Does Protecta have tested details for using graphite on the FR Board?

When working with firestopping at any point, you will only be using products that have been regulated for the project at hand.

This is for safety above all else, but it does mean that you have enquiries as to what is approved and what isn’t for certain tasks.

One of our more recent queries relates to the Protecta FR Graphite and whether it has tested details for use with the FR Board.

The answer to that question isn’t quite as cut and dry as you’d maybe hope. In short, it has tested details for use with metal and copper pipes, but it doesn’t yet for plastic pipes.  

For those unaware, a tested detail is a certification that demonstrates the product is safe to be used for firestopping.

In this article, we will fully explore the answer and explain the situation, what Protecta are doing about it and what could come next. It is also worth noting that we are partners with Protecta, but will remain objective.

What exactly is FR Graphite and why is this important?

Protecta’s FR Graphite is a firestopping solution that goes around pipes. The graphite expands to 40x its original size in the event of a fire, which effectively cuts off the pipe supply. This, in turn, protects you, as it stops smoke from coming through the pipe.

The tested details for use with the FR Board are important as the graphite can be used with all types of pipes within walls. This includes cPVC (plastic), metal and copper pipes. In fact, graphite is advised for such projects.

As such, some may understandably assume that graphite is fine for dealing with pipes within an FR board. However, that is not necessarily the case.

Why can’t I use FR Graphite on cPVC pipes in an FR Board?

The simple answer is that Protecta hasn’t found a way to get a tested detail yet. However, given recent events, it might not be too much longer until they do.

In August 2023, Protecta revealed that they had found a way for the graphite to be used with “penetrating insulated metal pipes” with the FR board.

According to Protecta, the EI fire rating varies depending on the type of insulation used, the diameter and the type of pipe. The EI fire rating itself judges integrity and insulation.

So, while plastic, or cPVC, pipes currently aren’t compatible with the graphite, metal and copper pipes are.

Is there a set date when this might change?

At this moment in time, there is not. However, as mentioned above and given how frequently Protecta upgrades its own products, it’s likely on their agenda.

Protecta constantly seeks to improve and upgrade its products, be it from a functionality standpoint or from a technical one; i.e., new ratings.

Given the Protecta technical team will have likely been fielding the same enquiry, there’s a good chance they’re already working on ways to achieve the assessment detail.

As mentioned though, there is currently no estimated time as to when this might happen, so it’s important for you to factor that in when purchasing.

Is there anything else I need to know?

Not at this moment in time, no. Hopefully, though, you’ll at least be more aware as to why you can’t use the FR Graphite with an FR board for a cPVC pipe yet.

However, if something is to change, then we will update this article accordingly and inform you. Given the way Protecta operate, it may be sooner rather than later!

If you would like to speak to a member of our expert team to discuss the FR Graphite or the Protecta range, you can get in touch with us here. 

Alternatively, if you would like to see why Multifix has partnered with Protecta, you can read this article to find out more.