Packing (firestopping)
Lua error in package.lua at line 80: module 'strict' not found. Packing is the process and/or the materials used in filling both service penetrations and building joints with backer materials as approved components within a firestop.
-
Ceramic fibre nelson clk installation.jpg
Ceramic fibre used as packing to support firestop silicone caulking.
-
Pack seal 1.jpg
"Canned" service penetration about to be firestopped.
-
Pack seal 2.jpg
Packing being installed.
-
Pack seal 4.jpg
Firestop has been tagged to identify certification information, thus enabling proper maintenance.
Purpose
Packing with inherently fire-resistive materials, such as rockwool or ceramic fibre is intended to protect sealants that would, on their own, be consumed by the fire. Lesser packing, such as foam backer rod or fibreglass are used simply to hold up materials that can survive fire testing on their own. In both cases, the packing is placed in such a way as to control the exact depth of the materials that top off the seal.
Special care
Proper packing is particularly important with self-leveling sealants. If the packing is not tight enough, the expensive caulking will drip out of the hole. If the packing surface is not straight enough, the thickness of the caulking will be wrong.
If firestopping takes place on plumbing pipes that have not yet been tested, packing can move the pipes and interfere with the plumbing. It is thus important for the work to be co-ordinated between plumbers and firestoppers.
See also
- Firestop
- Mineral wool
- Annulus (firestop)
- Penetration (firestop)
- Fire test
- Passive fire protection
- Sealant
- Caulking
- Annulus (firestop)
