4. The effectiveness of a barrier depends on its inherent fire
resistance; the details of its construction; and its penetrations, such
as doors, windows, ducts, pipe chases, electrical raceways, and
grilles.
(Fig 1.12)
The effectiveness of the fire-resistance systems are evaluated via
fire endurance tests.
Fire Endurance Testing: The fire endurance of a building element
is determined on the basis of a performance based testing by
subjecting the materials in the furnace to a time- temperature curve
and pressure in the furnace. Through penetrations and joint systems
are mounted in a vertical or horizontal frame. The frame is placed
against an open wall furnace or on top of an open ceiling furnace,
and is exposed to the standard time-temperature curve fire. Failure
criteria for separating elements are based on thermal penetration
and integrity. Thermal penetration is measured with thermocouples
attached to the unexposed side of the element.
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