As fire safety continues to be a top priority in building design, the choice of materials plays a crucial role in ensuring buildings meet the highest safety standards. One of the most effective and innovative solutions available today are FR-A panels, an aluminium glazing panel with a non-combustible core.
In this blog, we’ll take an in-depth look at FR-A panels, exploring their benefits and how they enhance fire safety in building projects.
What are FR-A panels?
A2 s1 d0 FR-A panels are powder-coated /anodised aluminium panels that feature a Siderise Nexus non-combustible core. The aluminium exterior provides protection against the elements, while the non-combustible core ensures these panels meet building fire safety regulations.
These panels provide the perfect balance between fire resistance, durability and aesthetics, which is why they are increasingly being used in construction projects for curtain walling applications.
How do FR-A Panels enhance fire safety?
Fire safety in buildings is more critical than ever with rigorous building regulations and stringent fire safety regulations in place. Our panels are produced through a controlled process and manufactured to ISO 9001:2015 management standards, ensuring they meet the detailed in EN 13501-1:2018, with rigorous quality checks.
FR-A panels undergo extensive fire performance testing to meet the highest safety standards. At their core, they feature Nexus Lamella stone wool insulation, a non-combustible material known for its structural integrity. This uniform core structure offers expectational mechanical performance and robust adhesive bond, enhancing both safety and durability.
Other benefits include:
Durability against weather: These panels are made to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including exposure to wind, rain and sun. This makes them an excellent choice for both exterior facades or spaces that are exposed to the elements. Even in extreme weather conditions, FR-A panels maintain its properties.
Improved acoustic performance: FR-A panels have excellent acoustic properties and can be manufactured to meet specific sound reduction requirements.
Enhanced insulation: These panels offer thermal insulation, which helps maintain internal building temperatures and reduces energy consumption. This added benefit contributes to a more sustainable and energy-efficient building design.
Different types of FR-A panels
At Panel Systems, we offer four types of FR-A panels to suit different project needs and regulation requirements. Our full FR-A panel range has been tested and classified to achieve A2,s1-d0:
- FR-A type 2 panels: Built with a nexus lamella core and powder-coated aluminium, providing a durable finish.
- FR-A type 2a panels: Our latest addition to the range for applications requiring a rigid hard edge.
- FR-A type 3 panels: Featuring anodised aluminium faces, these panels provide a premium metallic look with exceptional longevity. The anodised range includes the premium Anolok™ Bronze and Anolok™ II Grey finishes.
- FR-A type 4 panels: With a top-hat tray to the rear of the panel; this specification allows the greatest depth of insulation for the best U-Values while maintaining an edge thickness compatible with standard glazing systems.
Our panels are available in different colours, finishes, thicknesses with anodised or powder-coated aluminium facings. While safety is paramount, the aesthetic qualities of building materials is another important consideration. FR-A panels offer design flexibility, enabling architects to create modern, visually striking facades without compromising on safety.
FR-A panels in real-world applications: Case Study
Our FR-A panels were recently installed at a high school in Scotland. For this newly built school, we supplied FR-A panels providing the perfect solution for meeting the school’s fire safety requirements while ensuring the design remained modern, welcoming and visually appealing.
The FR-A panels were chosen for their ability to meet strict fire safety standards and their aesthetic versatility. By integrating these panels, the contractors were able to achieve a balance of safety, durability and modern design for their customer.
With extensive knowledge and expertise in manufacturing bespoke panels for various applications, we take pride in our skilled technical team, CAD designers and our ability to produce high-quality architectural panels.
Our FR-A panels have been providing assurance and peace of mind to architects, developers and contractors for decades.
For more information on how FR-A panels can elevate the fire safety and aesthetic of your building project, contact us today on 0114 275 2881 or email sales@panelsystems.co.uk.
