Fire Resistance: Fire doors are constructed to withstand fire and heat for a specified period, typically 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 90 minutes, or 120 minutes. The fire resistance rating depends on the type of building and its intended use.
Material: Fire doors are often made from materials with excellent fire-resistant properties, such as solid timber, steel, or fire-resistant glass. The door's core may contain materials like fire-resistant panels.
Seals: Fire doors are equipped with intumescent seals around the door edges. These seals expand when exposed to heat, creating a barrier that prevents smoke and flames from passing through gaps around the door.
Closers and Latching Devices: Fire doors must be self-closing and equipped with latching devices to ensure they remain closed in the event of a fire. Some may also have electromagnetic hold-open devices that release when the fire alarm is triggered.
Labeling and Certification: Fire doors are typically labeled and certified by regulatory authorities or testing agencies to verify their fire-resistant properties. Common certification standards include UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or BS (British Standards).
Frames and Hardware: The door frames and associated hardware, including hinges, locks, and handles, must also be fire-rated and compatible with the fire door.
Fire-Resistant Glazing: In some cases, fire doors have fire-resistant glazing to allow visibility and light transmission while maintaining fire resistance. Fire-resistant glass, such as wired or laminated glass, is used for this purpose.
Location: Fire doors are strategically placed within a building to create fire compartments, which limit the fire's spread. They are often found in corridors, stairwells, and fire exits.
Regulatory Compliance: Fire doors are subject to local building codes and regulations. Compliance with these codes is crucial to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of fire doors.
Regular Maintenance: It is essential to maintain and inspect fire doors regularly to ensure they function correctly. Damaged or malfunctioning fire doors should be repaired or replaced promptly.