Fire collar
A fire collar is a type of fire resistant fitting that maintains the integrity and fire insulating rating of a building element which has been penetrated by building services. This might be required, for example, when walls or floors are penetrated by cables, ducts, pipework, and so on. In this situation, the fire rating of the wall or floor can be reduced as the penetration can provide a path that allows fire to spread beyond the compartmentation intended to contain it.
Typically, fire collars comprise a retaining ring which contains an intumescent material that expands when heated rapidly. The strong compressive force exerted by the expanded material forms a fire-resistant seal, closing off the service component, and creating an insulating barrier.
There are different types of fire collar for different applications (for plastic pipes, copper pipes, general building services, electrical cables, and so on), and they can be cast-in-place or attached to the wall or floor. Other considerations include the fire collar size, ease of installation, aesthetics and so on.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Latest Build UK Building Safety Regime explainer published
Key elements in one short, now updated document.
UKGBC launch the UK Climate Resilience Roadmap
First guidance of its kind on direct climate impacts for the built environment and how it can adapt.
CLC Health, Safety and Wellbeing Strategy 2025
Launched by the Minister for Industry to look at fatalities on site, improving mental health and other issues.
One of the most impressive Victorian architects. Book review.
Common Assessment Standard now with building safety
New CAS update now includes mandatory building safety questions.
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.