AIM raised access floor barrier system facilitates services

Installers are often faced with the challenge of maintaining fire barrier integrity when passing services through raised access floors. AIM – Acoustic & Insulation Manufacturing’s new technical solution combines its Raised Access Floor Barrier (RAFB) with Rockwool Ablative Batts to provide a tested, cost-effective solution. 

RAFBs prevent the passage of flame and smoke through underfloor cavities for at least the period of fire rating specified. The AIM RAFB is used to subdivide large uninterrupted cavities, maintain partition fire ratings when aligned under a partition, reduce flanking transmission of sound through underfloor voids and create plenum chambers.  

However, passing services, including cable trays and pipes, through the RAFB can compromise the barrier’s vital primary function if not completed in line with the manufacturer’s standard tested details. 

Now, AIM provides specifiers, installers, fire consultants and RAF system holders with a solution. When penetration is required to pass services through the AIM RAFB, two Rockwool FirePro Coated Batts are placed on either side of the barrier. The services are passed through both the RAFB and ablative batts with any small gaps around the penetrating component filled with Rockwool FirePro Acoustic Sealant, pipe sleeves and pipe closers. 

The AIM RAFB is tested to BS EN 1366-4 and the principles of TR31 and can provide up to 120 minutes integrity and insulation. The addition of Rockwool Ablative Batts, to allow services to penetrate the barrier, does not denigrate or reduce the overall fire resistance of the AIM RAFB. 

The AIM RAFB datasheet is available at www.aimlimited.co.uk/solutions/raised-access-floor-barrier/