In the event of a fire, passive fire protection in the building can prevent the fire from becoming larger, spreading, or escalating.

We all understand fire doors are there to stop fire spreading for a period of time but hidden pipes can act as a passage for fire to spread quickly through the building.

That’s why it’s important to install fire stopping intumescents on everything from fire doors to pipework in the floors.

Intumescent pipe collars or pipe wraps are essential for meeting fire safety regulations and for limiting the potential of a fire becoming extremely dangerous. These fire protection products provide fire stopping for plastic pipework or electrical trunking at the point where they lead through a fire compartment wall or floor. The intumescent material expands in the event of a fire, crushing the pipe inwards to seal the hole and prevent the fire from passing through.

There are two methods for fire sealing pipes: use either a pipe collar or a pipe wrap.

Why Choose A Pipe Collar?
A pipe collar is the most universal and durable retro-fit option for sealing a pipe against fire. It features a metal band around the intumescent material which prevents this from expanding outward. This means that it crushes the pipe inwards with great force and completely seals the opening to provide a very effective fire seal.

Pyroplex 200 series pipe collars have been comprehensively tested with a number of pipe materials and diameters within concrete and masonry walls and concrete floors for up to 2 hour protection.

Along with the above tests the Pyroplex 400 series pipe collars carry testing for up to 2 hour protection in plasterboard walls.

When To Select A Pipe Wrap
Pipe wraps are a cheaper alternative to collars and require fitting into the wall or floor cavity. Pipe wraps have been tested with concrete and masonry walls and concrete floors.

These products undergo extensive testing to ensure they are effective and fit for purpose. At Norseal we are proud to offer Pyroplex intumescent pipe wraps and pipe collars, where corners are never cut, and safety is the number one priority.

It’s most common to utilise pipe collars, but as you can see, there are benefits from using either option. Regardless of which solution you go with, it’s crucial to make sure your buildings are compliant with BS 476 part 20:22 by utilising these fantastic intumescent pipe protectors.

Norseal stocks both two- and four-hour pipe wraps and collars made by Pyroplex. Browse our plumbing intumescent seals or contact us to discuss your project requirements.