Firewall (construction) - Characteristics

Characteristics

• Fire rating - Fire walls are constructed in such a way as to achieve a code-determined fire-resistance rating, thus forming part of a fire compartment's passive fire protection.

Germany includes repeated impact force testing upon new fire wall systems. Other codes require impact resistance on a performance basis

• Design loads – Fire wall must withstand a minimum 5 lb./sq.ft., and additional seismic loads.

• Substation Transformer Firewalls are typically free standing modular walls custom designed and engineered to meet application needs.

• Building Firewalls typically extend through the roof and terminate at a code-determined height above it. They are usually finished off on the top with flashing (sheet metal cap) for protection against the elements.

Materials

• Building and structural firewalls in North America are usually made of concrete, concrete blocks or reinforced concrete. Old walls, often built prior to World War II, will consist of brick.

• Fire barrier walls are typically constructed of drywall/gypsum board partitions.

• Penetrations – Penetrations through fire walls, such as for pipes and cables, must be protected with a firestop assembly to prevent the spread of fire through the wall at this point. Penetrations (holes) must not imperil the structural integrity of the wall, such that the wall must be able to withstand a fire without threat of collapse.

• Openings – Openings in Fire walls, such as doors and windows, must be fire rated as fire door assemblies and fire window assemblies.