3A Composites USA Partners With Tenmat On Fire-Rated Blocks For ACM Cladding

Wilmington, DE - In response to the adoption of the 2022 Building Code by New York City, Tenmat, a manufacturer of firestopping, has partnered with 3A Composites USA, the global manufacturer of ALUCOBOND® PLUS aluminum composite material (ACM), to conduct a joint NFPA 285 fire test. Together, the companies performed the test at Intertek Laboratories, using Tenmat's FF102/50 fire block and ALUCOBOND to meet the new regulations of the building code.

The newly adopted code requires fire blocking within rainscreen assemblies, if combustible materials are used within the wall assembly. With testing complete, the architectural community has more cladding options to choose from without increasing assembly costs.

“We are excited to provide a constructible and cost-effective solution that allows the architectural community to continue using ALUCOBOND to bring their vision to life,” stated Nick Scheib, general manager at 3A Composites. “This joint effort between Tenmat and 3A Composites represents our commitment in providing solutions for the marketplace.”

In response, Tenmat has developed a quick acting intumescent fire block for ventilated rainscreen and cladding systems, the FF102/50. The FF102/50 fire blocks are designed to allow the practical benefits of cladding systems - such as energy conservation, air circulation, and moisture dissipation - while meeting the new code requirements.

Tenmat's FF102/50 employs intumescent technology that expands 25 times its original thickness when exposed to fire, designed to effectively counteract the adverse consequences of the concealed space behind the cladding.

This successful NFPA285 test is one of the first of its kind to be specifically designed and installed in accordance with the new stringent requirements of the 2022 New York City Building Code. The FF102/50 fire block was deployed around window openings and at all slab lines, adhering to the position requirements for fire blocking material in the updated building code. Under normal conditions, Tenmat's rigid and highly expansive intumescent fire block enables the maintenance of an open ventilated cavity, preserving the energy conservation and building science benefits associated with cladding systems, while concurrently serving as a formidable fire barrier in the event of a building fire. With the successful completion of the NFPA 285 test, validating the performance of Tenmat's FF102/50 and 3A Composites' 4mm fire retardant ALUCOBOND® PLUS, both companies are optimistic and envision a construction landscape in New York City where passive fire protection standards are enhanced.

About ALUCOBOND, Manufactured by 3A Composites USA

ALUCOBOND has been a pioneer in metal façades for over 50 years. As a material of choice for exterior and interior design, ALUCOBOND provides a seamless transition of color from indoor to outdoor spaces. ALUCOBOND products are chosen for outstanding attributes such as flatness, formability, durability, and ease of fabrication. Made in the USA, ALUCOBOND is manufactured in a range of sizes and trend-forward colors and finishes, both Standard and Non-Standard. Furthermore, an array of options lend to creating inspiring architectural concepts and bring brand designs to life. For more information about ALUCOBOND PLUS, ALUCOBOND AXCENT, and ALUCOBOND EasyFix and ALUCOBOND FaceFastened, call 1-800-626-3365, email info.usa@3AComposites.com or visit www.alucobondUSA.com.