Architectural precast concrete faҫade systems offer a highly durable and weatherproof external wall treatment which can be installed with a replicable process without compromising aesthetics.
With a range of materials, textures, colours and forms to choose from, these versatile solutions are ideal for all kinds of projects where high performance and longevity are key considerations— especially when combined with passive fire protection measures specifically developed to meet the demands of this application.
Previously, precast concrete cladding systems have been protected by firestopping solutions developed for other relevant façade systems, such as Siderise CW-FS Firestop.
Whilst this is fully compliant with regulatory requirements, the growing demand for these durable and efficient-to-build external wall systems led the R&D team at Siderise to develop the dedicated PC-FS Firestop and PC-CB Cavity Barrier product range – a passive fire protection package specifically for precast concrete cladding systems.
This solution is backed with comprehensive testing and addresses the practical challenges associated with these systems, such as tight tolerances, limited access, complex interfaces and construction sequencing.
The stone wool Lamella core provides built-in compression from the factory and, alongside a bracket-free fix for narrow voids, contributes to faster installation times compared to less compressible barriers.
PC-FS Firestop and PC-CB Cavity Barrier can also be fitted from above or below the slab — making them ideal where topside access is restricted, or when sequencing requires alternative installation approaches.
Both products are tested to EN 1366-4 (Resistance to fire) and EN 13501-1 (Reaction to fire) standards, with supplementary fire test evidence for precast concrete panel bracket penetration, end of flexible wall configuration, and firestop bracket securement to the underside of the slab edge to support a wider range of project conditions. The firestopping products, PC-FS60 and PC-FS120, offer third-party certified 1 and 2 hours of fire resistance, respectively, with the cavity barrier, PC-CB30, offering 30 minutes.
Additionally, to ensure the products match the durability and long design life of the sealed precast systems that they will be installed within, both PC-FS Firestop and PC-CB Cavity Barrier have been subjected to EOTA Technical Report 024 ‘Type X’ accelerated age testing to demonstrate a 60-year design life. This is the harshest category, which replicates exposure to rain, UV, high temperatures, and frost and thaw cycles.
As with all Siderise solutions, PC-FS Firestop and PC-CB Cavity Barrier are supported with a comprehensive technical services wrapper and a suite of resources to assist with the specification process. This includes a specification pack consolidating all necessary technical information, and guidance on joints and complex details, such as blade column interfaces and other challenging geometries.
Learn more at siderise.com
