Are Steel Doors Fire-Rated? A UK Perspective
When it comes to fire safety in buildings, steel doors are a popular choice due to their strength, durability, and versatility. However, not all steel doors are inherently fire-rated. For a steel door to qualify as fire-rated, it must meet specific standards for fire resistance, typically certified by testing bodies like the BRE or similar accredited organizations. In the UK, fire-rated steel doors are crucial for ensuring compliance with Approved Document B of the Building Regulations, making them an essential component of passive fire protection strategies.
At Icon, we specialize in manufacturing bespoke steel doors using some of the most advanced profile systems available, including Ottostumm W40 and Jansen Economy 50. Both systems can be designed to meet fire-rating requirements, and they can be combined with fire-rated glazing solutions like Pyroguard glass, ensuring aesthetic appeal does not compromise safety.
Profile Systems for Fire-Rated Steel Doors
Ottostumm W40 Fire-Resistant Steel Doors
- Material and Design: Ottostumm W40 profiles are made of precision-engineered steel, offering a slimline aesthetic that complements modern architectural designs. The system is known for its ability to integrate large expanses of glass while maintaining excellent fire-resistance properties.
- Fire Rating: Ottostumm W40 doors can achieve fire ratings of up to 30 minutes (E30 or EI30), depending on the glazing and hardware used.
- Applications: Ideal for projects requiring a minimalist design, such as high-end residential developments, office interiors, and boutique commercial spaces.
- Strengths:
- Slim sightlines for a sleek, modern appearance.
- Excellent thermal and acoustic performance.
- Wide range of finishing options, including powder coating and galvanization.
Jansen Economy 50 Fire-Resistant Steel Doors
- Material and Design: The Jansen Economy 50 system is a robust steel profile system designed for both fire-resistance and durability. It features slightly wider profiles compared to the W40, making it suitable for applications requiring higher strength and larger door leaf dimensions.
- Fire Rating: Capable of achieving fire ratings of up to 60 minutes (E60 or EI60), offering enhanced protection for high-risk areas.
- Applications: Commonly used in public buildings, industrial facilities, and multi-dwelling units where safety and functionality are priorities.
- Strengths:
- Supports larger and heavier glass panels.
- High structural integrity, suitable for high-traffic areas.
- Cost-effective for projects with demanding safety requirements.
Fire-Rated Glazing Options
When specifying fire-rated steel doors, glazing plays a vital role in balancing safety and aesthetics. At Icon, we work with premium glass options, including:
Pyroguard Fire Glass
- Performance: Pyroguard provides a range of fire-resistant glazing solutions suitable for both E-rated (integrity-only) and EI-rated (integrity and insulation) fire doors. It offers protection against flames and smoke, with some variants also limiting heat transfer.
- Versatility: Available in various thicknesses, coatings, and finishes to meet design and fire safety requirements.
- Compatibility: Works seamlessly with both Ottostumm W40 and Jansen Economy 50 systems.
Other Fire-Resistant Glass Options
- Pilkington Pyrostop: Provides EI-rated protection with excellent thermal insulation properties.
- Vetrotech Contraflam: Delivers high-performance fire resistance with optional acoustic and UV-filtering enhancements.
- Glazing Customization: Tinted, frosted, or laminated glass can be incorporated without compromising fire safety standards.
Key Differences Between Ottostumm W40 and Jansen Economy 50
| Feature | Ottostumm W40 | Jansen Economy 50 |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Rating | Up to 30 minutes (E30, EI30) | Up to 60 minutes (E60, EI60) |
| Aesthetics | Slim sightlines for a modern look | Slightly thicker profiles for added strength |
| Applications | High-end interiors and boutique spaces | Public, industrial, and high-traffic areas |
| Glass Size | Medium-sized panes | Larger and heavier panes supported |
| Cost | Higher due to precision engineering | More cost-effective for large projects |
Why Choose Icon for Fire-Rated Steel Doors?
At Icon, we pride ourselves on delivering custom-made fire-rated steel doors tailored to your project’s needs. Whether you need the sleek, minimalist aesthetic of Ottostumm W40 or the robust functionality of Jansen Economy 50, we offer:
- Expertise in both profile systems to meet design and safety requirements.
- Access to premium fire-rated glazing solutions, including Pyroguard.
- Bespoke manufacturing and finishing options for unique projects.
- Full compliance with UK fire safety regulations and certification standards.
Conclusion
Steel doors can be fire-rated, but not all systems are created equal. Choosing the right profile and glazing combination is critical for balancing fire safety with design and functionality. At Icon, we provide expertly crafted fire-rated steel doors using Ottostumm W40 and Jansen Economy 50 profiles, ensuring every project meets the highest standards of safety and aesthetic excellence.
Contact us today to discuss your fire-rated steel door requirements and explore how our solutions can enhance your building’s safety and design.