Ceiling Fixture Firestop Collar With Intumescent Ring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ceiling fixtures, such as downlights, can facilitate the spread of fire through openings in ceilings, and existing fire containment systems are inadequate in preventing fire hazards associated with these fixtures.
Innovation Solution
A firestop system comprising a metal collar and an intumescent ring is used with ceiling fixtures to prevent fire spread, where the metal collar lines the opening in the ceiling and the intumescent ring surrounds the fixture, expanding to block flames and heat in the event of a fire, with both components fabricated from intumescent flame retardant polymer composites.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a ceiling opening is provided for installing a fixture, then the fixture can be installed and provide its function, but fire can spread more easily through the opening
Solution Approach 1:
The firestop system is divided into multiple functional components: a collar that lines the opening, an intumescent ring that surrounds the fixture, and intumescent material that fills gaps. Each component performs a specific fire containment function while collectively maintaining the fire-resistance rating of the ceiling assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The intumescent ring acts as an intermediary element between the fixture and the collar, providing a fire-resistant barrier that expands when exposed to heat. This intermediary component prevents direct contact between fire and the structural ceiling elements while allowing the fixture to pass through.
2Reliability
If existing fire containment systems are used, then some fire protection is provided, but they are inadequate in preventing fire hazards associated with ceiling fixtures
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs composite construction combining a metal or rigid plastic collar, an intumescent ring made of fire-retardant polymer composite, and intumescent sealant material. This composite approach provides superior fire resistance compared to single-material solutions, as each material contributes different fire protection properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The intumescent components undergo dramatic parameter changes when exposed to fire conditions - specifically, they expand in volume (typically 5-10 times their original size) and change from a compact state to an expanded insulating barrier, thereby adapting their fire protection capability in response to thermal conditions.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the opening is lined with a collar and intumescent ring, then fire spread is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The collar serves multiple functions: it provides a finished edge for the ceiling opening, supports the intumescent ring, maintains the fire-resistance rating of the ceiling, and provides a mounting surface for the fixture. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The firestop components are arranged in a nested configuration where the intumescent ring is positioned inside the collar, and the intumescent material fills the annular space between them. This nested arrangement maximizes fire protection within a compact space while minimizing the overall complexity of the assembly.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively contains fires by blocking flames and reducing heat transfer through ceiling openings, enhancing fire protection and preventing the spread of fire through ceiling fixtures.
Implementation Method 1
an intumescent ring for surrounding the projecting portion of the fixture so as to be interposed between the metal collar and the projecting portion of the fixture
Data Source
AI summary
A system for use with a ceiling fixture, a portion of which projects though an opening in a ceiling wall, for assisting in preventing spread of fire through the opening. The system has a metal collar for lining the opening. The metal collar has an upper rim overlying a top surface of the ceiling wall at the opening, a middle section facing an inner edge of the ceiling wall at the opening and a lower rim underlying a bottom surface of the ceiling wall at the opening. The system also has an intumescent ring for surrounding the projecting portion of the fixture so as to be interposed between the metal collar and the projecting portion of the fixture.