Durability

The durability of reactive materials may change significantly when exposed to specific weathering conditions. This change may result in a product not achieving the expected performance in the event of a fire.

Where a product is not subject to further processing (e.g. external protection or encapsulation) to achieve its final form, it shall be tested for durability in accordance with the guidance in this document. Where a product is subject to further processing, such as encapsulation in waterproof casings, the durability tests should be conducted in accordance with the product specification.

The following types of final intended use conditions are considered to be relevant for reactive materials, components and products and should be tested correspondingly:

  • Type X: intended for use at conditions exposed to weathering
  • Type Y1: intended for use at temperatures below 0°C with exposure to UV but no exposure to rain
  • Type Y2: intended for use at temperatures below 0°C, but with no exposure to rain nor UV
  • Type Z1: intended for use at internal conditions with high humidity, excluding temperatures below 0°C
  • Type Z2: intended for use at internal conditions with humidity classes other than Z1, excluding temperatures below 0°C.

Note: Materials that meet requirements for type X, meet the requirements for all other types.

In summary, products that are going to be exposed to external weathering conditions such as Cast In Fire Collars should be tested to Type X Durability.