What are the latest trends and innovations in fire door and partition design and technology?

2 Fire door and partition materials

Another key factor in fire door and partition design is the choice of materials, which can affect the weight, durability, appearance and cost of the products. Traditionally, fire doors and partitions were made of solid timber or metal, which offer high fire resistance but also have some drawbacks, such as being heavy, prone to warping or rusting, and limiting the design options. However, modern fire doors and partitions can be made of a variety of materials, such as composite boards, glass, gypsum, aluminium, steel or even plastic, which can offer lighter, stronger, more flexible and more attractive solutions. For example, composite fire doors can combine different layers of materials, such as wood, metal, foam or mineral wool, to achieve the desired fire resistance rating, while also providing thermal and acoustic insulation, security and customisation. Similarly, fire-rated glass partitions can create transparent and elegant spaces, while also meeting the fire safety requirements and reducing the need for artificial lighting.

3 Fire door and partition features

In addition to the materials and ratings, fire doors and partitions can also have various features that enhance their functionality and performance. Fire seals, for instance, are strips or gaskets fitted around the edges of these products that expand when exposed to heat and seal the gaps between them and the frames or walls, blocking smoke and flames. Fire dampers are devices installed in ducts or vents that pass through fire doors or partitions, which close automatically when triggered by a fire or smoke detector. Fire door closers are mechanisms that ensure fire doors close automatically and securely after being opened. Fire door holders allow fire doors to be held open temporarily, but release them automatically when activated by a fire or smoke alarm. Lastly, fire door monitors are systems that monitor the status and condition of fire doors remotely, using sensors and wireless technology, alerting building managers or occupants of any faults, damages or breaches.

4 Fire door and partition design trends

Fire doors and partitions are not only functional and safety-oriented products; they are also part of the overall design and aesthetics of a building. Consequently, manufacturers and designers are always striving to create products that are visually appealing, stylish and compatible with the architecture and interior design. For example, minimalism is a popular trend which involves creating fire doors and partitions with sleek and simple lines, frames and handles, using materials such as glass, aluminium or steel. Additionally, colour is a trend which adds hues, patterns or textures to fire doors and partitions to create contrast or harmony with the surrounding walls and floors. Customisation is another trend which involves creating fire doors and partitions tailored to the specific needs of clients. Lastly, sustainability is a trend which uses materials that are recycled, renewable or biodegradable to reduce carbon footprint and waste generation.

5 Fire door and partition technology innovations

Fire doors and partitions are not only influenced by design trends, but also technology innovations designed to improve their efficiency, reliability and convenience. Recent technology innovations for fire doors and partitions include smart products with integrated devices or systems like sensors, cameras, locks or alarms that communicate with each other and building occupants or managers. Testing software programs simulate the behaviour and performance of fire doors and partitions under different fire scenarios using computational fluid dynamics or finite element analysis to optimise design and rating. Automation is also available, with products equipped with motors or actuators that enable them to open or close automatically or remotely, without human intervention.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?