SpecSeal® Firestop Blocks are intumescent bricks constructed for penetration firestopping protection. The intumescent block expands in high temperatures to impede fire, smoke, and gas passage. The bricks easily compress and conform around any penetrant stacking in a brick-like manner.
SpecSeal® Firestop Blocks may be used to seal cables, cable trays, pipes, and small, medium, or large openings temporarily or permanently. SpecSeal® Firestop Blocks may be used in both new or existing applications making short work of complex penetration firestop conditions. Some of its features and benefits include:
Here are some frequently asked questions and their corresponding answers about the product:
Where do I use it?
Ideally medium to large sized openings in fire-rated floors or walls for sealing blank openings, conduit banks, cable trays, bus ducts, and mixed/multiple penetrant openings. Blocks are great for situations where access is restricted to one side.
Why use a block instead of a pillow?
Block users tend to remain Block users and Pillow users tend to remain Pillow users. Both products are well-suited for medium to large openings. Both products provide a tight seal (low L Ratings). Although Blocks can be retrofitted, sometimes a Pillow is easier in a retrofit environment. Pillows are generally easier to install than Blocks, but avid Block enthusiasts know how to use the products effectively. Blocks can be cut to fit into smaller gaps and can also be cut to follow the contours of the penetrant surfaces, unlike Pillows. In some applications where physical security of the seal is a concern, Blocks or Pillows will be covered with wire mesh or steel plates.
What attributes of the SpecSeal® Firestop Block are noteworthy?
The material science behind this product is notable. Based on customer feedback, the Block looks and feels similar to competitive products on the market. But, by focusing on developing superior chemistry, our block has lower moisture absorption than competitive blocks along with superior hydrolytic stability. In addition, the SpecSeal Block has low temperature flexibility, harsh chemical resistance, and electrical insulation properties.
How do I ensure SpecSeal® Firestop Blocks are installed properly?
The blocks are installed to completely fill the opening around the penetrants. They are installed in a brick-like fashion, ideally building from the bottom-up in wall applications. The use of flat metal implements may aid installation by allowing blocks to slide. No compression rate is specified within the individual listings; however, this class of product is required to be firmly packed into the opening. This represents approximately 6% compression for all blocks on the market, including the SpecSeal® Firestop Block. Generally, no greater than 10% compression is possible. SpecSeal® Firestop Blocks are installed either with the 5” (127 mm) or 8” (204 mm) dimension projecting through the opening. Verify the requirement within the individual listing as ratings beyond 2 hours may require the longer dimension to project through the opening.
This article, by Stephen Bennett, Product Manager, originally appeared in the Summer Wrap-Up 2024 edition of The Burn.