SPOTLIGHT

When it comes to fire-rated glass walls and partitions, glass is a popular choice because of its unique properties of transparency and durability that other building materials can’t match.

Thanks to recent advances in material technology, such as borosilicate glass material, larger glass formats can now be used. This not only aligns with the building’s overall design aesthetic but also provides high levels of fire protection, often up to two hours on average. Given the growth of the construction industry due to the rising demand for residential and commercial spaces, fire protection has become increasingly crucial.

For materials to be fire-rated, they must have a low coefficient of expansion. This is crucial because it helps to minimise the impact of temperature rise and ensures that the structural integrity of the base material remains intact.

The glass products have to go through specific testing procedures to check their ability to withstand high temperatures and pressure.

The European and American standards are commonly used and cater to different building types and applications. In India, there are also specific testing standards like IS

3614, IS 16945, and IS 16947 that are used to specify and test the properties of fire-rated glass and other related elements.

With the increasing demand for fire-rated glazed doors, partitions, and facades, various tests are conducted in national and international laboratories to evaluate the performance of different systems, materials, and application spaces.

It’s important for clients to understand the testing protocols and make sure that the materials used comply with these protocols and meet the required performance standards before finalising the contract.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that these tests are conducted for the full system, including frames, setting blocks, hardware, and sealant, so it’s crucial that the exact tested components are part of the final product supply.

Due to its recent introduction in the Indian building market, fire-rated glass and glazing are not yet widely known.

Therefore it is important for construction industry to have an indepth understanding of the usage of fire-rated glass doors and partitions, as well as the materials employed in their construction.

At present, various specifications exist in the market that cater to specific manufacturers. However, this approach does not serve the best interests of the construction industry as a whole. To facilitate the adoption of the latest technologies and materials, it is essential for specifiers, architects, and designers to create specifications that provide a level playing field for all stakeholders to compete on.

FG has collaborated with SCHOTT, Germany to provide the most comprehensive range of fire-rated glazing products in the industry. Their products cover the entire performance spectrum, including E (integrity), EI (insulation), and EW (radiation control) ratings. These glazed systems offer unparalleled aesthetics and are tested according to EN, IS, or UL standards, making them suitable for use in various residential, commercial, and hospitality projects in both private and public sectors.