Explore how to specify fire-rated solutions for unprotected openings in audio applications.
Identifying the Life Hazards in Audio Applications
Microphones for large lecture halls. TVs for conference rooms. Surround-Sound Systems for movie theaters. Over the past several decades, A/V technology has been adopted into our everyday lives. From shopping malls to higher education institutions, audio visual technology is present. Furthermore, A/V elements have become an additional detail in architectural designs. By incorporating these audio elements into their designs, architects have now been tasked with ensuring they comply with stringent building codes.
With its adoption into applications with fire-rated ceiling assemblies, any penetrations caused by A/V technology needs to properly reinforced. To name a few this situation pertains to includes:
Whether you are installing recessed speakers in a local high school’s new auditorium or upgrading a movie theater, it is important to acknowledge the now compromised fire-rated ceiling. Once installed into a fire-resistance rated application, the in-ceiling loudspeaker breaks its integrity. Once penetrated, these openings can act as a main pathway for flames and smoke to spread throughout the property. Ultimately, endangering the building occupants and the building itself. As a result, passive fire protection measures have been implemented to address this life safety hazard.
Additional Concerns in Audio Applications
In addition to complying with stringent building codes, audio applications have additional concerns to address. Regardless of if the ceiling is required to have a fire rating, in-ceiling loudspeakers must not contradict with sound level restrictions. In states, such as California, have adopted a minimum level of sound isolation across party walls and floor/ceiling in hotels, condominiums, dormitories, and more. Now, the challenge is finding a fire-rated solution, which can meet both code compliance and sound dampening standards.
Resolving the Concerns in Audio Applications
At Tenmat, we are committed to developing the latest fireblocking technology for A/V applications. A blend of sound isolation, easy installation, and passive fire protection, TENMAT introduces the FF109-FRSC. Tested and approved to be specified into a one-hour, fire-rated ceiling, Tenmat’s FF109-FRSC meets NEC Section 640.25 Loudspeaker Installation in Fire-Rated Partitions, Walls, and Ceilings.
In addition to its compliance with strict building codes, the FF109-FRSC has been engineered to enhance acoustical performance as well. Composed of a proprietary intumescent material, the FF109 Fire-Rated Speaker Cover
helps contain and direct sound within the intended listening area while reducing sound transmission to adjacent spaces. By improving sound containment, the FF109-FRSC supports a better listening experience for occupants while minimizing unwanted noise for non-listeners.
With its adaptability and flexibility, Tenmat’s intumescent materials offer fireblocking and sound isolation properties to a multitude of applications. Our manufacturing capabilities allow us to cater to the most forward-looking applications. With its fire protection feature, Tenmat’s intumescent materials have the capability to fire-rate a pre-made audio design, such as an intumescent insert in a speaker’s housing, in shape of a disc, square, gasket or box. In addition to its fire protection capabilities, Tenmat’s intumescent materials can cater to sound isolation applications – such as multi-family complexes, sound rooms, choir rooms, and so much more.
Conclusion
As the demand for firestopping solutions rises, many “fire-rated” solutions have entered the market. However, it is important to remain vigilant on the fire testing approvals of these numerous solutions. For a product to be fire-rated, it must have an ETL or UL Classified Testing and Approval certification. At Tenmat, all our fireblocking materials and solutions have an ETL or UL Classified listing, which can be easily located on our website.
If you are interested in learning more about the key benefits of installing Tenmat’s innovative intumescent technology, please visit https://www.tenmatusa.com/frsc/.
