To increase the safety level of a facility, reduce possible losses and even save someone’s life, it is recommended to install fireproof windows. Today they are found mainly in industrial or administrative buildings and much less often in residential buildings. This selective use is explained by the peculiarities of operation and evacuation from different objects. For the manufacture of fire-resistant windows, special profiles and double-glazed windows are used. There are a number of models that are called fire resistant, but their characteristics do not meet some regulatory requirements. This review material will tell you about the types of fireproof windows, the principles of their classification, scope of application and installation features.
What are fire windows: purpose and scope of application
The components from which fire-resistant structures are assembled can effectively retard the spread of flame.
The frames of such models do not burn or melt for a certain time, and the double-glazed windows do not crack and remain sealed. Thanks to this, it is possible to localize the source of the fire. In fact, installing fireproof windows is necessary to prevent fire from spreading quickly. Installing such structures at the right time will “give” precious minutes until the firefighters arrive. Fire-resistant structures are needed wherever it is necessary to ensure the safety of people and the safety of property. Their presence is especially important in places where there is a significant concentration of personnel and visitors. As a result, the list of places where fire windows are most often installed includes the following objects:
- archives and libraries;
- logistics centers and warehouses;
- oil depots and gas stations;
- municipal institutions;
- industrial premises;
- educational, children's and medical institutions;
- laboratories;
- luxury residential complexes.
The rules for installing such structures are determined by clear instructions from SP 4.13130 “Fire protection systems”. This document contains all the necessary requirements regarding the layout of facilities where fire-resistant windows are installed, as well as regulating other important features of building structures.
Advantages of fireproof windows
Since fire can quickly rise not only up stairs, but also through window openings, these areas must also be well protected.
If you ignore this recommendation, then even if there are fire doors, partitions and other utilities, safety cannot be guaranteed. The fire will then find a weak point in the building and continue to spread throughout the facility. Windows become an additional barrier and insurance. They contain the flames from the external walls. Moreover, increasing the level of security of a facility is not the only advantage of fire windows. These designs have quite a few other advantages that are common to all modern windows:
- aesthetic and modern appearance;
- good ability to retain heat;
- high level of noise absorption;
- excellent resistance to wind loads;
- high class of tightness;
- long service life - at least 15 years.
Are gratings needed?
The grille can serve as protection against glass breakage by hooligans if the room is located on the ground floor. The law does not prohibit installing them on fire-resistant structures. There is no point in making swing grates, since the block does not open.
PPB does not prohibit the installation of blind grilles on window openings made of ordinary material, and they do not make an exception for fire-resistant glass. Since the opening is not an emergency exit.
On the other hand, there is a recommendation that you can install a grill to protect ordinary glass. But only a hinged one, so that in case of an emergency you can leave the room through the window opening on the first floor.
Considering that the fire-resistant structures on the openings are solid, there is no point in installing an opening element. But as a recommendation, it is advised to make it hinged, since for evacuation you may have to break the glass in order to go outside through the window opening.
Fire safety rules prohibit the installation of non-opening grilles in the following facilities:
- institutions where children study or live;
- medical organizations;
- research centers;
- energy enterprises.
This rule does not apply to warehouses containing narcotic substances and poisons. Here the gratings should be solid.
It is important to use fire-resistant double-glazed windows in rooms with a high concentration of people. It is better not to install it at home, but instead of plastic it is worth using steel as a frame. But for public places, fire-resistant construction is mandatory.
When choosing between steel and wood, you should pay attention to the first one, since wood is susceptible to burning and deteriorates when exposed to high humidity.
Fireproof plastic (PVC) windows
When manufacturers or sellers call models made from plastic profiles fire-resistant, they are lying. PVC is a moderately flammable material with a fire safety class (G3). That is, it is vulnerable to flame, which is reflected in the classification of the material. PVC fire-resistant windows, even if equipped with special double-glazed windows, are not able to withstand the effects of fire for a long time. When heated, the plastic quickly softens and the structure loses its load-bearing capacity. As a result, such models cannot become a serious obstacle for fire.
Fireproof aluminum windows
The most effective way to preserve the load-bearing capacity of sashes and frames at high temperatures is to assemble them from metal elements.
Previously, steel was used for these purposes, which was eventually replaced by aluminum. It is a lighter metal with a melting point of 660°C. It takes some time for the structures to heat up to this state and soften. At a stable ambient temperature of 1000°C, it takes at least 15 minutes to heat up (in reality you need to wait longer), and then the softening process just begins. Fire-rated aluminum windows are assembled from warm and cold profiles. You can read more about the difference between types of aluminum structures on OknaTrade. Warm profiles with special thermal inserts are used in the manufacture of structures that are intended for installation in openings of external walls. They prevent industrial, commercial or office premises from cooling down during the autumn-winter season. For use inside buildings and equipping unheated objects, structures assembled from cold profiles are suitable.
Average prices
The final price for fireproof aluminum windows includes payment for :
- complexity of an individual order;
- delivery costs;
- deadline;
- presence of decorative elements;
- profile material;
- order volume;
- color scheme.
Price variations for aluminum software:
- E30 - from 8,000 rubles to 88,000 rubles per 1 sq. m.
- Software E60 - from 17,000 rubles to 100,000 rubles per 1 sq. m. m.
Wooden fire windows
If wood is impregnated with special fire-resistant compounds, it does not burn and becomes charred. Windows made from this material retain their load-bearing capacity longer than plastic structures. However, it is impossible to find completely wooden models that have received a fire safety certificate. Most often in such cases we are talking about steel or aluminum windows lined with wooden overlays or natural veneer.
When choosing a material for the manufacture of fire-resistant windows, it should be taken into account that plastic and wood are not only unable to withstand fire for a long time. When heated, they also release harmful substances that are dangerous to people.
Is it possible to convert a regular frame?
To do this, it is necessary to replace the double-glazed window and install an element with fire-resistant glass. The peculiarity of the aluminum facade requires installation together with the aluminum window frame. Both elements must have certificates and comply with legal regulations. Additional sealing needs to be installed.
In this case, the moisture removal system may be disrupted, which will lead to the formation of condensation.
Such actions must be approved by the Ministry of Emergency Situations. In practice, it is better to install a new fire-resistant aluminum window without altering the old one.
Double-glazed windows for fire-resistant windows
Fire doors with windows are structurally different from conventional non-fire resistant models.
In the manufacture of these products, a multi-layer filling of a durable frame is used, which is able to withstand open fire and high pressure differences. To complete fire-resistant windows, special double-glazed windows are needed. They are assembled from several glasses, between which there is a special gel that glues adjacent layers when heated. In its normal state, this composition is absolutely transparent and does not reduce the light transmittance of windows. The fire resistance of windows depends on the number of layers in a double-glazed window. The more of them, the longer the structures can withstand the effects of fire and maintain their linear dimensions. Therefore, fire-rated windows EI 30 and 60 are equipped with different double-glazed windows, which have different weights. The weight of some glass structures can reach up to 300 kg. This must be taken into account not only when manufacturing the frame, but also when preparing for installation in openings. It is also important to use fire-resistant sealants to secure glass units in windows.
Window fire rating (EI)
Depending on the choice of components, profile structures have different fire resistance classes. This indicator determines how long the model can maintain tightness near a flame at high temperatures. The following classification is not currently relevant in Russia:
- fire windows EI 60 – 1 hour;
- fire windows EI 30 – half an hour;
- fire windows EI 15 – quarter of an hour.
The letters used in the marking have a meaning: “E” indicates the time the integrity is maintained, and “I” indicates the period during which the thermal insulation capacity of the structure remains acceptable. For fire-resistant window models, these parameters are the same, so only one numerical value is used.
Manufacturers also assemble EI 90 and 45 windows. However, these models are less in demand because their characteristics do not comply with the actual technical regulations.
Tips for choosing the right one
In order for the purchased product to meet the requirements, you must follow the following selection rules :
- Check certificates. They should be separate for glass and frame. Pay special attention to the parameters of fire-resistant glass - this is the main element of the design. The heavier and thicker it is, the better it can resist fire.
- Study the characteristics of materials. Depending on where the product will be installed, appropriate requirements are imposed on it. Select the size, weight and parameters of the glass unit. This is necessary so that the supporting structures of the building can support the weight of the product.
- Buy from professionals. This will help avoid many misunderstandings. In rating companies, qualified specialists will competently calculate the characteristics of the model.
- Study the price niche.
When choosing a company, it is recommended to read customer reviews. Software installation is a licensed activity. It is carried out by employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations or companies that have been issued a license.
Types of fire windows: type 1 and 2, differences
Fire-resistant models are divided not only into classes, but also into types. This gradation helps determine the scope of application of fire protection structures. The division into types is regulated by standards from GOSTR 53308-2009, which allow you to select the optimal modification.
Type 1
Type 1 fire windows can withstand at least 60 minutes of fire exposure. They are equipped with 6-layer double-glazed windows with at least 5 chambers with fire-retardant gel filling. Such models are intended for use in high-traffic facilities, industrial buildings, warehouses, research laboratories and high-rise retail or business - src=»https://www.oknatrade.ru/upload/images/Statya-Protivopozharnye-okna- osobennosti-i-trebovaniya-k-konstruktsiyam/protivopozharnye-okna-1-tipa-v-laboratoriyah.jpg" class=»aligncenter» width=»720″ height=»480″[/img]
Type 2
Type 2 fire windows are designed to resist fire for at least 30 minutes. Such models are equipped with 3-layer double-glazed windows with fire-retardant filling. The second type of windows is used in industrial and commercial facilities that are not considered a fire hazard, as well as in residential premises.
Structures that can withstand fire for about 15 minutes are classified as type 3 and are suitable for use only in residential premises. The feasibility of their installation is questionable, since a flame delay of just a quarter of an hour is often not enough to effectively solve problems.
Opening type of fire rated windows
Fire-resistant windows can, at the customer’s request, be equipped with active sashes that swing open or recline. However, such models are only suitable for installation in residential premises. If fire windows are opening structures, they cannot be used in any other facilities according to regulations. This is due to the fact that real fire-resistant models should not have active sashes, vents, handles, latches and other structural elements. For example, if a manufacturer says that EI 60 fire rated windows are operable, he is not being completely honest. Most likely, when assembling these structures, components were used that could withstand exposure to fire for an hour. However, due to the presence of active doors, such models are unlikely to receive a certificate of conformity.
If fireproof windows for residential premises are equipped with active shutters, they must be equipped with automatic closing devices. Such electric drives must be connected to temperature and smoke sensors in order to quickly block the access of oxygen to the source of fire in the event of a fire.
Installation Features
To install these types of window units, you need to go through six steps.
- Unpack the structure and prepare it for installation.
- Install the fireproof side into the room.
- Set up and secure the structure.
- Foam the installation seams with foam that has a fire-resistant function.
- Check the glass unit for damage, then install it in the frame using suction cups.
- Install the retaining beads, first horizontally, then vertically.
Not every installer has the right to install fire-resistant devices. He must have a license issued by the Ministry of Emergency Situations.
The difference in installation is the materials used. The master must not only have a license from the Ministry of Emergency Situations, but also understand what a fire-resistant window is. It is important to remember that the glass is coated on one side with fire-resistant material.
How fireproof windows are made
The production of fireproof windows is not fundamentally different from the assembly of conventional structures. The whole difference lies in the materials and technologies used to manufacture fire-resistant structures. The algorithm itself for these events is common:
- Customer's choice of window model.
- Taking measurements.
- Coordination of nuances after determining dimensions.
- Drawing up project documentation.
- Production of double-glazed windows.
- Assembly of sashes and frames.
- Quality checking.
When fire-resistant windows are designed, the manufacturer is obliged to offer additional reinforcement to the structure. For example, it is recommended to equip aluminum profiles with steel cores. This can significantly improve the load-bearing capacity of fire-resistant structures. The use of cores increases the cost and weight, but you should not refuse such a configuration. After all, the melting point of aluminum is not so high that windows can withstand exposure to flames for too long.
Before ordering, the client must be asked to provide, along with the windows, certificates for double-glazed windows, documentation with technical characteristics and a certificate for assembled window or door units.
Specifications
Main technical characteristics of products that you should pay attention :
- Fire resistance limit. There are 2 types - E15, E30, E60. Some companies produce E90 windows.
- Aluminum frame parameters. What is important here is the profile data (brand, dimensions, thermal data, composition, material and thickness of the coating) and its thermal insulation filling.
- Sealing. Types of sealants and fillers. Number of sealing circuits.
- Glazing. The fire resistance rating depends on the thickness of the glass. Multilayer, glass unit sizes.
- Indicators of resistance and translucency.
- Clamping elements.
- Coloring. Allows you to select the profile color.
- Product weight.
- Additional equipment - certificates, product passport.
The main element of the product is a double-glazed window. The characteristics of software directly depend on its ability to withstand mechanical and thermal effects for a long time.
Installation of fireproof windows
Due to the specific nature of the work, the installation of fire-resistant structures cannot be entrusted to a team of ordinary installers. This type of activity is controlled and licensed by the Ministry of Emergency Situations. To avoid any troubles during the inspector's inspection, the installation of fire windows should be carried out by employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations or affiliated organizations. Much attention is paid to compliance with technology during installation, since errors lead to premature breakthrough of the smoke flow and open fire. The installation procedure consists of several stages:
- Alignment of walls.
- Removing construction debris and dust from the inner surface of openings.
- Fastening windows to walls.
- Blowing out assembly seams with fire-resistant foam.
- Checking the seam tightness.
- Seal the slopes around the perimeter with fire-resistant plaster.
During installation, you must ensure that there are no voids or unsealed gaps. Installation is allowed both at facilities in operation and under construction. This activity is carried out only after representatives of the Ministry of Emergency Situations are convinced of the fire safety of the windows. After all, this organization is the last and most important authority confirming the fire resistance of structures. If she installs windows that do not meet the stated specifications, her employees will be held responsible if problems arise.
If you use conventional foam or building mixtures during the installation of fire-resistant windows, the entire event becomes useless. This also applies to the manufacture of fire-resistant windows. Why are expensive structures needed if flames and smoke will still break through their perimeter?
Requirements for fireproof windows
The production of fireproof windows cannot be carried out the way the customer or manufacturer wants. Requirements for fire-resistant structures are regulated by standards contained in various documents:
- GOST R53308-2009;
- Federal Law No. 123;
- SNiP 21-01-97.
In addition, the regulatory framework from SP 4.13130 is used, which defines the scope of application of fire-resistant windows, and a document regulating the characteristics of the glass with which fire-rated windows are equipped - GOST 32539-2013.
To avoid problems with regulatory authorities and ensure the necessary degree of protection, you should strictly comply with all the requirements listed in the documents. Since the installation of fire windows is carried out in accordance with strict regulations, property owners are further protected from the installation of counterfeit structures. To avoid unpleasant situations when inspectors from the Ministry of Emergency Situations check the authenticity of products, it is recommended to pay close attention to studying the certificates presented by window manufacturers.
