Why Intumescent Seals are Vital for Fire Door Safety
Gaps around fire doors are essential to allow smooth opening & closing operation. But they also pose a significant risk by allowing the passage of lethal smoke and fire to pass through in the event of a building fire.
In the construction industry, where fire safety is paramount, understanding the components of fire door assemblies is vital. Intumescent seals are critical elements of a fire door, seamlessly combining the door's functionality with fire safety measures.
Understanding Intumescent Seals
Intumescent seals are strategically placed to prevent the spread of smoke and fire in the event of a fire outbreak. They are typically installed by rebating and butt jointing them into the head and jamb of door leaves or the frame itself. Supplied with a peel-and-stick self-adhesive backing, Lorient seals are quick and easy to install.
The design
Lorient fire seals comprise intumescent material encased within a rigid PVC casing. In the event of a fire, the PVC casing softens under the heat, and the intumescent core expands up to ten times its original size. This expansion effectively fills the gaps between the door and the frame, holding the door in place and preventing the passage of hot smoke and fire to other compartments of a building for a designated period of time. The duration depends on the doors test evidence & seal configuration, e.g. FD30, or FD60. This allows occupants time to evacuate safely and minimises property damage.
Combined Seals
We offer a comprehensive range of multifunctional seals that go beyond fire protection. One solution such as the DS seal will contribute to acoustic, smoke, fire, energy containment and accessibility, offering efficiency in use. Fewer products are installed; therefore fewer materials are used in the building.
The ultimate solution
For a complete sealing system, we recommend combining our DS seal with the LAS8001 si drop seal at the threshold. Together they provide protection against both smoke and fire around all 4 sides of the door. However, you should always refer to the door manufacturers' test evidence for performance compliance.
With stringent fire safety standards, the importance of intumescent seals cannot be overlooked. These rigorously tested components play a pivotal role in containing fire outbreaks, providing occupants with time to evacuate safely, and minimising property damage. At Lorient, we're committed to delivering high-quality sealing systems that prioritise both functionality and safety.
View the video below to find out more about intumescent fire, smoke, and acoustic seals, featuring a real-life example.
To learn more about our range of sealing solutions for doors, or for help specifying the right system for your project - get in touch.