Description

ArmaProtect FC1 is a high-performance firestop collar meticulously engineered to ensure the integrity of passive fire protection systems by maintaining the fire resistance performance of pipe penetrations through walls and floors. This robust solution consists of a galvanized sheet steel housing, encompassing several layers of advanced intumescent material. In the event of a fire, the intumescent inlay within ArmaProtect FC1 rapidly expands (12 to 22.5 times its original volume, with expansion pressure > 0.6 N/mm²), effectively sealing the opening around the pipe and preventing the dangerous spread of fire and smoke. Gitco-sa.com, as the authorized Armacell distributor for Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, proudly supplies this critical fire safety component across the region, catering to construction demands in bustling cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Manama.

ArmaProtect FC1 is built for durability and reliable operation, functioning effectively across a wide temperature range of -40°C to 70°C, with an optimal processing temperature between 5°C and 25°C. The collar’s galvanized steel housing achieves a Class A1 Reaction to Fire, while its intumescent inlay is classified as Class E (EN 13501-1). This firestop collar is designated for use in conditions where temperatures may drop below 0°C with exposure to UV but no rain (Type Y1, EOTA TR 024), demonstrating its resilience. It delivers impressive fire resistance performance in various construction elements: up to EI 120 for drywall, concrete, aerated concrete, and masonry walls, and an outstanding up to EI 240 for concrete floors (EN 13501-2). ArmaProtect FC1 ensures no dangerous substances are emitted, complying with stringent health and safety regulations. For detailed installation guidance, refer to ETA 21/1024. When stored correctly in a cool, dry place protected from frost, this product maintains its effectiveness, offering long-term peace of mind for your building’s fire safety.

Key Features of ArmaProtect FC1:

• Robust Galvanized Steel Housing: Provides durable structural support and corrosion resistance.
• Multi-Layer Intumescent Material: Rapidly expands (12-22.5x) to create a fire-resistant seal around pipes.
• High Fire Resistance: Offers up to EI 120 for walls and up to EI 240 for concrete floors (EN 13501-2).
• Wide Operating Temperature: Effective from -40°C to 70°C.
• UV Resistant (Type Y1): Suitable for applications with UV exposure but without direct rain.
• No Dangerous Substances: Ensures safe handling and a healthy indoor environment.
• Reliable Performance: Consistent expansion pressure and weight loss on heating properties.

Product Variations of ArmaProtect FC1:

ArmaProtect FC1 is primarily distinguished by the range of pipe diameters it is designed to fit. While the core product is the FC1 collar with its specific intumescent inlay properties (2mm thickness, 1.02-1.42 g/cm³ density), the “variations” relate to the different pre-manufactured sizes available to match the diverse pipe dimensions encountered in construction projects. This allows for precise selection based on the specific pipe and wall/floor penetration. For a comprehensive list of available diameters and detailed installation instructions specific to your project’s requirements in Saudi Arabia or Bahrain, please consult Gitco-sa.com.

Know more about “ArmaProtect FC1”:

1. What is ArmaProtect FC1?
   ArmaProtect FC1 is a pre-formed firestop collar manufactured by Armacell. It consists of a galvanized sheet steel housing equipped with multiple layers of flexible intumescent material, designed to seal pipe penetrations in fire-rated walls and floors.
2. What is the primary function of ArmaProtect FC1?
   Its main function is to maintain the fire resistance performance of fire-rated walls and floors when penetrated by pipes, effectively preventing the spread of fire, smoke, and toxic gases from one compartment to another during a fire event.
3. How does ArmaProtect FC1 work in a fire?
   The intumescent material inside the collar expands significantly (12 to 22.5 times its original volume at temperatures above $190\text{ °C}$) when exposed to heat. This expansion creates a high-pressure char that crushes combustible pipes (like PVC, PE, PP) or seals the annular gap around non-combustible pipes, thus blocking fire and smoke passage.
4. What types of pipes can ArmaProtect FC1 be used with?
   ArmaProtect FC1 is primarily used for combustible pipes (e.g., PVC, PE, PP) up to a maximum diameter of 160 mm, typically without insulation. It can also be used with some non-combustible pipes with combustible insulation, depending on specific tested systems.
5. What kind of fire resistance ratings can ArmaProtect FC1 achieve?
   When properly installed in approved wall and floor constructions (drywall, concrete wall, aerated concrete wall, masonry wall, concrete floors), it can achieve high fire resistance ratings: up to EI 120 (120 minutes of integrity and insulation) in walls and up to EI 240 (240 minutes of integrity and insulation) in concrete floors.
6. What material is the outer casing (sleeve) of ArmaProtect FC1 made from?
   The housing is made of galvanized sheet steel, providing structural integrity and durability.
7. What material is the intumescent inlay of ArmaProtect FC1 made from?
   The intumescent inlay is a flexible intumescent strip based on blowing graphite technology.
8. What is the color of the ArmaProtect FC1 housing and inlay?
   The housing is typically silver grey, and the intumescent material inlay is anthracite (dark grey/black).
9. How does ArmaProtect FC1 differ from ArmaProtect FC2?
   The main difference lies in the maximum pipe diameter they are designed to seal:
   • ArmaProtect FC1: For combustible pipes without insulation up to 160 mm diameter.
   • ArmaProtect FC2: For combustible pipes without insulation up to 400 mm diameter, catering to much larger pipes.
10. What are the key benefits of using ArmaProtect FC1?
    Key benefits include:
    • Reliable fire and smoke sealing for pipe penetrations.
    • Pre-formed and easy to install, ensuring consistent application.
    • Clean installation with minimal mess.
    • Easy visual inspection for compliance checks.
    • Cost-efficient for standard pipe sizes.
11. How is ArmaProtect FC1 installed?
    The collar is wrapped around the pipe at the point of penetration through the fire-rated wall or floor. It is then mechanically fixed to the building structure using appropriate anchors or screws, ensuring a tight fit against the surface. Detailed installation instructions specific to the pipe type and building element should be followed.
12. Are there different sizes available for ArmaProtect FC1?
    Yes, it is available in a range of diameters, typically from 50 mm up to 160 mm, to fit common pipe sizes.
13. Is ArmaProtect FC1 compliant with international fire safety standards?
    Yes, it is globally tested and approved with European Technical Assessments (ETA) and complies with fire resistance testing standards like EN 1366-3 (fire resistance tests for service installations – penetration seals) and EN 13501-2 (fire classification of construction products and building elements).
14. What is the operating temperature range for ArmaProtect FC1?
    The operating temperature range is typically from $-40\text{ °C}$ to $+70\text{ °C}$. The processing temperature is between $+5\text{ °C}$ and $+25\text{ °C}$.
15. Does ArmaProtect FC1 emit dangerous substances?
    No, according to Armacell, there is no emission of dangerous substances, contributing to a healthier environment.
16. Is ArmaProtect FC1 suitable for both rigid and flexible wall/floor constructions?
    It is designed for use in various rigid constructions such as drywall, concrete walls, aerated concrete walls, masonry walls, and concrete floors.
17. Does ArmaProtect FC1 contribute to preventing smoke spread?
    Yes, its intumescent action creates a tight seal that effectively prevents the passage of smoke and toxic gases, which is a critical aspect of fire safety for occupant evacuation.
18. Is ArmaProtect FC1 intended for professional use only?
    Yes, like most specialized firestop products, ArmaProtect FC1 is designated for professional use only to ensure correct installation and compliance with fire safety regulations.
19. Where can one purchase ArmaProtect FC1 in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia?
    Gitco-sa.com, as an authorized distributor and partner of Armacell in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, would be a primary supplier for ArmaProtect FC1. They would carry this product as part of Armacell’s comprehensive passive fire protection portfolio.
20. Why choose a specialized supplier like Gitco-sa.com for ArmaProtect FC1 in Bahrain/Saudi Arabia?
    Choosing a specialist ensures access to genuine Armacell products with verified technical performance. Gitco-sa.com can provide critical technical expertise on product selection, precise installation methods, and compliance with local fire safety codes and regulations (e.g., UAE Fire & Life Safety Code of Practice), which are essential for ensuring the safety and integrity of buildings in the region.