Professional Documents
Culture Documents
BLUE BOOK European Version
BLUE BOOK European Version
European version
Association for Specialist Fire Protection / www.asfp.org.uk 1 Fire Resisting Ductwork (European version 1st Edition v090202)
FIRE AND YOUR LEGAL LIABILITY
2008 produced the highest UK peace time fire losses of all time, rising over the previous year by 16% to a
record £1.3bn. That’s why we must all play our part.
The HVCA represents the interests of firms active in the design, installation, commissioning and maintenance of
heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration products and equipment
Acknowledgements
This document complements the 2nd Edition Volume 2 of ‘Fire resisting ductwork’ which focuses on BS 476 Part
24 test data. It has been prepared by ASFP Task Group 6A Fire Resisting Ductwork. The contributions are
gratefully acknowledged:
R H Earle Exova Warrington Fire, Task Group Chairman
P Hanson Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea
M Hart Knauf Insulation
T Hubbard Promat UK Ltd
B A James Fire Protection Ltd
N J Macdonald BRE Global
L Cody Rockwool Ltd
W Parlor ASFP Technical Officer
Thanks also go to Mr T Day previously employed by BRE Global and one-time Convenor of BSI FSH/22/9 and
CEN TC127 WG2 for his contributions in the early drafts of this document.
Although care has been taken to ensure, to the best of our knowledge, that all data and information contained in this
document is accurate to the extent that it relates to either matters of fact or accepted practice or matters of opinion at the
time of publication, neither the Association for Specialist Fire Protection Limited nor the co-publishers will be liable for any
technical, editorial, typographical or other errors or omissions in or misinterpretations of the data and information provided in
this document.
Since this document may be subject to change and updating, the data and information which it contains is only correct at the
date of this publication. The latest version of this publication is freely downloadable from the ASFP web site at
www.asfp.org.uk/publications. The latest date is indicated at the bottom of each page. The ASFP shall not be liable for
products delivered to the market, or for any aspect of ‘withdrawn’ products.
Compliance with this ASFP document does not of itself infer immunity from legal obligation
FOREWORD
I am pleased to introduce this new 1st edition of the European version of the ASFP publication ‘Fire Resisting
Ductwork: classified according to BS EN 13501 Parts 3 and 4’ and wholly based on EN fire tests and
classifications. It provides complementary information to the UK version entitled ‘Fire resisting ductwork: tested
to BS 476 Part 24: 2nd Edition’ which is limited to fire test data from BS 476 Part 24 tests. Both documents
provide guidance to best practice for the use of ducts in buildings. The European version will be valid for tests
and classifications from EN 13501 Parts 3 and 4 under the European Construction Products Directive [or
proposed Regulation] whereas the BS 476-24 test method may remain useful in applications outside the
European Community.
The prevention of fire spread through buildings via ducted systems is of critical importance, as evidenced by
serious fire losses in recent years. This document provides details and new recommendations not previously
covered in other standards or codes of practice and should make a significant contribution to improved fire
safety.
Both the British Standard version and this European version contain sections on the different types of system
and their function; information on all the relevant legislation, standards and codes of practice as well as notes
on penetration seals and support systems.
This Edition will also introduce Data Sheets which provide details of duct systems that have been suitably fire
tested and classified to EN 13501-3 and/or EN 13501-4 by a European Notified Body, and where the data is
provided by a recognised third party product certification scheme which is accredited or recognised by UKAS.
This European Edition provides a lead for fire engineers & engineering services designers by including
European rules of application for direct [DIAP] and extended [EXAP] application of test results for fire resisting
ductwork systems
The ASFP recognises the key importance that fire-rated ductwork for air distribution and smoke extraction
applications plays in the safe movement of air and smoke through buildings, and is particularly pleased to see
these topics addressed here. We commend the guidance to designers, contractors and insurers.
Richard Earle
Chairman ASFP Task Group 6
Exova Warringtonfire
ASFP BLUE BOOK – EUROPEAN VERSION 1st EDITION
Amendments
Note 1. Amendments may only be inserted by ASFP Secretariat with approval of the ASFP Technical Officer.
CONTENTS
1. SCOPE.....................................................................................................................................................7
2 INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................................7
2.1 GENERAL NOTES ........................................................................................................................7
3. DEFINITIONS...........................................................................................................................................9
7. EN FIRE TESTS & CLASSIFICATIONS FOR FIRE RESISTING DUCTS ............................................24
7.1 GENERAL INFORMATION ON EN FIRE TESTS .......................................................................24
7.2 VENTILATION DUCTS ................................................................................................................24
7.3 SMOKE EXTRACTION DUCTS (MULTI COMPARTMENTS) TESTED TO BS EN 1366-8.......31
7.4 SMOKE EXTRACTION DUCTS (SINGLE COMPARTMENT) TESTED TO BS EN 1366-9.......35
APPENDIX A1: Explanatory notes for the rules of direct field of application of test data (DIAP) for ducts
tested to EN 1366-1...............................................................................................................................................38
APPENDIX A2 Explanatory notes for the rules of extended field of application of test data (EXAP)
according to BS EN 15882-1, for ducts tested to BS EN 1366-1 ..........................................................................39
APPENDIX A3: Explanatory notes for the rules of direct field of application of test data (DIAP) for ducts
tested to BS EN 1366-8.........................................................................................................................................40
APPENDIX A4: Explanatory notes for the rules of extended field of application of test data (EXAP)
according to EN 15882-8, for ducts tested to BS EN 1366-8................................................................................41
APPENDIX A5: Explanatory notes for the rules of direct field of application of test data (DIAP) for ducts
tested to EN 1366-9...............................................................................................................................................41
APPENDIX A6: Explanatory notes for the rules of extended field of application of test data (EXAP)
according to EN 15882-8, for ducts tested to EN 1366-9......................................................................................41
APPENDIX B: Explanatory guidance for the use of fire stopping as penetration seals, support systems &
ancillary items ........................................................................................................................................................42
2 INTRODUCTION
This publication has been produced to assist those involved in the specification, installation, inspection and
verification of fire resisting ductwork tested to BS EN 1366 Parts 3, 8 or 9, and to ensure that minimum
performance standards are maintained which will contribute to ensuring that fire compartments are not
breached prematurely.
The primary intended objective for fire safety in buildings is to limit fire to the compartment of origin, and to put it
out quickly and affectively. Only then can we be sure that opportunity exists for occupants to safely escape from
a building, for fire-fighters to combat a fire in a dependable manner, and for the business to be back in operation
as soon as possible. Ducts can provide a primary route for fire spread through buildings, unless suitable fire
prevention methods are installed from the outset. In this publication the fire prevention method focuses on the
use of fire resisting ductwork, for a variety of purposes. Not all methods will be suitable for all purposes, and
careful selection is often required
Fire resisting ductwork can be provided either by specialist companies producing proprietary systems, or by
treatment to satisfactorily constructed and supported steel ductwork with the addition of fire insulating materials.
Care must be taken when choosing a fire resisting ductwork system and checks should be made to ensure that
the ductwork fire performance meets with the requirements of the relevant application.
IMPORTANT
All fire resisting ductwork should be tested according to all aspects of the intended application, such as the
orientation, shape, size, fixings and mountings of tested configurations. Many fire tests are required to meet all
the expected applications.
Formal fire classifications shall be available according to BS EN 13501 Parts 3 and 4. Users should satisfy
themselves that the field of application meets the intended use
2.1 GENERAL NOTES
Fire resisting ductwork may need to pass through compartment walls or floors that will have a prescribed fire
resistance period in terms of the load-bearing capacity (stability), integrity and insulation criteria, for durations of
30 to 240 minutes. It is a requirement that where these compartment walls/floors are penetrated by ducts or
other building services, the fire performance criteria for the penetrated wall or floor are maintained, such that fire
in one compartment may not spread to other areas. The fire performance of a duct which penetrates a fire
resisting/separating element requires careful consideration by designers and controlling authorities. The
standard periods of integrity and insulation, and leakage where required, should in all cases be at least equal to
those required for the penetrated element of construction. In certain circumstances, controlling authorities may
waive the insulation requirement or allow a reduced period of insulation, for example, in some car parks, where
enforcers consider that there is not a possibility of combustible materials being in close proximity of the
ductwork.
OFFICIAL GUIDANCE
The guidance given in Section 10 of the Approved Document B for B1 (Means of Escape) and B3 (Internal Fire
Spread Structure) of the Building Regulations 2000 for England and Wales also refers to BS 5588: Part 9 for
alternative ways in which the integrity of compartments may be maintained where ductwork penetrates fire
separating elements. BS 5588 standards related to ductwork applications have been superseded by a new
standard, BS 9999 Code of practice for fire safety in the design, management and use of buildings
Similar recommendations are given in the Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000, and in the Building
(Scotland) Regulations: 2004
Statutory regulations and design codes provide the designer with prescribed periods of fire resistance to
elements of construction, which give a safe period for evacuation of people, a safe period for fire fighting and
can also provide for property protection. It is vitally important for life safety that the fire resistance of the
element of construction is not reduced when ductwork is routed through it.
ALTERNATIVE APPROACHES
When ventilation ductwork penetrates building compartments, the regulatory requirements and the guidance of
BS 9999 should be followed using either:
Method 1 Protection using fire dampers;
Method 2 Protection using fire resisting enclosures;
Method 3 Protection using fire resisting ductwork
Good practice dictates that fire dampers should not be installed within certain ductwork systems in buildings
(e.g. kitchen extraction, staircase and lobby pressurisation, lift shaft ventilation, fresh air make up provision,
etc.) and therefore either Method 2 or Method 3 of BS 9999 should be used, alongside an acceptable
Management level as defined by BS 9999.
FACTORS TO CONSIDER
It is essential to give due consideration to other factors that may be required when evaluating the suitability of a
proposed system of fire resisting ductwork. These may include:
Seismic qualification of ductwork, support system and penetration sealing method
Pressure / air carrying capacity
Materials sensitive to thermal shock
Materials susceptible to physical damage
Acoustic performance requirement of the system
Thermal performance requirement of the system
Resistance to air flow.
The suitability for cleaning, if a kitchen duct system
Any need for a smooth internal surface, for high pressure ducts.
HVCA GUIDANCE
Steel ductwork systems for air movements around buildings are generally constructed to the HVCA guide
DW/144 which is a document covering a wide range of construction standards in the manufacture of sheet
metal ductwork for use in low, medium or high pressure applications and includes various methods of jointing,
stiffening and supporting of the ductwork.
Most general purpose ventilation ductwork systems offer little or no protection against fire spread. General
purpose DW/144 ventilation/air conditioning ductwork cannot be utilised as, or converted into, a fire resisting
ductwork system unless the construction / materials of the whole system are classified according to BS EN
13501 Parts 3 and 4
SELF SUPPORTING DUCTWORK
An alternative to steel ductwork systems is self supporting ductwork such as that constructed from rigid boards.
Supplementary insulation may also have to be considered for these systems.
FIRE TESTS
A satisfactorily constructed and supported fire resisting duct is classified according to the fire tests as called up
in BS EN 13501 Parts 3 or 4.
BS EN 1366 test series includes fire test methods for ventilation ducts and smoke extraction ducts – see
Section 5. The European fire test documents include rules for the direct field of application of test data. The
rules for extended field of application are provided as BS EN 15882-1 and BS EN 15882-8 respectively
3. DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this document the following definitions apply.
Access doors
A closure of an inspection opening within the duct
Compensator
A device that is used to prevent damage from the forces generated by expansion
Duct /Ductwork
An enclosed system of any cross sectional shape for the distribution and extraction of air within a building.
Duct/ductwork - Fire resisting
A duct or ductwork used for the distribution or extraction of air, and designed to provide a degree of fire
resistance when tested to BS EN 1366 -1
Duct/Ductwork - Fire resisting smoke extraction for multi-compartments
A duct used for the extraction of smoke in case of fire and designed to provide a degree of fire resistance, when
tested to BS EN 1366 - 8.
Duct/Ductwork - Fire resisting smoke extraction for single compartments
A duct used for the extraction of smoke in case of fire and designed to provide a degree of fire resistance, when
tested to BS EN 1366 - 9.
Duct/ductwork - Self supporting
Self supporting fire rated ducts are those that are formed with fire protection boards, and possibly framework,
without a steel duct.
Duct A, B and C
Duct A terminology is associated with ventilation ducts where fire is outside the duct.
Duct B terminology is associated with ventilation ducts where fire is inside the duct.
Duct C is the terminology related to smoke extract ducts with fire inside the duct.
Specific conditions are provided in the relevant fire test standards EN 1366 Parts 1, 8 and 9
Fire compartment
A building or part of a building, comprising one or more rooms, spaces or storeys, constructed to prevent the
spread of fire to or from another part of the same building, or an adjoining building. A roof space above the top
storey of a compartment is included in that compartment
Fire Resistance
For ductwork systems, the ability of a component or construction to satisfy, for a stated period of time, some or
all of the appropriate criteria specified in the relevant part of BS EN 1366. Further information is provided in
Section 7.2.1, 7.3.1 and 7.4.1 of this document
Generally, the following performance criteria are applied to fire resisting ductwork.
Integrity and Insulation
Both of these failure criteria are defined in EN 1366-1 Section 11, which also references EN 1363-1
Smoke leakage for smoke extract ducts
See EN 1366-1 Section 11, which also references EN 1363-1
Failure of this criterion shall have occurred if the flow rate in Duct A during the test exceeds 10m3/m2h
at normal temperature and pressure, related to the internal surface area of the duct inside the furnace
Fire Separating Element
A compartment wall, compartment floor, cavity barrier and construction enclosing a protected escape route
and/or a place of special hazard
Kitchen extract duct
See section 4
Penetration
An aperture through a fire separating element for the passage of a duct or ductwork, pipework, or other building
services, which reduces the fire performance of the fire separating element
Penetration sealing system for fire resisting ductwork
The system used to maintain the fire resistance of the ductwork system where it passes through a fire
separating element, in accordance with the EN 1366 Parts 1, 8 and 9 fire test methods on the entire ductwork
system, seals and supports, where the duct or ductwork passes through the element of construction.
Pressurisation
A method of protecting an escape route against the ingress of smoke by pressurising the air within the escape
route at a higher level than the air in the adjacent parts of the building.
Protected shaft
A shaft which enables persons, air or objects to pass from one compartment to another and which is enclosed
with fire-resisting construction.
Shunt System
A duct or ductwork used solely for extraction in flats and maisonettes which may be used to avoid the need to
provide fire dampers in extract ductwork from bathrooms and WC’s.
Smoke extract duct
See section 4
Suspension devices
The components used for suspending and fixing a duct from a floor; or supporting and fixing a duct from a wall.
Surrounding construction /supporting construction
The wall or partition or floor, through which the duct passes in the fire test.
In European standard documents this is defined as the ‘supporting construction’
EN 15871 EN12101-7
EN 13501-3 EN 13501-4
EN 1366-1 EN 1366-8
Fire resistance tests for service Fire resistance tests for service
installations: Ducts installations: Smoke extraction ducts
(multi compartment)
EN 15882 -1 EN 15882 -8
ITEM BS 476 Part 24 / ISO 6944 (1985) BS EN 1366-1 / ISO 6944-1 (2008)
Velocity in duct B Set to 3m/sec measured at ambient at 3m/sec at start of test and maintained at
start of test but no further adjustments this during test except when fan shut off
made. to make integrity measurements
Fan shut off prior to integrity evaluations
then switched back on after. Integrity
determined.
The minimum length of the specimen duct required by the test standard is 4.0m inside the furnace and 2.5m
outside the furnace for horizontal ducts, and 2.0m inside the furnace and 2.0m outside the furnace for vertical
ducts.
The horizontal Duct A is fitted with a branch duct within the furnace. The cross section of Duct A for test is
1000mm x 500mm internally with the branch section of 250mm x 250mm. (For circular ducts, the duct the
diameter is 800mm with the branch of 250mm diameter).
A connection from the end of the Duct A outside the furnace is taken via a condensing unit and leakage
measurement equipment, to a fan that maintains an under-pressure of -300 ± 15Pa inside the duct. (The
condenser traps and removes water from any leakage gases, by reducing the temperature of any gas flow to
below 40 deg C so eliminating erroneous leakage measurements due to moisture).
(Note: for ducts that are intended for use as smoke extract ducts, and will be tested to EN 1366-8, the Duct A
will require to be tested at the higher under-pressure of -500 Pa)
The cross section of Duct B for test is 1000mm x 250mm. (For circular ducts, the duct diameter is 630mm). A
fan is also connected to the end Duct B outside the furnace that induces a furnace gas velocity of 3m/s within
the duct, drawn through openings in the sidewall of the duct within the furnace. The velocity is maintained at
3m/s during the ‘fan on’ periods during the test. Every 30 minutes of the test the fans are switched off for five
minutes to evaluate the integrity of the duct in the ‘fan off’ situation.
The test specimen is subjected to fire on all four sides. The standard time/temperature exposure is followed.
The furnace pressure is controlled to 15±3Pa at the mid height on horizontal ducts, or to 20±3Pa 100mm below
the ceiling for vertical ducts, compared to that of the laboratory.
Thermocouples are applied to the non-fire face of the duct, to the supporting structure and penetration seal
outside the furnace, as required by the standard. Additional thermocouples may be included within the duct
where a duct has a combustible lining, in order to gain additional data on the fire performance.
(Although this is similar to the Annex in BS476: Part 24, this method is not primarily intended for evaluation of a
duct system intended as a kitchen extract duct.)
The tested duct assembly is judged against three performance criteria. These are:
Insulation
Insulation failure shall be as defined in EN1363-1. Only thermocouples placed a distance 325mm from the duct
penetration detail, outside of the furnace are used to determine the average temperature rise (140°C) of test
specimen. All fixed thermocouples and the roving thermocouple may be used to determine the maximum
temperature (180°C) rise. Ducts with combustible linings shall also be subject to the insulation failure criteria in
EN1363-1 on thermocouples placed inside the duct, inside the furnace. (Duct A).
Integrity
Integrity failure shall also be deemed to have occurred if any of the following are observed.
a) Integrity failure as defined in EN 1363-1. (When a cotton pad is ignited, or gap openings, or when
sustained flaming, of duration at least 10s, appears on the unexposed face of the test specimen
outside the furnace).
b) When the volume flow rate measured in Duct A exceeds 15m3/m2/hr at NTP (20°C and 1013mbar)
relative to the internal surface of the duct, inside the furnace.
Smoke Leakage
A failure of the smoke leakage criteria, shall be deemed to have occurred if the flow rate in Duct A during the
test exceeds 10m3/m2/hr at NTP (20°C and 1013mbar) relative to the internal surface of the duct, inside the
furnace.
Stability
Note: The loss of stability or the partial collapse of Duct B inside of the furnace is not a failure criterion in this
test. However, the partial collapse or loss of cross section in this test may have implications for the expected
behaviour for any subsequent Duct C smoke duct test.
Loss of stability or partial collapse in Duct A will be reflected in the flow rate leakage criteria above.
Figure 12
General arrangement for location of thermocouples on vertical ducts, inside the test
furnace, as tested to BS EN 1366-1
Figure 13
General arrangement for location of thermocouples on horizontal ducts, inside the test
furnace, as tested to BS EN 1366-1
7.1.2 DIAP rules for the direct field of application of test data for fire resisting ventilation ducts
tested to BS EN 1366-1
See BS EN 1366 Part 1
An overview is provided in Appendix A1
7.1.3 EXAP rules for the extended field of application of test data for ventilation ducts tested to BS EN
1366-1
See BS EN 15882-1
An overview is provided in Appendix A2
7.1.4 Classification of fire resisting ventilation ducts BS EN 13501 Part 3
Some readers may not be familiar with the CEN European system of tests and classification, etc.
The system can be briefly summarised as follows:-
The product standard will state which European classification system applies to the product being considered.
The Classification system BS EN 13501-3 will tell readers which fire tests have to be undertaken to allow a
classification for fire performance to be made
The fire test standard will normally include the direct rules for the field of application of the test data obtained.
A separate document will provide the rules for extended field of application, beyond the limits of the test data
obtained
For fire resisting ducts, the following classes are defined:
EI 15 20 30 45 60 90 120 180 240
E 30 60
The classification shall indicate if the performance criteria are satisfied by fire from inside or fire from outside or
both, and whether it applies to vertical or horizontal orientations or both. The additions “i → o”, “o → i“ or
“i ↔ o” shall be used respectively together with “ve” and/or “ho” to indicate orientation (vertical and horizontal).
For example, a classification EI30 (ve ho I ↔ o) indicates a ventilation duct capable of satisfying 30 min integrity
and insulation, from inside to outside and vice-versa in both vertical and horizontal applications.
The classification S shall be included, based on satisfaction of the ambient smoke leakage criterion. This shall
be based on a pass/fail test for the leakage. For example, a classification EI30 (ve ho i ↔ o) S indicates a duct
with the same performance as above but additionally satisfying the leakage criterion (10 m³/(m²·h).
Failure of the suspension devices does not constitute failure of the test specimen unless it leads to failure of
either E or EI.
7.3 SMOKE EXTRACTION DUCTS (MULTI COMPARTMENTS) TESTED TO BS EN 1366-8
7.3.1 BS EN 1366-8: 2004: Fire resistance tests for service installations: smoke extraction ducts
(multi compartment)
This test method is applicable to fire resisting ducts that have already passed the appropriate period to BS EN
1366-1 (Ducts A and B), - where the Duct A has been tested a differential pressure 500Pa. (A greater under
pressure than the standard pressure indicated in BS EN 1366-1).
Smoke extraction ductwork shall be made of non-combustible materials (Euro class A1 or A2). The specimen
that is subject to the fire test must be designed and constructed to be representative of how it would be
constructed on site.
Figure 14
General arrangement for horizontal smoke extract ducts, as tested to BS EN 1366-8 for
multi-compartment use
Figure 15
General arrangement for vertical smoke extract ducts, as tested to BS EN 1366-8, for
multi-compartment use.
Whilst the test method has been designed to cover both vertical and horizontal smoke extraction ducts,
provided both horizontal and vertical tests have been carried out to BS EN 1366-1 on the specific system, a
vertical duct need not be evaluated to this method - provided that it is tested in a horizontal orientation to this
method.
If however, the system in practice is only to be used for vertical applications in smoke extraction, (that is, the
horizontal orientated ducts were not tested in BS EN 1366-1), then it will need to be tested in the vertical
orientation to the test method here.
The duct is tested with fire on the inside of the duct (Duct C) See Figure 15.
It is applicable only to four sided and circular ducts. One, two and three sided ducts are not covered.
The minimum length of the specimen duct required by the test standard is 3.0m inside the furnace and 4.2m
outside the furnace for horizontal ducts, and 2.0m inside the furnace and 4.25m outside the furnace for vertical
ducts.
The cross section of Duct C for test is 1000mm x 250mm. (For circular ducts, the duct diameter is 560mm). A
fan is connected to the end of the duct outside the furnace that induces a furnace gas velocity of 2m/s ±15%
within the duct, drawn through openings in the sidewall of the duct within the furnace.
A perforated plate, appropriate to one of three prescribed differential pressures of –150Pa, -300Pa or –500Pa is
incorporated within the duct, 250mm outside the furnace. The test specimen is subjected to fire on all four
sides. The heating conditions conform to those specified in EN 1363-1 (standard heating curve) and the
selected differential pressure maintained to ±3%.
The furnace pressure is controlled to 15±3Pa at the mid height on horizontal ducts, or to 20±3Pa 100mm below
the ceiling for vertical ducts, compared to that of the laboratory.
(Note: it is the differential duct pressure that is controlled during the test, not the air velocity.)
Thermocouples are applied to the non-fire face of the duct, and to the supporting structure and penetration seal
outside the furnace, as required by the standard, although these are not required to demonstrate insulation
performance and are for information only. (Insulation performance is taken from the EN 1366-1 test data).
To facilitate observations of reduction of cross-section, an observation window is be located at the end the duct.
7.3.2 DIAP rules for the direct field of application of test data for smoke extraction duct test data
when tested to BS EN 1366-8
See BS EN 1366 Part 8 - An overview is provided in Appendix A3
The DIAP rules are normally part of the EN test standard
The tested duct assembly is judged against three performance criteria. These are:
Insulation
Test results from the BS EN 1366-1 test are deemed to demonstrate the insulation performance of the duct.
Integrity
Integrity failure shall also be deemed to have occurred if any of the following are observed as defined in BS EN
1363-1. When the cotton pad is ignited or when sustained flaming, of duration at least 10s, appears on the
unexposed face of the test specimen outside the furnace.
Smoke Leakage
A failure of the smoke leakage criteria, shall be deemed to have occurred if the leakage flow rate through the
duct section outside of the furnace, as determined by the Oxygen sensor method exceeds 10m3/m2/hr at NTP
(20°C and 1013mbar) relative to the internal surface of the complete duct (inside and outside of the furnace)
Reduction in Cross-section
The internal dimensions (width and height for a rectangular duct, or diameter for a circular duct) shall not
decrease by more than 10% during the test.
Mechanical Stability
The duct inside the furnace collapses, so that is can be judged as not being able to maintain its smoke
extraction or fire resistance function.
7.3.3 EXAP RULES for extended field of application for smoke extraction ducts (multiple
compartments ) tested according to BS EN 1366-8
See BS EN 15882-x
An overview is provided in Appendix A4
7.3.4 Classifications for Multi-compartment smoke control system ducts BS EN 13501-4
EI 30 60 90 120
The classification is completed by the suffix “multi” to indicate suitability for multi-compartment use. In addition,
the symbols “ve” and/or “ho” indicate the suitability for vertical and/or horizontal use.
“S” indicates a leakage rate of less than 5m³/(h.m²). ‘500’, ‘1000’ or ‘1500’ indicates that when tested at these
negative pressures the duct is suitable for use over the range from the tested negative pressure up to a positive
pressure of 500 Pa.
7.4 SMOKE EXTRACTION DUCTS (SINGLE COMPARTMENT) TESTED TO BS EN 1366-9
7.4.1 Fire resistance tests for service installations: single compartment smoke extraction ducts
tested according to BS EN 1366-9
This part of EN 1366 specifies a test method for determining the fire resistance of horizontal smoke extraction
ducts that are used for single compartment applications only. In such applications, the smoke extraction system
is only intended to function up to flashover (typically 600 °C but other temperatures may be used). It is
applicable to smoke extraction ducts that do not pass through into other fire compartments.
Note: unlike the test in BS EN 1366-8, it is not a prerequisite that the duct is tested to BS EN 1366-1.
For smoke extraction ducts that pass through into other compartments, the method of test described in BS EN
1366-8 should be used.
It is applicable only to four sided and circular ducts. One, two and three sided ducts are not covered.
This method of test is only suitable for ducts constructed from non-combustible materials (Euro class A1 and
A2-s1, d0).
The method described in this test standard is complex and requires sophisticated instrumentation. Whilst it is
permitted, it is not recommended that multiple assemblies are tested together.
The specimen that is subject to the fire test must be designed and constructed to be representative of how it
would be constructed on site. A single duct is tested, with fire on the inside of the horizontal duct. See Figures
16
Figure 16
General arrangement for horizontal smoke extract ducts, as tested to BS EN 1366-9 for
single compartment use.
The minimum length of the specimen duct required by the test standard is 3.0m inside the furnace and 4.2m outside the furnace.
The cross section of duct for test is 1000mm x 250mm. (For circular ducts, the duct diameter is 560mm). A fan is connected to the end of
the duct outside the furnace that induces a furnace gas velocity of 2m/s ±15% within the duct, drawn through openings in the sidewall of
the duct within the furnace.
A perforated plate appropriate to one of three prescribed differential pressures of –150Pa, -300Pa or –500Pa is incorporated within the
duct, 250mm outside the furnace. The test specimen is subjected to fire on all four sides.
The heating conditions and the furnace atmosphere conform to those specified in EN 1363-1 (or, if applicable, EN 1363-2) until 600 °C is
reached. The mean temperature of the 6 furnace thermocouples shall be reached between 5 to 10 minutes from igniting the first furnace
burner. After 10 minutes this temperature shall be maintained between +70, -0 °C for the rest of the test. The furnace pressure shall be
controlled to (15 ± 3) Pa throughout the test at the mid-height position of the ducts in the furnace.
To facilitate observations of reduction of cross-section, an observation window is be located at the end the duct
or other suitable place.
Smoke extraction ductwork, for use in combination with smoke exhaust fans and which is intended to extract
smoke from the compartment to outside, without passing through other fire compartments, Thermocouples to
measure insulation are not required to the duct, nor to the supporting structure or penetration seal outside the
furnace.
The tested duct assembly is judged against three performance criteria. These are:
Smoke Leakage
A failure of the smoke leakage criteria, shall be deemed to have occurred if the leakage flow rate
through the duct section outside of the furnace, as determined by the Oxygen sensor method exceeds
10m3/m2/hr at NTP (20°C and 1013mbar) relative to the internal surface of the complete duct (inside
and outside of the furnace)
Reduction in Cross-section
The internal dimensions (width and height for rectangular duct or diameter for circular duct) of the
smoke extract duct shall not decrease by more than 10% during the test inside and outside of the
furnace.
Mechanical Stability
The duct inside the furnace collapses, so that is can be judged as not being able to maintain its smoke
extraction or fire resistance function.
(Fire insulation and fire integrity are not required)
7.4.2 Direct field of application for single compartment smoke extract ducts tested to BS EN 1366-9
The DIAP rules are normally part of the BS EN test standard
An overview is provided in Appendix A5
7.4.3 Extended field of application for single compartment smoke extract ducts fire tested to BS EN
15882-Y
See BS EN 15882-Y
An overview is provided in Appendix A6
7.4.4 Classification for single compartment smoke control ducts according to BS EN 13501-4
E300 30 60 90 120
E600 30 60 90 120
The classification is completed by the suffix “single” to indicate suitability for single compartment use only. In
addition, the symbols, “ve” and/or “ho” indicate the suitability for vertical and/or horizontal use.
“S” indicates a leakage rate of less than 5m³/(h.m²). ‘500’, ‘1000’ or ‘1500’ indicates that when tested at these
negative pressures the duct is suitable for use over the range from the tested negative pressure up to a positive
pressure of 500 Pa.
APPENDICES A1 to A6
APPENDIX A1:
Explanatory notes for the rules of direct field of application of test data (DIAP) for
ducts tested to EN 1366-1
A.1.1 INTRODUCTION
The formal DIAP rules are part of the European test standard EN 1366-1 which is published as BS EN 1366-1
in the United Kingdom.
The formal rules allow certain variations in ductwork systems without declassification of the data from the tested
ductwork configuration, and without the need to seek further expert/specialist fire safety advice. Section A.1.2
provides an overview of the formal rules for direct field of application of data obtained from fire tests to BS EN
1366-1
A.1.2 Overview of the critical parameters for direct rules of application, DIAP
The following text provides a brief description of the principles behind the rules for the direct field of application
of test results. For full details refer to BS EN 1366-1, Section 13.
Shape of ducts
The field of direct application only covers circular and rectangular ducts with 4 sides.
Vertical and horizontal ducts
Test results are not interchangeable between vertical and horizontal ducts.
Sizes of ducts
Provided that the standard sizes of duct are tested, as detailed within the test standard, a limited extrapolation is
permitted for larger sizes of duct. Ducts smaller than those tested are also covered.
Pressure difference
The maximum tested under-pressure in duct A is applicable to the same maximum over-pressure provided that
the integrity criteria were satisfied for duct B. Lower values of under and overpressures are also allowed. If
higher values are possible then additional testing may be needed.
Height of vertical ducts
• Ducts supported at each storey
Limits are given for the distance between supporting constructions and for the size of the ducts
compared to the distance between supporting constructions. The latter is to avoid buckling of the ducts.
• Self load bearing ducts
If additional loads are applied to the tested duct then the overall height between supports may relate to
the load applied in the test.
Guidance is given on the ratio between the size of the duct and the distance between supporting
constructions - to prevent damage to the duct assembly due to buckling of the vertical duct.
Suspension devices for horizontal ducts
Maximum values are given for tensile stress and shear stress within the steel suspension devices.
Guidance is also given with regard to the length and positioning of the suspension devices.
The bending stress in the horizontal load bearing member of the suspension device shall not exceed that
tested.
Supporting construction
Guidance is given with regard to alternative fire resistant supporting constructions, through which the fire
resisting duct passes, compared to that utilised in the fire test.
Steel ducts
Guidance is given with regard to the leakage values of steel ducts and stiffeners fitted to a steel duct.
APPENDIX A2
Explanatory notes for the rules of extended field of application of test data (EXAP)
according to BS EN 15882-1, for ducts tested to BS EN 1366-1
A.2.1 INTRODUCTION
The formal EXAP rules are published separately as BS EN 15882-1 in the United Kingdom.
The formal rules allow certain variations in ductwork systems without declassification of the data from the tested
ductwork configuration. Section B2 provides an overview of the formal rules for the extended field of application
of data obtained from fire tests to BS EN 1366-1
A.2.2 Overview of the critical parameters for extended field of application, EXAP
The following provides a brief description of the principles behind the rules for the extended field of application
of test results. For full details refer to BS EN 15882-1.
Shape of ducts
The test results are not interchangeable between ducts with a different shape, e.g. circular and rectangular
ducts.
Vertical and horizontal ducts
Test results are not interchangeable between vertical and horizontal ducts.
Fire exposure of ducts
Test results are not interchangeable between internal fire exposure and external fire exposure.
Sizes of ducts
For rectangular ducts with a cross section larger than 1250mm wide x 1000mm high and for circular ducts with
a cross section larger than 1000mm diameter, additional tests are required as described in BS EN 15882-1. If
additional tests are undertaken as described in prEN15882-1, the maximum sizes may be extended up to
2500mm wide x 1250mm high for rectangular ducts and up to 1250mm diameter for circular ducts.
Pressure difference
If pressure differentials are required for the ducts that are higher than those tested or ±300Pa, whichever is the
greater, then additional tests are required as described in BS EN 15882-1.
Height of vertical ducts
If the unsupported height between floors is greater than 5m then additional tests are required as described in
prEN 15882-1.
Suspension devices for horizontal ducts
The maximum values for tensile stress and shear stress within the steel suspension devices are as given in
prEN 15882-1, Table 5. For unprotected hangers with a length more than 1.5m, precautions must be taken to
prevent the extension of the hangers exceeding 40mm. Guidance is also given with regard to the fixing and
positioning of the suspension devices.
The bending stress in the horizontal load-bearing member of the suspension device shall not exceed that
tested.
Access panels
If access panels are to be fitted to the duct system then an access panel of the same design must be tested as
described in BS EN 1366-1.
Construction details and parameters that may affect the fire resistance performance of ducts
Construction details and parameters that may affect the fire resistance performance of ducts are listed in Table
4 of prEN 15882-1. The table includes the likely influence of these factors on the performance criteria and
includes rules stating whether or not the factors will adversely affect the fire resistance performance and
whether additional tests are necessary.
Factors included in the table are:
• Orientation – Vertical or horizontal
• Fire exposure – Fire outside or inside
• Presence of combustible materials within duct
• Changes in negative pressure
• Positive pressure
• Change in shape (e.g. rectangular to circular)
• Pieces of ductwork for change of direction or cross section or for separation of air streams
• Height of cross section
• Width of cross section
• Thickness of protection
• Length of duct between flanges/spigot
• Distance between board joints
• Change in wall/floor type or thickness
• Change in diameter of cross section for circular ducts
• Change of protection material
• Distance between stiffeners
• Number of protective layers
• Changes in penetration seal system around duct
• Effect of access panels
• Hangers – Changes in length, tensile stress, position relative to any duct joint
• Bearers – Bending stress, shear stress, section modulus
• Anchors – Type of anchor, chemical or mechanical, strength, penetration depth
• Self-weight of duct
• Hanger protection
• Length of vertical ducts between supports
• Effect of supports on vertical ducts
• Steel duct properties – Galvanised to stainless steel, stainless to galvanised steel, flange to spigot,
spigot to flange
• Mechanical fixings – Screws to staples, staples to screws
• Inclined/sloping ducts
• Corner joint details – Changes in arrangement of corner joints for ducts constructed with boards
See prEN 15882-1 for more detailed explanations.
APPENDIX A3: Explanatory notes for the rules of direct field of application of test
data (DIAP) for ducts tested to BS EN 1366-8
A.3.1 Introduction
The formal DIAP rules are part of the European test standard EN 1366-8 which is published as BS EN 1366-8
in the United Kingdom.
The formal rules allow certain variations in ductwork systems without declassification of the data from the tested
ductwork configuration, and without the need to seek further expert/specialist fire safety advice. Section A.3.2
provides an overview of the formal rules for direct field of application of data obtained from fire tests to BS EN
1366-8
A.3.2 Overview of the critical parameters for direct rules of application, DIAP
The following provides a brief description of the principles behind the rules for the direct field of application of
test results. The method of test is only appropriate to fire resisting ducts that have passed the test for the
appropriate period to BS EN 1366-1 (ducts A and B). For duct A, it is a requirement for fire resisting smoke
extraction ducts that the document under pressure of 300Pa, as given in BS EN 1366-1, is increased to 500Pa
when testing to EN 1366-1. For full details refer to BS EN 1366-8, Section 13.
Shape of ducts
The field of direct application only covers ducts tested to BS EN 1366-1, ducts A (500Pa under-pressure) and B,
and BS EN 1366-8. No extrapolation to one, two or three sided ducts is permitted.
Vertical and horizontal ducts
A test result obtained for horizontal smoke extraction ducts is only applicable to horizontal smoke extraction
ducts unless vertical ducts are made to the same design and vertical ducts A and B have been tested to BS EN
1366-1 without failure.
Sizes of ducts
Provided that the standard sizes of duct are tested, as detailed within the test standard, a limited extrapolation is
permitted for larger sizes of duct. Ducts smaller than those tested are also covered.
Pressure difference
Up to a value of 500Pa the maximum tested under pressure in duct C is applicable to the same maximum
overpressure. Above 500Pa, up to 1500Pa, the maximum tested under pressure in duct C is applicable to a
maximum overpressure of 500Pa. If higher values are possible then additional testing may be needed.
APPENDIX A4: Explanatory notes for the rules of extended field of application of
test data (EXAP) according to EN 15882-8, for ducts tested to BS EN 1366-8
A.4.1 INTRODUCTION
The formal EXAP rules are published separately as BS EN 15882-8 in the United Kingdom.
The formal rules allow certain variations in ductwork systems without declassification of the data from the tested
ductwork configuration. Section B2 provides an overview of the formal rules for the extended field of application
of data obtained from fire tests to BS EN 1366-8
A.4.2 OVERVIEW OF THE CRITICAL PARAMETERS
The following text provides a brief description of the principles behind the rules for the extended field of
application of test results. For full details refer to BS EN 15882-8
APPENDIX A5: Explanatory notes for the rules of direct field of application of test
data (DIAP) for ducts tested to EN 1366-9
A.5.1 Introduction
The formal DIAP rules are part of the European test standard EN 1366-9 which is published as BS EN 1366-9
in the United Kingdom.
The formal rules allow certain variations in ductwork systems without declassification of the data from the tested
ductwork configuration, and without the need to seek further expert/specialist fire safety advice. Section A.5.2
provides an overview of the formal rules for direct field of application of data obtained from fire tests to BS EN
1366-9
A.5.2 Overview of the critical parameters for direct rules of application, DIAP
The following provides a brief description of the principles behind the rules for the direct field of application of
test results. The method of test is only appropriate to smoke extraction ducts that do not pass through into
other fire compartments. It represents fire exposure of a developing fire (pre-flashover). For full details refer to
BS EN 1366-9, Section 13.
Shape of ducts
The field of direct application only covers circular and four-sided rectangular ducts. No extrapolation to one, two
or three sided ducts is permitted.
Vertical and horizontal ducts
Test is designed for horizontal ducts only.
Sizes of ducts
Provided that the standard sizes of duct are tested, as detailed within the test standard, a limited extrapolation is
permitted for larger sizes of duct. Ducts smaller than those tested are also covered.
Pressure difference
Up to a value of 500Pa the maximum tested under pressure in duct C is applicable to the same maximum
overpressure. Above 500Pa, up to 1500Pa, the maximum tested under pressure in duct C is applicable to a
maximum overpressure of 500Pa. If higher values are possible then additional testing may be needed.
APPENDIX A6: Explanatory notes for the rules of extended field of application of
test data (EXAP) according to EN 15882-8, for ducts tested to EN 1366-9
A.6.1 INTRODUCTION
The formal EXAP rules are published separately as BS EN 15882-8 in the United Kingdom.
The formal rules allow certain variations in ductwork systems without declassification of the data from the tested
ductwork configuration. Section B2 provides an overview of the formal rules for the extended field of application
of data obtained from fire tests to BS EN 1366-9
A.6.2 Overview of the critical parameters for extended field of application, EXAP
The following provides a brief description of the principles behind the rules for the extended field of application
of test results. For full details refer to BS EN 15882-8.
APPENDIX E: Bibliography
E.1 BRITISH STANDARDS
BS 476: Fire Tests on Building Materials and Structures
Part 4: 1970 Non-combustibility test for materials
1984 Non-combustibility test for materials
Part 6: 1981 Method of test for fire propagation for products
1989 Method of test for fire propagation for products
Part 7: 1971 Surface spread of flame test for materials
1987 Method for classification of the surface spread of flame of products
1997 Method of test to determine the classification of the surface spread of flame of
products
Part 11: 1982 Method for assessing the heat emission from building materials
1988 Method for assessing the heat emission from building materials
Part 20: 1987 Method for determination of the fire resistance of Elements of construction (general
principles)
Part 21: 1987 Methods for determination of the fire resistance of load bearing elements of
construction
Part 22: 1987 Methods for determination of the fire resistance of non-load bearing elements of
construction
Part 23: 1987 Methods for determination of the contribution of components to the fire resistance
of a structure
Part 24: 1987 Method for determination of the fire resistance of ventilation ducts (ISO 6944)
BS 5669 for impact test information
BS 7346 Components for smoke and heat control systems;
Part 2: 1990 Specification for powered smoke and heat exhaust ventilators
BS 8313: 1989 Code of practice for accommodation of building services in ducts.
BS ISO 10294 Fire Resistance tests - Fire dampers for air distribution systems
Part 1: 1996 - Test method.
Part 2: 1999 – Classification, criteria & field of application of test results
Part 3: 1999 – Guidance on the test method
Part 4: 2001 – Test of thermal release mechanism
Part 5: 2005 – Intumescent fire dampers
E.2 ISO STANDARDS (International Organisation for Standardisation)
ISO 834: Fire resistance tests – Elements of building construction
ISO 834-1:1999 Fire resistance tests – Elements of building construction:
Part 1 General requirements
ISO 6944-1 Fire Resistance Tests – Elements of building construction:
Part 1 Ventilation ducts
ISO 6944-2 Fire resistance tests – Elements of building construction:
Part 2 Kitchen extract ducts
ISO 9000: 2000 Quality management systems – Fundamentals and vocabulary
IS0 9001: 2000 Quality management systems – Requirements
E.3 EUROPEAN STANDARDS (CEN)
BS EN 1366 Fire resistance tests for service installation -
BS EN 1366-1: 1999 Part 1 - Ducts
BS EN 1366-2: 1999 Part 2 - Fire dampers
BS EN 1366-3 Part 3 - Penetration seals
BS EN 1366-4 Part 4 - Linear joint seals
BS EN 1366-5 Part 5 - Service ducts and shafts
BS EN 1366-8 Part 8 - Multi compartment smoke extraction ducts
BS EN 1366-9 Part 9 - Single compartment smoke extraction ducts
BS EN 1366-10 Part 10 - Smoke control dampers
BS EN 13501: Fire classification of construction products and building elements:
Part 1: Classification using data from reaction to fire tests
Part 2: Classification using data from fire resistance tests, excluding ventilation
services
Part 3: Classification using data from fire resistance tests on products and
elements used in building service installations: fire resisting ducts and fire
dampers
Part 4: Classification using data from fire resistance test on components of
smoke control systems
BS EN 12101-7 Smoke and heat control systems
Part 7: Smoke control ducts
BS EN 15882-1 EXAP rules for fire resisting ducts tested to EN 1366-1
BS EN 15882-8 EXAP rules for fire resisting ducts tested to EN 1366-8 or EN 1366-9
E.4 HVCA DOCUMENTS
DW/143: 2000 A practical guide to ductwork leakage testing
DW/144: 1998 Specification for sheet metal ductwork; low medium and high pressure velocity
systems (supersedes DW/142)
DW/145:2008 Guide to good practice for the installation of fire and smoke dampers
DW/172: 2005 Standard for kitchen ventilation systems
TR/19: 2005 HVCA Guide to good practice – Internal cleanliness of ventilations systems
5) The Fire Duct manufacturer should define the friction resistant coefficients of all bends and tapers, etc.
which are to be used if they differ from those for galvanised sheet steel.
6) It is recommended that the manufacturer/installer is working to a Quality Assurance System based upon
the ISO 9000 series.
With reference to the above factors, the standard Specification should read:
‘The ___(1)___ Ductwork should be constructed in accordance with the ASFP Guide to Fire Resisting
Ductwork to provide __(2)i)__ minutes stability, __(2)ii)__ minutes integrity, and __(2)iii)__ minutes
insulation when tested to the requirements of EN 1366 by a UKAS approved or recognised laboratory.
The ductwork should be capable of providing Type ___(3)___ fire containment and, under normal non-fire
operating conditions, should conform to the ___(4)___ pressure classification of the current HVCA
DW/144 Specification for Sheet Metal Ductwork.’
Note to readers – The ASFP has determined a minimum requirement for the scope of the following tabulated
data, to allow simple comparison of products. It is not the intent to provide a full engineering specification, but to
assist initial selection of the suitability of a particular ductwork system to the task in hand. Decision makers
should also refer to the fire classification and field of application reports for detailed information, and on
performance at high air velocity or pressure.