Fire resistant insulation glazing can be categorized in terms of their performance level (duration of the fire resistance and the method of insulation). The choice is made on the basis of various criteria with regard to the valid regulations and taking into account the eventual application of the glazing. The fire resistant of glazing rests on three basic criteria: Mechanic stability The fire resistant element should retain its mechanic stability during and after the test.
Flame proof
Flames or flammable gasses should not leak through the cracks and joints in the construction.
Thermal insulation
The temperature on the construction to the public side can rise no more than 140°C on average or 180°C on one point, also when the temperature in the oven is 821°C after 30 minutes and 925°C after 60 minutes. The fire tests have only been rewritten in accordance with the European norms
When a fire breaks out in a building, the people present need to be able to escape. This happens via a part of the building where the fire does not expand. Splitting up the building into various parts (compartments) is needed. The government and the fire department impose fire compartments and escape routes. In order to prevent the fire from spreading to another compartment, fire resistant construction materials need to be used. The increasing norms concerning fire safety demand more and more of the use of "fire resistant" glazing for publicly accessible buildings (hospitals, schools, administrative buildings,…). These have been validated in time periods per hour (1/4hr, 1/2hr, 1hr, 1hr1/2, 2hr).
Single Fire resistant glass
Single fire resistant glass consists of a single hardened window, fitted with a fire resistant coating. This glazing is available with a fire resistant coating on one side or two sides, and 30 minutes or 60 minutes delay.
Layered fire resistant glass
Layered fire resistant glass consists of 2 glass panels that have been laminated to each other. This glazing is available with a fire resistant coating on one side or two sides, and 30 minutes or 60 minutes delay.
Insulating fire resistant glass
This glass consists of an insulating combination, possibly fitted with solar control and/or self-cleaning coating. This glazing is available in double glass, HY+ or HY++. This also provides the glazing with insulating characteristics in addition to the fire resistant characteristic. This glazing is available with 30 minutes or 60 minutes delay.