As part of ongoing testing in regard to the quality of our metal roofing material, Warnock Hersey International, Inc. conducted a thorough test on the interior surface of an exterior wall supplied by the National Frame Builder’s Association. Along with testing its fire endurance, a hose stream analysis was also done and passed.
The testing procedure followed the standards set for fire tests of building construction and materials. This included adherence to testing policies as established by various organizations including the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), the National Standard of Canada (CAN4-S101-M82) and the Uniform Building Code Standard (No. 43-1). After completion, this test was passed and thus received the one hour fire rating. Nonetheless, this test does not represent or assure system certification.
In meeting the above standards, certain materials and testing methods had to be applied. This included a wall system that was constructed inside of a 10’ x 10’ frame along with the use of other specified materials. Detailed instructions were followed as well in the construction and building of the wall including:
- A glue-laminated column centerline.
- Nail-laminated columns spaced 8’ away.
- Columns supported by girts using S-12 screws.
- Girts further supported by both horizontal and vertical joints over the north column along with fire-stop blocking.
- With ¼” hex head screws, metal cladding was attached into the girts and its surrounding area.
- Mineral wool board added between columns and end blocks.
- Gold bond fire-shied G type x wall board also used.
Along with the use of designated materials to build the wall, specific dimensions and average weight requirements were also adhered to. This included the interior wall that was constructed using wallboard as well as the exterior wall which was made of steel cladding using material from the National Steel Corporation. Lastly, the wall was insulated to adhere to the guidelines set by the governing bodies. This insulation used mineral wood fiber from well-known manufacturer Fibrex. And lastly, even the screws, nails and other fasteners used to hold the wall together were selected to meet technical guidelines for accurate testing for fire endurance.
Using this wall system that was built by the National Frame Builder’s Association according to industry standards, the test was conducted on December 8, 2005. It involved a 60 minute evaluation for fire exposure. Within this hour, the simulated wall was introduced to fire continuously while a 60 second hose stream assessment was also done. For added accuracy, pressure of 10402 pounds was constantly applied to the wall.
The outcome of the test was very positive and resulted in the achievement of a 1 hour fire rating. Throughout the 60 minute period, the exterior wall was able to hold up the added 10402 pound load while also preventing the passage of dangerous or high temperature flames and gases. In fact, the average temperature of the wall during the test remained below 250 degrees Fahrenheit on the unexposed surface. And the highest temperature reached in the one hour period never exceeded 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Finally, the face or gypsum layer of the exterior wall system gave added protection for as long as 19 minutes to the interior support or face girts. These results met and even exceeded the expectations of the standards bodies including the ASTM E-119-88, CAN4-s101-M82 and UBC 43-1.
Just as positive was the outcome of the 60 second hose stream test. It showed no problems with projection of water but instead allowed for the penetration of water through the assembly for the entire 60 second testing period.
If added information is needed, a copy of the entire testing report is available from the engineering department at Fabral. This report serves simply as an overview of the testing procedure and results.
