EcoDuct Market Update – 15th November 2023
Important Update on Insulation Fire & Smoke Performance Standards and Acceptable Materials in Ireland.
Ventac and EcoDuct: Working together to meet new technical and safety standards.
Ventac and EcoDuct recently announced a groundbreaking new partnership to distribute EcoDuct’s transformative ductwork technology in Ireland.
An integral part of this cooperation is close focus on current and future industry standards to ensure that all current and future clients are fully informed on changing regulations and that all products are fully aligned and compliant, both now and in the future.
Summary:
1. Insulation fire/smoke performance standards have been strengthened in the UK with more stringent requirements and fewer compliant materials
2. Ireland is travelling in the same direction with new standards in the pipeline
3. KoolDuct phenolic insulation, from which EcoDuct is fabricated, is compliant both in the UK and under the expected new standards in Ireland
Background:
In the UK the minimum requirement for non-domestic ductwork insulation, which includes pre-insulated ductwork, is a EuroClass B material (BS EN 13501-1) and the minimum requirement for domestic insulation is EuroClass C (see Fire performance, BS 5422:2023, Thermal insulating materials for pipes, tanks, vessels, ductwork and equipment).
The EuroClass requirement replaces the previous BS 476 requirement of Class 0 that is no longer acceptable or referred to.
KoolDuct phenolic, from which EcoDuct is fabricated, is compliant with these and all other relevant fire/smoke performance requirements.
We are not aware of any products fabricated from PUR (polyurethane) or PIR (polyisocyanurate) that have a EuroClass B classification, meaning they are not suitable for use in non-domestic applications in the UK and, by extension, in future new buildings in Ireland.
Currently the Irish Technical Guidance Document B – Fire Safety - still references Class 0 as an acceptable and recognised fire classification (ref. Technical Guidance Document 2006 reprinted 2020).
However, the reference to Class 0 is going to be removed for new buildings in the new document (currently in consultation). For fire safety in new buildings, the reaction to fire of all products will be classified in accordance with EN 13501-1 (i.e. EuroClass).
Class 0 and the national classification according to BS 476 suite will be referenced for existing buildings only (ref. Building Regulations DRAFT Technical Guidance Document B 2023).
It is therefore likely that in Ireland the surface linings of walls and ceilings, and ductwork by extension, will be required to meet the EuroClass classifications similar to those currently applicable in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
According to www.gov.ie - Public Consultation on the Review of Part B (Fire Safety) of the Building Regulations - The closing date for the receipt of submissions and comments is no later than 21 April, 2023, so the deadline has already passed.
For more information about Ventac Ireland and EcoDuct, please visit:
Ventac: www.ventac.com
EcoDuct: www.ecoduct.co.uk
About Ventac Ireland
Ventac Ireland is a prominent provider of noise control and acoustic solutions, catering to various industries, including automotive, industrial, commercial, and residential. With a steadfast commitment to innovation and sustainability, Ventac Ireland is dedicated to enhancing acoustic environments and creating healthier living and working spaces through state-of-the-art solutions.
About EcoDuct
EcoDuct specialises in transformative ductwork technology. Their cutting-edge innovations are designed to enhance energy efficiency, minimise environmental impact, and ensure optimal indoor air quality. EcoDuct's commitment to sustainability and net zero aligns with the global drive toward environmentally-friendly practices,shaping a more sustainable and greener future for the construction industry.