Fire doors are designed for different classifications. These classifications identify the time that a door withholds exposure to fire. Fire door testing rates the exposure time a door and its hinges withstand.
When it comes to fire door testing, Minnesota designers and builders need to meet the specific state code requirements set forth for the construction of buildings.
The below information explains some general fire ratings used for doors in design and construction practice.
Standard Fire Door Ratings Used
The standard rates used are 1/3 an hour, 3/4 an hour, 1 hour and 1 1/2 hours of exposure. There are additional rates that are used which max out at 3 hours. The rate structure corresponds to the design of the door. Doors with fire ratings can still contain glass. However, the glass is required to be a certain size and also able to withstand fire.
Rating Descriptions
1/3 hour ratings are for doors that are lighter weight. Generally these doors open to corridors. A big testing function of these doors is draft and smoke protection. They are designed to withstand 20 minutes of fire exposure.
3/4 hour ratings are given to doors that connect rooms. They can also be used on doors that open on the exterior of a building. These doors are considered to be able to withstand moderate fire exposure.
Doors with a one hour rating are commonly used between rooms.
Doors with a 1 1/2 hour rating are intended for areas with severe external fire exposure. Additional uses include stairwells and entrances to utility rooms such as boiler rooms.
Testing Methods
There are two main ways of testing fire doors. One is known as a neutral pressure test while the other one is known as a positive pressure test. The primary difference between the two is the point of pressure at which the door is tested. Methods used depend on building codes in that area.
Additional features tested include smoke and draft control, gaskets, marking and the ability to meet structure component regulations.
Fire door testing is an essential in the construction and building industry. These testing requirements help ensure the safety of those who live in, work in or simply visit a large variety of building structures. The various door ratings are applied as a matter of economy and efficiency. As explained above, the level of fire risk to the area determines the door rating required.