What is a fire collar?
A fire collar, also called a pipe collar, is an intumescent product installed around the point where a plastic pipe passes through a wall or floor. Walls and floors made from plasterboard, timber, or other combustible materials are particularly vulnerable in the event of a fire, as gaps around pipes can allow flames, smoke, and heat to spread rapidly.
Fire collars are designed to protect both residential and commercial buildings, including flats, offices, hospitals and schools. They help maintain the integrity of compartment walls, slowing the spread of fire and smoke and giving occupants more time to evacuate safely.
How does a fire collar work?
Fire collars protect a building by sealing a pipe during a fire, preventing the spread of smoke and flames. A metal band around the collar confines the intumescent material. When exposed to heat, the intumescent expands inward, pressing against the pipe and sealing the hole as the pipe melts.
Unlike a fire collar, a pipe wrap does not have a metal band. For a detailed comparison, see our blog on the differences between pipe wraps and pipe collar.
How to install a fire collar
Fire collars can be retrofitted to existing pipes or installed during construction. Key steps include:
- Ensure the correct collar size for the pipe. Fire collars come in multiple sizes to match common pipe diameters.
- Open the collar using its tab closing device and place it around the pipe.
- Drill and fix the collar securely using the manufacturer’s recommended fixings.
- Seal any remaining gaps with intumescent sealant if required.
- Always refer to the manufacturer’s datasheet for detailed installation instructions.
How We Can Help
At FireSealsDirect, we stock a wide range of fire pipe collars from leading brands including Pyroplex, QuelFire and Rockwool.
Our pipe collar kits include the necessary intumescent sealant to ensure compliant installation.
If you need advice on how to fit a fire collar, or can’t find the size you are looking for, contact our team for more information.
