ISSN: 1546-962X
Page Count: 14

The Development and Use of Perimeter Joint Protection Testing
Nicholas, JD
Director, Omega Point Laboratories, Inc., TX

Abstract

The history of perimeter joint protection (commonly called safing) is relatively short when compared to other building elements that are fire tested. The location and primary functions of the perimeter joint protection are unique when compared to other types of fire resistive joint systems, which are commonly tested to ASTM E 1966. The testing of perimeter joint protection is different from other types of fire resistive joint systems because the perimeter joint protection can be subjected to fire exposure from two directions simultaneously. The chronology of the development of the ASTM standard used to test perimeter joint systems is a critical element to proper use and installation of these firestopping materials. As part of that history, it is also important to discuss the current state-of-the-art testing protocols and their origin developed under ASTM E 2307, Standard Test Method for Determining the Fire Resistance of Perimeter Fire Barrier Systems Using the Intermediate-Scale, Multi-Story Test Apparatus. References to perimeter joint systems in the codes² are also important for us to understand the distinction between perimeter joint systems and other fire resistive joint systems.

Keywords:
joint fire barrier, fire resistive joint system, splice, cycling, perimeter joint protection, firestopping

Paper ID: JAI13030
DOI: 10.1520/JAI13030
ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.