There are an increasing number of considerations, rules and regulations to satisfy if you’re involved in the specification of aluminium copings. One of the most pertinent right now is a material’s reaction to fire.
Recent events – such as the tragedy at Grenfell Tower – has forced us all within the industry to think carefully about our working practices. Manufacturers, designers and specifiers will all be seeking ways to ensure compliancy, and this blog sets out to explain the fire-rated characteristics of aluminium – and why it’s the ideal material for your coping system.
Aluminium Copings & Fire-Rating
As a material, aluminium can offer effective protection against fire, making it the preferred choice for specifiers working on a range of different applications.
The material properties of aluminium are well-documented, as it provides numerous benefits regarding weight, cost, installation and maintenance – amongst other things.
Most importantly – within the context of this post – is that its melting temperature is about 660°C. That makes it the ideal material for your aluminium copings.
The high heat transfer and reflectivity properties of aluminium contribute toward reducing the impact of the heat on the structure. Less heat is absorbed, and, when absorbed, the heat is transferred away from the heat source much quicker.
How Does Aluminium Compare to Other Materials?
When it comes to heat conductivity, aluminium is approximately 4 times greater than iron, whilst its specific heat capacity is similar.
Aluminium has an extremely high reflectivity. When you consider that aluminium ranges between 80 and 90% compared to 5 and 25% for iron, we understand how better it is at resisting thermal radiation of fire.
In other words, when aluminium is exposed to fire, its high thermal conductivity means that it can quickly dissipate large amounts of heat from the flame and absorb even more thermal energy. This ‘cools’ the environment and restricts ‘very hot spots’.
These heat levels are comparatively greater than those of iron when exposed to fire, therefore aluminium offers a comparatively higher response time to fire fighters.
Other Benefits of Aluminium Copings
Copings made from aluminium have numerous other benefits. As well as being fire-safe, it is environmentally friendly and:
- Can be manufactured in a range of thicknesses
- Minimal maintenance
- Impact and weather resistant
- UV resistant
- Lightweight and durable
- Break-proof
Secret Fix Copings to Deliver a Seamless Finish
Whilst aluminium is a great material for coping systems due to its non-combustibility, there are a variety of personalisation options to make your coping look great, whilst maintaining compliance.
Fixing secret fix copings to the support brackets will ensure that the cappings are fixed securely into position whilst being out of sight. What’s more, HJA’s innovative Aluminium Coping System is Wind Tested to 144mph!
Pair this with the variety of RAL powder coating options, you can achieve an aesthetic that looks good and is compliant.
“The Secret Fix brackets incorporate polymer weather sealing gaskets to eliminate rainwater and prevent wind rattle”.
Conclusion: Choose HJA for your Aluminium Coping System
Available in a variety of shapes, sizes and any thickness, HJA’s aluminium coping systems can be supplied to meet all the challenges necessary to provide a safe, impressive and long-lasting structure.
For more information, don’t hesitate to reach out to an expert today by calling 01905 454790 or filling out the form below.
