Fire Collars: Overview, Types, and Applications

A fire collar is a passive fire protection device designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke through penetrations in walls, floors, and ceilings. It is installed around pipes, conduits, or ducts to maintain the fire resistance of a building's compartmentation system.

1. How Fire Collars Work

• Fire collars contain an intumescent material, which expands when exposed to high temperatures (typically above 200°C).
• This expansion closes the gap left by melting pipes, preventing fire and smoke from spreading through openings.
• Fire collars are tested and rated based on their fire resistance period (FRP), usually 30, 60, 90, or 120 minutes.

2. Types of Fire Collars

A. Standard Fire Collars

• Designed for common applications, such as PVC, HDPE, and PEX pipes.
• Suitable for walls, floors, and ceilings.

B. Retrofit (Wrap-Around) Fire Collars

• Can be installed after a pipe is already in place.
• Ideal for maintenance work or retrofitting in existing buildings.

C. Cast-In Fire Collars

• Installed during construction before concrete is poured.
• Commonly used in slab penetrations for plumbing and electrical pipes.

D. High-Performance Fire Collars

• Designed for large-diameter pipes and high-risk areas.
• Can withstand extreme fire conditions for extended durations.

3. Key Applications

✅ Plumbing & Drainage Systems – Installed around PVC, ABS, HDPE, and other plastic pipes that melt in a fire.
✅ Electrical & HVAC Conduits – Protects cabling and ductwork from fire penetration.
✅ Multi-Storey Buildings – Used in walls and floors to maintain fire compartmentation.
✅ Industrial Facilities – Applied in chemical plants, factories, and hazardous environments.

4. Compliance & Certifications

• Fire collars must comply with fire safety regulations such as:
  • EN 1366-3 (Europe)
  • BS 476 Part 20-22 (UK)
  • AS 1530.4 (Australia & New Zealand)
  • UL 1479 / ASTM E814 (USA)
• Proper installation and maintenance are crucial to ensure effectiveness in a fire event.