GB2522934A

GB2522934A - A fire seal

Info

Publication number: GB2522934A
Application number: GB1402372.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Laurence Keith Kovacs
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2014-02-11
Filing date: 2014-02-11
Publication date: 2015-08-12
Anticipated expiration: 2034-02-11
Also published as: WO2015121278A1; GB201402372D0; GB2522934B

Abstract

The fire seal assembly is particularly for use with uninsulated or insulated stud partitioning or solid floors. The seal assembly comprises an expansion strip comprising an intumescent layer 4 bonded to a fire resistant flexible layer 1. In use the intumescent layer is located between the fire resistant layer and a surface upon which the assembly is located. The fire resistant layer forces expansion inwardly in order to crush and seal the penetration. The assembly may have integral joining tabs or separate joining pieces. The assembly may be located within an expandable sleeve or sock of fire resistant flexible material. The assembly may comprise a row of slits 11.

Description

A Universal Fire Seal The present invention relates to a universal fire seal, hereafter referred to as UFS, and more particularly a flat flexible universal fire seal that can be used for almost any penetration through walls, floors, ceilings, insulated and un-insulated partitioning walls.

In view of the different types of penetrations such as ventilation vents, recessed light fittings etc. and the different types of structures that the penetrations go through, at present there is a wide range of types of fire seals required for each type of penetration and structure.

Most fire seal designs at present have difficulty in fire sealing thin walled plastic penetrations such as those with a 1.8mm wall thickness and below. The is plastic penetration softens and melts before the fire seal can expand to fill the void left by the melted penetration.

Most fire seal designs at present, as well as having difficulty in fire sealing thin walled plastic penetrations of for example 1.8mm wall thickness and below also have difficulty on thicker wall sections when trying to achieve fire ratings and regulations to meet current fire test standards for testing uncapped penetrations.

In the above circumstances most fire seal designs at present are individually designed for each different type of penetration (vent, light fitting type) not only for size but shape as well.

Clearly a more universally applicable fire seal would have great advantageous in terms of applicability to a wider range of penetrations and so avoid inventory problems and waste in terms of materials, energy usage in manufacture and transportation costs.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention there is provided a fire seal assembly for use in uninsulated (hollow) or insulated stud partitioning or solid walls, floors, ceilings etc., the seal assembly comprising of an expansion combination strip comprising of an intumescent layer bonded to a fire resistant flexible layer on at least one face for presentation in use away from a penetration whereby the intumescent layer in use is between a surface of the penetration and the fire resistant flexible layer and contained by the fire resistant flexible layer to force the intumescent to expand inwards to crush and seal the penetration along a user specified length by presentation as a wrap around the penetration irrespective of any differing outside diameters of the penetration.

Preferably the UFS may combine a fire resistant flexible layer on the intumescent face furthest away from the penetration which would be contained by the fire resistant flexible layer forcing the intumescent to expand inwards to crush and seal the penetration Preferably the UFS may also combine a fire resistant flexible layer on the intumescent face facing the penetration allowing the fire resistant flexible layer to be forced inwards from all directions across the aperture of the penetration reducing the opening and reducing the penetration of flames and hot gases to the inside of the penetration protecting and slowing down the expansion thereby increasing the fire rating time.

Possibly the UFS may also combine a fire resistant flexible layer on the intumescent face fixed centrally down the length with a plurality of cuts/slits from the is outer edge to the central fixing facing the penetration allowing the fire resistant flexible layer to drop across the aperture particularly with thin walled plastic reducing the opening and reducing the penetration of flames and hot gases to the inside of the penetration, allowing time for the Intumescent to expand] also slowing down the expansion along the depth of the aperture once the Intumescent has expanded thereby increasing the fire rating time.

Possibly the UFS may combine a fire resistant flexible layer on the intumescent face facing the penetration but not on the outer face furthest away from the penetration when made for use in solid walls, floors, ceilings etc. Preferably the UFS may be made to the width to fit flush with the external faces of partitioning, walls, floors, ceilings etc. Possibly the UFS may be made wider than the width of the external faces of partitioning, walls, floors, ceilings etc., so that the (iFS protrudes beyond the external faces of the partitioning, walls, floors, ceilings etc., allowing the UFS to react quicker to the heat source sealing up externally first before sealing through the aperture.

Possibly the UFS could be encased in a free expandable sleeve/sock of fire resistant flexible material.

Preferably the (iFS may comprise an integral joining tab.

Possibly the UFS could have a separate joining piece.

More than one expansion combination may be provided in the (iFS assembly.

Possibly the UFS may comprise multiple layers. Each layer can be comprised of Intumescent fixed to a fire resistant flexible layer on one face or both or any mixture of one face or both or any mixture of no fire resistant flexible layer with Intumescent with fire resistant flexible layers. All layers can be fixed by Adhesive/Glue, Staples, Stitching or any mechanical means or any mixture, or any means that which may serve the same function not mentioned.

Preferably when multiple layers of the expanding material are used they may be of differing lengths because with each additional layer the outside diameter increases, and will be placed in any position against each other placed such that as it is wrapped around the penetration the layers will slide/move against each other so that on forming round the two end faces will butt together.

Preferably the LJFS's preferred product design may be flat and flexible, being is designed to seal any size or shape such as circular or oval plastic pipework, rectangular or square plastic ducting, or any shape that it can be formed around, including metal electrical cable trays etc. Possibly the UFS may be pre formed or pre joined by use of the integral fixing tab or joining piece (7) with or without the fire resistant flexible layers.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a schematic cross-section of a fire seal in accordance with a first embodiment of aspects of the present invention with a fire resistant layer to one side; Figure 2 is a schematic cross-section of a fire seal in accordance with a second embodiment of aspects of the present invention with a fire resistant layer to both sides; Figure 3 is a schematic end view of a universal fire seal with a centrally positioned inner fire resistant layer; Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view of a universal fire seal with an inner fire resistant layer with a plurality of cuts/slits; FigureS is a similar fire seal to that depicted in figure 2 with a glue layer at one end to retain the fire resistant layer association with the intumescent layer; Figure 6 is a similar fire seal to that depicted in figure 2 with staples at one end to retain the fire resistant layer association with the intumescent layer; Figure 7 is a similar fire seal to that depicted in figure 2 with stitching at one end to retain the fire resistant layer association with the intumescent layer Figure B is a similar fire seal to that depicted in figure 2 with stitching and staples at one end to retain the fire resistant layer association with the intumescent layer Figure 9 is a schematic end view of a fire seal as depicted in figure 2 wrapped around a circular pipe; Figure 10 is a side view of the fire seal as depicted in figure 9; Figure 11 is a schematic side view illustration of fire seals as depicted in figures 9 & 10 in operation in fire conditions; Figure 12 is a schematic end view of a fire seal in accordance with aspects of the present invention provided within a fire resistant sleeve or sock; Figure 13 is a similar fire seal to that depicted in figure 1 with staples at one end to retain the fire resistant layer association with the intumescent layer; Figure 14 is a similar fire seal to that depicted in figure 1 with stitching at one end to retain the fire resistant layer association with the intumescent layer; Figure 15 is a similar fire seal to that depicted in figure 1 with glue to retain the fire resistant layer association with two intumescent layers; Figure 16 is a similar fire seal to that depicted in figure 2 with glue at one end to is retain the fire resistant layer association with two intumescent layers; Figure 17 is a similar fire seal to that depicted in figure 1 with staples at one end to retain the fire resistant layer association with two intumescent layers; Figure 18 is a similar fire seal to that depicted in figure 1 with stitching at one end to retain the fire resistant layer association with two intumescent layers; Figure 19 is a similar fire seal to that depicted in figure 1 with one end retaining the fire resistant layer in association with the intumescent layers by folding over an edge; Figure 20 is a similar fire seal to that depicted in figure 19 with one end retaining the fire resistant layer in association with the intumescent layers by folding over an edge and an adhesive between the intumescent layers at the end near the edge; Figure 21 is a similar fire seal to that depicted in figure 19 with one end retaining the fire resistant layer in association with the intumescent layers by folding over an edge and staples between the intumescent layers at the end near the edge; Figure 22 is a similar fire seal to that depicted in figure 19 with one end retaining the fire resistant layer in association with the intumescent layers by folding over an edge and stitching between the intumescent layers at the end near the edge; Figure 23 is a perspective view of a fire seal similar to that depicted in figure 1 during fabrication; Figure 24 is a schematic side illustration a third embodiment of a fire seal in accordance with aspects of the present invention with the fire resistant layer between layers of intumescent material; Figure 25 is a depiction of a seal similar to the seal as depicted in figure 24 with a thinner fire resistant layer; Figure 26 is a schematic side illustration a fourth embodiment of a fire seal in accordance with aspects of the present invention with the fire resistant layer between layers of intumescent material and an adhesive layer and another fire resistant layer folded over one edge for retention; Figure 27 is a depiction of a seal similar to the seal as depicted in figure 26 with a thinner fire resistant layer; Figure 28 is a depiction of a seal similar to the seal as depicted in figure 26 in which additional staples are provided for retention of the layers in association; and, Figure 29 is a depiction of a seal similar to the seal as depicted in figure 26 in which additional stitching is provided for retention of the layers in association.

As indicated above provision of a universal fire seal will provide significant advantages in terms particularly of providing protection for plastic and thin walled penetrations such as vents, lighting fitments and other opening to buildings and structures. Prior fire seals have generally been bespoke due to the necessary to is ensure an adequate expansion in an acceptable time in fire conditions so that the penetration is closed and the fire deprived of air/oxygen. Intumescent materials will expand with heat but to be effective the expansion must be directed or projected to closure. If the penetration collapses due to the vent structure melting or overly weakening then the intumescent expansion will not close the penetration.

Aspects of the present fire seal design replaces the need for different types of fire seal for differing penetrations through differing types of structures (walls, floors, ceilings, partitioning etc.). The design and method of manufacture and installation reduces energy usage and helps the climate by reducing carbon emissions and energy usage in manufacture, transportation and installation.

In view of the different types of penetrations and the different types of structures that the penetrations goes through, at present there are different types of fire seals required for each type of penetration e.g. vents, cable ducting, down light fittings etc..

The present designs aims particularly to overcome problems with thin walled penetrations such as those made of plastics materials or at least are relatively flaccid at higher temperatures and so will not be able to consistently present the intumescent material for expansion in a fire. Thus, with the present design it may be possible to achieve necessary fire ratings to meet current fire test standards for uncapped penetrations such as vents, light fitting, ducting etc. The present fire seal has a flat flexible design and will act as a fire seal adaptable to any size or shape such as circular or oval plastic pipework, rectangular or square plastic ducting, or any shape that it can be formed or wound around, including metal electrical cable trays etc. By use of a fire seal in accordance with aspects of the present invention it will be understood as explained below that less of the fire sealing expanding (intumescent) product is needed thereby reducing the overall size of the apertures for penetrations required thereby retaining more of the structures integrity and also increasing the fire rating time.

The fire seal can be pre formed or pre joined by use of the integral fixing tab or joining piece when required.

The fire seal is designed to work with un-insulated (hollow) stud partitioning or wall by traversing the void from one wall face to the opposite wall face, there is no is longer any need to form or make metal sleeves to traverse the void to act as a barrier preventing the fire protection products previously used from expanding and falling into the cavity, or to use fire collars fixed to the wall protruding into the room.

The fire seal is also designed to be used in or with solid wall, ceiling and floor constructions so again there is no longer any need for the use of metal fire collars or fire sleeves, or any metal at all. The fire seal reduces the need to use different products.

By using a fire seal in accordance with aspects of the present invention, the energy used in producing the metal for manufacturing a metal sleeve or metal collar is eliminated. Energy used to mine the ore. energy used to smelt and produce the steel, energy used to roll and produce the metal, energy used in fabricating the sleeve or collar are all eliminated. Further energy is saved by not having to mechanically fix the metal sleeve or collar. It will also be understood that these metal components tend to conduct heat so further savings may be made in terms of least heat losses to and from a building by these heat conductive paths and less prospect of condensation problems.

Fire seals in accordance with aspects of the present invention are preferably supplied and packaged flat, thereby reducing packaging materials and storage space required as opposed to preformed products. As an example, in packaging two preformed fire seals, approximately forty flat fire seals in accordance with aspects of the present invention will fit in the same packaging. This means that fuel used and emissions from transporting goods are reduced by 95% per equivalent cubic area, reducing Carbon dioxide (C02), Carbon monoxide (CO), Nitrogen oxides (NO and N02, together called NOx), Hydrocarbons or volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Penetrations through building structures such as vents, ducts and fittings come in a range of sizes and shapes. The present universal fire seal (UFS) comprises a sheet or more normally a strip of material which can be formed around and in the penetration and the aperture to accommodate that penetration. The UFS comprises a thermally expansive layer and a fire resistant layer made of a flexible material such a fabric impregnated with a fire retardant or physically rendered flexible by scoring or slitting or similar processes to provide local pivot and flex to allow a relatively stiff material to be flexible. Similarly the thermal expansion or intumescent layer will be flexible as a thin sheet of material and/or by scoring or slits in the material forming the intumescent layer. By rendering the universal seal so flexible it can be wrapped around or moulded or adhered as necessary to the penetration in terms of the component forming the penetration such as vent or duct and/or the aperture formed in a structure to accommodate the component to form the penetration.

The figures provided illustrate various embodiments of a universal fire seal in accordance with aspects of the present invention in a number of forms.

Figure 1 illustrates a first prime embodiment of a fire seal in accordance with aspects of the present invention in which a fire resistant layer 1 is secured by an adhesive layer 2 to one side of a thermally expanding or intumescent material layer 4. In fabrication the layers 1,2,4 are held together by an adhesive release backing paper 3 which is removed after fabrication by peeling away to be replaced with an edging if needed around the formed strip or sheet combination as a fire seal preform.

In use the fire seal preform will be presented with the thermally expanding or intumescent layer 4 between the penetration (aperture or component) and the fire resistant layer 1 so that when heated it will expand between the two in order to close the aperture.

Figure 2 illustrates a second prime embodiment of a fire seal in accordance with aspects of the present invention in which two fire resistant layers 11 a, 11 b are secured by respective adhesive layers 12a, 12b either side of a thermally expanding or intumescent material layer 4. In fabrication the layers 11, 12, 14 are held together by an adhesive release backing paper 13 which is removed after fabrication by peeling away to be replaced with an edging if needed around the formed strip or sheet combination as a fire seal preform. In use the fire seal preform will always be presented with the thermally expanding or intumescent layer 14 between the penetration (aperture or component) and the fire resistant layers 112 so that when heated it will expand between the two in order to close the penetration aperture.

It will be understood that flexibility to allow close moulding and presentation of fire seals in accordance with aspects of the present invention to penetration structures, apertures and components so that the penetration will be closed upon heating. However, the seal has a number of sheets or layers of material of differing stiffness/flexibility, thickness, roughness and other properties so these layers will react differently in bending and flexing. In such circumstances as illustrated in figure 3 showing an end view of the fire seal preform illustrated in figure 2 it will be noted that the thermally expanding or intumescent material layer 14 on one side is adhered by an adhesive layer 12b to the fire resistant layer lib across substantially its whole area as a backer layer whilst on the other side only some areas, which may be point, patches, seams or stripes, have an adhesive layer 1 2a and/or stitching 15 and/or staples to hold the other fire resistant layer 11 a to the thermally expanding or intumescent layer 14. Such an approach will give far greater flexibility but also may give a preferred orientation for the preform fire seal, in that the fire resistant layer 11 b will typically be toward the aperture or component of the penetration whilst the less restricted fire resistant layer 11 a will be toward the aperture or cavity of the penetration so that the action of the intumescent will not be hindered and as this will is be the orientation which most needs flexibility for accommodation in the penetration.

Figure 4 shows an exploded fire seal preform in accordance mainly with regard to the first embodiment of aspects of the present invention depicted in figure 1 above. Thus, the fire resistant layer 1 is presented on one side of the thermally expanding or intumescent layer 4 and secured by a stripe of the adhesive layer 2 and/or stitches 6 and/or staples 5. The layer 2, staples 5 and stitches are along a middle section and will provide the greatest thickness of the fire seal preform but to provide additional flexibility in the wing' or flank' pads of the fire seal preform it will be noted that the fire resistant layer 1 is slit or scored to give more flexibility. The thermally expanding or intumescent layer 4 could also be slit or scored to provide greater flex and so flexibility in the seal preform.

The method of formation of the universal fire seal is generally consistent in that a release backing paper is provided so that the fire resistant layer or layers can be combined with the thermal expansion or intumescent layer with an adhesive layer to secure at least one fire resistant layer to the thermal expansion or intumescent layer but with alternative to secure other fire resistant layer if used. Thus, with regard to the second embodiment primarily described with regard to figure 2 above further modifications include:-A) In figure 5 an intumescent layer 24 is between fire resistant layers 21 a, 21 b with an adhesive layer 22a to fully secure the layer 24 to fire resistant layer 21 a on one side and an edge adhesive layer or stripe 22b to secure the other fire resistant layer 21 b along one edge so that the intumescent layer 24 can expand within the sandwich pocket provided.

B) In figure 6 an intumescent layer 34 is between fire resistant layers 31 a, 31 b with an adhesive layer 32 to fully secure the layer 34 to fire resistant layer 31 a on one side and an edge staples 35 to secure the other fire resistant layer 31 b along one edge so that the intumescent layer 34 can expand within the sandwich pocket provided.

C) In figure 7 an intumescent layer 44 is between fire resistant layers 41 a, 41 b with an adhesive layer 42 to fully secure the layer 44 to fire resistant layer 41 a on one side and an edge stitching 46 to secure the other fire resistant layer 41 b along one edge so that the intumescent layer 44 can expand within the sandwich pocket provided.

D) In figure 8 an intumescent layer 54 is between fire resistant layers 51 a, Sib with an adhesive layer 52a to fully secure the layer 54 to fire resistant layer 51a on one side and an edge adhesive 52b, staples 55 and stitching 56 to secure the other fire resistant layer Sib along one edge so that the intumescent layer 34 can expand within the sandwich pocket provided.

Figure 8 and figure 9 provide end and side views respectively of a universal is fire seal in accordance with aspects of the present invention located around a penetration 68 such as a pipe, duct, cable tray etc. The seal is formed substantially consistent to the second embodiment depicted in figure 2 where the thermally expanding or intumescent layer 64 is between fire resistant layers 61 with the association secured by adhesive layers 62. The seal wraps around the penetration 68 with ends of the seal abutting together at 12 to envelope the penetration such that the penetration and aperture will close upon heating such as in a fire. The seal being flexible it will be understood that the seal can be rendered a close fit.

The penetration 8 is in a wall, floor, ceiling, partition wall or other structure or panel 9 in a building, machine compartment, cabin or structure.

Aspects of the present invention have particular utility with regard to penetration structures and components as well as panels which are thin or have a low level of robustness at elevated temperatures such as in a fire. For a thermally expansive or intumescent component to be effective as indicated above there must be a base for the intumescent to act against to close the penetration and aperture. The seal can be wrapped in a spiral around the penetration but as will be appreciated it is the opening which is of concern so the seal will most normally be presented as a collar' adjacent to the open end of the penetration or seal component.

Figure ii shows a section of activated intumescent 10 at one open end of the penetration 8 in the side configuration of a universal seal in accordance with aspects of the present invention. As can be seen the intumescent layer 4 as activated with heat to provide a closure 10 for the penetration 8 so a path for air and so oxygen along or through the penetration is closed. The presence of the fire resistant layers 61 means the softening and weakness in the penetration 8 or wall 9 does not prevent the intumescent deploying properly and with sufficient speed to be a practical fire inhibition arrangement.

Figure 12 provides an alternative to the embodiments described previously in that a thermally expansive or intumescent layer 74 is associated with a fire resistant layer 71 in the form of a sleeve or sock. The layer 74 is stuck by an adhesive layer 72 to the fire resistant layer 71. The sleeve or sock of the fire resistant layer 71 has a pleat or concertina side so that in use the intumescent layer 74 will expand in the direction marked by arrow 70 so in use will deploy across a cavity or an opening of a penetration such as a duct or vent.

Figure 13 and figure 14 illustrate alternatives to the primary embodiment shown in figure 1 of aspects of the present invention. Thus, rather than wholly using an adhesive layer, in figure 13 staples 85 are used to hold a fire resistant layer 81 with an intumescent layer 84 at one end whilst in forming the other end or side is held with a release paper 83 and some adhesive 82. In is Figure 14 stitching 96 is used instead of staples to hold the intumescent layer 94 to a fire resistant layer 91 with a release paper 93 and adhesive used during manufacture then as with previous embodiments a joining piece used to allow formation or assembly of the seal at abutting faces such as interface 12 in figure 9.

In some circumstances with wider gaps or cavities ideally more intumescent material should be provide for rapid and/or adequately robust deployment across the gap or cavity. Figures 15 to 22 illustrate embodiments of aspects of the present invention generally similar to the primary first embodiment as shown in figure 1 and the primary second embodiment shown in figure 2 respectively where there are two intumescent layers and there is provided a fire resistant layer to one side or both sides.

In figure 15 adhesive layers 1 02a, 1 02b respectively at the back of a first intumescent layer 1 04a and between that layer 1 04a and a second intumescent layer 1 04b are provided to secure the seal together with a fire resistant layer 101 to one side. A release paper 103 to the adhesive layer 1 02a is provided to facilitate assembly in manufacture and/or during installation to allow the seal to be moulded or wrapped or wound around a penetration in use.

In figure 16 adhesive layers 112a, 112b, 112c respectively at the back of a first intumescent layer 114a, between that layer 114a and a second intumescent layer 11 4b and on top of the second intumescent layer 11 4b are provided to secure the seal together with a fire resistant layer lila on one side and a fire resistant layer 11 lb to the other side. A release paper 113 to the adhesive layer 11 2a is provided to facilitate assembly in manufacture and/or during installation to allow the seal to be moulded or wrapped or wound around a penetration in use. :i.i.

In figure 17 staples 125 between a first intumescent layer 124a and a second intumescent layer 1 24b are provided to secure the seal together with a fire resistant layer 121 to one side. A release paper 123 secured by an adhesive layer 122 is provided to facilitate assembly in manufacture and/or during installation to allow the seal to be moulded or wrapped or wound around a penetration in use.

In figure 18 stitches 135 between a first intumescent layer 1 34a and a second intumescent layer 1 34b are provided to secure the seal together with a fire resistant layer 131 to one side. A release paper 133 secured by an adhesive layer 132 is provided to facilitate assembly in manufacture and/or during installation to allow the seal to be moulded or wrapped or wound around a penetration in use.

In figure 19 an adhesive layer 142 between a first intumescent layer 144a and a second intumescent layer 144b is provided to secure the seal together with a fire resistant layer 141 to one side. The adhesive layer 142 with the fire resistant layer 141 is folded around an edge or end of the intumescent layers 144a, 144b to secure them together. A release paper 143 secured by the adhesive layer 142 is provided to facilitate assembly in manufacture and/or during installation to allow the seal to be moulded or wrapped or wound around a penetration in use.

The embodiment depicted in figure 20 is similar to that shown in figure 19 in that an adhesive layer 1 52a between a first intumescent layer 1 54a and a second intumescent layer 1 54b is provided to secure the seal together with a fire resistant layer 151 to one side. The adhesive layer 1 52a is folded with the fire resistant layer 151 around an edge or end of the intumescent layers 154a, 154b to secure them together. However, between the intumescent layers 1 54a, 1 54b beneath the fold there is provided a further adhesive layer 1 52b for greater security of assembly. A release paper 153 secured by the adhesive layer 1 52a is provided to facilitate assembly in manufacture and/or during installation to allow the seal to be moulded or wrapped or wound around a penetration in use.

The embodiment depicted in figure 21 is similar to that shown in figure 19 in that an adhesive layer 162 between a first intumescent layer 1 64a and a second intumescent layer 1 64b is provided to secure the seal together with a fire resistant layer 161 to one side. The adhesive layer 162 is folded with the fire resistant layer 151 around an edge or end of the intumescent layers 1 64a, 1 64b to secure them together. However, between the intumescent layers 1 64a, 1 64b beneath the fold there is provided staples 165 for greater security of assembly. A release paper 163 secured by the adhesive layer 162 is provided to facilitate assembly in manufacture and/or during installation to allow the seal to be moulded or wrapped or wound around a penetration in use.

The embodiment depicted in figure 22 is similar to that shown in figure 19 in that an adhesive layer 172 between a first intumescent layer 1 74a and a second intumescent layer 1 74b is provided to secure the seal together with a fire resistant layer 171 to one side. The adhesive layer 172 is folded with the fire resistant layer 171 around an edge or end of the intumescent layers 174a, 174b to secure them together. However, between the intumescent layers 1 74a, 1 74b beneath the fold there is provided stitches 176 for greater security of assembly. A release paper 173 secured by the adhesive layer 172 is provided to facilitate assembly in manufacture and/or during installation to allow the seal to be moulded or wrapped or wound around a penetration in use.

is Figure 23 schematically illustrates in perspective view in figure 23a a universal fire seal preform 1 80a comprising a fire resistant layer 181, an adhesive layer 182 and a thermally expansive or intumescent layer 184 secured together.

A release paper 183 is provide at one end to allow fabrication by keeping is end of the seal 181 a together during that process as well as during moulding, winding, wrapping or other forming around a penetration in use. Once provided around the penetration as illustrated in figure 23b the release paper 183 end of the universal fire seal preform 1 80a is removed to leave a cut to size seal 1 80b suitable for the actual penetration to which and in which it will be used.

Figures 24 to 29 show further embodiments of aspects of the present invention based upon the primary first and the second embodiments respectively depicted in figure 1 and figure 2 respectively above.

In figure 24 two thermally expansive or intumescent layers 194a, 194b are provided with two fire resistant layers 191 a, 191 b secured such that a first fire resistant layer 191 a is secured by an adhesive layer 1 92a as a backer and a second fire resistant layer 191 b is secured by an edge adhesive layer 1 92b above a first intumescent layer 194a and by a top adhesive layer 192c to a second intumescent layer 1 94b which in use would be towards the cavity or opening of the penetration. A release paper 193 secured by the adhesive layer 1 92a is provided to facilitate assembly in manufacture and/or during installation to allow the seal to be moulded or wrapped or wound around a penetration in use.

In figure 25 two thermally expansive or intumescent layers 204a, 204b are provided with two fire resistant layers 201 a, 201 b secured such that a first fire resistant layer 201 a is secured by an adhesive layer 202a as a backer and a second fire resistant layer 201 b is secured by an middle edge adhesive layer 202b above a first intumescent layer 204a and by a top edge adhesive layer 202c to a second intumescent layer 204b which in use would be towards the cavity or opening of the penetration. A release paper 203 secured by the adhesive layer 202a is provided to facilitate assembly in manufacture and/or during installation to allow the seal to be moulded or wrapped or wound around a penetration in use.

In figure 26 two thermally expansive or intumescent layers 214a, 214b are provided with two fire resistant layers 21 la, 211b secured such that a first fire resistant layer 211 a is secured by an adhesive layer 21 2a as a backer and a second fire resistant layer 211 b is secured by an edge adhesive layer 21 2b above a first intumescent layer 21 4a and by a top adhesive layer 21 2c to a second intumescent layer 21 4b which in use would be towards the cavity or opening of the penetration. A release paper 213 secured by the adhesive layer 212a is provided to facilitate assembly in manufacture and/or during installation to allow the seal to be moulded or wrapped or wound around a penetration in use.

is To provide extra security of assembly the backer comprising the first fire resistant layer 211 a and the adhesive layer 21 2a are folded around an end or edge as with previous embodiments opposite the release paper 213.

In figure 27 two thermally expansive or intumescent layers 224a, 224b are provided with two fire resistant layers 221a, 221b secured such that a first fire resistant layer 221 a is secured by an adhesive layer 222a as a backer and a second fire resistant layer 221 b is secured by an middle edge adhesive layer 222b above a first intumescent layer 224a and by a top edge adhesive layer 222c to a second intumescent layer 224b which in use would be towards the cavity or opening of the penetration. A release paper 223 secured by the adhesive layer 222a is provided to facilitate assembly in manufacture and/or during installation to allow the seal to be moulded or wrapped or wound around a penetration in use.

To provide extra security of assembly the backer comprising the first fire resistant layer 221 a and the adhesive layer 222a are folded around an end or edge as with previous embodiments opposite the release paper 223. As with earlier embodiments provision of a middle and/or edge adhesive layer 222b, 222c will render the seal assembly more flexible in comparison with an adhesive layer which extends completely across the layers.

In figure 28 two thermally expansive or intumescent layers 234a, 234b are provided with two fire resistant layers 231a, 231b secured by an adhesive layer 232 and staples 235. A first fire resistant layer 231 a along with part of the adhesive layer 232 is folded around an edge or end of the seal with the staples 235 beneath the fold. A release paper 233 secured by the adhesive layer 232a is provided to facilitate assembly in manufacture and/or during installation to allow the seal to be moulded or wrapped or wound around a penetration in use.

In figure 29 two thermally expansive or intumescent layers 244a, 244b are provided with two fire resistant layers 241 a, 241 b secured by an adhesive layer 242 and staples 245. A first fire resistant layer 241 a along with part of the adhesive layer 242 is folded around an edge or end of the seal with the stitches 246 beneath the fold. A release paper 243 secured by the adhesive layer 242a is provided to facilitate assembly in manufacture and/or during installation to allow the seal to be moulded or wrapped or wound around a penetration in use.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any number of combinations of the aforementioned features and/or those shown in the appended drawings provide clear advantages over the prior art and are therefore within the scope of the invention described herein.

Claims

Claims 1. A fire seal assembly for use in uninsulated (hoflow) or insulated stud partitioning or solid walls, floors, ceilings etc., the seal assembly comprising of an expansion combination strip comprising of an intumescent layer bonded to a fire s resistant flexible layer on at least one face for presentation in use away from a penetration whereby the intumescent layer in use is between a surface of the penetration and the fire resistant flexible layer and contained by the fire resistant flexible layer to force the intumescent to expand inwards to crush and seal the penetration along a user specified length by presentation as a wrap around the penetration irrespective of any differing outside diameters of the penetration.
2. An assembly as claimed in claim 1 wherein the fire resistant flexible layer on the intumescent face as arranged in use furthest away from the penetration to be contained by the fire resistant flexible layer to force the intumescent to expand inwards to crush and seal the penetration.
3. An assembly as claimed in claim I or claim 2 wherein the assembly also combines a fire resistant flexible layer on the intumescent face facing the penetration in use allowing the fire resistant flexible layer to be forced inwards from all directions across the aperture of the penetration reducing the opening and reducing the * S penetration of flames and hot gases to the inside of the penetration protecting and slowing down the expansion thereby increasing the fire rating time.
4. An assembly as claimed in any of claims ito 3 wherein the assembly also combines a fire resistant flexible layer in use on the intumescent face fixed centrally *:-::* down the length with a plurality of cuts/slits from the outer edge to the central fixing *....: facing the penetration allowing the fire resistant flexible layer to drop across the * 25 aperture particularly with thin walled plastic reducing the opening and reducing the penetration of flames and hot gases to the inside of the penetration, allowing time for the Intumescent to expand, also slowing down the expansion along the depth of the aperture once the lntumescent has expanded thereby increasing the fire rating time.
5. An assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the assembly combines in use a fire resistant flexible layer on the intumescent face facing the penetration but not on the outer face furthest away from the penetration when made for use in solid walls, floors, ceilings etc.
6. An assembly as claimed in any preceding claim where assembly is made to a width to fit flush in use with the external faces of partitioning, walls, floors, ceilings etc.
7. An assembly as claimed in any of claims 1 to 5 wherein assembly is made wider than the width of the external faces of partitioning, walls, floors, ceilings etc., whereby the assembly protrudes beyond the external faces of the partitioning, walls, floors, ceilings etc., allowing the assembly to react quicker to the heat source sealing up externally first before sealing through the aperture.
8. An assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the assembly is encased in a free expandable sleeve/sock of fire resistant flexible material.
9. An assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the assembly comprises an integral joining tab.
10. An assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the assembly has a separate joining piece.
11. An assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the assembly has more than one expansion combination.
12. An assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the assembly comprises multiple layers.
13. An assembly as claimed in claim 12 wherein each layer comprises the Intumescent fixed to a fire resistant flexible layer on one face or both or any mixture : of one face or both or any mixture of no fire resistant flexible layer with Intumescent a. * with fire resistant flexible layers. *0te*14. An assembly as claimed in claim 12 or claim 13 wherein all layers are fixed by * Adhesive/Glue, Staples, Stitching or any mechanical means or any mixture, or any means that which may serve to fix the layers.15. An assembly as claimed in any of claims l2to 14 wherein the multiple layers of the expanding material used have differing lengths such that with each additional * r 4 layer the outside diameter increases, and will be placed in any position against each other when placed in use such that as the assembly is wrapped around the penetration the layers will slide/move against each other so that on forming round the two end faces of the layers will bull together.16. An assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the assembly is flat and flexible to provide a seal whose size or shape is such as circular or oval plastic pipework, rectangular or square plastic ducting, or any shape formed around such pipework or ducting.17. An assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the assembly is pre formed or pre joined by use of an integral fixing tab or joining piece with or without the fire resistant flexible layers.THE AMENDMENTS TO THE CLAIMS HAVE BEEN FILED AS FOLLOWSClaims 1. A fire seal assembly for use in a penetration of an uninsulated hollow or insulated stud partitioning or solid walls, floors, ceilings, the seal assembly comprising an initially flat unitary expansion combination strip with a distinct s intumescent layer flexibly adhered to a distinct fire resistant flexible layer on at least one face with a releasable backing at least to retain association between the intumescent layer and the fire resistant layer despite there being flexibly adhesion there between whereby the assembly can wrap around for differing outside diameters when wrapped in use by relative side-by-side movement between the intumescent layer and the fire resistant layer to a desired wrapped length with the then relative intumescent layer and resistant layer position retained by fixing means and/or confinement..2. An assembly as claimed in claim 1 wherein the fire resistant flexible layer flexibly adhered to the intumescent layer is arranged to be relatively stable whereby in use and furthest away from an outer surface to force the intumescent layer to expand in use inwards.3. An assembly as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the assembly also has a second fire resistant flexible layer on the other side of the intumescent so in usethe fire resistant flexible layer is forced inwards..4. An assembly as claimed in any of claims I to 3 wherein the assembly also has a fire resistant flexible layer in use on the intumescent layer fixed centrally down the length of the intumescent layer with a plurality of cuts/slits from the outer edge to a central fixing allowing the fire resistant flexible layer to be displaced across an aperture in the penetration by expansion of the intumescent layer in use.5. An assembly as claimed in any of claims 1 to 4 wherein the assembly is configured by thickness of the intumescent layer to ensure a width greater depth of an expected penetration.6. An assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the assembly is encased in a free expandable sleeve/sock of fire resistant flexible material.7. An assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the assembly comprises an integral joining tab.8. An assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the assembly has a separate edge joining piece.9. An assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the assembly has more than one combination of the intumescent layer and the fire resistant flexible layer flexibly adhered together.10. An assembly as claimed in claim 9 wherein each combination comprises one intumescent layer with fire resistant flexible layers.11. An assembly as claimed in claim 9 or claim 10 wherein all the combinations are fixed by flexible adhesive/glue, staples, stitching or any mechanical means.12. An assembly as claimed in any of claims 9 to 11 wherein each combination or respective intumescent layers and fire resistant layers have differing lengths such that with each additional combination or layer the assembly increases but when wrapped around the penetration the layers will slide/move against each other and will butt together.13. An assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the assembly is flat and flexible to provide a seal whose size or shape when flat is such as necessary for a circular or oval plastic pipework, rectangular or square plastic ducting, or any shape formed around such pipework or ducting.
14. An assembly as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the assembly is pre is formed or pre joined by use of an integral fixing tab or joining piece with or without the fire resistant flexible layers.