Service penetration fire seals are seals or systems that we use on services that penetrate fire compartments. Services can include plumbing and air-con pipes, conduits and cable trays, or even sprinkler pipes. Some examples include mastic seals, fire collars, wraps, pillows, and even dampers.

What is the Australian Standard for fire collars?

There are two that are relevant for fire collars. One is AS1530.4 which governs how they are tested and the other is AS4072 which one could say governs when they are needed. Most firecollar manufacturers will be able to provide you the relevant paperwork for both. Or, you could simply have a recognized installer such as Ceasefire PFP install them for you.

Are fire collars for uPVC pipes? 

Yes and no. The only system available on the market for large uPVC pipes are firecollars at the moment. However, firecollars can also be used on HDPE, PEX varieties, and even some lagged copper pipes but it is always best to check with the manufacturer or leave it to experts such as Ceasefire PFP.

Are fire collars for metal pipes?

There are a few special cases where firecollars have been tested on metal pipes such as lagged-copper and the like, however 99% of the time fire collars are not suitable for metal pipes. Metal pipes are often treated with sealant, or wrap + sealant to achieve the same fire rating of the compartment.

Do I need a fire collar installation guide?

Retrofit and cast-in firecollars are fairly straightforward and installation guides are moreso required to identify when and where you can use them. For example, the guide may say that you can’t use cast-ins around existing pipes as they have no opening or metal housing. Installation guides can be obtained from the manufacturer and sometimes their website. It is important to remember that the installation guide is just a guide and not necessarily an AS1530 test report. Always confirm with the manufacturer if the collar is tested for your specific scenario, or simply allow an expert to do the installation for you.

What is fire rated pipe wrap?

A wrap for pipes is usually comprised of rockwool or some form of glass insulation that is designed to prevent heat transfer along the pipe from one fire compartment to another. As firecollars are often not strong enough to crush metal pipe, and the fact that metal conducts heat through walls and floors quite easily renders firecollars useless. Wrapping is not as straightforward as firecollars and manufacturers should be contacted prior to purchase or installation as there are many governing factors – length, distance, spacing for cable ties, mastic/sealant amount to finish. Ceasefire PFP specialize in providing a neat and cost-effective wrap solution for your needs, contact us today.