Two-hour fire-rated doors are made of materials and components that can withstand exposure to fire, heat, and smoke for a period of two hours while maintaining their structural integrity and fire resistance. The specific construction and materials can vary, but here are some common features of 2-hour fire-rated doors:
Fire-Resistant Core: The core of a 2-hour fire-rated door is typically made of fire-resistant materials, such as fire-rated particleboard or mineral core. This core insulates the door and helps it withstand the effects of fire and heat.
Steel or Metal Sheathing: The door may have a steel or metal sheathing that adds to its fire resistance. This sheathing is designed to prevent the penetration of flames and heat.
Intumescent Seals: Fire-rated doors are equipped with intumescent seals around the edges and, in some cases, around vision panels (if the door has windows). These seals expand when exposed to heat, helping to seal gaps and prevent the passage of smoke and flames.
Specialized Hinges and Closers: 2-hour fire-rated doors often have specialized hinges and door closers that ensure they close automatically during a fire, helping to maintain their fire resistance.
Fire-Rated Glazing: If the door includes windows or vision panels, the glazing material is fire-rated and tested to maintain its integrity for two hours during a fire.
Certification: Two-hour fire-rated doors undergo rigorous testing and are certified by recognized testing agencies to meet specific fire safety standards.
It’s important to note that while these features are common in 2-hour fire-rated doors, the exact construction and materials may vary between manufacturers and product lines. To ensure compliance with fire safety standards, it’s crucial to consult the manufacturer’s specifications and follow local building codes and regulations when selecting, installing, and maintaining 2-hour fire-rated doors in a building.