REPORT

ON
FIRE RATED DOORS

B.ARCH III SFS JMI

Contents
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 2
2.Classification of Fire Doors................................................................................................................... 2
2.1. CLASS “A” ..................................................................................................................................... 2
2.1.1. Class “A-60”........................................................................................................................... 2
2.1.2. Class “A-30”........................................................................................................................... 2
2.1.3. Class “A-15”........................................................................................................................... 2
2.1.4. Class “A-0”............................................................................................................................. 2
2.2. CLASS “B”—.................................................................................................................................. 2
2.2.1. Class “B-15” ........................................................................................................................... 3
2.2.2. Class “B-0” ............................................................................................................................. 3
2.3.CLASS “C”-- .................................................................................................................................... 3
DOORS IN FIRE-RESISTANT DIVISIONS ................................................................................................ 3
3. Classification of Fire Doors on basis of material used ........................................................................ 3
3.1. Steel Fire Doors ............................................................................................................................ 3
3.2. Wooden Fire Doors ...................................................................................................................... 4
3.3. Glass Fire Doors ........................................................................................................................... 4
3.4. Composite Fire Doors................................................................................................................... 4
4. Classification based on types of Infill material ................................................................................... 5
4.1. Honeycomb Door Infill ................................................................................................................. 5
4.2. Rockwool Door Infill ..................................................................................................................... 5
5. IMPORTANCE OF FIRE DOORS IN BUILDING SAFETY .......................................................................... 6
6. ADVANTAGES OF FIRE DOORS ............................................................................................................ 6
6.1. Fire Containment ......................................................................................................................... 6
6.2. Smoke Control.............................................................................................................................. 6
6.3. Protection of Escape Routes: ....................................................................................................... 6
6.4. Delaying the Progress of Fire: ...................................................................................................... 7
6.5. Protection of Property and Assets: .............................................................................................. 7
6.6. Legal Compliance: ........................................................................................................................ 7
6.7. Insurance Requirements .............................................................................................................. 7
6.8. Enhanced Safety Measures .......................................................................................................... 7
7. EXAMPLE: FIRE DOORS WITH DIMENSIONS, RATING, MATERIALS..................................................... 9
8. THE SIGNIFICANCE OF FIRE SAFETY DOORS IN COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS ......................................... 8
9. CONCLUSION ....................................................................................................................................... 9
Introduction
Fire doors play a crucial role in maintaining safety and
preventing the spread of fire in buildings. They are
specially designed to withstand fire for a specified
period, allowing occupants to evacuate safely and
limiting the damage to property. In this essay, we will
delve into the classification, advantages, examples, and
importance of fire doors in modern construction.

2.Classification of Fire Doors

Fire doors are classified based on their ability to withstand fire for a specific duration. The
classification is typically denoted in minutes, indicating the period the door can resist fire.

In order to restrict the spread of fire the bulkheads and decks of a vessel are constructed to a
particular standard. Various standards apply depending on the type of vessel and the nature of
the space surrounded. Generally, the fire resistance of a bulkhead is expressed as A, B or C
followed by a number indicating the time that the division will prevent a specified
temperature rise. Common classifications include:

2.1. CLASS “A”

A division constructed of steel or equivalent material and capable of preventing the passage
of smoke or flame for one hour. Class “A” division bulkheads should be insulated with non-
combustible materials so that on the side opposite to a fire the average temperature will not
rise more than 139oCabove the original temperature, nor more than 180oC at any one point.

2.1.1. Class “A-60” –must prevent the stated temperature rises for at least 60 minutes.

2.1.2. Class “A-30” –must prevent the stated temperature rises for at least 30 minutes.

2.1.3. Class “A-15” –must prevent the stated temperature rises for at least 15 minutes.

2.1.4. Class “A-0” –must prevent the stated temperature rises for at least 0 minutes.

These classifications are determined through rigorous testing procedures in accordance with
international standards such as BS EN 1634 and UL 10C.

2.2. CLASS “B”—A division capable of preventing the passage of flame for the first half an
hour of the standard test. The insulation should be such that on the side opposite to a fire the
average temperature will not rise more 139oC above the original temperature, not more than
225o C at any one point.

2.2.1. Class “B-15” –must prevent the stated temperature rises for at least 15 minutes.

2.2.2. Class “B-0” –must prevent the stated temperature rises for at least 0 minutes.

A class “B” division must be constructed of approved non combustible materials except that
combustible materials may be permitted provided they meet certain other requirements.

2.3.CLASS “C”-- These divisions are constructed of approved non-combustible materials.

They do not need to meet the requirements for limiting the passage of smoke and flame nor
limitations relative to temperature rise. Combustible veneers are permitted provided they
meet other requirements. Fire resistance doors and doorframes fitted to the bulkheads and
decks is to be, as far as is practicable, at least equivalent to the bulkhead or deck in which
they are fitted. Watertight doors need not be insulated.

DOORS IN FIRE-RESISTANT DIVISIONS

• In “A” class divisions must be constructed of steel and doors in “B” class divisions
must be non-combustible.
• In boundaries of category A machinery spaces are to be self-closing and reasonably
gas-tight.
• Self-closing doors are not to be fitted with any hold back device, unless it is capable
of remoterelease and of the fail safe type.
• Ventilation is permitted through the lower part or beneath a door that leads between a
corridor and a public space or cabin.
• Watertight doors are not required to be insulated.

3. Classification of Fire Doors on basis of material used

3.1. Steel Fire Doors

These doors are constructed using steel sheets and are known for their
robustness and durability. Steel fire doors are commonly used in
industrial settings, warehouses, and areas requiring high levels of fire
protection.
3.2. Wooden Fire Doors

Wooden fire doors combine aesthetics with functionality, making

them suitable for various architectural styles. They are often used in
commercial buildings, hotels, and residential properties where design
considerations are important.

3.3. Glass Fire Doors

Glass fire doors incorporate fire-rated glass panels within a sturdy

frame, allowing for visibility while maintaining fire resistance. They
are ideal for areas where visibility is crucial, such as corridors and
stairwells in office buildings and hospitals.

3.4. Composite Fire Doors

Composite fire doors are constructed using a combination of

materials such as steel, wood, and glass, offering enhanced fire
protection and aesthetic appeal. They are versatile and can be
customized to suit specific design requirements.
Fire safety doors are engineered to withstand high temperatures, flames, and smoke, acting as
a barrier between different sections of a building during a fire incident. They are constructed
using fire-resistant materials such as steel, gypsum, or timber, with specific certifications
indicating their fire resistance rating. These ratings denote the duration for which a door can
withstand fire and contribute to buying time for evacuation and firefighting operations.

4. Classification based on types of Infill material

4.1. Honeycomb Door Infill

Honeycomb was originally developed as a structural core for

military aircraft wings during World War II but was later used
in standard metal doors in 1957. Among its advantages are a
high strength- to-weight ratio, uniform crushing strength, high
shear strength, and excellent impact resistance. It is durable,
can be treated to resist decay and insects, and also provides
sound deadening and insulating properties.

As door infill, the rigid honeycomb structure is integrated

with the door to form hundreds of small I- beams with the door, with a uniform thickness and
flat surface that makes it easy to add lites, louvers or other features. It reinforces the full
width and height of the door. Honeycomb Core Doors may be used in exterior or interior
applications.

4.2. Rockwool Door Infill

Rockwool as the name implies is made by melting diabase

rock mixed with coke and limestone and converting them into
fibers. The raw material diabase (basalt rock) is a pure
volcanic material which is millions of years old. Rockwool is
classified as an inorganic material and has an excellent
resistance to high temperatures and possess superior acoustic
properties.

As door core, Rockwool is used to fill in cavities of steel-

stiffened doors. Steel Stiffened doors are used mainly for exterior doors, where rigidity is
important. They are available in varying degrees of strength and quality. While the thickness
of the stiffeners can vary, the majority are made of 20 gauge steel. Heavier gauges sometimes
are used, particularly on security doors. Spacing between stiffeners may vary from 2” to 4”.
They are usually welded to each other at the top and bottom, and to the inside door skins on
4” to 5” centers.
5. IMPORTANCE OF FIRE DOORS IN BUILDING SAFETY
The importance of fire doors in building safety cannot be overstated. They are a critical
component of passive fire protection systems, which aim to contain fires and prevent their
spread. Without adequate fire doors, the risk of fire-related casualties and property damage
significantly increases.

In the event of a fire, fire doors act as barriers, compartmentalizing the building and limiting
the fire's progression. This containment allows occupants to evacuate safely and provides
firefighters with valuable time to extinguish the blaze. Additionally, fire doors help prevent
the spread of smoke and toxic gases, reducing the risk of smoke inhalation and enhancing
visibility during evacuation efforts.

Furthermore, fire doors contribute to regulatory compliance and insurance requirements.

Building codes and regulations stipulate the installation of fire doors in various occupancy
types, ensuring that buildings meet minimum safety standards. Compliance with these
regulations not only protects occupants but also mitigates liability risks for building owners
and operators.

6. ADVANTAGES OF FIRE DOORS

6.1. Fire Containment

The primary advantage of fire doors is their ability to contain fire within a specific area,
preventing its spread to other parts of the building. This containment buys valuable time for
occupants to evacuate safely and for firefighters to control the blaze.

6.2. Smoke Control

In addition to resisting flames, fire doors are designed to minimize the spread of smoke.
Smoke inhalation is a significant hazard during a fire and can cause asphyxiation and
respiratory problems. Fire doors help limit the movement of smoke, improving visibility and
allowing for clearer evacuation routes.

6.3. Protection of Escape Routes:

During an emergency, clear and unobstructed escape routes are vital. Fire doors play a critical
role in protecting these pathways by preventing the ingress of smoke and fire into evacuation
routes. By maintaining the integrity of escape routes, fire doors enable swift and safe
evacuation, reducing the chances of injuries or fatalities.
6.4. Delaying the Progress of Fire:

Fire doors serve as a defensive line against the rapid progression of fire. By withstanding the
intense heat and flames, these doors buy valuable time for emergency responders to arrive
and mitigate the fire. They act as a barrier, preventing fire from spreading rapidly and
allowing firefighters to focus their efforts on specific areas, enhancing the overall
effectiveness of firefighting operations.

6.5. Protection of Property and Assets:

In addition to saving lives, fire safety doors are instrumental in safeguarding valuable
property and assets within commercial buildings. By confining the fire to its origin, these
doors limit the extent of damage and minimize financial losses. They also help prevent the
destruction of critical equipment, data centers, or storage areas that could have severe
consequences for businesses.

6.6. Legal Compliance:

Many building codes and regulations mandate the installation of fire doors in commercial and
residential structures. Compliance with these regulations is essential for obtaining building
permits and ensuring the safety of occupants.

Commercial buildings are required to adhere to specific fire safety standards, and the
installation of fire doors is often mandated. Compliance with these regulations ensures that
buildings are adequately equipped to handle fire emergencies, reducing the legal liabilities
faced by property owners.

6.7. Insurance Requirements

Insurance companies often require the installation of fire doors as a condition for coverage.
Buildings equipped with proper fire safety measures, including fire doors, may qualify for
lower insurance premiums.

6.8. Enhanced Safety Measures

Fire doors contribute to a comprehensive fire safety plan, complementing other preventive
measures such as fire alarms, extinguishers, and emergency lighting. They serve as a crucial
barrier against the rapid spread of fire and are an integral part of building safety protocols.
7. COMMON DESIGNS
8. EXAMPLE: FIRE DOORS WITH DIMENSIONS, RATING, MATERIALS

9. THE SIGNIFICANCE OF FIRE SAFETY DOORS IN COMMERCIAL

BUILDINGS
Fire safety doors play a vital role in ensuring the safety and protection of occupants in
commercial buildings. These doors serve as a crucial barrier against the spread of fire,
allowing people to evacuate safely and granting firefighters valuable time to extinguish the
flames. Understanding the importance of fire doors is essential for maintaining a secure
environment.

10. CONCLUSION
Fire doors are essential components of building safety systems, providing crucial protection
against the spread of fire and smoke. Their classification based on fire resistance duration,
advantages such as fire containment and smoke control, examples including steel, wooden,
glass, and composite doors, and their importance in building safety underscore their
significance in modern construction.

As buildings continue to evolve with advances in design and technology, the role of fire
doors remains paramount in safeguarding occupants and property against the devastating
effects of fire. By understanding the classification, advantages, and examples of fire doors,
stakeholders can make informed decisions to enhance building safety and resilience in the
face of fire-related hazards.