Note: Prior to any firewalls being constructed it is essential that the builder consults with the project certifier to ensure that the certifier is aware of the firewall construction procedures and the certifier deems the installer competent.
Fire Resistance Level (FRL) is assessed by three performance measures:- Structural Adequacy / Integrity /Insulation eg 90/90/90
6.1 FRL – 90 Mins. & External Fire Source
CSIRO Full-Scale Fire Test FS 3685/2695 has proven that the QT EcoSeries Wall System (shown right) is capable of achieving a fire resistance of 113 minutes Integrity and 115 minutes Insulation when tested in accordance with AS1530.4. Therefore for the purpose of Building Regulations in Australia, the QT EcoSeries Wall System achieved a fire resistance level (FRL) of 90/90/90. The FRL is applicable for exposure to fire source from the tested side (QT EcoSeries Wall Panel side).
The Fire Rating information for sections 6.2, 6.3, and 6.4 are based on CSIRO Opinion FCO-2310 Dated 17th February 2004.
6.2 FRL – 90 Minutes
To achieve a 90 minute Fire Rating the wall must be constructed so as the wall consists of two layers of 13mm thick fire resistance plasterboard affixed to the timber frame internally and one layer of fire resistant building foil, one layer of 50mm QT EcoSeries Wall Panel with a 5-8mm render applied with finish, affixed directly to a 20-50mm battened out cavity. This system would be capable of achieving Fire Resistance Levels of -/90/90 for Non Load Bearing walls and 90/90/90 for Load Bearing Walls designed in accordance with AS1684 for fire exposure from either direction if tested in accordance with AS1530.4
6.3 Extended Wall Areas
The Fire Resistance Levels of 60 & 90 minutes would still apply to the same system extended in height in modular form provided that the structural members are designed in accordance with the relevant structural design code for the height and load of actual installation and an approved joint system appropriate to the FRL and the width of the gap is used for the horizontal and vertical joints in a manner as detailed in the attached drawings.
