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Aluminium Fire Systems

Fire Rated Product FAQs

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS TO OUR FAQS

Fire Rated Product FAQs

Please send spec / details to [email protected]
 
Or send us your number- we’ll call to run through the project 
Or please send over as much information as possible regarding what you require. Ideally, we would need to know the following as a minimum:
 
  • Project reference
  • Number of positions
  • Dimensions
  • Required fire rating
  • Internal or external
  • RAL Colour
  • Are cills required
 
Details around the building structure/what the positions are being fixed into.

The quote lead time for Aluminium Fire Systems can vary dependent on the job size and the information provided to us.

We will endeavour to turn quotes around as efficiently as possible. Usual turn around time is approximately 48 hours but this can change depending on the size of the enquiry.

Fixed fire rated aluminium windows are currently on a 6 week lead time from receipt of a signed order confirmation and initial payment.

Aluminium fire rated doors are currently on an 8 week lead time from receipt of a signed order confirmation and initial payment.

Openable fire rated windows are recgonised as a product category, however they are typically limited to 30-minute fire rated glazing. It also depends on if the dimensions of the window can accommodate the automated hardware required to operate the window.
 
There’s a significant cost increase associated with opening fire rated windows compared with fixed alternatives, along with extra compliance requirements around the automated closing mechanism.
 

Read more information here: Can fire rated windows be openable?

We recommend using an experienced aluminium fire rated window and door installer to install the products following the supplied installation guide using compliant fixings. It’s recommended that photographs are taken at every part of the installation process.

We provide an installation pack which includes, screws, packers, mastic and foam.

Experienced, competent window and door installers are able to install fire rated windows & doors using the install guide we provide as guidance.
 
We also recommend that photographs are taken throughout the install process.

There is a slight difference in cost between 30 minute fire rated glass and 60 minute fire rated glass.

However, the fire rating should be decided based on what has been specified on site that ties into the fire strategy of the building, not on price.

Yes, both frames and glass are required to be fire rated to produce a fully compliant fire rated window/door.

We will provide testing data that demonstrates the system we use has been tested to the required standards with the specific glass type used in the window/door.

Currently no. Our fire rated doors need to latch closed to enable the door to prevent the spread of fire if a fire were to occur.

Our fire rated doors need to remain latched closed (unless when in operation) to enable the door to prevent the spread of fire if a fire were to occur.

This would not result in a compliant, fire rated system and the window/door wouldn’t work as intended in the event of a fire.

We supply and fabricate fire rated systems from EI30 to EI120, covering 30 Minutes, 60 Minutes, 90 Minutes, 120 Minutes of integrity and insulation. The requirements of your project and the fire strategy of the building will determine which option you need. Our team can advise on the right specification to ensure full compliance with current building regulations.

In the event of a fire, trickle vents allow the fire and smoke to pass through the slot intended for ventilation which prevents the fire window from serving its purpose.

A fire escape window is designed and positioned to provide a means of escape in case of a fire.

A fire rated window is specifically designed and constructed to resist the spread of fire for a specific period.

We distribute a full compliance pack with every order, containing a Compliance Agreement, Technical Specification, Order Confirmation, Installation Guide, a technical guide including test certificates and invoices for products used. This documentation provides the evidence of performance needed to satisfy Building Control and fire safety officers.

We deliver nationwide across the UK. While we are proudly based in Birmingham, our central location allows us to handle logistics efficiently for projects in London, Manchester and beyond. Collection is also available from our factory in Birmingham.

Most external doors are not fire rated by default. Specialised external fire doors are a legal requirement in specific settings such as flat entrances, communal areas and commercial fire exits. Unlike standard doors, these units must combine security, weather resistance and fire resistance in a single certified assembly. Our external fire doors carry EI classifications from EI30 to EI120, meaning they are tested for both integrity and insulation rather than integrity alone. A defining technical difference is the integration of intumescent seals, which expand under heat to prevent the spread of fire and smoke.

We specialise in the fabrication and supply of high quality aluminium fire systems. While we focus on manufacturing to precise specifications, we can often recommend trusted installation partners in the Birmingham and West Midlands area if required. Every order includes an installation guide and an installation pack containing screws, packers, mastic and foam.

Yes, our systems are ideal for commercial, residential and high-rise developments. We specialise in fire rated aluminium windows, fire rated aluminium doors and fire rated glass partitions that meet the stringent fire safety standards required for larger commercial projects.

Absolutely. Our technical team is experienced in working directly with architects and contractors. We can review your drawings and specifications to propose the most efficient and compliant fire rated aluminium solution for your build.

We are located in Birmingham. If you need to drop off specifications or view samples, please call us on (+44) 121 277 4870 to arrange an appointment so a member of our technical team is available to assist you.

When comparing steel and aluminium fire systems, aluminium offers the best balance of cost, performance and aesthetics. It is lighter and more budget friendly than steel while remaining corrosion resistant and thermally efficient. This makes aluminium ideal for achieving high safety standards while working within a budget.

FAQ

Fire Ratings Explained

UNDERSTANDING FIRE CLASSIFICATION

There are different types of fire classification which can be simply described as:

(E) – INTEGRITY:

The ability of a component or construction to maintain the integrity of the element on one side only, without spreading the fire to a non-heated side as a result of penetration of flames or hot gases.

(EW) - RADIATION:

Limits heat radiation emitted from the fire-exposed side to the non-fire-exposed side. Protecting nearby materials from catching fire due to excessive heat.

(Ei) – INTEGRITY & INSULATION:

The ability of a component or construction to maintain integrity of the element on one side only, without spreading the fire as a result of a significant heat flow from the heated side to the non-heated side.

FIRE-PROOF CLASSES & THEIR TIME DURATIONS:

(Limitations on openable windows)

We Supply:-
Ei30: Provides 30 minute fire rated integrity and thermal insulation
Ei60: Provides 60 minute fire rated integrity and thermal insulation
Ei90: Provides 90 minute fire rated integrity and thermal insulation
Ei120: Provides 120 minute fire rated integrity and thermal insulation

We do not supply:-
EW15: Provides 15 minute fire rated integrity and limited radiation
Ei15: Provides 15 minute fire rated integrity and thermal insulation
EW30: Provides 30 minute fire rated integrity and limited radiation
Ei45: Provides 45 minute fire rated integrity and thermal insulation