Exploring Concertina Fire Barriers: Identifying Models, Versions, and Distinctions
Article
Concertina fire curtains: An advanced fire safety solution for modern spaces
By Andrew Jones
Concertina fire curtains are a modern, highly effective fire protection system designed to partition open spaces without the need for vertical side guides. They can be discreetly stored and deployed during a fire, creating fire-resistant barriers that help control the spread of fire and smoke.
These fire curtains go by various names, including concertina fire curtains, accordion fire curtains, flexible fire barriers, folding fire curtains, concertina smoke curtains, self-supporting fire curtains, and diagonal concertina curtains, depending on the manufacturer, region, or specific application.
Open and closed concertina fire curtains are the two main configurations available. Open concertina fire curtains close against solid surfaces such as walls or other structural barriers, making them ideal for spaces with an existing enclosure on one side. In contrast, closed concertina fire curtains form a self-contained, enclosed barrier, making them preferable for open-plan spaces without existing structural surfaces for sealing.
In addition to the standard open and closed configurations, concertina fire curtains can be customized to suit complex architectural layouts. L-shaped and multi-sided concertina curtains are examples of custom configurations designed for corner spaces and irregular layouts, respectively.
Monash University and the historic Estonian Church in Tallinn demonstrate the adaptability of concertina fire curtains. Monash University incorporated a multi-sided firemaster concertina with 32 facets into its chancellery design, integrating fire safety with the architectural vision. Meanwhile, a custom-engineered concertina fire curtain covering a 15.5m lift shaft was developed for a museum and historic church in Tallinn, ensuring high-level fire protection while preserving the integrity of the historic structure.
Selecting the right type of concertina fire curtain depends on factors such as architectural integration, compliance with fire ratings, space constraints, and installation requirements. A professional fire protection specialist can help determine the best solution based on a building's unique needs and layout.
Concertina fire curtains offer a flexible and innovative fire protection solution, available in various configurations to suit different architectural needs. The choice between open, closed, or custom concertina fire curtains depends on the specific requirements of each unique project. For more information about concertina fire curtains, visit FireMaster's factory tour in the United Kingdom.
Science and technology have played crucial roles in the development of concertina fire curtains, an advanced fire safety solution. These fire curtains, also known as accordion fire curtains or flexible fire barriers, are engineered using sophisticated materials and designs to respond effectively to fire and smoke spread in modern spaces.
