spare time?

If you know anything about me, I am an avid music lover, and genre does not matter. Some of my favorite concert highlights include Fall Out Boy, Rascal Flatts, The Weeknd, and most importantly, Bring Me the Horizon. Questioning my dedication to music? Once, I drove from Delaware to Pontiac, MI to see several of my favorite bands – which was 18-hour road trip.

P.O.V. – Intumescent in Life Safety Applications

Installing intumescent materials for fire safety.

Intumescent products and materials have been in the market for several decades. An intumescent is a material which reacts and expands aggressively when exposed to heat or fire. Depending on the requirements of the application, the expansion rate can be up to 30 times the original size of the product. The pressure generated by the intumescent when expanding can be tailored for each application, but it can also easily crush plastic pipework. Once expanded, the intumescent product creates a tough and solid char, which can prevent the spread of fire, heat, and smoke for many hours.

Intumescent products have been a key component in applications such as fire door seals, pipe and penetration seals, and linear gap seals. Over the years, many of these products have been supplied to protect both buildings and their occupants, making them a trusted and widely approved firestop solution.

Intumescent products compared to traditional firestopping products

In the past, traditional firestopping products such as mineral fiber and sheet rock were the mainstay of the industry. When construction materials and practices were largely limited to just a few different options, they worked very well, as the basic construction materials—for example, brick and block—did not “move” much in the event of a fire. When a construction material does not “move” or deform in a fire, then a firestop which does not react can work perfectly well.

Today, buildings are constructed using a greater variety of materials, including masonry, timber, steel, metallic, and polymeric materials—all of which expand at different rates in a fire. Some degrade quickly, while others distort. When construction materials “move” in a fire situation, gaps are opened and shapes and sizes of penetrations change, which in turn, allow fire and smoke to pass through. In these situations, traditional firestop materials simply do not work well, as they do not respond to the changes taking place. In comparison, intumescent products react and expand to fill all the gaps and changes created by the fire, and therefore, can maintain a high-performance fire barrier for an extended duration. The key requirement of a good firestopping product is one which will fill, insulate, and seal all gaps in a building fire compartment as a fire develops and movement occurs.

Another reason for building movement is due to seismic activity. This often happens over time, before a fire occurs, and can cause gaps and cavities in the fire compartment to appear and grow in size. Traditional firestopping methods cannot usually seal such changes in construction, or they become dislodged or damaged, so the fire compartment is compromised long before any fire-related events. Intumescent firestopping products have been tested and shown to fill any large gaps and cavities present before a fire occurs.

A further benefit of intumescent products is their installation, which is generally simpler. Traditional firestops tend to require a great deal of skill and time to install correctly, as they often require combinations of both wet and dry processes. Intumescent products tend to be designed for the specific application, and the skilled parts of the product are incorporated at the factory in controlled conditions and not onsite.

Types of intumescent products

While it is a widely accepted opinion that intumescent products represent much safer solutions for many firestopping applications, it is not the whole story. All intumescent products are not created equally. Today’s products can be divided into two basic groups: dumb and smart intumescent materials.

Dumb intumescent materials

A dumb intumescent is typically a rubber-based material which is extruded or pressed into sheets, with no structure to the dispersion of the intumescent particles within the application. The main reason it is called “dumb” is because when it expands, it has no sense of direction and will expand in all directions equally. Additionally, if a random gap exists, it will flow through it as well, rather than in the direction required to stop the fire spread.

The only way to use such dumb intumescent materials successfully is to totally encase them in a fire-resistant canister or box, so the expansion can only occur in the direction required, and all other directions are sealed. A typical example of their use would be in fire collars, where the intumescent is contained within a steel shell around the pipe to direct the expansion inwards.

Another disadvantage of rubber-based intumescent is the high organic content, which means it creates a great deal of smoke in a fire situation—which can be dangerous for both occupants and firefighters alike.

 

Dumb intumescent materials are generally produced in high volume, with no particular design application in mind. These materials are then supplied to “convertors” who incorporate them into products, which must be encased, to make them work in the manner required.

Smart intumescent materials

Smart intumescent materials are very different because of the way they work. The materials are generally produced for a specific end application from the start of the production process. Smart intumescent materials can be fine-tuned to provide expansion in only the direction required for the application, and they can even be formed into the finished product shape.

Unlike other types of intumescent materials, smart ones do not use rubber as the basic matrix. Instead, they use mineral fibers, which are layered along with intumescent particles in the forming process to produce a multi-layered product. This structure allows accurate control of both the rate and direction of expansion.

Vacuum forming allows complex 3D shapes to be created while having full control over the direction of expansion.

Since smart intumescent materials have their expansion rate and direction inherently controlled at the factory, they do not require the same levels of encasement as dumb products, meaning the finished product design can be simplified in many ways regarding weight, cost, and ease of installation.

Another benefit of smart intumescent materials is they tend to have very low organic content, mainly due to their structure being of mineral fibers and not rubber. As a result, they produce very low smoke in a fire. Some smart materials are even classified as “low smoke zero halogen,” which is good news for building occupants and firefighters.

Conclusion

Building materials and construction techniques have changed significantly in recent years, and the materials used to firestop these buildings have not kept pace with these changes. This has been unfortunately demonstrated by a number of high-profile building fires. Traditional firestopping simply cannot cope with the building movement which occurs in a modern building fire. Therefore, intumescent materials must be considered, as they offer the required advancements in firestopping technology. However, it is important to remember not all intumescent materials are the same, and smart intumescent options offer different benefits compared to dumb intumescent options.

Ultimately, in the war against rapid fire spread in buildings, having the best weapons is good place to start.

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.

Beyond Books: A Lesson in Safety – Unveiling the Significance of Passive Fire Protection in Educational Environments.

Exploring the Vital Applications and Measures to Ensure Life Safety in K12 Schools, Colleges, and Universities is Met.

Fires in Focus: The Critical Demand for Passive Fire Protection in Educational Facilities

In the ever-expanding landscape of educational institutions, ensuring the safety of students, professors, administration, and additional staff is crucial. Whether you are renovating lighting fixtures in elementary schools or constructing a new dormitory for an expanding university campus, it is prominent to ensure passive fire protection measures are properly implemented to protect the lives and property within the “incubators” of our current and future generations.

Beyond the Flames: Demystifying Passive Fire Protection

Passive fire protection is a comprehensive defense strategy vital to securing educational structures from the devasting consequences of fire outbreaks. Unlike active fire protection systems that require human intervention, passive measures are inherently built into the architecture to automatically respond in the event of a fire. These measures include the incorporation of fire-resistant materials, specialized doors, and enclosures designed to contain and slow down flame and smoke progression. Therefore, passive fire protection acts as a proactive solution rather than reactive solutions – which caters to the critical element of time.

One of the primary and most profound significances of passive fire protection is its capacity to save lives. In the unfortunate event of a fire outbreak, these measures form a crucial barrier, impeding the progression of flames and smoke. This containment not only prevents the rapid escalation of the fire but also provides additional time for the execution of evacuation procedures. In educational settings, where the safety of students and staff is paramount, these vital moments can make a life-altering difference. In the chaotic atmosphere of a fire, every second counts, underscoring the imperative role that passive fire protection plays in enhancing the overall safety and resilience of educational environments.

Guardians of Learning: Identifying Key Areas for Passive Fire Protection

One of the primary contributors to the rapid expansion of a fire outbreak lies in unprotected ceiling openings, particularly those caused by recessed light fixtures in fire-resistance rated ceiling/floor assemblies. These openings create avenues for the swift dissemination of flames and smoke throughout the structure, posing a serious threat to the safety of its occupants. The implementation of passive fire protection solutions is crucial in mitigating this risk. A fire-rated enclosure, designed with materials like fire-rated drywall, mineral wool, or intumescent technology, acts as a safeguard by compartmentalizing the smoke and flames.

In addition to the vulnerability posed by unprotected ceiling openings from recessed light fixtures, in-ceiling loudspeakers also contribute to the rapid spread of fire outbreaks. Given the essential role of Public Address (PA) systems in large facilities like K12 schools and university learning centers, in-ceiling loudspeakers are prevalent in academic buildings. However, the integration of audio-visual (A/V) technology introduces additional pathways for flames, heat, and smoke to traverse. Therefore, it becomes imperative to install passive fire protection solutions in these applications to fortify the fire resilience of such structures.

Apart from the risk associated with unprotected ceiling openings from recessed lights and in-ceiling loudspeakers in fire-rated ceiling/floor assemblies, another concern arises from through-penetration openings caused by cables and wires. These openings create potential channels for the uncontrolled passenger of fire, compromising the integrity of firestopping barriers. To address this hazard, the installation of passive fire protection measures, including fire-rated plugs, blocks, foams, and sealants designed to stop flames and smoke, is becoming crucial. These solutions eliminate the smallest of pathways for flames and smoke, allowing for occupants to have a larger time frame to occupants.

In the Lab and Beyond: Cutting-Edge Technologies in Passive Fire Protection

As the demand for passive fire protection in educational settings rises, a multitude of passive fire protection solutions have entered the market. Some of these solutions include:

Fire-Rated Enclosures:

Passive fire protection solutions, such as fire-rated enclosures, are widely employed for safeguarding unprotected ceiling openings. While available in diverse sizes and compositions like mineral wool or intumescent material, a drawback lies in their limited adaptability. Many of these solutions lack the flexibility for easy installation, making them less accommodating for various lighting fixtures and in-ceiling loudspeakers, irrespective of model or manufacturer.

Fire-Rated Drywall Boxes:

Initially a cornerstone of passive fire protection, fire-rated drywall boxes face challenges due to labor-intensive installation processes and high associated costs. This traditional approach, while effective, is deemed less practical by many architects and contractors who seek more efficient and budget-friendly alternatives.

Fire-Rated Lights

Despite technological advancements, fire-rated lights have entered the passive fire protection market with some reservations. The intricacies in installation and maintenance present challenges for architects and contractors. Moreover, the limited aesthetic options of fire-rated lights may not align with the design preferences of new-construction educational facilities, potentially posing a drawback in their widespread adoption.

Intumscent Technology

Intumescent technology emerges as a versatile solution for fire-rating unprotected ceiling openings and through-penetration applications. With its adaptable, lightweight composition and added audio protection properties, intumescent technology stands out as a universal and efficient choice for a wide range of passive fire protection applications.

In addition to all of these available solutions is IMPORTANT to ensure they are fire tested and approved by a trusted third-party laboratory such as UL Solutions. To further learn about the importance of fire tested and approved passive fire protection solutions, please visit The Influence of Recessed Luminaires in Fire Resistive Assemblies | UL Solutions.

Smart Choices, Safer Spaces: Finding the All-In-One Passive Fire Protection Solution for Educational Facilities.

Here at Tenmat, our research and development team are dedicated to facing the opposing challenges of passive fire protection in education applications. All of our passive fire protection solutions are designed with the latest intumescent technology and have been fire tested by independent third-party labs such as UL and Intertek. Here are some of the key applications for educational facilities:

If Tenmat’s pre-designed solutions do not align with your application’s demands, we offer a full range of manufacturing capabilities – allowing for customizable intumescent solutions. Please reach out to one of Tenmat’s team members at +1-800-821-3436 for further assistance.

A Secure Future: Crafting a Blueprint for Passive Fire Protection in Education

In conclusion, the imperative demand for passive fire protection in educational facilities underscores the need for innovative solutions to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and infrastructure. The multifaceted challenges posed by unprotected ceiling openings, in-ceiling loudspeakers, and through-penetration openings necessitate comprehensive strategies for fire resilience. While various solutions exist in the market, Tenmat emerges as a standout provider, offering a range of fire-tested and approved products designed with cutting-edge intumescent technology. From fire-rated troffer covers to customizable intumescent solutions, Tenmat’s commitment to research and development reflects a dedication to meeting the evolving needs of educational environments, providing smart choices for creating safer spaces. For those navigating the critical landscape of passive fire protection, Tenmat stands as a reliable partner, offering a suite of solutions meticulously designed to address the unique challenges of educational structures.

Tenmat and ALUCOBOND® Partner on Fire-Rated Blocks for Cladding Systems

Expanding intumescent technology prevents flames from spreading through ventilated cavities

Wilmington, DE – June 9, 2023 – In response to the adoption of the 2022 Building Code by New York City, Tenmat, a leading manufacturer of advanced firestopping materials and solutions, has partnered with 3A Composites USA, the global manufacturer of ALUCOBOND® PLUS 4mm aluminum composite material (ACM) to conduct a joint NFPA 285 fire test.

Together, the companies performed a groundbreaking NFPA 285 fire test at Intertek Laboratories, leveraging the expertise of Tenmat’s FF102/50 fire block and highly regarded ALUCOBOND to meet the rigorous new regulations of the building code.

The newly adopted code requires fire blocking within rainscreen assemblies, if combustible materials are used within the wall assembly.  With testing complete, the architectural community has more cladding options to choose from without increasing assembly costs.  For decades, ALUCOBOND has been a dominant cladding of choice around the world due to its formability and flatness allowing custom facades and freedom of design. “We are excited to provide a constructible and cost-effective solution that allows the architectural community to continue using ALUCOBOND to bring their vision to life.”, stated Nick Scheib, general manager at 3A Composites.  “This joint effort between Tenmat and 3A Composites represents our commitment in providing solutions for the marketplace.”

In response, Tenmat has developed a quick acting intumescent fire block for ventilated rainscreen and cladding systems, the FF102/50. The innovative FF102/50 fire blocks are designed to allow the practical benefits of cladding systems, such as energy conservation, air circulation, and moisture dissipation, while meeting the new code requirements.

Tenmat’s FF102/50 employs state-of-the-art intumescent technology that expands 25 times its original thickness when exposed to fire, effectively counteracting the adverse consequences of the concealed space behind the cladding.

 

Minutes to Install, Permanent Peace of Mind

This successful NFPA285 test is one of the first of its kind to be specifically designed and installed in accordance with the new stringent requirements of the 2022 New York City Building Code. The FF102/50 fire block was expertly deployed around window openings and at all slab lines, meticulously adhering to the position requirements for fire blocking material in the updated building code. Under normal conditions, Tenmat’s rigid and highly expansive intumescent fire block enables the maintenance of an open ventilated cavity, preserving the energy conservation and building science benefits associated with cladding systems, while concurrently serving as a formidable fire barrier in the event of a building fire. With the successful completion of the NFPA 285 test, validating the performance of Tenmat’s FF102/50 and 3A Composites’ 4mm fire retardant ALUCOBOND® PLUS both companies are and envision a construction landscape in New York City where passive fire protection standards are enhanced.

About Tenmat

For over 100 years, Tenmat has been a leader in the development, engineering and manufacturing of intumescent materials that offer advanced passive fire protection and fire blocking capabilities.

Tenmat offers a unique range of flexible, lightweight, and ready-to-use products and solutions for the most demanding firestopping applications. Our state-of-the-art, in-house R&D Laboratory and ISO 9001:2015 accredited production facilities have been developing and manufacturing technically superior passive fire protection products and intumescent materials for over 100 years. All Tenmat products have been fire tested by independent third-party labs such as UL and Intertek. 

Tenmat USA is headquartered in Wilmington, DE. For further information about Tenmat and our line of innovative firestopping materials and solutions, please call 1-800-821-3436, email info@tenmatusa.com or visit www.tenmatusa.com.

 

About 3A Composites

3A Composites is a leading producer of materials for the metal facades market. Since 1969, the company has been developing, manufacturing and marketing high-quality aluminum composite panels, structural composite material, plastic sheets and lightweight foam boards for the architecture, visual communication and transport and commercial building industries.

3A Composites is part of the international 3A Composites Group, which belongs to the listed company Schweiter Technologies headquartered in Horgen, Switzerland. Visit https://www.3acomposites.com for details.

The 3A Composites USA headquarters are located in Davidson, N.C.  U.S.-based manufacturing facilities are located in Benton, KY, where they produce ALUCOBOND, used in the architectural and building cladding industries for over 50 years. For more information about ALUCOBOND PLUS, ALUCOBOND AXCENT, and ALUCOBOND EasyFix call 1-800-626-3365, email info.usa@3AComposites.com or visit www.alucobondUSA.com.

 

Discover More about Innovative Intumescent Technology in this month’s issue of Construction Specifier

June Edition of The Construction Specifier features a detailed article highlighting Tenmat’s cutting-edge intumescent materials and solutions.

The June edition of The Construction Specifier features a noteworthy piece focusing on the relevance of intumescent technology in the residential and commercial construction industry. The outline of this article features the definition of intumescent, the various solutions intumescent can be formed into, and the range of applications this technology applies to. Interested in exploring this cutting edge technology? Click Here to Read More.

Passive Fire Protection 101 – Don’t Fail Building Inspections

Don’t Fail Building Inspections

Knowledge about the regulations regarding recessed lights in fire-resistance-rated ceilings can help avoid costly mistakes and legal actions. There seems to be a great deal of confusion about what exactly fire-resistance-rating means, where it is applicable, and the solutions available to meet the building code requirements.

The widespread adoption and understanding of codes requiring continuity of fire-resistance-rated assemblies throughout the world has made this subject more and more relevant to contractors, builders, code officials, architects, building owners and managers, and homeowners. But instead of decreasing confusion over the issue, continuous changes in state code adoption legislation and increased demand for fire-resistance-rated, code compliant products and systems have far outpaced the availability of education on the topic.

What does fire-resistance-rating actually mean?

A fire-resistance-rating typically states the duration for which a building element or an assemblage of materials can withstand a standard fire-resistance exposure test. A fire-resistance-rating is usually given to an assembly consisting of various building materials that can resist the exposure of a standardized fire exposure for a set amount of time, or it may contain a variety of other criteria involving other evidence of functionality or fitness for purpose.
Fire-resistance-ratings were developed to evaluate the performance of building elements and assemblies during an intense fire exposure and can be applied to wall, floor, or roof systems, also known as horizontal assemblies.

How do you properly fire rate a ceiling?

The 2021 version of the International Building Code addresses this issue explicitly in section 714.5.2, Membrane Penetrations:

714.5.2 Membrane penetrations. Penetrations of membranes that are part of a horizontal assembly shall comply with Section 714.5.1.1 or 714.5.1.2. 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, this section of the Code includes several exceptions. The following exception applies to listed luminaries (light fixtures). Please refer to the entire Code language and exceptions which apply to other types of membrane penetrations.
Exceptions:

8. Ceiling membrane penetrations by listed luminaires (light fixtures) or by luminaires protected with listed materials, which have been tested for use in fire-resistance-rated assemblies and are installed in accordance with the instructions included in the listing.

To meet this membrane protection code requirement, the ceiling must serve as an unbroken, continuous fire-resistance-rated horizontal assembly for a specific period of time.

In fire-resistance-rated wallboard applications, a typical assembly might have one layer of gypsum wallboard used on the underside of a floor/ceiling assembly that has been tested in accordance with the ASTM E 119 or UL 263 requirements for the hourly fire-resistance-rated assembly. In some cases, this could be a 1-hour fire-resistance-rated assembly; however, the time requirement may be greater than 1-hour, depending on the occupancy, height, and area of the building.

Use solutions that work best for your project and timeline.

There are several different solutions for fire-resistance-rated ceiling membrane applications with a diverse range of prices, approvals gained from fire-testing, and complexity. A common solution is prefabricated Fire-Resistance-Rated Light Fixtures, which have a variety of proven fire-resistance testing but are also the costliest choice
To avoid using these expensive lights, many construct boxes made from gypsum wallboard to surround the lighting fixture. This is very labor-intensive and may increase the cost of installation beyond budget limits, in addition to possibly not having a fire-resistance-rating.

Metal enclosures are also becoming an increasingly popular choice in the fire-resistance-rating dilemma. However, these are not UL-classified as a fire-resistance-rated assembly and so are not suitable for applications where fire-resistance is required.
A popular solution that is UL-classified are Fire-Resistance-Rated Light Covers. These covers are suitable for various recessed light fixture sizes and luminaires, and they comply with building code requirements for continuous fire-resistance in horizontal assemblies.

The covers are widely accepted by code officials throughout the entire United States, and possibly in other countries as well. One- and two-hour Fire-Resistance-Rated Light Covers are available from a variety of manufacturers at several different price points. They are proven to act as a suitable fire-resistance-rated horizontal assembly when called upon by fire and smoke.

Tenmat’s Fire Rated Recessed Light Covers are the solutions you’re looking for.

TENMAT fire rated enclosures and firestopping products have been designed to meet the building code and to help maintain the integrity of fire-resistance rated ceilings when penetrated by recessed lights, LED luminaires, fluorescent fixtures or in-ceiling loudspeakers or walls when penetrated by wires, cables, pipes or mixed penetrations. Tenmat’s unique design gives the architect, specifier and installer more freedom in fixture selection as the covers are suited to a wide range of recessed fixtures.

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 flames spread, and heat transmission are stopped for 60 minutes.

Talk to a member of our team today about how you can implement passive fire protection in your next construction project.

Tenmat is Lighting Up the Dakotas!

Tenmat announces new partnership with JTH Lighting Alliance

Tenmat is delighted to announce our newest relationship with JTH Lighting Alliance in North Dakota and South Dakota.

JTH Lighting Alliance, located in North and South Dakota, is “a nationally respected lighting and lighting controls manufacturer’s representative committed to providing in-depth knowledge of new products, trends, and emerging technologies to all participants of our alliance”. JTH Lighting Alliance is expanding its portfolio into offering innovative fire protection solutions for lighting.

The line card will include Tenmat’s FF109-200 & FF109-250, FF109-300 & FF109-350, FF109-X, and FF130 – 2’ x 2’ & FF130 – 2’x4’. Tenmat, a leading manufacturer of advanced passive fire protection products and materials is excited to partner with local lighting experts to further promote life safety and fire protection solutions.

For inquires in North Dakota and South Dakota, please click here.

If you are interested in becoming a Tenmat partner, please click here.

Happy Holidays 2020

Happy Holidays from the entire TENMAT team.

 

We are wishing all of our customers, partners and employees happy holidays and a prosperous and healthy 2021. Thank you for your continuous support throughout the year and your ongoing business.

Our US office will be closed on December 24 and December 25 but we will be back for you on Monday, December 28. To contact us, please call us at 1-800-821-3436 or contact us here.