Third-party tested solution improves steel infill wall fixings

by Featured NewsPassiveProducts

Testing confirms mechanical performance of fixings in UK steel infill wall systems

Etex has released a third-party tested method for securing steel infill wall systems to fire-protected structural steel beams in the UK.

According to Etex, the solution has been tested for both mechanical and fire performance.

The testing was carried out by Remagin in partnership with Promat, with support from Siniat. All three brands are part of the Etex group.

The work focused on verifying that the fixings connecting steel framing systems (SFS) to protected structural steelwork maintain performance under load and meet fire resistance requirements.

Structural testing explored fatigue, movement and fixing strength

Remagin tested different screw types and configurations to understand failure loads and movement in systems where SFS heads are attached to boarded beams.

Introducing a board between the beam and the framing system can increase rotational movement and lead to additional stress on fixings.

To evaluate this, Remagin ran cyclic loading tests that simulated wind pressures typically experienced by SFS infill panels.

Richard Wilson, Technical and Specification Manager at Remagin, said: “Through comprehensive testing, Remagin has successfully verified the mechanical capabilities of fixings used in key scenarios to ensure continued robustness.

“Each fixing design is customised to the specific requirements of individual projects, and it is essential that the structural steel protection strategy and the SFS design are addressed as early as possible and coordinated well.”

Fire tests focused on maintaining compartmentation at connection points

Etex also carried out fire resistance testing on wall assemblies attached to encased structural steel.

Wilson added: “The fire testing demonstrated that fire integrity and insulation are maintained at the interface between the boarded primary steel and the wall system below.

“This testing provides confidence in the fire resistance capabilities of the holistic system to achieve performance through the complete elevation.”

He stated that the ability to conduct testing in-house across Etex brands supported a coordinated design and compliance approach.

Promat highlights risks with intumescent paints in steel-SFS interfaces

Promat UK’s Commercial Director, Joshua Slack, said that while intumescent paint is commonly used at the steel-SFS interface, it presents design challenges.

Slack said: “Complications can arise with this approach, firstly in ensuring the SFS and any required insulation allows space for the paint to intumesce.

“In addition, where the structural steel aligns with a fire compartment line the temperature needs to be kept lower than that which intumescent paints typically activates at.

“These factors should be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to ensure the best passive fire protection system is in place for the project.”

Slack stated that the collaborative testing programme would help design teams access project-relevant data and improve specification outcomes.

Third-party tested solution improves steel infill wall fixings: Summary

Etex has announced a new third-party tested solution for securing steel infill wall systems to fire-protected structural beams in the UK.

The mechanical performance of fixings was tested by Remagin using multiple screw configurations.

Cyclic loading tests were used to replicate real-world wind pressure.

Fire resistance testing was also carried out on wall panels connected to protected structural steel.

The project was conducted in collaboration with Promat and Siniat.

Richard Wilson from Remagin said project-specific screw designs were essential to maintain both structural and fire integrity.

Joshua Slack from Promat said that intumescent paints used at steel and SFS interfaces have limitations that require careful review.

He added that data-driven testing supports design teams in making informed decisions.

The work aimed to improve clarity around fixing performance and fire compartmentation where SFS connects to structural steel.

The solution has been positioned as a tool to assist accurate specification and reduce design risk.

Wetherby Wall Systems introduces fire-tested insulation for buildings over 11m

by Featured NewsPassiveProducts

New insulation system meets fire safety rules for buildings over 11 metres

Wetherby Wall Systems has announced the launch of SOQEL A2, a below damp-proof course (DPC) external wall insulation (EWI) system designed to meet UK fire safety standards.

As reported by Wetherby Wall Systems, SOQEL A2 is the first fully fire-tested system designed for below DPC applications and meets the A2-s1,d0 fire classification.

This meets current UK Building Regulations for materials used in buildings over 11 metres in height.

The system became available on 17 March 2025 and is intended to offer contractors, architects and specifiers a compliant and durable alternative to traditional below DPC solutions.

Designed for high-risk areas with foot traffic and moisture exposure

SOQEL A2 is intended for use in base areas of external wall insulation systems, including balconies, plant rooms and walkways.

The system features Coverrock x-2 pre-coated insulation, which is bonded to protect the A1-rated stone wool core during application.

This design is aimed at withstanding impact and moisture exposure in high-risk areas.

It also incorporates Heck K+A SL coating and Heck CER Mesh.

According to the company, this combination is designed to improve impact resistance and durability in environments exposed to weather and pedestrian activity.

Appearance designed to match wider façade systems

Wetherby Wall Systems stated that the SOQEL A2 system integrates with existing façade systems to avoid visual disruption.

The inclusion of Heck 4S Silicone Render provides a seamless finish intended to match the surrounding insulated façade.

This differs from traditional below DPC treatments, such as bitumen paint, which can contrast with the building’s appearance.

The system is positioned as a functional and aesthetic solution for areas where performance and appearance both need to be considered.

Joint development with HECK in Germany

Wetherby Wall Systems developed the SOQEL A2 system in collaboration with HECK, part of the ROCKWOOL Group.

Joe Ragdale, Technical Director at Wetherby Wall Systems, said: “We have worked alongside our ROCKWOOL Group sister company, HECK in Germany to launch this innovative system into the UK market.

“We are delighted to introduce SOQEL A2, the first system of its kind for below DPC and base areas.”

He added: “This solution provides architects and contractors working on remediation projects with a compliant, durable, and efficient way to enhance building safety while ensuring a seamless finish alongside insulated façade systems.”

SOQEL A2 launched for compliant below DPC insulation in UK construction: Summary

Wetherby Wall Systems has launched the SOQEL A2 insulation system for below DPC use in the UK.

The system is designed to meet the A2-s1,d0 fire classification, in line with UK Building Regulations for materials used in buildings over 11 metres.

SOQEL A2 is aimed at base areas, balconies, plant rooms and walkways where fire resistance, impact protection and moisture durability are required.

The product features Coverrock x-2 pre-coated insulation, Heck K+A SL coating and Heck CER Mesh.

It also uses Heck 4S Silicone Render to provide a seamless finish.

The system was developed in partnership with HECK in Germany, also part of the ROCKWOOL Group.

Wetherby Wall Systems stated that SOQEL A2 is intended to replace traditional below DPC solutions, including bitumen paint, by offering a compliant and durable option.

Quelfire and Ark Fire Protection collaborate on fire safety training in London

by Featured NewsPassiveProjects

Fire safety training conducted at Kings Cross construction site

Quelfire and Ark Fire Protection have partnered to provide fire safety training for construction professionals on a Bouygues UK project near Kings Cross, London.

According to Quelfire, the training focused on passive fire protection and was delivered to site staff, site managers, and contracts managers.

The sessions aimed to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations and equip participants with the latest skills and knowledge for installing firestopping products in line with test evidence.

The partnership highlights the importance of collaboration in the construction industry to address evolving fire safety requirements and improve installation standards across projects.

Ongoing fire safety training in the construction industry

Quelfire states that ongoing training is essential for ensuring compliance and supporting workers in making informed decisions regarding firestopping installations.

Service penetration sealing remains a complex aspect of fire protection, requiring up-to-date knowledge of regulations and best practices.

Quelfire’s CPD training covers various topics, including the latest industry standards and installation techniques.

This approach aims to build a culture prioritising fire safety, particularly for high-risk developments where inadequate firestopping could have serious consequences.

The role of collaboration in fire safety compliance

Quelfire and Ark Fire Protection’s collaboration with Bouygues UK demonstrates the benefits of aligning all parties involved in a construction project.

Effective communication and quality assurance help ensure that firestopping solutions are installed correctly from the outset.

Addressing potential challenges during the design stage can also minimise unexpected costs and delays.

Ark Fire Protection relies on Quelfire’s firestopping solutions for its installations, while Bouygues UK, as the client, benefits from a fire safety approach designed to meet regulatory requirements.

Passive fire protection and risk reduction

According to Quelfire, passive fire protection plays a critical role in containing fire and smoke, preventing their spread and allowing occupants time to evacuate safely.

Ensuring that firestopping solutions are installed in accordance with manufacturers’ guidance and test evidence is necessary for protecting both people and property.

As fire safety regulations continue to evolve, the collaboration between Quelfire, Ark Fire Protection, and Bouygues UK reflects a proactive approach to compliance and risk management within the construction sector.

Quelfire and Ark Fire Protection collaborate on fire safety training in London: Summary

Quelfire and Ark Fire Protection have partnered to deliver fire safety training on a Bouygues UK project near Kings Cross, London.

The training covered passive fire protection and aimed to ensure compliance by equipping site staff, site managers, and contracts managers with the necessary skills and knowledge for firestopping installations.

Quelfire states that regular CPD training is important for supporting construction professionals in making informed decisions, particularly for service penetration sealing.

The company’s training covers industry regulations and installation techniques to promote a ‘safety first’ culture.

The partnership between Quelfire, Ark Fire Protection, and Bouygues UK demonstrates the role of collaboration in ensuring fire safety compliance.

Effective communication and quality assurance help prevent installation errors, reduce project delays, and support adherence to regulatory standards.

Passive fire protection plays a critical role in containing fire and smoke, allowing safe evacuation and minimising property damage.

Quelfire highlights the importance of proper installation in reducing fire risks across construction projects.

ROCKWOOL progresses UK expansion with Birmingham facility application

by Featured NewsPassive

Section 73 application submitted to Birmingham City Council

ROCKWOOL has submitted a Section 73 application to Birmingham City Council as part of its plans to develop a manufacturing facility in the West Midlands.

The proposed facility, located at the Peddimore site near Minworth, would expand ROCKWOOL’s supply capacity for customers in the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

The company states that the development aligns with its global sustainability plans.

The Peddimore site already has outline planning permission for manufacturing.

ROCKWOOL’s application seeks to modify specific aspects of the existing permission to accommodate its facility.

If approved, the company plans to submit a Reserved Matters application in late 2025 or early 2026.

Construction timeline and operational plans

If both applications receive approval, construction could begin in 2026, with the facility expected to become operational in 2029.

ROCKWOOL has operated in South Wales since 1979 and aims to expand its UK presence with the proposed plant.

The company states that the facility would enhance production capacity and reinforce its commitment to sustainability.

Community engagement and public consultation

Since announcing its expansion plans in November 2024, ROCKWOOL has engaged with the local community to share information and gather feedback.

The company has completed the first phase of its community engagement programme and plans to hold a second phase once further details and designs are developed.

Nick Wilson, Managing Director of ROCKWOOL UK & Ireland, said: “Since we announced our intentions to expand the business into the West Midlands, we have had an opportunity to share our plans with the community and are very grateful to those who have provided feedback.

“We are taking all feedback into consideration as we develop the plans and have included the community’s observations so far in our Section 73 application to the Council.

“We look forward to meeting with community members again in the coming months.”

Next steps for ROCKWOOL’s Birmingham expansion

ROCKWOOL has stated that information about the development is available at www.rockwool.com/uk/peddimore and will be updated as the proposal progresses.

The company plans to submit a Reserved Matters application following approval of the Section 73 request.

If the necessary permissions are granted, construction is expected to commence in 2026.

ROCKWOOL progresses UK expansion with Birmingham facility application: Summary

ROCKWOOL has submitted a Section 73 application to Birmingham City Council to modify planning permissions for a proposed manufacturing facility at the Peddimore site near Minworth.

The site already has outline permission for manufacturing, and ROCKWOOL aims to adjust details to align with its development plans.

If approved, the company will submit a Reserved Matters application in late 2025 or early 2026, with construction beginning in 2026 and operations starting in 2029.

Since announcing the plans in November 2024, ROCKWOOL has conducted community engagement to share information and gather feedback.

A second phase of engagement is planned as the project progresses.

The company states that updates on the proposal will be available online.

UK fire curtain standards: A1S Fire & Smoke Curtains addresses BS 8524-1 compliance

by Featured NewsPassiveResearch

Clarifying BS 8524-1 in the UK fire curtain industry

A1S Fire & Smoke Curtains has addressed ongoing confusion within the UK fire curtain industry regarding BS 8524-1 compliance following the International Fire Consultants’ (IFC) withdrawal from the standard in June 2023.

According to A1S, some manufacturers and resellers have used this situation to make misleading claims about fire curtain compliance.

The company has collaborated with industry experts to review the situation and provide accurate information on fire curtain standards in the UK.

BS 8524-1 remains the UK’s primary fire curtain standard

BS 8524-1 remains the only UK standard specifically designed for active fire curtains, distinct from BS EN 16034, which covers a broader range of fire barriers, including doors and shutters.

Sweco, an independent building standards consultancy, reviewed the matter and stated: “It is our opinion that fire curtain products with valid third-party certification to BS 8524-1 remain valid beyond the 9 June 2023 date of withdrawal, subject to: no changes in design or manufacturing process, continued ISO 9001 accreditation, and certification validity beyond 2023.”

Sweco’s findings align with guidance from the Association of Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP), which confirmed that BS EN 16034 does not regulate fire curtain deployment speeds, initiation devices, or warning mechanisms, all of which BS 8524-1 covers.

BS EN 16034’s role in fire curtain regulation

While BS EN 16034 is recognised in the European market, it does not replace BS 8524-1 for most fire curtain applications in the UK.

The ASFP clarified that BS EN 16034 applies to various fire and smoke barriers but does not include operational testing for fire curtains.

The standard lacks key testing requirements such as cycle durability tests, barrier assembly reliability, and elevated temperature motor operation tests.

A1S states that using BS EN 16034 alone could introduce risks, as it does not evaluate the operational reliability of fire curtains under sustained use.

Industry response to misleading claims

A1S Fire & Smoke Curtains has warned against unverified claims by certain manufacturers regarding compliance with BS 8524-1.

The company advises industry professionals to verify certification documents, ensure they originate from a recognised notified body, and conduct due diligence when specifying fire curtains.

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has reviewed the applicable fire curtain standards in the UK, aligning with the ASFP, Sweco, and the British Standards Institution (BSI).

Their guidance confirms that BS 8524-1 certification remains valid beyond June 2023, provided products maintain third-party certification, design consistency, and ISO 9001 accreditation.

UK fire curtain standards: A1S Fire & Smoke Curtains addresses BS 8524-1 compliance – Summary

A1S Fire & Smoke Curtains has addressed industry concerns over BS 8524-1 compliance following the IFC’s withdrawal in June 2023.

The company highlights that BS 8524-1 remains the primary UK standard for fire curtains, as confirmed by industry bodies such as Sweco and ASFP.

BS EN 16034, while applicable in Europe, does not cover operational performance criteria essential for fire curtain reliability in the UK.

The OPSS has clarified that BS 8524-1 certification remains valid under specific conditions, reinforcing its continued relevance.

A1S advises professionals to verify certification claims to ensure compliance with recognised standards.

Ducab Group to supply fire-resistant cables for Dubai residential projects

by ConstructionFeatured NewsMiddle East - ProjectsPassiveProjects

Ducab partners with MBRHE for large-scale housing developments

Ducab Group has announced a partnership with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE) to supply advanced cable solutions for residential projects in Dubai.

Ducab will provide low-voltage power cables, wires, flexible cables, and Flam BICC2 fire-resistant cables for 432 residential units in Wadi Alamardi and 398 units in Al Awir.

The cables are designed to meet high safety standards, ensuring reliable power distribution and fire protection.

Project supports UAE sustainability strategies

The collaboration aligns with the UAE’s environmental and infrastructure strategies, including the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the UAE Net Zero Strategy 2050.

Ducab’s role in the project supports the country’s broader objectives for sustainable urban development and industrial decarbonisation.

Ducab has positioned itself as a key supplier in the UAE’s transition towards eco-friendly infrastructure.

The company’s contributions aim to enhance energy efficiency and fire safety in residential developments.

CEO highlights commitment to resilient infrastructure

Charles Mellagui, CEO of Ducab Cables Business, said: “Our partnership with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment reflects Ducab’s commitment to supporting resilient infrastructure that drives the UAE’s ambitious journey toward sustainable development.

“By delivering innovative and reliable energy solutions, we are contributing to a greener, more secure, and interconnected future.”

He added that the project contributes to the UAE’s net-zero ambitions while ensuring high safety standards for residents in the new developments.

Ducab’s track record in housing and infrastructure projects

Ducab has supplied cabling for various large-scale housing and infrastructure projects in the UAE.

Previous contributions include providing critical cables for the South Shamkha development, which covered 43 neighbourhoods across 39 square kilometres.

The company continues to support major urban projects, reinforcing its role in the UAE’s infrastructure sector.

Ducab Group to supply fire-resistant cables for Dubai residential projects: Summary

Ducab Group has partnered with the Mohammed Bin Rashid Housing Establishment (MBRHE) to supply advanced cabling for housing developments in Dubai.

The company will provide low-voltage power cables, flexible cables, and Flam BICC2 fire-resistant cables for 432 residential units in Wadi Alamardi and 398 units in Al Awir.

The collaboration supports the UAE’s sustainability initiatives, including the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the UAE Net Zero Strategy 2050.

Charles Mellagui, CEO of Ducab Cables Business, said the partnership reflects Ducab’s commitment to delivering resilient and sustainable infrastructure solutions.

Ducab has previously supplied cables for major UAE housing projects, including the South Shamkha development.

The company remains a key provider of energy solutions for residential and infrastructure projects in the region.

AIM CPD module covers cavity barriers in rainscreen cladding

by Featured NewsPassiveTraining

AIM introduces CPD module for architects and specifiers

AIM – Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing has launched a new CPD module designed for architects and specifiers, focusing on cavity barriers in rainscreen cladding.

The one-hour session covers passive fire protection and updated regulations related to fire cavity barriers.

It also examines the use of various products attached to or integrated into facades.

Key topics covered in the CPD module

The module provides information on product installation sequences, fire testing, and distinctions between ‘Resistance to Fire’ and ‘Reaction to Fire’ terminology.

It also addresses fire compartmentation within external walls, referencing guidance from the Association of Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP).

The training aims to enhance architects’ and specifiers’ understanding of these areas, ensuring they are informed on best practices for fire safety in facade construction.

AIM’s experience in passive fire protection

AIM has developed the module based on 35 years of experience in designing, manufacturing, and testing passive fire insulation products.

The training is delivered by AIM’s specification manager Simon Mayes, who has 20 years of industry experience working with manufacturers such as British Gypsum, Saint-Gobain Isover, Komfort, Cembrit, Siderise, and Proteus Waterproofing.

Mayes has worked with architects, designers, and main contractors to supply fire, acoustic, and thermal products.

His expertise informs the content and practical applications covered in the module.

Availability and industry feedback

The CPD module is available both online and in person.

Nigel Marcoolyn, Founding Director and Architect at Made Architects, attended the module and commented: “Attending a CPD on passive fire protection is not just about enhancing knowledge – it’s about further equipping ourselves with the tools to safeguard lives, protect property, and contribute to a safer, more resilient built environment.”

AIM CPD module covers cavity barriers in rainscreen cladding: Summary

AIM – Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing has launched a CPD module focusing on cavity barriers in rainscreen cladding.

The one-hour session covers passive fire protection, fire testing terminology, and fire compartmentation, incorporating ASFP guidance.

The module is presented by AIM’s specification manager Simon Mayes, who has 20 years of experience in the construction industry.

It is available online and in person.

AIM, a member of the ASFP, designs and manufactures third-party tested fire, thermal, and acoustic insulation products.

Allegion UK releases new installation videos for Briton door closers

by Featured NewsPassiveTraining

New installation guides for Briton door closers

Allegion UK has introduced new installation videos for its Briton 2003 and 2003V surface-mounted door closers.

The video series provides detailed instructions on door mount pull, transom mount, and parallel arm mount fixings.

The guides are designed to improve installation accuracy by showcasing the fitting process from unboxing to final adjustments using Briton’s self-adhesive Accufit template system.

Additional video support planned for Briton 2130B

Allegion UK has confirmed plans to expand the library with installation videos for the Briton 2130B overhead closer.

This update will complement existing support materials, including technical datasheets, product certifications, fixing templates, and downloadable service and maintenance instructions.

Allegion UK highlights fire door safety concerns

John Fairhurst, business development manager at Allegion UK, commented: “Where the safety of buildings and their occupants is reliant on fire door hardware, we too often identify inaccurate installation as a leading cause for inadequate product performance.”

He added: “In order to prioritise fire safety, we believe it’s crucial to eliminate the issues associated with incorrect hardware installation, and in adding short and engaging video content to our resources, we can further support our customers in this area.”

Accufit template system updated for Briton 2130B

Allegion UK has also introduced an updated Accufit template for the Briton 2130B.

Fairhurst stated: “Driven by our ongoing commitment to improving fire door safety standards, and following the success of our updated Accufit system for the 2003 and 2003V, we have also developed a new Accufit template for the Briton 2130B, which is available now and will feature in a standalone series of installation videos set to launch later this year.”

Allegion UK releases new installation videos for Briton door closers: Summary

Allegion UK has expanded its installation support materials with new videos covering the Briton 2003 and 2003V surface-mounted door closers.

The video series provides step-by-step instructions to improve installation accuracy using Briton’s Accufit template system.

The company plans to extend its video library to include installation guidance for the Briton 2130B overhead closer.

This will complement existing digital resources such as technical datasheets, certifications, fixing templates, and maintenance instructions.

John Fairhurst, business development manager at Allegion UK, said incorrect installation is a common cause of poor fire door hardware performance.

He highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting customers with additional digital resources.

Allegion UK has also introduced an updated Accufit template for the Briton 2130B, which will feature in a new video series launching later in the year.

FIA announces Passive & Active Fire Conference 2025 in Dublin

by ActiveEventsFeatured NewsPassive

FIA to host Passive & Active Fire Conference 2025 with ASFP and IFE

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced the Passive & Active Fire Conference 2025, set to take place on 25 March at the Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport.

This is the first time the FIA has partnered with the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) and the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) to deliver the event.

The conference will focus on competence in active and passive fire protection amid ongoing regulatory changes.

Regulatory updates and industry standards to be discussed

The event will provide insights into regulatory developments, best practices, and advancements in training and certification.

Attendees will hear from fire safety professionals, regulators, and industry specialists through keynote speeches, panel discussions, and technical workshops.

Speakers will address the evolving landscape of fire safety regulations, with a particular emphasis on professional competence.

The programme aims to equip delegates with the latest knowledge to support compliance and improve fire protection strategies.

Professional development and networking opportunities

Attendees can earn four Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points by participating in the conference.

The event also provides a platform for networking and collaboration between fire safety professionals, engineers, building managers, regulators, and industry leaders.

The FIA has stated that the event will allow delegates to engage with key stakeholders and gain a better understanding of the latest technical and regulatory developments in fire safety.

Free attendance for industry professionals

The conference will run from 9:15 AM to 3:15 PM, with free entry for registered attendees.

Those interested in attending can secure their place by registering online.

The FIA has encouraged early registration due to expected high demand, highlighting the event as an opportunity for professionals to stay informed and connected within the fire safety sector.

FIA announces Passive & Active Fire Conference 2025 in Dublin: Summary

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has announced that the Passive & Active Fire Conference 2025 will take place on 25 March at the Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport.

The event is being organised in collaboration with the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) and the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE).

The conference will focus on competence in active and passive fire protection, with keynote speeches, panel discussions, and technical workshops covering regulatory changes, best practices, and training developments.

Attendees can earn four CPD points.

Industry professionals, including fire safety consultants, engineers, building managers, regulators, and business leaders, are invited to attend free of charge.

The conference will run from 9:15 AM to 3:15 PM, with registration required.

ROCKWOOL details 65-year durability of stone wool insulation

by Featured NewsPassiveResearch

Technical bulletin highlights long-term thermal performance of stone wool insulation

According to ROCKWOOL, its newly published Technical Bulletin reveals that stone wool insulation retains its thermal properties for over 65 years in external wall systems.

The document outlines research from independent studies and real-world testing, including findings from the European Mineral Wool Manufacturers’ Association (Eurima) on mineral wool insulation.

One highlighted study was conducted by the Danish Technological Institute (DTI) on ROCKWOOL stone wool insulation recovered from a 1958 hangar at Copenhagen Airport.

The bulletin provides insights into how durability is defined in terms of as-built insulation performance.

It also demonstrates how ROCKWOOL products meet long-term performance expectations under real-world conditions.

Practical applications for specifiers and designers

James Francis, Product Manager for General Building Insulation at ROCKWOOL UK, commented on the relevance of the findings for building professionals.

Francis said: “This Technical Bulletin provides designers with credible evidence when considering the long-term performance of buildings post-occupancy.”

He explained that insulation’s role goes beyond the initial design phase, focusing on how it performs decades after installation.

The bulletin also connects findings to modern design standards, offering actionable insights for specifiers and designers.

Independent testing supports durability claims

The bulletin summarises real-world testing conducted on ROCKWOOL stone wool insulation.

The Danish Technological Institute’s study on materials recovered from Copenhagen Airport highlighted the ability of the product to maintain its properties over several decades.

This research aligns with broader findings from Eurima, which examined mineral wool insulation in various applications.

The technical findings strengthen the case for using stone wool insulation in buildings requiring long-term thermal performance.

Aligning durability with energy efficiency goals

ROCKWOOL’s Technical Bulletin reinforces the link between insulation durability and energy efficiency.

The company highlighted how retaining thermal performance can help reduce heating and cooling requirements in buildings.

The report also positions durability as a critical factor in meeting current energy standards, encouraging specifiers to consider long-term performance when choosing insulation materials.

ROCKWOOL publishes bulletin on stone wool insulation durability: Summary

ROCKWOOL has released a Technical Bulletin detailing research on the durability of its stone wool insulation.

The findings demonstrate that the product retains its thermal performance for more than 65 years in external wall systems.

Independent studies, including research from Eurima and the Danish Technological Institute, provide evidence supporting these claims.

The bulletin highlights how these findings are relevant for modern building standards, offering actionable insights for specifiers and designers.

James Francis of ROCKWOOL UK noted the importance of considering insulation performance beyond the design and handover phases, focusing on its role in reducing heating and cooling requirements over time.