Chloe Zhang
Fire-rated firewalls often require fire-resistant materials to prevent the spread of fire, smoke, and noxious gases. Fire pads, such as the UNIQUE Retro Box Pad, are designed to firestop a single data outlet box or electrical box. This is a cost-effective and time-saving alternative to putty pads, which are also commonly used to seal gaps in electrical boxes. These pads are made of a pliable, intumescent material that can be moulded by hand and provide a fire-resistant seal. Fire pads are essential in maintaining the fire resistance of walls, especially in buildings like hospitals, where fire safety is a critical concern.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Product | UNIQUE Retro Box Pad |
| Use | Firestop a single data outlet box or electrical box in a fire-rated firewall |
| Installation | Remove adhesive and stick to the back of the outlet box |
| Fire Safety | When exposed to fire, the pad will expand, forming a char that will seal off the opening, prevent the spread of flames and limit the temperature rise on the unexposed surfaces |
| Alternative | Economical alternative to messy putty pads |
| Compliance | UL Tested |
| Size | Single gang with other sizes available |
| Compatibility | Works well with Retro Plate Guard and Retro Metal Electrical Box |
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Firestop box pads
The UNIQUE Retrofit Box Pad, for example, is a single-gang firestop box pad that can be used to firestop a single data outlet box or electrical box in a fire-rated firewall. It is UL Tested and made in the USA. The Retro Plate Guard and Retro Metal Electrical Box are also available from the same manufacturer and can be used in conjunction with the Box Pad.
Another example is the 3M™ Fire Barrier Moldable Putty Pads MPP+, which are one-part firestop materials used in various fire-rated assemblies, including electrical box protection. These putty pads are designed to be pliable, conformable, and shapeable, making them suitable for a full range of firestop needs. They are tested up to 2 hours in accordance with ASTM E 119 (UL 263) and help reduce noise transfer with an STC-Rating of 52 when tested on back-to-back electrical boxes.
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Putty pads
The SpecSeal SSP4S putty pads, for example, are designed to wrap around outlet boxes and are suitable for both metal and plastic. Each pad measures 7-1/4" square and 3/16" thick, and can cover a single or double gang outlet. They are sold in packs of five or twenty and are easy to install with a peel-and-stick application. The putty pad adheres to any clean outlet box without additional products and remains permanently soft and pliable.
Another option is the 3M™ Fire Barrier Moldable Putty Pads MPP+, which are one-part firestop pads designed for various fire-rated assemblies. These putty pads are ready-to-use, conformable by hand, and do not require any mixing or tools. They adhere well to most construction materials, including metal and plastic, and are non-corrosive. The 3M putty pads are firestop tested for up to 2 hours and help reduce noise transfer.
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Installation
A single gang plastic box can be installed in a few different ways, depending on the specific product and the nature of the installation. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to install a single gang plastic box:
Preparation:
Before beginning the installation, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials, including the single gang plastic box, screws, a screwdriver, and a drywall. If you are working with electricity, ensure the power is turned off at the circuit breaker to avoid any safety hazards.
Cutting the Drywall:
Cut a hole in the drywall that is slightly larger than the box. Ensure that the hole is neat and precise to allow for a snug fit. If the hole is too big, there are a few tricks you can use, such as shimming one side with a thin strip of wood or using a metal tiger grip box that grabs from the sides.
Mounting the Box:
Position the single gang plastic box against the stud or mounting surface. Some boxes may have spots made for screws, so you can secure the box in place using the appropriate screws. Ensure that the screws are tight and flush. If the box is made of plastic, you can use screws inside the box, but make sure any exposed threads are protected by approved means to avoid abrasion of conductor insulation.
Electrical Connections:
If you are installing an electrical box, connect the appropriate wires to the box, ensuring that they are spliced securely. Be cautious not to mix low voltage (120V) and extra-low-voltage (ethernet, TV, phone, etc.) in the same box.
Fire Protection:
To enhance the fire safety of your installation, consider using a fire-rated pad, such as the UNIQUE Retro Box Pad, which can firestop a single gang data outlet box or electrical box in a fire-rated firewall. These pads are easy to install, requiring you to simply remove the adhesive on the back and stick it to the back of the outlet box.
Final Steps:
Once the box is securely mounted and any necessary electrical connections are made, you can proceed with any finishing work, such as attaching cover plates or patching up any remaining gaps. Ensure that you follow any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of the box for a safe and proper installation.
Please note that this is a general guide, and specific instructions may vary depending on the product you are using and the nature of your installation. Always prioritize safety and follow local building codes and regulations.
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Fire-rated assemblies
Putty pads, such as the SSP4S SpecSeal Putty Pads, are designed to wrap around outlet boxes and provide both acoustic and fire protection. They are easy to install, with a simple peel-and-stick application, and can be moulded, torn, and pieced together to fit various sizes of electrical boxes. While putty pads are effective in sealing gaps and providing fire protection, they may not be suitable for all situations.
In certain cases, fire-rated assemblies may require additional protection beyond what putty pads can offer. For instance, when installing multiple electrical boxes in close proximity, the use of putty pads can become costly and labour-intensive. In such cases, products like Allied Moulded's fiberglass reinforced polyester (FRP) electrical boxes offer a unique solution. These FRP boxes are specifically designed to address the limitations of traditional 2-hour fire-resistive walls, allowing for closer mounting of multiple boxes without the need for additional fire protection.
It's important to note that the installation of fire-rated assemblies must comply with specific guidelines and regulations. For example, the clearance between boxes and cut-outs in walls or ceilings should not exceed a certain distance, typically specified in inches. Additionally, the area of openings for boxes should not exceed a certain square inch per square foot of wall, ceiling, or partition area, and proper horizontal spacing must be maintained between boxes on opposite sides of walls. By following these guidelines, electrical contractors can ensure the safe and effective installation of fire-rated assemblies.
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Fire-rated barriers
Fire partitions, the least restrictive type of fire-rated barrier, are commonly used in corridor walls and tenant separations in residential and commercial spaces. While they don't entirely stop fires from spreading, they significantly slow them down, providing valuable time for occupants to evacuate safely. Fire barriers, on the other hand, are designed to restrict fire spread across assemblies and can have a one- to four-hour fire-resistance rating. They are used to separate different occupancies, enclose exits and shafts, and isolate hazardous areas within a building.
Smoke barriers, similar to fire barriers, are intended to impede smoke movement and have a one-hour fire-resistance rating. They require a 20-minute rated opening protection assembly, such as a fire door or shutter. Firewalls, the most robust and restrictive type of fire-rated barrier, provide the highest level of fire safety, structural integrity, and continuity. They are designed to span horizontally between exterior walls and vertically from the ground floor to a specified height above the roof deck.
In addition to these standard types, innovative solutions like Durasteel fire barriers offer advanced fire protection. These barriers provide up to 240 minutes of fire resistance and can withstand even extreme hydrocarbon fires. Demountable Durasteel barriers are a cost-effective option, reducing long-term protection costs and providing easy access for maintenance. They leave a flush-finish opening, allowing unrestricted movement of personnel and equipment.
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Frequently asked questions
A fire pad single gang plastic box is a fire-resistant box that can be used to firestop a single data outlet or electrical box. It is an economical alternative to putty pads and is designed to prevent the spread of flames and limit temperature rise on unexposed surfaces.
Fire pads are typically made from a putty material that can be moulded, torn, and pieced together to fit around outlet boxes. When exposed to fire, the pad expands and forms a char, sealing off the opening and preventing the spread of fire.
Fire pad single gang plastic boxes can be purchased from various retailers, including Amazon and IsoStore. They are also available from specialist fire protection stores such as Unique Fire Stop Products and 3M.
Each putty pad can cover the back of one single gang electrical outlet. Therefore, one pad is required for a single gang outlet box.
