Fire Performance in Sandwich Panels

The fire resistance of sandwich panels is explained by the material's flammability capacity, referred to as "fire performance." This performance determines how long the material resists during a fire and how effectively it prevents the spread of fire. Fire resistance tests are conducted by small-scale modeling of the junction lines of the facade and roof panels where the fire most likely spreads. All fire performance standards and test methods are detailed in the TS EN 14509 standard.

Materials are classified according to their fire performance from A1 to F. Additionally, materials are further classified based on the amount of smoke and dripping that occur after a fire. These classifications are made based on smoke density and the risk of dripping after a fire.

TS EN ISO 11925-2: Ignition Tests (SFI)

This test method simulates applying a flame source the size of a lighter to the corner or surface of the sample for 15 or 30 seconds. This is one of the important tests used to determine the fire response of materials.

TS EN 13823: Reaction to Fire Tests (SBI)

This test method determines the fire reaction of materials in classes A2, B, C, and D. Additionally, it classifies whether there is dripping during the fire and whether the dripping particles burn for more than 10 seconds (d0, d1, d2). It also classifies the smoke density released within the first 10 minutes as s1, s2, or s3.

PUR/PIR

Proper chemical formulations greatly enhance fire performance in plastic foams. High isocyanate ratios and flame-retardant additives improve the fire performance of polyurethanes.

XPS/EPS

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) and Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) foams are the least fire-resistant plastic foams. They begin to melt at 100°C and create fire droplets, which are a significant risk factor for fire safety.

Rock Wool

Belonging to the inorganic material group, rock wool is classified as non-combustible. Sandwich panels with rock wool filling offer the best performance for fire-resistant facades, roofs, and interior partition wall applications. The fire resistance of rock wool-filled sandwich panels can vary from 30 to 120 minutes, depending on the type of rock wool, thickness, and junction details.

Sandwich Panel Fire Performance Comparison Table

Material	Temperature at Which Dimensional Stability is Lost (°C)	Ignition Temperature (°C)	Fire Performance
PUR	~200	285-310	Good
PIR	~200	415	Good
EPS/XPS	~90-100	245-345	Poor
Rock Wool	-	-	Very Good

Fire Performance Values of MEKPAN Products

Product	Fire Performance
Polyurethane Filled Sandwich Panels	B.s2.d0