Collapsible Firestop Sleeve for Core-Drilled Concrete Openings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing firestop devices are not suitable for firestopping core-drilled or pre-existing holes in concrete slabs, particularly in existing buildings undergoing retrofitting or re-piping, as they require embedding in newly poured concrete or do not contain built-in firestopping materials.
Innovation Solution
The development of drop-in and under-deck firestop devices featuring a cage or metal sleeve structure that can be opened and closed to collapse and lock around pipes or conduits, incorporating smoke-seal and intumescent rings for enhanced firestopping capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If cast-in-place firestop devices are used, then firestopping can be achieved in newly poured concrete, but they are not suitable for core-drilled or pre-existing holes in existing concrete floors
Solution Approach 1:
The firestop device employs a collapsible cage structure that transitions from an expanded installation configuration to a compressed service configuration. The cage can be collapsed to fit through the opening and then expanded to engage the concrete surface, adapting to both installation and service requirements. This dynamic transformation enables the device to work with core-drilled holes in existing concrete while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The firestop device is divided into multiple functional segments: a collapsible cage structure, intumescent material segments, and sealing components. These segments can be assembled in a compact form for insertion into the hole and then deployed to their functional positions. The segmentation allows the device to adapt to different installation scenarios including core-drilled holes and pre-existing penetrations.
2Productivity
If traditional firestop methods are used for existing buildings, then firestopping materials must be applied after core-drilling, but the process is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges multiple firestop functions into a single integrated unit: the collapsible cage provides structural support, the intumescent material provides fire resistance, and the sealing components provide smoke and gas sealing. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate application steps for different firestop materials, significantly reducing installation time and complexity while maintaining compliance with fire safety requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The intumescent material is pre-applied to the cage structure during manufacturing, and the cage is pre-assembled in a collapsible configuration. This preliminary preparation allows the device to be installed as a single unit without requiring on-site mixing, application, or curing of separate materials, thereby increasing productivity and reducing the number of installation steps.
3Ease of manufacture
If hollow sleeves are formed into concrete floor slabs, then firestopping materials are lacking, but adding materials later complicates the process
Solution Approach 1:
The collapsible cage structure is designed to be self-supporting and self-securing. Once inserted into the hollow sleeve or core-drilled hole, the cage expands and locks into position without requiring additional structural support or complex installation procedures. The intumescent material is self-activating upon exposure to fire conditions, eliminating the need for external activation mechanisms or additional materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The firestop device combines multiple materials with complementary properties: the collapsible cage provides structural integrity and mechanical engagement, the intumescent material provides thermal expansion and fire resistance, and sealing components provide smoke and gas barriers. This composite construction ensures both ease of installation and reliable firestopping effectiveness.
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
These devices effectively seal and protect against fire and smoke in existing concrete structures, meeting industry fire-rated standards, and are easier to install compared to traditional cast-in-place firestop devices.
Implementation Method 1
a first intumescent ring positioned below the first smoke-seal ring on the inner surface of the sleeve structure, a second intumescent ring positioned below the second smoke-seal ring on the outer surface of the sleeve structure
Implementation Method 2
a first smoke-seal ring positioned on the inner surface of the sleeve structure, a second smoke-seal ring positioned on the outer surface of the sleeve structure
Data Source
AI summary
Drop-in and under-deck firestop devices including a sleeve structure having an inner surface and an opposite outer surface. The firestop device includes a first smoke-seal ring positioned on the inner surface of the sleeve structure, a first intumescent ring positioned below the first smoke-seal ring on the inner surface of the sleeve structure, a second smoke-seal ring positioned on the outer surface of the sleeve structure; and a second intumescent ring positioned below the second smoke-seal ring on the outer surface of the sleeve structure. The first and second smoke-seal rings and the first and second intumescent rings are respectively adhered or otherwise secured to the inner and outer surfaces of the sleeve structure.