The fire resistance laboratory at IFTS, a part of Vetrotech Saint-Gobain, has acquired a new 4x4 m test furnace. IFTS is a certified laboratory that conducts fire resistance testing by European and international standards for building and marine applications.
The laboratory is equipped with a "workhorse" medium-sized furnace (1.5x2.5 m) as well as a new 4x4 m furnace for full-scale systems. The large furnace can be used for testing fire doors, including side panels and transoms, or entire partitions.
The new furnace is equipped with video surveillance. A benefit for clients is the ability to observe the tests live via a secure video connection without the need to be on-site. The laboratory is located at the Saint-Gobain research center in Herzogenrath, Germany.
Testing can last from 30 to 120 minutes, during which the temperature in the furnace rises to over 1000°C.