Q
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What differentiates fire protective glazing from fire resistive glazing systems?
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'Fire protective' glazing functions to obstruct the advancement of flames and smoke. It includes materials such as traditional wired glass, glass ceramics, and specially tempered glass. Generally, fire-protective glazing is acceptable in areas permitted by building codes for 'opening protective' assemblies. Fire ratings for these glasses typically range between 20 to 180 minutes but vary according to specific area and size restrictions imposed by local building regulations.
'Fire resistive' glass serves a similar purpose as fire-protective systems but also inhibits radiant and conductive heat transfer. Composed of multiple glass layers with fire-resistive interlayers, fire-resistive glass typically fulfills building codes necessitating fire-resistant assemblies for space separation. Applications requiring a minimum 60-minute fire rating—like stairwells and exit corridors—must meet specific temperature rise criteria, and non-fire sides of the glass should not exceed 250 degrees Fahrenheit above ambient conditions during fire tests.
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What primary options are available for fire-rated glass?
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The most recognized fire-rated product is polished wired glass, which has provided fire protection for over a century. In North America, wired glass typically holds a 45-minute rating for lite sizes of up to 9 square feet, and those rated above 45 minutes are limited to 100-square inch lites in fire doors. The primary benefit of wired glass is its cost-effectiveness; however, its low impact resistance has led to its prohibition in hazardous areas according to the International Building Code (IBC).
Another type of fire-rated glazing is glass ceramic, which resembles conventional window glass when installed, offering superior design versatility. Products like FireLite® provide fire ratings from 20 minutes to 3 hours and are available in sizes up to 24 square feet per lite. Glass ceramics can also withstand thermal shock from water during firefighting efforts, maintaining high standards of impact safety.
Insulated glass units (IGUs) are available in glass ceramic, composed of two glass layers with an air gap in between. These can feature various types of float glass, offering fire protection while meeting energy efficiency standards and sound insulation requirements.
Fire-rated glass wall panels form another category, providing multi-layer assemblies that effectively block heat transfer. Tested for the same fire-resistance ratings as solid walls, these products permit expansive glass designs fulfilling fire code requirements. Fire-rated wall panels can also achieve high impact ratings.
Specially tempered glass like Fireglass®20 carries a maximum rating of 20 minutes and lacks thermal shock resistance. Thus, its usage is generally confined to 20-minute fire doors.
Q
What is the significance of the "fire hose stream" (thermal shock) test?
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The fire hose stream test assesses how glass and its frame assemblies react when subjected to water from firefighting equipment. Many glass types cannot endure the thermal shock from simultaneous fire and water. Failure to withstand this can result in shattered glass, further enabling the spread of fire and smoke.
NFPA 257 states that "the hose stream test evaluates the integrity of materials and constructions, facilitating the elimination of inadequate products." It is imperative for glass with fire ratings exceeding 20 minutes in the US, and in Canada, all fire-rated glass must pass this test.
Q
Why must fire-rated glazing have a permanent label?
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Fire-rated glazing showcases diverse performance characteristics, and selecting the appropriate type for specific applications is crucial for safety. To ensure accurate usage of glass in various fire-rated contexts, a product labeling system was instituted under the IBC, providing vital information such as product names, basic characteristics, compliance with safety standards, and certification details from testing agencies.
The incorporation of product marking assists in the appropriate identification of fire-rated glazing for various applications.
Q
I recently received details on a fire-rated glass with various usage limitations. Should I be concerned?
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Yes, it's critical to note any unusual restrictions provided with fire-rated glazing materials. For instance, some products may declare a fire rating of "60 minutes" while clarifying that they do not meet hose stream test requirements. Such disclaimers may indicate potential issues, underscoring the need for meticulous perusal of manufacturer documentation.
Q
Is fire-rated glass unnecessary if I employ sprinklers? Can't I just utilize tempered or heat-strengthened glass along with a water "deluge" system?
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Some manufacturers previously submitted engineering reports to regulatory bodies justifying fire resistance through fire suppression systems; however, the IBC now specifies that ratings must be based solely on material performance without reliance on sprinklers. Though sprinklers significantly enhance safety, they cannot replace the essential function of passive fire-rated glass, which provides vital compartmentalization during a fire event.
Q
How can I justify the increased costs of "wireless" fire-rated glazing over polished wired glass to my building owner?
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Architects often prefer higher-priced products for their aesthetics and improved safety features. Complex manufacturing processes and the use of specialty materials contribute to the cost of high-performance wireless options. Although prices are decreasing with increased production volume, they may never equal those of wired glass. Additionally, many projects involve a limited quantity of fire-rated glazing, with architects increasingly favoring new products for their design possibilities.
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What are the newest advancements that can enhance architectural designs?
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Recent innovation in fire-rated glass and framing has improved aesthetics and functionality. Design professionals can now utilize slimmer, custom-finished fire-rated frames, elevating visual appeal while ensuring life safety. Notable advancements also include fire-rated glass floor systems and assemblies that mimic the appearance of structural silicone glazing systems, like the Fireframes SG Curtainwall® Series.
Q
Can I use alternative rated frames with TGP fire-rated glass?
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Yes, TGP provides an array of fire-rated frames compatible with FireLite® glass ceramic, including the Fireframes® Designer, Aluminum, Hardwood, and Curtainwall Series. Nevertheless, it is essential that both the frames and glass share identical fire ratings and classifications according to the IBC.
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Who is responsible if incorrect glass or framing is installed?
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Liability could extend to multiple parties involved in product selection, specification, or installation. The building owner may seek redress from the architect, who might then implicate code officials and glaziers. It’s vital for architects to be diligent and informed when specifying glass to ensure compliance with safety standards, given the potential consequences of overlooking details.
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Here are additional considerations and commonly asked questions when ordering glass glaze resistors:
- What is the typical resistance value range available for glass glaze resistors, and do they offer precision similar to other types?
- Can glass glaze resistors be customized for specific applications, and what factors should I consider?
- What environmental conditions should be accounted for when selecting glass glaze resistors for a project?
- How do glass glaze resistors compare in terms of cost and reliability with other resistor types?
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