Fire resistance of aluminium‐glazed partitions depending on their height

Abstract

The actual class of fire resistance of glazed partitions can only be determined according to a test, which meets the normative requirements. The test standards in this field determine the minimum dimensions of the test specimens (2800 × 3000 mm, width × height, in the clear opening of the furnace), on which the test should be carried out. The testing of elements with the minimum dimensions allowed by the test standard, assess the fire resistance of components with slightly larger dimensions. This, however, does not solve the real problem, which is the use of glazed partitions with fire resistance, significantly exceeding the dimensions of the sample walls verified by the tests. The aim of the research described in this article was to verify the influence of the height of glazed partitions on their fire resistance.The results of six tests of partitions with different height (from 3 up to 6 m) and the same width (3 m), made on the basis of the same glazing and the same aluminium profiles have been compared. During the fire resistance tests, the performance criteria of integrity and insulation were verified. Additionally, the deflection of the partition was measured in specific places by means of laser and draw wire sensors.Based on the presented test results, it can be argued that the height of the partition does not have a significant impact on its insulation and integrity, provided that the size of the glass panes is not increased along with the wall height, that the structure of the element is symmetrical in relation to the central vertical axis and, most importantly, that the mullions are properly stiffened.

Editorial for special issue on Interflam 2019: Mass timber and fire resistance

“…A separate study also examined partitions and scale effects. 11 In this study, the influence of height of glazed partitions with fire resistance tests that exceed the dimensions of the sample walls was considered.…”