Fire-proofing conduit 1

[wthall]

The conduit that supplies my client's fire pump controller with power runs through a room not protected by sprinklers. Is there a product that I can apply (foam, blanket, etc.) to this conduit to make it fire resistant, even fire proof. Re-routing the conduit is not an option.

Thanks...

 

[DRWeig]

Hi WTHall!

I went thru this same situation about 10 years ago. Although the insurance inspectors were willing to let me get by with fireproofing and sheetrock (making the equivalent of a 2-hour enclosure around the conduit), the fellows from construction code enforcement were only willing to accept 4-hour construction as "equivalent protection" (i.e., still didn't meet code). We had to put 4" of concrete around it.

Good luck with your situation!

Old Dave

 

[wthall]

Thanks for the response.

I forgot to mention that this conduit is running through the ceiling joists, about 10' above grade. Concrete doesn't seem like an option.

 

[ElecDar]

wthall,

If the cable length is short it may be easier to replace it by a fire resistance/MI cable, otherwise you may use Endothermic Ceramic Fiber Blanket (manufactured by 3M), they claim that they have a standard design for 3-hour rated electrical system protection.

http://www.mmm.com/us/arch_construct/firestop/product/p_14.html

 

[peebee]

Concrete and MI cable are the only two solutions I'm aware of. The MI cable does sound cheaper, but I wouldn't overlook the concrete option until you get pricing.

 

[Suilven]

I have previously bought cable tray protection from a company in Houston (

http://www.e-cats.com/procon/index.htm)

that is capable of withstanding severe fire (including hydrocarbon fires). You will need to watch out as wrapping power cables in any system may require uo to de-rate the cable to prevent it overheating.