Conduit in 1-hr Fire Barrier Need Be Continuous?

11/26/2021

We have a fire barrier, with a fire-resistance rating of 1-hour, that has conduit passing through.

The conduit is not continuous from device to device, only used as a sleeve for the penetration.

How long (continuous) does the conduit need to be past the edge of the fire barrier to maintain a 1-hour rating?

My concern (however minor) is that the inside of the conduit is not firestopped, only the outside penetration. Smoke could pass through the inside of the conduit and effectively circumvent the fire barrier.

Thanks in advance, big fan of the forum.

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5 Comments

Alex

11/26/2021 08:19:31 am

Hi,

This is similar to using a piece of pipe as your sleeve. You will still need to provide fire caulking to ensure your fire rating.

Most jobs like to have one fire caulk manufacture to make the inspection easier after installation. If this is a stand alone project, take a look at 3M Fire Sealant.

Thanks!
Alex

Glenn Berger

11/26/2021 08:40:40 am

Fire stopping is required at open ends to this electrical "sleeve" through the wall.

Mike

11/26/2021 11:08:30 am

Check fire caulking manufacturers approved details.

Dominic S

12/1/2021 07:20:12 pm

The firestopping "system" must meet the published criteria typically from the firestopping manufacturer which complies with applicanle UL and ASTM .referenced standards.

These "systems" have specific criteria regarding maximum diameter/shape of the hole the 1" conduit is passing thru, the barrier construction type, the depth of the barrier, which firestopping product is rated for use and so on.

As for the conduit sleeve and if this is fire alarm wiring passing thru, any FA wire passing thru a floor or wall must have a sleeve.

Will

12/26/2021 08:35:55 pm

1. The description of the "sleeve" actually appears (by wording) to be a permanent "opening" in the fire barrier - to allow passage of electrical and other items, I suspect. Is there possibly compatible firestopping for the "sleeve" or pipe that creates the "appearance of compliance" for the opening - I think you mentioned a pen seal?
2. Using a "listed" firestop system (including the internal conduit seal, because in this case it doesn't terminate in an enclosure/case/equipment/terminal box) is the only way to prescriptively maintain the fire rating of the barrier assembly (per IBC, IFC, NFPA 1, & NFPA 101, etc.). However, if the science of distance (length of pipe used for the sleeve past the wall for dissipation of thermal effects) can be documented for the approval of the AHJ, then the risk/acceptance is documented. This doesn't address the next question you had...
3. Yes, the opening/sleeve will allow the passage of heat and products of combustion - which must be mitigated to allow the evacuation of personnel or other adverse effects in their transmission. There will be some condensation and precipitation of smoke and products through the sleeve, but this will only be temporary with the rise and rate of rise in temperature between the two sides of the wall.

IMHO: Considering it is only a 1-hour wall, the cost-benefit of writing an equivalency for the AHJ approval, or the replacement/repair of the opening with a listed system (with internal conduit seal) should be discussed with the property owner and AHJ.

Have a blessed one!

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Conduit in 1-hr Fire Barrier Need Be Continuous?

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