Duffel, September 2008 --- Reynaers Aluminium, a leading supplier of innovative and sustainable architectural aluminium solutions, is set to launch a new range of fireproof solutions, compliant with European standards. The new CW 50-FP comes as a further extension to its existing fire proof curtain wall (CW 50-FP). The CS 77-FP60 is based on their well-known CS 77. A new 30-minute version is due to be launched during the first quarter of 2009.
The new solutions can be integrated with all other Reynaers products.
A major trend in building construction is the regulation to sub-divide buildings into various fireproof sections that are interconnected by fireproof escape routes and fire exits. Next to this internal application, the new fireproof systems offer protection from burning buildings in close proximity to it. Reynaers’ new product range is designed to offer architects a complete fireproof solution to achieve this.
CW 50-FP EI60
The CW 50-FP EI60 curtain wall is based on the established CW 50-FP30 principles, but with the addition of minimal cooling agent, it now extends the time factor from 30 to 60 minutes. It does not replace its predecessor as the CW 50-FP30 version remains available, giving designers a choice of both. Assembly time on the CW 50-FP EI60 has been shortened by improved drainage and connection methods. Both CW 50-FP versions can be used seamlessly next to the full CW 50 range as they are visually identical.
CW 50-FP EI60 vertical detail
CW 50-FP EI60 was subjected to a test program following EN 1363-3. The test program focused on two important factors: The integrity (E) of the systems, i.e. to which extent it will keep flames on the fire side of the construction, and thermal insulation (I), i.e. to which extent it will prevent that the temperature on the non-fire side of the construction will rise. Both affect the risk of injury and damage to lives and property.
CW 50-FP EI60 inside detail
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CW 50-FP EI60 outside detail
CS 77-FP EI60
The CS 77-FP EI60 was developed on the basis of the existing CS 77 profiles and accessories for windows and doors, but it now offers a 60 minute fireproofing time span.
This has been achieved by inducing a special cooling material into profile chambers. Self adhesive, water-resistant swelling gaskets are used on the CS 77-FP. As they are water resistant, the gaskets do not require to be sealed, reducing fabrication time of the profiles and resultant cost savings.
CS 77-FP EI60 door detail
CS 77-FP EI60 window detail
To comply fully with European standards EN1363-1, EN1364-1 and EN 1634-1 the CS 77-FP was tested comprehensively according to an Optimized European Test and Approval program, represented by 13 testing institutions from 12 countries, to certificate all the required configurations all over Europe.
The tests exposed 12 different elements in numerous configurations to various internal and external fire and heating conditions. This resulted in a total offering of single and double doors, including panic doors, combined fixed window elements with different ways of coupling and different optional locking devices, approved by different independent testing institutions towards local regulations in different countries.
This application allows a huge range of options and possibilities for architects to work with. It is fully compatible with the full non fire proof CS 77 range, allowing the systems to be integrated in various combinations.
Combining technical innovation, safety and aesthetic appeal
Once a fire has started in an occupied building, the two top safety priorities are to safely evacuate people from the building and to prevent the fire from spreading inside or outside the building. The CS 77-FP60 is specially designed to achieve these objectives by delaying both the spread of fire and the increase of temperatures by at least 60 minutes. Its fireproof partitioning wall is ideal for escape routes through hallways and offices and to offer protection from burning buildings in close proximity to it.
As these products can be integrated with other Reynaers solutions, they can be applied in a vast range of configurations. Creative combinations of the new CW 50-FP curtain walls and CS 77-FP profiles can safeguard fire exits and provide escape routes through hallways and staircases giving occupants more time to safely evacuate burning buildings. Depending on the Reynaers’ system, fire resistance will be extended by either 30 or 60 minutes. This is achieved at no sacrifice to the aesthetic appeal of the existing Reynaers’ profile ranges.
Cost-efficient versatility
Cost-efficiency is enhanced by the use of the same standard profiles for fire proof and non fire proof variant: the cost of articles decreases, stock levels improve and the mounting is simplified.
In addition, the range comes with the same aesthetic appeal and integration capabilities of all its other non-fireproof products, giving architects the freedom to release their creative potential once the fire risks have been dealt with adequately. Add to this the ease of assembly and the resultant time savings for fabricators, and the fact that the increased fire resistance of 60 minutes is achieved at a fractional additional cost, the solution adds considerable additional value to buildings.