Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-05-05 Origin: Site
In the realm of architecture, safety has become just as important as design. One of the most significant advances in building safety comes in the form of fire-rated glass. As modern buildings incorporate more transparent elements and open designs, the use of fire-rated glass has grown substantially, especially for door fire rated systems and fire rated walls.
This article explores what constitutes fire-rated glass, how it works, and the role of materials like borosilicate glass in enhancing fire protection. By the end, we’ll also recommend a reputable provider, HengBao, for your fire-rated glass needs.
Fire-rated glass is a specially manufactured type of glass that can withstand high temperatures and prevent the spread of flames and smoke during a fire. It is tested under stringent standards to ensure it performs adequately in a fire emergency.
Unlike regular glass, which shatters within minutes when exposed to fire, fire-rated glass is designed to:
Contain fire and smoke
Remain structurally intact for a set period
Maintain visibility and light transmission
Fire-rated glass is typically used in:
Fire-rated doors
Fire-rated wall assemblies
Windows and partitions in stairwells and corridors
Elevator enclosures
To be considered “fire-rated,” glass must pass various testing standards such as UL 9, UL 10C, ASTM E119, and EN 1364-1, which assess how long the glass can resist fire, smoke, and radiant heat.
| Category | Description | Typical Rating Time | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fire-Protective Glass | Limits the spread of flames and smoke, but may not stop heat. | 20–90 minutes | Door vision panels, interior windows |
| Fire-Resistive Glass | Resists flames, smoke, and radiant heat. Must maintain temperature on the non-fire side. | Up to 120 minutes | Fire rated walls, floor-to-ceiling partitions |
| Borosilicate Fire Glass | Made from borosilicate compounds; resists thermal shock and high temperatures. | Up to 120 minutes or more | High-performance areas, chemical labs, industrial zones |
So, what is considered fire-rated glass? It's glass that passes required fire endurance tests, limits flame spread, and meets code requirements for its intended application.
Fire-rated doors are essential safety components in commercial and residential buildings. These doors are designed to resist fire for a specified time—usually 20, 45, 60, or 90 minutes. Many fire-rated doors now include glass panels for aesthetic and functional purposes, allowing visibility and light to pass through while still providing protection.
Fire-Rated Glass Panel: Must match or exceed the door's fire rating.
Fire-Rated Frame: Steel or fire-treated wood.
Gasketing and Seals: Intumescent seals that expand under heat to block smoke and flames.
Self-Closing Mechanism: Required by most fire codes.
| Component | Fire Rating |
|---|---|
| Door | 20–90 minutes |
| Glass | Must match door rating |
| Frame | Equal or greater than door rating |
When selecting glass for a door fire rated system, it’s vital that it meets the exact rating as the door itself. A 60-minute rated door must use 60-minute rated glass.
A fire rated wall is a building partition constructed to prevent the spread of fire between different areas of a structure. These walls must:
Be made of fire-resistant materials (e.g., concrete, gypsum board, and fire-rated glass)
Include fire-stopping penetrations (for pipes, cables, etc.)
Maintain integrity under fire conditions
Glass used in fire rated wall assemblies allows architects to retain open visual spaces while ensuring compartmentalization in case of fire. These glass systems often use multi-laminated fire-resistive glass or borosilicate fire glass, which:
Retain structural stability under heat
Provide insulation from radiant heat
Can be used in full-height glass walls, not just small window sections
Borosilicate glass is a type of glass made from silica and boron trioxide. It is best known for its:
High thermal resistance
Chemical durability
These properties make borosilicate glass ideal for use in fire-rated assemblies, especially in:
Laboratories
Pharmaceutical buildings
High-tech industrial sites
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Thermal shock resistance | Can withstand sudden changes in temperature without breaking |
| Fire endurance | Maintains integrity in temperatures over 500°C |
| Clarity | High transparency even in thick layers |
| Chemical resistance | Ideal for environments with volatile materials |
In many cases, borosilicate fire-rated glass is laminated or layered with other fire-resistant materials to meet extended fire endurance ratings (60–120 minutes or more).
Safety Compliance: Meets local building codes and fire safety standards
Light Transmission: Allows natural light in while maintaining fire separation
Design Flexibility: Supports open-plan layouts without compromising on safety
Thermal and Acoustic Insulation: Especially when using fire-resistive or laminated systems
Multi-Functionality: Can be combined with impact resistance, UV protection, and bulletproof features
Fire-rated glass is glass that has been tested and certified to withstand fire, smoke, and in some cases, heat for a specified time. It includes both fire-protective and fire-resistive types.
No. While tempered glass is stronger than regular glass and more resistant to heat, it is not necessarily fire-rated unless tested and certified to meet fire resistance standards.
Yes, but the wooden door must also be fire-rated, and the glass must match the door's fire rating. Additionally, the frame and installation method must meet fire safety codes.
Fire-protective glass blocks flames and smoke.
Fire-resistive glass blocks flames, smoke, and radiant heat, providing a higher level of protection.
It is ideal for laboratories, industrial buildings, and chemical facilities where high thermal and chemical resistance is required. It is also used in fire rated walls and door assemblies in demanding environments.
| Application | Details |
|---|---|
| Commercial Buildings | Exit doors, stairwells, office partitions |
| Educational Facilities | Classroom dividers, labs |
| Healthcare | Patient room windows, nurse stations |
| Industrial Sites | High heat areas, chemical labs |
| Residential Buildings | Apartment door panels, hallway windows |
When selecting fire-rated glass, consider the following factors:
Required Fire Rating Time: 20, 45, 60, 90, or 120 minutes
Type of Fire-Rated Glass: Protective vs. Resistive
Size and Application Area: Door panel, wall assembly, etc.
Regulatory Compliance: UL, ASTM, or EN certifications
Environmental Factors: Exposure to chemicals, thermal stress, etc.
Glass Composition: Choose borosilicate glass for high-performance settings
If you're looking for reliable, high-quality fire-rated glass solutions, we recommend HengBao.
HengBao specializes in manufacturing and supplying fire-rated glass for door fire rated systems and fire rated wall assemblies. Their borosilicate glass offerings provide excellent fire resistance, clarity, and structural integrity.
Certified Fire-Rated Products (UL, EN, ASTM compliant)
Specialization in Borosilicate Glass
Fast Customization for Doors and Walls
Professional Support for Architects and Contractors
Global Export Capability
Contact HengBao If you're interested in purchasing high-performance fire-rated glass or need technical guidance, reach out directly:
Contact Name: HengBao Sales Support
Email: wanwenmickey@foxmail.com
Phone: +86 13828022123
Fire-rated glass plays a vital role in ensuring building safety without sacrificing visibility, aesthetics, or openness. From door fire rated systems to fire rated wall assemblies, selecting the right glass—especially borosilicate fire glass—is essential for code compliance and protection. HengBao, with its expertise in fire-rated and borosilicate glass, is a trusted name in this industry.
Whether you're designing a new building or upgrading to meet fire codes, make fire-rated glass an integral part of your safety strategy. For guaranteed quality and support, contact HengBao today.
