Fire-rated ACP is a must-needed type of ACP in high-rises and commercial buildings. In terms of fire safety, as with aesthetic reasons, the requirements for performance, compliance, and durability in high-rise/commercial facilities are substantial. In addition to being a design matter, selecting a fire-rated ACP (aluminium composite panel) is a critical life-safety investment.
This blog will guide you in detail about Fire – RATED ACP for high-rise towers, commercial complexes, hospitals, shopping centres/malls, as well as corporate office buildings.
The Importance of Fire-Rated ACP Panels in High-Rise and Commercial Buildings
High-rise buildings are at increased risk of rapid fire spread due to their height and the difficulty of evacuation. Control of the exterior finishes of these types of buildings is an essential part of controlling and compartmentalising the fire.
The reasons for using fire-rated ACP Panels in these types of buildings are:
1. Elimination of vertical flame spread
2. Meeting local building code requirements of using accepted fire safety materials
3. Liability for insurance coverage that requires the building owner’s compliance with life safety codes
4. Occupants in high-density spaces are safer with fire-rated ACP panels
5. Minimising damage to structures caused by fire
In addition, fire-rated ACP panels are usually required by local building codes for the exterior finish of shopping centres, IT Parks, hospitals, and hotels.
Here is some information to help you decide which panel to use for your project based on the fire classification.
Class A2 – Non-combustible/Limited combustibility
- Very best fire safety category for ACP panels
- Minimally contributes to fire
- Desirable choice for use on high-rise buildings
They are generally used in Corporate Buildings, Hospitals, Schools, and Shopping Centres.
Class B1 – Fire retardant grade
1 Low fire spread
2 Acceptable for mid-rise commercial buildings
They are generally used in High-Rise Buildings over 15m – 18m Tall, Airports, Metro Stations, and Government Buildings
ASTM E84 – This test provides a fire rating for a surface material based on the amount of flame spread that occurs when the flame is applied to its surface. The lower a material’s flame spread rating, the better its fire performance.
We manufacture fire-rated ACP panels to conform to and meet the Indian Building Code and International Codes.
Key Features of Fire-Rated ACP From CityBond
When you purchase CityBond Aluminium Composite Panels, you can expect:
1 A Certified Fire Retardant Core (mineral-filled).
2 Rigid, Flat Surface.
3 Weather & Ultraviolet Light Resistant.
4 Easy to fabricate & install.
5 A large selection of architectural finishes.
6 Long-lasting product durability.
Our panels can be used on exterior facades and interior walls.
Applications of Fire-Rated ACPs in High-Rise & Commercial Construction
Typical Applications of Fire-Rated ACPs Outside:
a. Externally on Buildings (Façades)
b. Used as Curtain Wall Cladding
c. Installed on Canopies or Elevation Surfaces
d. Installed on Column Covers
e. Used for Signage Systems
f. Used for Fire-Safe Interior Partition Walls (within fire-coded areas).
Note: For buildings exceeding local height limitations, no exceptions will allow the use of non-fire-rated ACP unless the project has received final construction approval using approved FR grade and installation methods.
What is the Process to Choose Fire-Rated ACPs?
When determining which ACPs should be approved for your project, consider the following:
a. Building height: The taller a building, the higher the fire classification (preferably A2).
b. State/local fire regulations: Confirm compliance with both state and national fire regulations.
c. Project type: Facilities such as hospitals and shopping malls are subject to more rigorous fire codes than small office buildings.
d. Obtain Necessary Certification / Test Report Information: Always request the following:
i. Fire test certification documents
ii. Core material/component; dry-chemical test (Compositions, Material Specifications)
iii. Compliance documents
CityBond provides complete technical documentation to support project approvals.
Installation is Important- The System of Fire Safety
Even if an FR ACP is well-designed, it must still be appropriately installed to function as intended. Items to consider during your installations are:
The façade fire-safety system is only as strong as its weakest component.
- Fire barriers are installed between floors
2. Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) should be made with approved insulation products
3. Use only certified installers; and
4. Seal all joints properly.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
1. Using non-FR PE Core ACP in a high-rise building
2. Not paying attention to certification documents
3. Choosing to pay a lower price instead of considering the safety aspect of the fire & life-safety system
4. Not properly stopping all cavity fires within your building
5. Fire Safety should not be compromised.
Conclusion
CityBond Aluminium Composite Panels offer high-rise and commercial projects a combination of fire safety and architectural excellence.
CityBond is distinguished from other ACP providers by several factors:
1. Certified Fire-Rated Products – ACP is manufactured with high-tech mineral-core technology that meets stringent fire performance standards.
2. Producing ACP in compliance – ACCP is produced in accordance with both national and international fire safety codes and standards.
3. Quality Assurance – Repeated quality checks provide architects and developers with assurance about product reliability for every batch supplied.
4. Versatile Architectural Finishes – CityBond ACS offers architects/developers a choice of multiple finishes, textures, colours and styles to accentuate the modern design of a façade.
5. Technical Support for each Phase of Your Project – provide support to architects, consultants and developers for their project from specifications to installation.
6. Long Lasting Performance – CityBond is produced to withstand the elements, remain structurally sound, and provide a life expectancy of 20+ years.
When you choose CityBond, you’re not only choosing ACP products; you are selecting a facade solution developed for performance, safety, and design confidence.
CityBond Aluminium Composite Panels – Elevating Design, Protecting Structures.
