FMDS0122

FM Global
Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets 1-22

April 2011
Page 1 of 107
MAXIMUM FORESEEABLE LOSS
Table of Contents
Page
1.0 SCOPE .................................................................................................................................................... 5

1.1 Changes ............................................................................................................................................ 5
2.0 LOSS PREVENTION RECOMMENDATIONS ........................................................................................ 5
2.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 5
2.2 MFL Limiting Factor: Fire Walls ......................................................................................................... 5
2.2.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 5
2.2.2 Construction and Location ...................................................................................................... 5
2.2.2.1 Fire Resistance of Wall Construction ......................................................................... 5
2.2.2.2 Stability and Strength ................................................................................................. 6
2.2.2.3 Cantilever Walls ........................................................................................................ 12
2.2.2.4 Tied Walls ................................................................................................................. 14
2.2.2.5 One-Way Walls ......................................................................................................... 17
2.2.2.6 Double Walls .............................................................................................................. 17
2.2.2.7 Panel Walls In Reinforced Concrete Buildings ........................................................ 18
2.2.2.8 Control of Cracking ................................................................................................... 18
2.2.2.9 Parapets, Roof Protection, and Elevation Differences ............................................. 21
2.2.2.10 End Walls and Angle Exposure .............................................................................. 24
2.2.2.11 Pipes, Conduit, Cables, and Ducts Penetrations ................................................... 26
2.2.2.12 Design of MFL Fire Walls in FM Global Earthquake Zones .................................. 28
2.2.2.13 Structural Design Details, Detailing Guidelines, and Quality
Assurance for MFL Fire Wall Construction ............................................................. 30
2.3 MFL Limiting Factor: Space Separation .......................................................................................... 36
2.3.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 36
2.3.2 Classification of Exposed Wall Construction ......................................................................... 37
2.3.3 Exposing Wall Length (L) ..................................................................................................... 38
2.3.4 Stable Fire-Resistive Exposing Walls ................................................................................... 40
2.3.5 Exposing Occupancy ........................................................................................................... 40
2.3.6 Yard Storage, Conveyors, Pipes, Passageways, and Roof Protection ............................... 41
2.3.7 Side Wall Protection .............................................................................................................. 42
2.3.8 Vegetation .............................................................................................................................. 48
2.3.9 Motor Vehicle Parking .......................................................................................................... 48
2.3.10 Flammable Liquid and Gas Loading and Unloading Stations ........................................... 48
2.3.11 Rail Lines and Sidings ........................................................................................................ 49
2.4 MFL Limiting Factor: Prevention of Exterior Vertical Fire Spread ................................................. 49
2.4.1 Mechanical Floors ................................................................................................................ 49
2.4.2 Setbacks ............................................................................................................................... 51
2.4.3 Balconies .............................................................................................................................. 51
2.4.4 Podium Floors ...................................................................................................................... 51
2.5 Protection of Openings in MFL Limiting Factors ............................................................................ 51
2.5.1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 51
2.5.2 Construction and Location ................................................................................................... 51
2.5.2.1 Fire Doors .................................................................................................................. 52
2.5.2.2 Material Handling Systems ....................................................................................... 71
2.5.2.3 Pneumatic Conveyors .............................................................................................. 75
2.5.2.4 Roller and Belt Conveyors with Inclined Gravity Sections ....................................... 77
2.5.2.5 Roller and Belt Conveyors without Inclined Gravity Sections .................................. 79
2.5.2.6 Automatic Guided Vehicle Systems (AGVS) ............................................................ 80
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1-22 Maximum Foreseeable Loss
Page 2 FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets
2.5.2.7 Air Handling Systems ............................................................................................... 80

2.5.3 Operation and Maintenance ................................................................................................. 81
2.5.4 Use of Other Codes and Standards .................................................................................... 82
3.0 SUPPORT FOR RECOMMENDATIONS .............................................................................................. 82
3.1 Application of MFL Limiting Factors ................................................................................................ 82
3.2 MFL Fire Walls ............................................................................................................................... 83
3.2.1 Fire Resistance of Wall Construction .................................................................................... 83
3.2.2 Stability and Strength ............................................................................................................ 83
3.2.3 Cantilever Fire Walls ............................................................................................................. 84
3.2.4 Tied Fire Walls ....................................................................................................................... 85
3.2.5 One-Way Fire Walls ............................................................................................................. 85
3.2.6 Double Fire Walls .................................................................................................................. 86
3.2.7 Panel Walls in Reinforced Concrete Buildings .................................................................... 86
3.2.8 Control of Cracking .............................................................................................................. 86
3.2.9 Parapets and Roof Protection .............................................................................................. 86
3.2.10 End Walls and Angle Exposure ........................................................................................... 87
3.2.11 Pipes, Conduit, Cables, and Ducts .................................................................................... 87
3.3 Openings in MFL Fire Walls ........................................................................................................... 87
3.3.1 Material-Handling Systems .................................................................................................. 87
3.3.2 Automatic Guided Vehicle Systems ..................................................................................... 88
3.3.3 Chain or Rail Conveyors ....................................................................................................... 88
3.3.4 Tow Conveyors ..................................................................................................................... 89
3.3.5 Air Handling Systems ........................................................................................................... 89
3.4 Space Separation ........................................................................................................................... 90
3.4.1 General Space Separation Information ................................................................................. 90
3.4.2 Categorizing Exposed Construction in MFL Space Separations ......................................... 90
3.4.3 Space Separation Analysis Methodology ............................................................................ 91
3.4.4 MFL Space Separation Analysis Example ........................................................................... 91
4.0 REFERENCES ...................................................................................................................................... 92
4.1 FM Global ........................................................................................................................................ 92
4.2 Other ............................................................................................................................................... 92
APPENDIX A GLOSSARY OF TERMS ...................................................................................................... 92
APPENDIX B DOCUMENT REVISION HISTORY ...................................................................................... 95
APPENDIX C FIRE DOORS ....................................................................................................................... 96
C.1 Fire Door Construction ................................................................................................................... 96
C.2 Detectors ........................................................................................................................................ 97
C.3 Door Closers .................................................................................................................................. 97
C.4 Power Operators ............................................................................................................................ 98
C.5 Electromagnetic Door Holder Releases .......................................................................................... 98
C.6 Electromechanical Door Holders ................................................................................................... 98
C.7 Fire Door Operation and Inspection .............................................................................................. 98
C.7.1 Horizontal Sliding Doors ...................................................................................................... 98
C.7.2 Inclined Track ..................................................................................................................... 103
C.7.3 Straight Track with Counterweight Closure ....................................................................... 103
C.7.4 Straight Track with Spring Closure .................................................................................... 103
C.7.5 Swinging Doors .................................................................................................................. 104
C.7.6 Telescoping Vertical Sliding Doors .................................................................................... 104
C.7.7 Counterbalanced Elevator Doors ...................................................................................... 104
C.7.8 Passenger-Elevator Doors ................................................................................................. 104
C.7.9 Rolling Steel Doors ............................................................................................................ 104
C.7.10 Vertical Sliding Doors ...................................................................................................... 105
C.8 Rating Practices for Fire Doors ................................................................................................... 105
C.9 Selection of Fire Doors ................................................................................................................ 106
List of Figures
Fig. 1. Cantilever wall: Minimum clearance between MFL fire wall and aligned steel framing .................... 8
Fig. 2. Double wall: Minimum clearance between fire walls ......................................................................... 8
Fig. 3. Cantilever wall: Maximum clearance for support under fire conditions. ............................................ 8
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Maximum Foreseeable Loss 1-22
FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets Page 3
Fig. 4. Tied wall: Through-wall tie, shown with primary steel perpendicular to wall. .................................... 9
Fig. 5. Tied wall: Through-wall tie, shown with primary steel parallel to fire wall ......................................... 9
Fig. 6. One-way wall: Corbel arrangement for one-way wall ...................................................................... 10
Fig. 7. Cantilever wall: Corbel arrangement (masonry and corbel reinforcing not shown) .......................... 10
Fig. 8. Double wall: Corbel arrangement ..................................................................................................... 11
Fig. 9. Typical cantilever wall; used at expansion joints, or at joints between buildings ............................ 12
Fig. 10. Reinforced masonry cantilever wall ............................................................................................... 13
Fig. 11. Flashing detail ................................................................................................................................. 13
Fig. 12. Typical tied fire wall; used with continuous building framework .................................................... 14
Fig. 13. A tied wall at the center of a continuous steel frame. .................................................................... 15
Fig. 14. Tied wall where framing is not continuous throughout the building ............................................... 15
Fig. 15. Tied wall off center of continuous steel frame ............................................................................... 16
Fig. 16. Flexible masonry anchors (courtesy of the National Concrete Masonry Association). ................. 16
Fig. 17. Double MFL fire wall ...................................................................................................................... 17
Fig. 18. Typical double fire wall; used at expansion joints, or at joints between buildings ........................ 17
Fig. 19. Examples of roof flashing details ................................................................................................... 18
Fig. 20. Expansion joint (courtesy of the National Concrete Masonry Asociation) ..................................... 19
Fig. 21. Typical control joints in concrete masonry (reinforcing not shown) ............................................... 19
Fig. 22. Typical joint detail in precast concrete (courtesy of the National Concrete Masonry Association) . 19
Fig. 23. Horizontal joint reinforcing and control joint in concrete block wall construction
(courtesy of the National Concrete Masonry Association) .......................................................................... 19
Fig. 24. Bond beam reinforcing at intersecting concrete masonry walls .................................................... 20
Fig. 25. Bond beam reinforcing termination detail for concrete masonry walls in
FM Global earthquake zones ......................................................................................................... 20
Fig. 26. Typical concrete masonry bond beam ........................................................................................... 21
Fig. 27. An MFL fire wall divides a one-story facility ................................................................................... 21
Fig. 28a. MFL wall arrangement at elevation difference (double wall) ....................................................... 23
Fig. 28b. MFL wall arrangement at elevation difference (cantilever wall) ................................................... 23
Fig. 29a. End wall exposure protection; end walls tied to steel framing (for X values, see Table 2) ........ 24
Fig. 29b. End wall exposure protection; end walls not tied to steel framing (for X values, see Table 2) .. 25
Fig. 30. Alternative end wall protection ....................................................................................................... 25
Fig. 31. Angular wall exposure protection ................................................................................................... 25
Fig. 32. Exterior wall protection ................................................................................................................... 26
Fig. 33. Independent feeds for automatic sprinkler systems on each side of an MFL fire wall ................. 27
Fig. 34. Breakaway connections; slip joints ................................................................................................ 28
Fig. 35a. Vertical reinforcing detail at concrete masonry wall corner ......................................................... 33
Fig. 35b. Vertical reinforcing detail at concrete masonry wall intersection .................................................. 34
Fig. 36. Vertical reinforcing detail at concrete masonry wall opening or termination ................................. 34
Fig. 37. Vertical reinforcing detail at concrete masonry wall control joint ................................................... 34
Fig. 38. Boundary element reinforcing detail (plan view) for concrete walls in FM Global earthquake zones . 36
Fig. 39. Length of exposing wall for overlapping buildings ......................................................................... 39
Fig. 40. Length of exposing wall for offset buildings .................................................................................... 39
Fig. 41. Exposed buildings at angles .......................................................................................................... 40
Fig. 42. Small storage areas in light/ordinary hazard buildings .................................................................. 40
Fig. 43a. Required space separation for exposed noncombustible walls (English units). ......................... 43
Fig. 43b. Required space separation for exposed noncombustible walls (metric units). ........................... 44
Fig. 44a. Required separation for exposed combustible walls (English units). .......................................... 45
Fig. 44b. Required separation for exposed combustible walls (metric units). (In some cases the required
spacemay be reduced. See Sections 2.3.3 and 2.3.4.) .............................................................................. 46
Fig. 45. Multiplier for buildings exposed at an angle .................................................................................. 47
Fig. 46. Window and spandrel heights ........................................................................................................ 50
Fig. 47. Mechanical floor fire break and theoretical flame height ................................................................ 50
Fig. 48. Labels for FM Approved doors ....................................................................................................... 53
Fig. 49. Pair of metal-clad sliding fire doors (biparting) on inclined track ................................................... 54
Fig. 50. Sliding doors on level tracks ......................................................................................................... 54
Fig. 51. Preferred details at center joint of doors mounted in pairs. .......................................................... 55
Fig. 52. Doors swinging in pairs—flush mounted. ....................................................................................... 56
Fig. 53. Single swinging fire door. ................................................................................................................ 57
Fig. 54. Swinging fire door with door closer. ............................................................................................... 58

Fig. 55. Telescoping vertically sliding doors. ............................................................................................... 59

Fig. 56. Vertically sliding door. ..................................................................................................................... 60
Fig. 57. Horizontal sliding level track counterweight closure. ...................................................................... 61
Fig. 58. 7×19 aircraft cable. ......................................................................................................................... 61
Fig. 59. Clearance for curtain endlocks. ...................................................................................................... 62
Fig. 60. Use of expansion anchors to secure guides/tracks ....................................................................... 63
Fig. 61. Lintels of fire-resistive construction. ............................................................................................... 64
Fig. 62. Asphalt emulsion floor over concrete ramp. ................................................................................... 64
Fig. 63. Rolling steel doors—surface mounted. .......................................................................................... 65
Fig. 64. Rolling steel doors between jamb mounted. .................................................................................. 66
Fig. 65. Interconnection of trip assemblies through fire wall. ...................................................................... 68
Fig. 66. Rolling steel fire doors in double MFL wall using reinforced concrete frame. ............................... 69
Fig. 67. Rolling steel fire doors in double MFL wall using reinforced concrete frame. ............................... 70
Fig. 68. Binder arrangements to reduce smoke penetration around horizontal sliding doors. ................... 71
Fig. 69. Clearance area at fire doors. .......................................................................................................... 72
Fig. 70. Fire door arrangement around conveyer rail. ................................................................................. 73
Fig. 71. Notched fire door label. .................................................................................................................. 73
Fig. 72. Door-pack installation. .................................................................................................................... 74
Fig. 73. Fire dampers. .................................................................................................................................. 76
Fig. 74. Breakaway connections (slip joints). .............................................................................................. 77
Fig. 75. Roller conveyor protection. ............................................................................................................. 78
Fig. 76. Belt conveyor protection. ................................................................................................................ 78
Fig. 77. Conveyor penetration without incline ............................................................................................. 79
Fig. 78. Steel not lined up vertically ............................................................................................................ 85
Fig. 79. One-way fire walls .......................................................................................................................... 85
Fig. 80. Two one-way fire walls tied to areas 1 and 3 respectively ............................................................ 86
Fig. 81. FM Approvals oversize label .......................................................................................................... 96
Fig. 82. Horizontal sliding door; inclined track ............................................................................................. 99
Fig. 83. Horizontal sliding door; level track, counterweight closure .......................................................... 100
Fig. 84. Horizontal sliding inclined track fire door showing stay rolls and binders ................................... 101
Fig. 85. Stay roll for horizontal sliding fire door ........................................................................................ 102
List of Tables
Table 1. Minimum Clearance Between Structural Steel and MFL Fire Wall .................................................. 7
Table 2. Length of End Wall Protection* ..................................................................................................... 24
Table 3. Verification and Inspection of Concrete Masonry MFL Wall Construction ..................................... 33
Table 4. Verification and Inspection of Reinforced Concrete MFL Wall Construction. ................................. 35
Table 5. Required Separation Distance for Fire-Rated Construction ........................................................... 37
Table 6. Exposed Wall Categories ................................................................................................................ 38
Table 7. Damper Leakage Classification ..................................................................................................... 90
Table 8. Mortar Proportions by Volume ........................................................................................................ 94
Table 9. Allowable Glazing Area For Fire Doors ......................................................................................... 97
Table 10. Classification of Fire Wall Openings .......................................................................................... 105

1.0 SCOPE
This data sheet provides design criteria and guidelines for maximum foreseeable loss (MFL) limiting factors
and the protection of openings in MFL limiting factors. Data Sheet 1-23, Fire Barriers and Protection of
Openings, addresses non-MFL fire walls, floors, ceilings, and protection of openings used to separate
occupancies within the same building.
1.1 Changes
April 2011. This document now contains all data sheet material on MFL limiting factors and the protection
of openings in MFL limiting factors.
• Data Sheet 1-23, Protection of Openings in Fire Subdivisions, former Section 2.1, Openings in MFL Fire
Walls, has been relocated to this document.
2.0 LOSS PREVENTION RECOMMENDATIONS
2.1 Introduction
The maximum foreseeable loss (MFL) is the largest loss to result from an insured event, as calculated from
an understanding of the overall hazard and associated business impact. This event assumes that active
protection systems or safety devices are impaired, with the exception of specifically approved and tested
MFL fire doors.
The event can be related to fire, explosion, equipment failure, or other scenario, with the exception of natural
hazards. MFL limiting factors are physical barriers or conditions that limit the spread of fire or contain
explosive forces and control the amount of damage from the event.
2.2 MFL Limiting Factor: Fire Walls
2.2.1 Introduction
Ensure all MFL walls and supporting structures are designed by a registered civil or structural engineer.
Except where noted otherwise, recommendations in sections 2.2.2.1, 2.2.2.2, 2.2.2.8 through 2.2.2.13 apply
to all types of MFL fire walls.
2.2.2 Construction and Location
2.2.2.1 Fire Resistance of Wall Construction

2.2.2.1.1 Design MFL fire walls for 4-hour fire resistance, unless otherwise specified. Masonry, brick, and
concrete are the preferred materials for MFL walls. Refer to Data Sheet 1-21, Fire Resistance of Building
Assemblies, for methods of analyzing various building elements and materials fire-resistance ratings.
2.2.2.1.2 Use only assemblies or materials listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory that provide
the needed fire resistance. Do not use wall assemblies that contain foam plastic insulation.
2.2.2.1.3 Construct lintels used in openings in MFL fire walls of reinforced concrete, reinforced concrete
masonry, or concrete-encased steel. Design the lintel to have a fire-resistance rating equivalent to the rating
of the wall. Do not leave the bottom steel flange of steel members exposed.
2.2.2.1.4 When the fire rating of concrete masonry construction relies on grouted cores, ensure cores are
grouted for the full height of the wall. Use low-lift grouting techniques (grout in a maximum of 5 ft lifts [1.5 m])
to prevent grout voids in the lower cores. Do not use loose fill material because it may spill out if the wall
is later damaged.
2.2.2.1.5 Use only those autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) wall assemblies that have passed a well-
documented fire test (in accordance with ASTM E 119, BS 476, or similar), including a hose stream test. Note
that E 119 requires a hose stream test for walls (with 1 hr or greater fire endurance), but BS 476 does not.
Provide the same wall joints as those in the fire-tested assembly or use a listed joint system with a proper
fire endurance rating.

2.2.2.2 Stability and Strength

Each type of MFL fire wall achieves stability in a different way:
• Cantilever walls are entirely self-supporting without any ties to adjacent framing.
• Tied walls are laterally supported by the steel building frames on each side, which are tied together through
the wall. The frames must be of sufficient strength so the force of collapsing steel on the fire-exposed side
is resisted by the steel framing on the cold side.
• One-way walls are laterally tied to steel framing members on one side only.
• Double fire walls consist of two one-way walls back to back, with no connections between the two.
• Panel walls in reinforced concrete buildings are tied to the concrete columns and/or floor and roof framing.
2.2.2.2.1 Do not use MFL fire walls as bearing walls; that is, do not use them to support any gravity loads
other than their own weight. Special precautions must be taken regarding the detailing of wall penetrations for
structural elements to ensure MFL fire walls do not unintentionally provide vertical support to adjacent
structure.
2.2.2.2.2 MFL fire walls can be used as shear walls as part of the lateral-force-resisting system of the building
provided the walls are properly designed and constructed to adequately resist the design loads. Where MFL
fire walls are not intended to act as part of the lateral-force-resisting system of the building, special
precautions must be taken regarding connection detailing and deflection compatibility between the walls and
the adjacent building framing to ensure MFL fire walls are not stressed or damaged by lateral forces.
2.2.2.2.3 Where any significant modifications are intended to be made to an existing MFL fire wall, or to an
existing wall intended to be accepted as an MFL fire wall, retain a registered civil or structural engineer to
provide an evaluation and to ensure the wall will function as required. Significant modifications could include
changes to the strength, stiffness, stability, mass, durability, and connections associated with the wall.
2.2.2.2.4 Do not use unreinforced masonry or unreinforced concrete walls or portions of walls as MFL walls.
2.2.2.2.5 When using tilt-up or precast concrete construction, provide joint integrity and prevent differential
movement between panels by using a shiplap joint, tongue-and-groove joint, or other positive mechanical
means. All joints must obtain the same fire resistance rating as the wall. (Refer to Fig. 22.)
2.2.2.2.6 Clearance Between MFL Fire Walls and Steel Framing
Provide adequate clearances between MFL fire walls and steel framing, and between adjacent MFL fire walls
to prevent damage from horizontal thermal expansion of the steel during a fire. For buildings located in
FM Global earthquake zones 50-year through 500-year, adjust clearances as necessary to prevent pounding
during seismic events.
Use one of the following methods:
a) Provide minimum adequate clearance (according to Table 1) between the wall and the steel framing (see
Figure 1) on each side of the wall or between the two walls of a double wall system (see Figure 2).

Table 1. Minimum Clearance Between Structural Steel and MFL Fire Wall
Length of Bay Perpendicular to the Fire Wall Minimum Clearance Between Wall and Steel
ft m in. mm
20 6.1 21⁄2 64
25 7.6 3¼ 83
30 9.1 3¾ 95
35 10.7 41⁄2 114
40 12.2 5 127
45 13.7 5¾ 146
50 15.2 6¼ 159
55 16.8 7 178
60 or longer 18.3 71⁄2 191
.
b) Provide a maximum of 3⁄4 in. (19.1 mm) clearance between the wall and the structural framework for walls
up to 40 ft (12.2 m) high if the steel is aligned horizontally and vertically on both sides of the wall (see Figs.
3, 4, and 5). For walls higher than 40 ft (12 m), this maximum space may be increased ¼ in. (6.4 mm) for
each additional 10 ft (3.0 m) of wall height. Install a bond beam in the first full course below the bottom of the
primary steel for the full length of the wall.
Where the adjacent primary steel is parallel to the MFL fire wall, grout all cores above the bond beam to
the top of the wall; however, in FM Global earthquake zones 50-year through 500-year, grout the cores above
the bond beam along the full length of the wall, but only to the first course above the top of the primary steel.
Where the adjacent primary steel is perpendicular to the MFL fire wall, grout cores above the bond beam
to the top of the wall, but only to 16 in. (0.4 m) on each side of the columns.
In all cases, grout reinforced cores the full height of the wall, and continue vertical reinforcement for the full
height of the wall (i.e., ensure vertical reinforcing is not interrupted at bond beams).
c) For existing construction where the clearance guidelines in either (a) or (b) of this section are not met,
construct solid masonry or concrete pilasters or corbels (see Figs. 6, 7, and 8) between the wall and structural
steel. This alternative applies only if the steel framing lines up horizontally and vertically on both sides of
the wall.
Place a layer of building paper over the structural steel to prevent bonding to it. If clearance is needed for
normal building expansion, maintain a small space as described above in part (b) between the column and
the pilaster or corbel. Make the pilaster or corbel at least 2 ft (0.6 m) wide. Locate corbels at least as high
on each face as the adjacent primary structural steel member, and ensure the face abutting the walls is at least
2 ft (0.6 m) high. Ensure the space between corbels or pilasters and adjacent framework does not exceed
the guidelines stated in part (b) above.
A steel assembly may be used in lieu of a corbel; design it to withstand the load due to steel frame expansion
without crushing the wall construction. Note that a steel assembly is generally preferable to a concrete or
masonry corbel for buildings located in FM Global earthquake zones 50-year through 500-year.

Fig. 1. Cantilever wall: Minimum clearance between MFL fire wall and aligned steel framing
Fig. 2. Double wall: Minimum clearance between fire walls
Fig. 3. Cantilever wall: Maximum clearance for support under fire conditions. Note: This condition applies only when steel
is aligned horizontally and vertically.

Fig. 4. Tied wall: Through-wall tie, shown with primary steel perpendicular to wall. Note: Columns are needed, but not
illustrated here.
Fig. 5. Tied wall: Through-wall tie, shown with primary steel parallel to fire wall

Fig. 6. One-way wall: Corbel arrangement for one-way wall
Fig. 7. Cantilever wall: Corbel arrangement (masonry and corbel reinforcing not shown)

Fig. 8. Double wall: Corbel arrangement
2.2.2.2.7 Design and construct MFL fire walls to provide adequate strength, stiffness, stability, and durability.
a) Design wall panels to adequately resist a minimum uniform lateral pressure of 5 psf (0.24 kN/m2) for
allowable stress design (ASD) or working stress design (WSD) (using a load factor of 1.0); use a load factor
of 1.6 for load and resistance factor design (LRFD) methodology (1.6 x 5 psf = 8 psf [0.38 kN/m2]). This
usually is accomplished easily in all walls except the cantilever type.
For buildings located in hurricane-prone regions (see definition in FM Global Data Sheet 1-28), ensure wall
panels can adequately resist design wind pressures derived from the basic wind speed per Data Sheet 1-28,
Wind Design. Examine both enclosed and partially enclosed conditions if applicable. Do not, under any
circumstances, use uniform wind pressures less than 5 psf (0.24 kN/m2) for ASD design or 8 psf (0.38 kN/m2)
for LRFD design.
b) Apply the lateral pressure, which is perpendicular to the wall face, on the side of the wall that produces
the more severe demand. This minimum lateral load typically will not be adequate for walls exposed directly
to wind (i.e., fire walls used as temporary exterior walls or walls subjected to interior wind force due to partially
enclosed buildings) or in FM Global earthquake zones 50-year through 500-year.
Where MFL fire walls are subjected directly to wind forces (e.g., a fire wall used as a temporary exterior
wall), the wall must be designed to adequately resist these forces (see Data Sheet 1-28, Wind Design).
2.2.2.2.8 Use fire-resistive material that is durable enough to resist the forces described in Section 3.2.2,
to construct the MFL fire wall. Some material may have adequate fire resistance but not adequate durability.
2.2.2.2.9 For locations in active seismic areas (FM Global 50-year through 500-year earthquake zones as
shown in Data sheet 1-2, Earthquakes), refer to Section 2.2.2.12 for seismic design criteria.
2.2.2.2.10 Walls designed to be MFL fire walls do not typically have sufficient strength to act as explosion-
resistant walls. Locate any occupancy presenting an explosion hazard a minimum of 125 ft (38 m) from MFL
fire walls.
Examples of occupancies that present an explosion hazard:
• Any ignitable liquid process that has a weak or severe explosion hazard as defined in FM Global Data
Sheet 7-32, Ignitable Liquid Operations.
• Storage of ignitable liquids in non-relieving-style metal containers greater than 6 gal (22.7 L)
• Improperly vented ignitable liquid tanks
• Improperly protected dust-handling equipment
• An occupancy with a dust room explosion hazard
• Ammonia compressor rooms
• Any storage or use of flammable gases

• Equipment with a PV rupture potential

2.2.2.2.11 Due to the complexity of rack-supported structures, double MFL fire walls are preferred for interior
subdivision in this type of construction. Other types may be used but generally will cost much more.
2.2.2.2.12 Arrange storage racks perpendicular to the fire wall so they pose less of an impact exposure in
case of rack collapse during an MFL fire.
2.2.2.2.13 Do not allow bridging and bracing for joists or trusses to be continuous through an MFL fire wall.
2.2.2.2.14 Foundations require careful design to provide adequate bearing support and resistance to
overturning, particularly for cantilever walls. Ensure a registered civil or structural engineer with experience
in geotechnical engineering which is familiar with local geological conditions, is retained to provide the
foundation design.
2.2.2.3 Cantilever Walls

2.2.2.3.1 Design cantilever walls for the lateral loads specified in section 2.2.2.2.7 to ensure stability under
MFL fire conditions (Figs. 9 and 10). Ensure there are no connections between the wall and the building
frame on either side. Design the flashing on each side to release easily when the roof on one side of the wall
collapses (see Figure 11).
Fig. 9. Typical cantilever wall; used at expansion joints, or at joints between buildings

Fig. 10. Reinforced masonry cantilever wall
Fig. 11. Flashing detail
2.2.2.3.2 High walls (more than 30 ft [9.1 m] high) may require a steel column in each pilaster rather than
vertical reinforcing bars, and anchorage of the columns to deep foundations, to provide adequate strength and
stability.
2.2.2.3.3 Anchor cantilever walls to their foundations to properly resist overturning moments and base shears.
Permanent soil overburden and concrete floor slab may be used to resist overturning moment when needed.
2.2.2.3.4 If tilt-up or precast concrete construction is used in a cantilever wall design, pay particular attention
to the connections to the foundation, structural slabs, or pilasters. If connections are added external to the wall
panels to allow the wall to adequately resist the overturning moment, fireproof these connections with a
durable material to obtain the same fire resistance rating as the wall.
2.2.2.3.5 Cantilever fire walls used as temporary exterior walls (until future construction occurs) will be
subjected directly to wind loads, and therefore must be properly designed and temporarily connected to the
building frame until the additional building is constructed. Ensure all connections to the wall are completely
removed or cut when the new construction has been completed.
An alternative to temporarily affixing the wall to the building frame is to design the wall as a cantilever wall
to adequately resist the full lateral loads; note that foundations would also need to be designed to support the
forces on a cantilever wall. This method could be costly due to the larger design loads on both the wall and
the foundation.

2.2.2.3.6 Do not use cantilever walls in active seismic areas (FM Global 50-year through 500-year earthquake
zones as shown in Data sheet 1-2, Earthquakes). If they must be used, specifically design them to resist
anticipated seismic conditions; see Section 2.2.2.12.
2.2.2.4 Tied Walls

2.2.2.4.1 Design tied walls for the lateral loads specified in Section 2.2.2.2.7 to ensure stability under MFL
fire conditions.
2.2.2.4.2 A tied wall (Fig. 12) must follow a column line to take advantage of the vertical strength of the column
and to minimize lateral and torsional forces on the wall. Fireproof the steel columns and roof framing in line
with the wall to have fire resistance equal to the wall. For situations where the wall is constructed between
columns on a double-column line, the columns and beams or trusses parallel to the wall immediately on each
side must have fire resistance equal to the wall to prevent the steel from buckling and fracturing the wall.
Use concrete, masonry, or durable fire-resistant coatings to provide fire resistance for the steel.
Fig. 12. Typical tied fire wall; used with continuous building framework
2.2.2.4.3 Ensure the building framing on each side of a tied MFL fire wall is at the same elevation and in
line horizontally.
2.2.2.4.4 Locate a tied fire wall near the center of the building frame (Figs. 13 and 14) so the building frame
on each side of the fire wall will provide roughly the same lateral resistance. Consider breaks in continuity
of the building frame (e.g., double-column expansion joints) when locating a tied fire wall.

Fig. 13. A tied wall at the center of a continuous steel frame. The horizontal force from collapsing steel on either side must
be resisted by the lateral strength of steel on the other side
Fig. 14. Tied wall where framing is not continuous throughout the building
2.2.2.4.5 The lateral resistance of the frames on either side of the wall must be sufficient to resist the horizontal
component of the force resulting from the collapsing frame on the opposite side. This is critical if the building
frames on both sides of the wall are not of equivalent strength (see Figure 15). Remember to consider
collapse on both sides, since the fire could occur on either side. The horizontal force may be computed by
using the following catenary cable formula:
H = WL2/8S
Where:
H = Horizontal force, lb (kg)
W = Tributary dead load of the roof per unit length of truss or beam, lb/ft (N/m)*
L = Truss or beam span, ft (m)
S = Sag in ft (m) that may be assumed as:
0.09L for solid-web steel beams
0.07L for open-web steel trusses
0.06L for open-web wood trusses
*Note: Under certain conditions, W must also include environmental loads. Include the weight of rainwater
when roofs are capable of ponding water. In locations where snow could accumulate on the roof for a
significant period of time during the year (locations with 20 psf [0.96 kN/M2] or greater ground snow load
as determined using Data Sheet 1-54, Roof Loads for New Construction), add 25% of that ground snow load
to the dead load to determine W. If both of the above conditions exist, use the higher figure.
Assume the horizontal force, H, is applied at two adjacent column lines simultaneously; use a worst-case
scenario in deciding where to apply these design forces.
2.2.2.4.6 At roof level, the expected horizontal force must be transmitted through the wall with continuous
framing (for single-column line tied walls) or through-wall ties (for double-column line tied walls). Masonry
anchors from the wall to the respective framework on each side will not provide adequate reliability.
2.2.2.4.7 For walls constructed between columns on a double-column line, design the strength of ties based
on the horizontal force, H, calculated using the formula in section 2.2.2.4.5. For design purposes, use an
allowable tensile stress of not more than 10,000 psi (69,000 kN/m2) and an allowable shear stress of 7,000
psi (48,000 kN/m2) for steel tie rods and connection assemblies.

Fig. 15. Tied wall off center of continuous steel frame
Use two (2) tie rods per column to reduce torsion (see Fig. 4) when primary roof framing is perpendicular
to the wall. The ties must connect the roof framing members on each side of the wall over the columns. When
the primary roof framing is parallel to the wall it may be necessary to install ties at a more frequent interval
than every column line (see Fig. 5); in this case, the tie rods and wall penetrations must be designed and
detailed to ensure vertical deflections of the roof framing due to gravity loads will not transfer load to the tie
rods or fire wall. Nuts for through-wall ties must be backed off slightly (up to ¾ in. [19 mm] for walls up to
40 ft [12 m] high and an additional ¼ in. [6 mm] for every additional 10 ft [3.0 m] of wall height) to allow for
normal building movement.
Where tie rod penetrations will be core-drilled, locate the penetrations such that vertical and horizontal
reinforcing is avoided. Where tie rod openings are to be blocked out, ensure the horizontal and vertical wall
reinforcing runs continuously through the openings. In all cases, properly pack the fire wall penetrations with
a flexible fire-proofing material, such as mineral wool, to ensure the fire resistance of the wall is not
compromised. Install an integral steel cover plate or escutcheon plate at all penetrations to hold the
fire-proofing material in place.
While through-wall connections are needed to make framework continuous across the wall, it is also essential
to provide flexible concrete or masonry anchors (see Fig. 16) at approximately 2 to 4 ft (0.6 to 1.2 m) on
center to brace the wall laterally. Allow enough slip in the anchors to compensate for the slip (as noted above)
in the through-wall ties; this is to prevent the collapsing frame from pulling on the wall before the frame on
the non-fire side provides the needed resistance.
Fig. 16. Flexible masonry anchors (courtesy of the National Concrete Masonry Association). Note: Connection to opposite
columns is similar. *Maximum space is ¾ in. (1.9 cm) for walls up to 40 ft (12.2 m) high and an additional ¼ in. (0.6 cm)
for every additional 10 ft (3.0 m) of wall height.

2.2.2.4.8 In the case of single-column-line tied MFL walls (Fig. 12), the framing on the unexposed side of
the wall will resist steel expansion on the fire side. However, the connection of the wall to the columns must
allow some flexibility, as the building frame on the unexposed side will deflect laterally due to the pull from
the sagging steel on the fire side.
Use flexible masonry anchors (see Fig. 16) or concrete blocks that loosely key into the reentrant space of
the column to provide the needed flexibility. If sprayed-on fireproofing is used, spray the entire column before
constructing the wall.
2.2.2.5 One-Way Walls

2.2.2.5.1 Design one-way walls for the lateral loads specified in Section 2.2.2.2.7 to ensure stability under
MFL fire conditions.
2.2.2.5.2 Connect one-way walls only to the frame of the area to be protected.
2.2.2.6 Double Walls

2.2.2.6.1 Design double MFL walls for the lateral loads specified in Section 2.2.2.2.7 to ensure stability under
MFL fire conditions.
2.2.2.6.2 A double MFL fire wall consists of two one-way walls adjacent to each other. Connect each wall
only to its respective building frame (Figs. 17 and 18).
Fig. 17. Double MFL fire wall
Fig. 18. Typical double fire wall; used at expansion joints, or at joints between buildings
2.2.2.6.3 Ensure each of the two wall elements has a 3-hour fire resistance rating.
2.2.2.6.4 If masonry walls are not sufficiently separated to prevent bonding, install a layer of building paper
or other suitable bond breaker between the walls.

2.2.2.6.5 Anchor each wall to its respective steel framework at roof level and at columns if necessary. Allow
no connections between the two walls other than the roof flashing. Pay particular attention to details at open-
ings in the walls and at the roof flashing between the walls (see Fig. 19).
Fig. 19. Examples of roof flashing details
2.2.2.7 Panel Walls In Reinforced Concrete Buildings

2.2.2.7.1 Design panel walls for the lateral loads specified in Section 2.2.2.2.7 to ensure stability under MFL
fire conditions.
2.2.2.7.2 If the panel wall is tied to a 4-hour fire-rated reinforced concrete building (including floor and roof
decks and all structural framing) on one side, but the building on the other side is of different construction (such
as steel), do the following:
a) Make structural connections of the panel wall only to the adequately fire-rated building frame. Do not
make connections to the building frame on the opposite side if it could collapse in an uncontrolled fire.
b) Follow the recommendations listed in the Section 2.2.2.5.
c) Follow all recommendations in Section 2.2.2.11; however, note the exceptions for panel walls in Sec-
tions 2.2.2.11.2 and 2.2.2.11.5.
2.2.2.7.3 If tilt-up or precast concrete construction is used, pay particular attention to the connections at foun-
dations, structural slabs and decks, and pilasters. Fireproof all connections as necessary to obtain the same
fire resistance as the rating of the wall.
2.2.2.8 Control of Cracking

2.2.2.8.1 Locate expansion joints for masonry MFL fire walls so they are spaced a maximum of 200 ft (61 m)
on center and in line with those of the building frame. Make the joints no more than 2 in. (51 mm) wide, and
fill them with compressible, fire-resistive sealer, held in place by steel cover plates. Install the plates over
each face of the joint, but fasten them to only one side of the joint (Fig. 20). Keep combustibles at least 1 ft
(0.3 m) away from expansion joints.

Fig. 20. Expansion joint (courtesy of the National Concrete Masonry Asociation)
2.2.2.8.2 To prevent irregular cracking due to initial shrinkage of the concrete masonry in an MFL fire wall,
provide control joints at intervals not exceeding 50 ft (15 m). Any of the types shown in Figures 21, 22, and
23 are applicable. Use an elastomeric fire stop sealant for caulking all joints.
Fig. 21. Typical control joints in concrete masonry (reinforcing not shown)
Fig. 22. Typical joint detail in precast concrete (courtesy of the National Concrete Masonry Association)
Fig. 23. Horizontal joint reinforcing and control joint in concrete block wall construction
(courtesy of the National Concrete Masonry Association)

2.2.2.8.3 Detail bond beam reinforcement as follows:

a) Expansion joints: If structural continuity is required, provide taped (18 in. [0.46 m] on each side) or smooth
dowel laps. Otherwise, interrupt bond beam reinforcing, but provide 180 degree hooks to vertical rebar.
Provide at least two grouted and reinforced cores on each side of the joint. (See Figures 24 and 25.)
b) Control joints: Extend bond beam reinforcing uninterrupted through control joints. Provide at least one
grouted and reinforced core on each side of the joint (see Fig. 26).
Fig. 24. Bond beam reinforcing at intersecting concrete masonry walls
Fig. 25. Bond beam reinforcing termination detail for concrete masonry walls in FM Global earthquake zones

Fig. 26. Typical concrete masonry bond beam
2.2.2.8.4 Provide minimum shrinkage and temperature reinforcement per the applicable building code (e.g.,
ACI 318).
2.2.2.8.5 Provide minimum concrete protection for reinforcement per the applicable building code (e.g., ACI
318) or for the required fire resistance, whichever is greater. Refer to Data Sheet 1-21.
2.2.2.9 Parapets, Roof Protection, and Elevation Differences

2.2.2.9.1 Except where noted otherwise, provide MFL fire walls with parapets at least 30 in. (0.76 m) high
(see Fig. 27) constructed of material having fire resistance equal to the wall. A parapet is an extension of the
wall above the roof being protected. Measure the 30 in. (0.76 m) dimension from the top surface of the
protected roof to the top of the parapet. Design the wall assembly to withstand the appropriate wind loads
applied to the parapet (see Data Sheet 1-28, Wind Design).
For reinforced concrete frame buildings with concrete roof deck and gravel surfacing as in section 2.2.2.9.4
below, a parapet may be omitted.
Fig. 27. An MFL fire wall divides a one-story facility
2.2.2.9.2 If steel deck roofs are used, provide FM Approved Class I construction assemblies.

2.2.2.9.3 Provide roof cover assemblies that have a Class A rating by ASTM E 108 on the entire roof of build-
ings separated by MFL fire walls. (See Data Sheet 1-28R/29R, Roof Systems.)
While concrete or Class I steel deck roofs are preferred adjacent to MFL walls, wood roofs are acceptable
if they meet the requirements for a Class A rating. This may require the use of a thermal barrier above the wood
deck.
2.2.2.9.4 Protect the top surface of roof assemblies as follows:
a) Surface built-up roofs for at least 50 ft (15 m) on both sides of the MFL fire wall with pea gravel or slag
embedded in a flood coat of asphalt (see Fig. 27). Use an application rate of at least 4 psf (0.19 kN/m2).
b) For single-ply membrane assemblies, use an assembly that has a Class A rating (for the specific maxi-
mum slope and assembly in question). In addition, protect the top surface with paver blocks or large gravel bal-
last (ASTM No. 3 stone) for at least 50 ft (15 m) on both sides of the MFL wall (ASTM No. 4 stone is
acceptable if the membrane is fully adhered or mechanically attached and doesn’t require ballast for wind
uplift). Apply the gravel at a rate of 10 to 12 psf (0.48 to 0.57 kN/m2). If added to an existing roof during
re-roofing, have a registered civil or structural engineer analyze the roof to verify it can support the addi-
tional load.
c) Do not use polyurethane foam roof cover systems that are spray-applied to roofs within 50 ft (15 m) of
an MFL fire wall.
d) Since it is not practical to provide gravel on a standing seam steel roof, install a layer of ceramic fiber or min-
eral wool or glass fiber batt insulation between the bottom of the roof panels and the top of the purlin flange
for at least 50 ft (15 m) on each side of the MFL wall. The batt must be a minimum of 1 in. (25.4 mm) thick
ceramic fiber or mineral wool, or 2 in. (50.8 mm) thick glass fiber.
2.2.2.9.5 Where a higher building or higher portion of a building adjoins a lower building at an MFL fire wall,
ensure the exterior wall above the roof of the lower building is blank and has a 3-hour fire resistance, depend-
ing on the occupancy and construction of the exposing building (see Figs. 28a and 28b). Ensure the lower
building has a 30 in. (0.76 m) high parapet. A parapet may be omitted on the higher building if there is at least
a 15 to 50 ft (4.6 to 15.2 m) elevation difference, depending on the severity of the exposure. When the para-
pet is omitted, ensure the exterior wall construction extends up to the gravel stop. Gravel surfacing (or paver
blocks) is still recommended for 50 ft (15 m) on the higher roof and at least 50 ft (15 m) on the lower roof to
protect against flying brands.
Construct the upper section of the wall of fire-rated insulated metal panel or precast concrete panel to reduce
the probability of damage to the lower roof from falling concrete masonry units. However, to provide pen-
etration resistance from falling upper wall material if masonry units are used, design the roof of the lower build-
ing for minimum 100 psf (4.8 kN/m2) construction for a length equal to the height of the elevation difference
or one bay, whichever is less.
The assembly can be arranged in either of two ways:
a) Separate the high bay and low bay with a double MFL fire wall, each wall tied to its respective frame-
work (see Fig. 28a), or

Fig. 28a. MFL wall arrangement at elevation difference (double wall)
b) Construct a cantilevered, 4-hour fire wall from the foundation to the top of the parapet level for the lower
roof. Ensure the upper wall section is 2- or 3-hour fire rated and tied to the framework of the higher building.
Ensure the upper wall section is not connected to or does not extend over the face of the lower wall section.
Fill the space between the upper and lower wall sections with a fire-resistive material (see Fig. 28b).
Fig. 28b. MFL wall arrangement at elevation difference (cantilever wall)
2.2.2.9.6 Monitors, penthouses, cooling towers, or other structures, either combustible or noncombustible,
mounted on roofs can present special problems and require individual attention. Evaluate the space

separation requirements for such structures or equipment using the methodology and guidelines in Section
2.3. Locate such structures at least far enough from fire walls, or construct them of sufficiently fire-resistant
material, to prevent ignition.
Unusually high roof structures (over 20 ft [6 m] high) may require a greater separation distance. When this
is not practical, construct fire partitions on the exposed side of the roof projection.
Locate heat and smoke vents, skylights, roof hatches, and roof penetrations for air-handling equipment at
least 50 ft (15 m) from the MFL fire walls.
2.2.2.10 End Walls and Angle Exposure

2.2.2.10.1 Base the length and arrangement of end walls (exterior walls that are perpendicular to the MFL
fire wall on each side) on the height of the building exposing the fire wall and in accordance with Figures 29a
and 29b and Table 2. Use blank construction, with a minimum 2-hour fire-rating.
An alternative end-wall arrangement is to extend the fire wall itself beyond the exterior walls of the building
a distance equal to 1⁄2 x. (See Fig. 30 and Table 2.) Be aware that this type of wall extension may be difficult
and expensive to accomplish, since it must be designed for wind load as a cantilever.
Table 2. Length of End Wall Protection*

Height of exposing area, ft (m) X, Length of end wall protection*, ft (m)
Up to 40 (12.2) 6 (1.8)
41 to 70 (21.3) 10 (3.1)
71 (21.6) and over 14 (4.3)
*Protection must consist of blank, 2-hour fire-rated construction.
Fig. 29a. End wall exposure protection; end walls tied to steel framing (for X values, see Table 2)

Fig. 29b. End wall exposure protection; end walls not tied to steel framing (for X values, see Table 2)
Fig. 30. Alternative end wall protection
2.2.2.10.2 Protect angle exposure at the end of an MFL fire wall (or section of it) by constructing both exterior
walls of blank, 3-hour-rated masonry or metal sandwich panels (Fig. 31). The length of protection (Y) is 20 ft
(6.1 m) if the exposing building has light combustible loading; 30 ft (9 m) if the exposing building has ordinary
combustible loading, and 35 ft (10.7 m) if the exposing building has high combustible loading. In addition,
construction of each wall and eave must be noncombustible up to a point of 60 ft (15.2 m), 75 ft (22.9 m),
or 100 ft (30.5 m) away from the junction (of the MFL wall and the exterior walls) for light, ordinary, or high
hazard exposures, respectively. Use wired glass, glass block, or special windows that have passed a ¾ hr
fire test for windows within this area, beyond the 3-hour rated portion.
Fig. 31. Angular wall exposure protection

2.2.2.10.3 Provide a minimum 12 in. (0.3 m) parapet atop end wall and angular exposure wall protection.
Ensure the parapet is at least as tall as the gravel stop.
2.2.2.10.4 For at least 20 ft (6 m) on each side of the end walls, ensure there are:
• no unprotected openings (truck docks, windows, personnel doors, ventilation openings, etc.).
• no combustible equipment.
• no combustible yard storage.
Determine the required space separation from the exterior walls based on the exposed construction beyond
the end walls, and severity of the exposure from the exposure (e.g., yard storage or trailers) using Section
2.3 for MFL space separation.
Provide barriers when necessary to prevent temporary vehicle parking, combustible equipment, or yard
storage being placed within 20 ft (6 m) of the end walls.
2.2.2.10.5 Locate railroad sidings at the end of the building that is parallel to the MFL fire wall. Alternatively,
if the railroad siding runs perpendicular to the MFL fire wall on the outside of the building, do not install
combustible construction or exterior wall openings for at least 50 ft (15 m) on each side of the MFL wall.
2.2.2.10.6 Protect elevation drops perpendicular to fire walls as angle exposure (See Fig. 32 and Section
2.2.2.10.2).
Fig. 32. Exterior wall protection
2.2.2.10.7 Locate fire-resistive end/angular exposure wall protection on the exterior surface. Do not place
siding materials that are combustible or of limited combustibility over them.
2.2.2.11 Pipes, Conduit, Cables, and Ducts Penetrations

2.2.2.11.1 Feed automatic sprinkler systems on either side of an MFL fire wall independently (Fig. 33) so it
is not necessary to penetrate the wall.

Fig. 33. Independent feeds for automatic sprinkler systems on each side of an MFL fire wall
2.2.2.11.2 Avoid penetration of MFL fire walls by pipes, conduit, cables, and ducts. Keep any unavoidable
penetrations to a minimum and arrange them as outlined below.
A. Position pipes, conduit, and cables (regardless of size) penetrating MFL fire walls to pass through the
wall as close as practical to, but no more than 3 ft (1.0 m) above, the finished ground floor level. Provide a
steel sleeve with a 1 in. (25 mm) annular clearance around the pipe or conduit, to be filled with an FM
Approved fire stop assembly with a minimum 3-hour fire rating. Provide mesh reinforcement in the horizontal
joints above and below pipes in concrete block walls, and fill all cores of the concrete block immediately
adjacent to pipe penetrations with concrete grout. Do not penetrate the wall with clusters of pipes or conduit.
If more than one pipe penetrates the wall in the same area, provide center-to-center spacing of at least three
times the largest pipe diameter. The structural aspects of this recommendation do not apply to panel walls
in reinforced concrete buildings, providing the frames on both sides of the wall are reinforced concrete.
However, FM Approved fire stop materials still need to be used to seal around penetrations.
B. Protect exposed cables with combustible insulation with an FM Approved fire-resistive coating or wrap
for at least 3 ft (1.0 m) on each side of the wall, unless a 4-hour fire stop assembly is used.
2.2.2.11.3 Arrange heating, ventilating, and air conditioning ducts penetrating MFL fire walls with a slip joint
(Fig. 34) located on each side of the wall as near to the face of the wall as practical. Provide 3-hour rated
fire doors or dampers in the section of duct that penetrates the wall and securely fasten it to the wall at the
opening. Provide two dampers for a double wall (one damper in each wall) with a slip joint between the walls.
Install access panels nearby. For more information see Section 2.5.2.7 and 3.3.5.
Building code requirements may not allow the use of dampers in ducts conveying hazardous materials or
used for smoke removal. In such cases, reroute the duct to avoid penetration of the fire wall.

Fig. 34. Breakaway connections; slip joints
2.2.2.11.4 Do not laterally brace or support piping, conduit, cables, ducts, and connected electrical control
panels on MFL walls (other than double MFL fire walls or MFL panel walls in reinforced concrete build-
ings). When any of these services must penetrate the wall, ensure the service is attached to and sup-
ported from the building columns and not the MFL wall.
2.2.2.11.5 Do not penetrate an MFL wall with piping that conveys combustible gas or ignitable liquid (such
as fuel oil). Provide separate supplies to areas on each side of the wall.
2.2.2.11.6 Allow only steel or iron pipe, conduit, or ducts to pass through any MFL fire wall.
2.2.2.11.7 Keep combustibles at least 1 ft (0.3 m) away from pipes, ducts, plates, conduit, etc., where they
penetrate the wall.
2.2.2.12 Design of MFL Fire Walls in FM Global Earthquake Zones

The design intent for MFL walls in FM 50-year through 500-year earthquake zones is for the wall to with-
stand the shake forces from the design earthquake and the thermal forces of an MFL fire directly after the
earthquake.
2.2.2.12.1 This section applies to MFL fire walls in facilities located in FM Global 50-year through 500-year
earthquake zones as shown in Data Sheet 1-2, Earthquakes.
2.2.2.12.2 Ensure MFL fire walls are designed by an engineer familiar with earthquake design and regis-
tered to practice structural design in the jurisdiction in which the project is located.
Meeting earthquake design requirements may eliminate one or more options that would otherwise be allowed
in non-earthquake areas. For example, preventing damage to a fire wall from steel expansion during a fire
by aligning the steel members on both sides of the wall and providing essentially no clearance is not an option
in active seismic areas if it will allow pounding during an earthquake.
2.2.2.12.3 Anchor MFL fire walls to those roofs, floors, columns, foundations, or other structural elements
that are intended to provide lateral support for the wall with positive direct connections adequate to resist
required forces. Do not attempt to transfer lateral forces perpendicular to the wall using friction, nails in with-
drawal, wood ledgers bolted to concrete or masonry walls, or similar connections.

2.2.2.12.4 Design MFL fire walls located in the United States, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Guam
for earthquake loads in accordance with the requirements of the Structural Engineering Institute/American
Society of Civil Engineers, Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures, Standard SEI/ASCE
7, or a building code based on this standard (e.g., the International Building Code). Use a seismic impor-
tance factor (IE) of 1.5 for the design of MFL fire walls. Where MFL walls are intended to provide resis-
tance to earthquake forces as part of the lateral-force-resisting system of the building (i.e., seismic shear
walls), and if the overall building structure is designed using an IE less than 1.5, increase all design forces
for the wall to an IE of 1.5; also design connections transferring forces to and from the MFL shear wall based
on an IE of 1.5.
2.2.2.12.5 In locations other than in Section 2.2.2.12.4, MFL fire walls may be designed using the recom-
mendations in Section 2.2.2.12.4 if appropriate earthquake acceleration parameters are available. If these
parameters are not available, use a seismic importance factor (IE) of 1.5 and the values of SDS provided below
in the following equations (these forces are applied perpendicular to the face of the wall unless noted oth-
erwise):
• FM 50-year earthquake zone: SDS = 1.3 (g)
• FM 500-year earthquake zone:SDS = 0.55 (g)
Calculate the forces on the walls as follows:
Cantilever walls – The wall is supported at the base only, with no attachment to the superstructure.
Seismic design force = 0.4*SDS*IE*WW
The force distribution on a cantilever wall is assumed to be an inverted triangular shape (i.e., with the force
resultant located above the base of the wall a distance equal to 2⁄3 of the wall height).
Tied, one-way, double, and panel walls – The wall is supported at the base and connected to the structure
at floors and roofs.
a) Wall and wall connections to supporting base or columns:
b) Wall connections to elevated floors and roof:
1. Concrete or masonry wall to flexible diaphragm (a diaphragm other than a rigid diaphragm)
2. Concrete or masonry wall to rigid diaphragm (a roof or floor structure that is monolithic structural con-
crete, structural concrete topping over metal deck, or structural concrete topping over concrete
planks) or MFL wall not of concrete or masonry material.
For rigid and flexible diaphragm construction, ensure the seismic design force perpendicular to the wall,
for connections from concrete or masonry walls to floor or roof diaphragms, is not less than 280 lb/ft (4.1
kN/m) nor 400* SDS*IE (lb/ft) (5.84* SDS*IE [kN/m]); also, the spacing of the connections does not exceed
4 ft (1.2 m) on center.
The force distribution on tied, one-way, double, and panel walls can be applied as a uniform force.
Parapets
a. Cantilever parapets
b. Braced parapets
Seismic design force = 0.5*SDS*IE*WW (for wall and bracing elements)
Seismic design force = 0.8*SDS*IE*WW (for bracing connections)
Where:

SDS is the site (soil) adjusted, 5% damped, design spectral response acceleration at a short (0.2- second)
period, expressed as a portion of the gravitational acceleration (g).
IE = seismic importance factor = 1.5.
WW = the weight of the wall in lbs (kN).
These design forces are intended for use in load and resistance factor design (LRFD) — also known as
strength design or ultimate limit state design – and are provided factored (i.e., no additional load factors are
required). If allowable stress design (ASD) or working stress design (WSD) is used, the LRFD design forces
shown can be multiplied by 0.7 to determine equivalent approximate ASD design forces.
The Response Modification Factor (R-factor) is already embedded in these formulae. The forces should not
be further reduced by an R-factor.
2.2.2.12.6 Where MFL walls are intended to provide resistance to earthquake forces as part of the lateral
force resisting system of the building (i.e., seismic shear walls), design MFL walls using the recommendations
in Section 2.2.2.12.4.
2.2.2.12.7. Provide adequate clearance between adjacent independent structures (e.g., between double
walls, or between a cantilever wall and the structure on either side) to minimize the potential for pounding.
Assume the actual deflection of a cantilever fire wall during an earthquake will be 21⁄2 times the deflection
determined, assuming the wall behaves elastically and using the LRFD forces in Sections 2.2.2.12.4
or 2.2.2.12.5 with an importance factor (IE) of 1.0. Criteria to determine the actual deflections of the building
structures adjacent to cantilever fire walls, or to which double walls are attached, is beyond the scope of
this document. The registered engineer responsible for the building structural design must determine these
deflections (amplifying deflections from design forces as necessary) and provide clearance adequate to
prevent pounding based on appropriate analysis.
2.2.2.13 Structural Design Details, Detailing Guidelines, and Quality Assurance for MFL Fire Wall
Construction
2.2.2.13.1 Reinforced Concrete Masonry
Provide concrete masonry walls with sufficient strength, durability, and stability to meet or exceed the
performance requirements. The provisions in this section represent the minimum requirements – additional
strength, durability, and stability may be needed to meet project-specific performance requirements.
Use 2-core concrete masonry units (blocks) installed in a running bond pattern. Do not use 3-core concrete
masonry units or stack bond patterns. The thickness of the mortar bed joint is typically 3⁄8 in. [9.5 mm]. Ensure
it does not exceed 5⁄8 in. [16 mm].
Ensure the 28-day compressive strength of concrete masonry units is not less than 1500 Lb/in2 (10.3 MPa)
and the units conform to ASTM C 90.
Assume face shell mortar bedding in design calculations rather than full area mortar bedding.
2.2.2.13.1.1 Minimum Reinforcing Ratio
The sum of the cross-sectional area of vertical and horizontal steel reinforcement is not less than 0.002 times
the gross cross-sectional area of the wall; and the minimum cross-sectional area of steel reinforcement in
each direction (vertical and horizontal) is no less than 0.0007 times the gross cross-sectional area of the wall.
The horizontal cross-sectional reinforcing area can include horizontal joint reinforcing wire and continuous
bond beam reinforcing.
See Section 3.2.2 for an example calculation of reinforcing ratios.
2.2.2.13.1.2 Vertical Reinforcing
Space vertical reinforcement no greater than 4 ft (1.2 m), or 1/3 the wall length or 1/3 the height between
support points, whichever is less. In all cases, ensure vertical reinforcing is continuous through bond beams
and for the entire height of the wall. Where splices are required for continuity, lap reinforcement no less than
48 bar diameters (for example, 1⁄2 in. [13 mm] diameter reinforcing bars would be lapped at least 24 in. [610
mm]). Provide a minimum clearance of 1⁄2 in. [13 mm] between the reinforcement and the interior surfaces of
the masonry unit. Use rebar positioners spaced no greater than 8 ft [2.4 m] to fix vertical reinforcing in place,
ensuring the position assumed for design is held during construction.

Provide no fewer than two (2) full-height, reinforced grouted cores at each wall corner or intersection. See
Figures 35a and 35b.
Provide no fewer than two (2) full-height, reinforced grouted cores at each wall termination and at each side
of horizontal wall openings 8 ft (2.4 m) and greater. Provide no fewer than one (1) full-height, reinforced
grouted core at each side of horizontal wall openings less than 8 ft (2.4 m) and greater than 1.33 ft (0.4 m).
See Figure 36.
Provide no fewer than two (2) full-height, reinforced grouted cores at each wall control joint or expansion
joint, one on each side of the joint. See Figure 37.
For grouted reinforced cores at wall corners, intersections, terminations, openings, control joints, and
expansions joints, use the same reinforcing bar size and number of reinforcing bars per core as used for
the typical wall reinforcing.
2.2.2.13.1.3 Horizontal Reinforcing
Provide horizontal joint reinforcing consisting of minimum two (2) No. 9 (0.1483 in. [4 mm] diameter) diameter
longitudinal steel side wires, one at each face shell, with No. 9 (0.1483 in. [4 mm] diameter) cross wires
spaced at 16 in. [400 mm]. Use ladder-type horizontal joint reinforcing rather than truss-type (truss-type
diagonals can interfere with the proper placement of the vertical reinforcing). Ensure horizontal joint reinforcing
shall be factory fabricated and shall conform to ASTM A 82 (minimum yield strength 70,000 psi [480 MPa],
minimum tensile strength 80,000 psi [550 MPa]); do not use tack welded construction. Provide joint
reinforcement in flat sections not less than 10 ft (3 m) in length; lap splice longitudinal side wires not less
than 6 in. (15 mm). Provide factory formed tees and ells for continuity of horizontal joint reinforcing at wall
intersections and corners. Ensure all joint reinforcing is hot-dip galvanized in conformance with ASTM A 153
Class B2 (zinc coating 1.5 oz/ft2 [450 g/m2]) unless exposed to extremely humid or corrosive atmospheres,
in which case use stainless steel in conformance with ASTM A 580 Type 304.
Place steel joint reinforcement in every second horizontal joint of concrete masonry walls (spaced not more
than 16 in. [0.4 m] on center) for stiffening and additional shrinkage control (see Fig. 23). In addition, place
joint reinforcement in every first and second bed joint above and below wall openings and extend it at least
2 ft (0.6 m) horizontally beyond the openings. Provide joint reinforcement in the three joints immediately below
the top of the wall. Interrupt joint reinforcement at control joints and expansion joints.
Incorporate at least one (1) continuous bond beam located at the same elevation of each level of adjacent
structural floor or roof framing. Bond beams (Fig. 26) spaced at a maximum of 3.3 ft (1.0 m) on center vertically
may be used in lieu of horizontal joint reinforcement; however, horizontal joint reinforcement still must be
provided midway between bond beams. Provide bond beams with minimum steel reinforcement of two (2)
#4 (1⁄2 in. [12.7 mm] diameter) bars for 8-inch (20 mm) nominal concrete masonry units, or two (2) #5 (5⁄8 in.
[15.9 mm] diameter) bars for 10 in. (25 mm) nominal and larger concrete masonry units. Provide continuous
steel reinforcing for bond beam by means of lap splicing, including at wall intersections and corners. Provide
lap lengths of not less than 48 times the diameter of the lapped reinforcing bar (see Figure 24). Provide a
minimum clearance of 1⁄2 in. [13 mm] between the reinforcement and the interior surfaces of the masonry
unit.
Fill all bond beams solid with grout; do not use mortar or other materials.
Ensure bond beam reinforcing extends uninterrupted through control joints.
Position continuous bond beams to incorporate lintels at the same elevation whenever practicable. Where
lintels cannot be incorporated into continuous bond beams, provide no less than 8 in. (200 mm) of lintel
bearing length at each side of the opening. Limit lintel deflection due to combined dead load and live load
to 1/600 of the span, or 0.3 in. (8 mm), whichever is less.
Provide lintels at all openings greater than 16 in. (405 mm).
2.2.2.13.1.4 Grout and Mortar
Provide grout in conformance with ASTM C 476. Ensure the compressive strength of the grout is equal to
or greater than the compressive strength of the masonry unit, but never less than 2000 lb/in2 (13.8 MPa).
Determine the compressive strength of grout in accordance with ASTM C 1019. Ensure the grout mix has a
consistency such that the measured slump is between 8 in. and 11 in. (200 to 280 mm). Where openings

are restricted or congested with reinforcing, use only fine grout. Ensure the maximum aggregate size is less
than 1/5 the narrowest clear dimension within the grout space; under no circumstances use an aggregate
size greater than 3⁄8 in. (9.5 mm) for coarse grout.
Place grout using low-lift grouting procedures; use 5 ft (1.5 m) maximum lifts. If low-lift grouting procedures
are not used, ensure cleanouts are provided at the base of the wall at each grouted core. For solid grouted
walls, provide cleanouts at a maximum spacing of 32 in. (810 mm) on center. For each grout lift, stop grout
pours at least 1 in. (25 mm) below the top of the masonry in order to form a grout key with the next lift (except
for final grout pour at the top of the wall).
Use only Type M or Type S mortars for masonry walls. (See Appendix A, Glossary of Terms, for a description
of each.)
2.2.2.13.2 Reinforced Concrete
2.2.2.13.2.1 Provide reinforced concrete walls with sufficient strength, durability, and stability to meet or
exceed the performance requirements. The recommendations in this section represent the minimum
requirements; additional strength, durability, and stability may be needed to meet project-specific performance
requirements.
2.2.2.13.2.2 Provide concrete with a 28-day compressive strength of not less than 3,500 psi (24 MPa).
2.2.2.13.2.3 Ensure the cross-sectional area of steel reinforcing in each direction (vertical and horizontal)
is at least 0.0025 times the effective gross cross-sectional area of the wall. Space horizontal and vertical
reinforcing no greater than 18 in. (0.46 m).
2.2.2.13.2.4 Provide continuous steel reinforcing by means of lap splicing, including at all wall intersections
and corners.
2.2.2.13.2.5 Provide lap lengths of not less than 60 times the diameter of the reinforcing bar. Do not use
welding or mechanical couplers to join reinforcing steel.
2.2.2.13.2.6 Provide steel reinforcing oriented diagonally at all wall openings greater than 8 in. (20 mm);
provide not less than two (2) #5 (0.625 in. [16 mm] diameter) reinforcing bars at each corner of each opening.
2.2.2.13.3 Detailing and Inspection of MFL Fire Walls in FM Global Earthquake Zones
2.2.2.13.3.1 Ensure MFL fire walls located in FM Global earthquake zones (50, 100, 250, and 500-year zones)
are in conformance with the recommendations in Sections 2.2.2.1 and 2.2.2.2 unless specifically noted
otherwise.
2.2.2.13.3.2 Provide walls with sufficient strength, durability, and stability to meet or exceed the performance
requirements. The recommendations in this section represent the minimum requirements; additional strength,
durability, and stability may be needed to meet project-specific performance requirements.
2.2.2.13.3.3 For all vertical reinforcing bars, and all bond beam and lintel reinforcing bars, use reinforcing
steel conforming to the following specifications: Actual tested tensile strength not less than 1.25 times the
actual tested yield strength; minimum 14% elongation (over 8 in. [203 mm]) at tensile failure for reinforcing
bars not greater than 0.75 in. (19 mm) in diameter; minimum 12% elongation (over 8 in. [203 mm]) at tensile
failure for reinforcing bars greater than 0.75 in. (19 mm) in diameter. These specifications can be met by using
reinforcing bars in conformance with ASTM A 706; alternatively, ASTM A 615 steel reinforcing may be used
provided that mill certificates are submitted that indicate the material meets the specifications noted above.
2.2.2.13.3.4 Do not credit heavily reinforced localized portions of the wall — for instance, at pilasters, chords,
or wall openings - when determining the amount of reinforcing providing shear resistance for the wall.
2.2.2.13.3.5 Reinforced Concrete Masonry
2.2.2.13.3.5.1 Provide Level 2 Special Inspection in accordance with Chapter 17 of the latest edition of the
International Building Code (IBC), with the addition of item 1 in Table 3 below. In locations where the IBC
is not available or not in force, provide construction inspection in accordance with Table 3 below.

Table 3. Verification and Inspection of Concrete Masonry MFL Wall Construction

Verification and Inspection Continuous Periodic
1 Inspect wall penetrations and associated specified clearances and fire-proofing. x
2 Verify proportioning of site-prepared mortar, grout, and pre-stressing grout for x
bonded tendons.
3 Inspect placement of masonry units and construction of mortar joints. x
4 Verify size, grade, and type of reinforcement. x
5 Inspect placement of reinforcement. x
6 Inspect grout space (cores or cells) prior to grout placement. x
7 Inspect placement of grout, including pre-stressing or post-tensioning grout. x
8 Inspect anchors, bolts, and other embedded structural connections. x
9 Inspect protection of masonry during cold weather (below 40°F [4°C]) and hot X
(above 90°F [32°C]) weather.
10 Inspect application of stressing force for pre-stressed or post-tensioned walls. x
11 Inspect grouting of bonded strand for pre-stressed or post-tensioned walls. x
12 Inspect sample preparation and verify testing of any required grout and mortar x
specimens, and test prisms.
Table 3 Notes:
1. Periodic inspection and verification: Part-time or intermittent observation of the work being performed, and the completion of the work,
by an approved inspector.
2. Continuous inspection and verification: Full-time observation of the work being performed by an approved inspector.
3. Approved inspector: Personnel trained in conducting and evaluating tests and inspections; employed by an independent inspection/ testing
agency hired by the owner, or by the design professional in responsible charge acting as the owner’s agent; approved by the building official.
2.2.2.13.3.5.2 Vertical Reinforcing

Provide no fewer than five (5) full-height reinforced grouted cores at each wall corner or intersection. See
Figures 35a and 35b.
Provide no fewer than three (3) full-height reinforced grouted cores at each wall termination, at each side
of expansion joints, and at each side of horizontal wall openings 8 ft (2.4 m) and greater. Provide no fewer
than two (2) full-height reinforced grouted cores at each side of horizontal wall openings greater than 3 ft
(0.9 m) and less than 8 ft (2.4 m). Provide no fewer than one (1) full-height reinforced grouted cores at each
side of horizontal wall openings greater than 1.33 ft (0.4 m) but less than 3 ft (0.9 m). See Figure 36.
Fig. 35a. Vertical reinforcing detail at concrete masonry wall corner

Fig. 35b. Vertical reinforcing detail at concrete masonry wall intersection
Fig. 36. Vertical reinforcing detail at concrete masonry wall opening or termination
Fig. 37. Vertical reinforcing detail at concrete masonry wall control joint
2.2.2.13.3.5.3 Horizontal Reinforcing

Provide minimum horizontal joint reinforcing consisting of minimum two (2) 3⁄16 in. (5 mm) diameter)
longitudinal steel side wires, one at each face shell, with No. 9 (0.1483 in. diameter [4 mm]) cross wires spaced
at 16 in. (400 mm). Lap splice longitudinal side wires not less than 8 in. (20 mm).
Enclose vertical reinforcing bars at pilasters with horizontal joint ties. Space horizontal joint ties no greater
than 16 in. (400 mm). Ensure horizontal joint ties are the same size and material as horizontal joint reinforcing,
and are provided with 135-degree hooks.

Provide 180-degree standard hooks for all bond beam, lintel, and sill reinforcing terminations; ensure each
reinforcing bar hook encompasses at least one vertical reinforcing bar. See Figure 25.
Provide reinforced sills at all wall opening requiring lintels; ensure sills are of similar type, size, reinforcing,
and detailing as lintels.
Where masonry lintels 16 in. (406 mm) or more in height are provided, ensure #3 (3⁄8 inch [10 mm] diameter)
shear stirrups spaced at 16 in. (406 mm), and two (2) #4 (1⁄2 in. [13mm] diameter) top reinforcing bars are
provided for the entire length of the lintel; these stirrups and top bars are to be provided in addition to the
required bottom reinforcing bars.
2.2.2.13.3.6 Reinforced Concrete
2.2.2.13.3.6.1 Provide Special Inspection in accordance with Chapter 17 of the latest edition of the
International Building Code (IBC), with the addition of item 1 in Table 4. In locations where the IBC is not
available or not in force, provide construction inspection in accordance with Table 4.
Table 4. Verification and Inspection of Reinforced Concrete MFL Wall Construction.

Verification and Inspection Continuous Periodic
1 Inspect wall penetrations and associated specified clearances and fire-proofing. x
2 Verify size, grade, and type of reinforcement x
3 Inspect reinforcing steel and placement, including depth of concrete cover. X
4 Inspect anchors, bolts, and other embedded structural connections. x
5 Verify use of specified concrete design mix. x
6 Inspect sample preparation and verify concrete testing (sampling for strength x
tests, slump, entrained air, temperature, density).
7 Inspect concrete placement. x
8 Inspect for maintenance of specified curing temperatures and techniques. x
9 Inspect protection of concrete during cold weather (below 40°F [4°C]) and hot x
(above 90°F [32°C]) weather.
10 Inspect application of stressing force for pre-stressed or post-tensioned x
concrete.
11 Inspect grouting of bonded strand for pre-stressed or post-tensioned concrete; x
or grouting of splice sleeves.
12 Inspect erection of precast concrete members. x
13 Verify in-place concrete strength prior to stressing of post-tensioning tendons. x
Table 4 Notes:
1. Periodic inspection and verification: Part-time or intermittent observation of the work being performed, and the completion of the work,
by an approved inspector.
2. Continuous inspection and verification: Full-time observation of the work being performed by an approved inspector.
3. Approved inspector: Personnel trained in conducting and evaluating tests and inspections; employed by an independent inspection/testing
agency hired by the owner, or by the design professional in responsible charge acting as the owner’s agent; approved by the building official.
2.2.2.13.3.6.2 Provide at least two curtains of steel reinforcing throughout the entire wall.
2.2.2.13.3.6.3 Provide steel reinforcing oriented diagonally at all wall openings greater than 8 in. (20 mm);
provide not less than two (2) #5 (0.625 in. [16 mm] diameter) reinforcing bars at each corner of each opening.
2.2.2.13.3.6.4 Provide boundary elements (see Figure 38) with lengths not less than 1⁄8 the wall segment
length. Ensure all vertical reinforcing bars within the boundary element are confined within transverse hoop
reinforcement.

Fig. 38. Boundary element reinforcing detail (plan view) for concrete walls in FM Global earthquake zones
2.2.2.13.3.6.5 Ensure the cross-sectional area of vertical reinforcing contained in the boundary element is
from 0.01 to 0.06 times the gross cross-sectional area of the boundary element. Ensure the minimum
cross-sectional area of transverse hoop and cross-tie reinforcement is at least 0.008 times the gross
cross-sectional area of the wall at the boundary element location. Provide vertical spacing of transverse hoop
and cross-tie reinforcement based on local code requirements, but never less than 4 in. (100 mm) or more
than 6 in. (150 mm). Provide transverse hoop and cross-tie reinforcement such that the distance between
reinforcing bar bends (see dimension “X” on Fig. 38) is no greater than 14 in. (350 mm). Ensure horizontal
reinforcing can develop its full yield strength within the boundary element; if the length of the boundary
element is insufficient to develop full yield strength, use 135-degree standard hooks to anchor the horizontal
reinforcing bars to the vertical reinforcing bars located closest to the wall opening.
For cross-tie reinforcing oriented perpendicular to horizontal reinforcing and engaging the same vertical
reinforcing bar, install consecutive cross-tie reinforcing so the 135-degree standard hooks will be located on
opposite sides of the wall.
The wall segment length is defined as the distance between wall openings; if there are no wall openings,
the wall segment length is equal to the wall length.
2.2.2.13.3.6.6 Where ACI 318, Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete, is available, providing
walls in accordance with ACI 318 requirements for Special Structural Walls with Special Boundary Elements
will ensure conformance with the recommendations noted here.
2.2.2.13.3.6.7 Where multiple openings in the walls are proposed, creating horizontal wall segments (coupling
beams between multiple openings vertically aligned) or vertical wall segments (wall piers or columns), special
reinforcing and detailing is required to ensure adequate performance of the wall. Addressing these conditions
is beyond the scope of this document.
2.3 MFL Limiting Factor: Space Separation
2.3.1 Introduction
MFL space separation is the most common MFL limiting factor. The MFL space separation is the clear distance
required to prevent a fire from propagating across an open space from one building to another (or to/from
combustible yard storage). The analysis must include the fire severity, the susceptibility of the exposed
construction, heat transfer via convection and radiation, the effect of wind and the potential for burning brands.
2.3.1.1 Evaluate space separation between buildings for limiting MFL fires per Figures 43a/43b and 44a/44b
when the exposed walls are combustible or noncombustible.
2.3.1.2 Evaluate the space separation per Table 5 when the exposed wall is fire rated.

Table 5. Required Separation Distance for Fire-Rated Construction

Exposing Occupancy Fire Hazard
Exposed Wall Fire Light/Ordinary Storage up to 30 ft Storage up to 45 ft Storage above 45 ft
Rating (hours) (9.1 m) (13.7 m) (13.7 m)
1 15 ft (4.6 m) 40 ft (12.2 m) 50 ft (15.2 m) 60 ft (18.3 m)
2 10 ft (3.1 m) 30 ft (9.1 m) 40 ft (12.2 m) 50 ft (15.2 m)
3 5 ft (1.5 m) 5 ft (1.5 m) 5 ft (1.5 m) 5 ft (1.5 m)
4 None1 None1 None1 None1
1
Only structural separation and minimum clearance for thermal expansion (see Table 1) are required.
2.3.1.3 The key information needed in order to use the figures is occupancy fire loading, exposed wall
category, and length of the exposing wall. The length of the exposing wall is not important when the exposed
wall is fire rated.
2.3.1.4 The minimum separation distance is 10 ft (3.0 m) for any situation except for exposed walls greater
than or equal to 3-hour fire-rated.
2.3.2 Classification of Exposed Wall Construction

2.3.2.1 Classify non-fire-resistance rated walls as either noncombustible or combustible using Table 6 and
2.3.2.2.

Table 6. Exposed Wall Categories

NONCOMBUSTIBLE1
Steel-faced panels w/o insulation on steel or reinforced concrete frame
Steel-faced panels w/ noncombustible insulation on steel or reinforced concrete frame
Cementitious panels w/o insulation on steel or reinforced concrete frame
Cementitious panels w/ noncombustible insulation on steel or reinforced concrete frame
FM Approved steel-faced class 1 panels on steel or reinforced concrete frame
FM Approved steel-faced noncombustible panels on steel or reinforced concrete frame
EIFS w/ noncombustible insulation over gypsum board sheathing
EIFS w/class 1 insulation over gypsum board sheathing
FM Approved steel-faced class 1 panels w/ thermoset insulation on steel or reinforced concrete frame
FM Approved aluminum-faced class 1 panels w/ thermoset insulation on steel or reinforced concrete frame
Aluminum-faced panels w/ noncombustible insulation on steel or reinforced concrete frame
Cementitious shingles on steel or reinforced concrete frame
Cementitious shingles over noncombustible sheathing on steel or reinforced concrete frame
Any unrated precast, cast-in-place or tilt-up concrete panels (solid, hollow or insulated) on steel or reinforced concrete
frame
Any unrated glass block
Any tempered glass panels in noncombustible frames on a steel or reinforced concrete building frame
Metal lath and plaster
Cementitious stucco
COMBUSTIBLE2
Painted wood
Unpainted wood
Asphalt shingled wood sheathing
Asphalt Coated Metal (ACM)3
Rigid plastic panels (FRP, PVC)
Aluminum panels w/o insulation
EIFS
Non-Approved metal-faced panels w/ plastic insulation
All metal-faced panels w/ thermoplastic insulation
Cementitious panels on wood frame
Cementitious shingles on wood frame
Any wall with exposed combustible materials
Other assemblies on unprotected wood frame
Any wall with windows that can be opened
FIRE RATED
The wall should meet the required fire rating per FM Global Loss Prevention Data Sheet 1-21. Any openings should be
protected with a comparable fire-rated door. Any windows should be fire rated to match the rating of the wall.
1
Noncombustible exposed walls also can have no overhanging wood eaves and any windows should be multi-pane or tempered glass.
2
Combustible exposed walls include any wall with overhanging wood eaves and any wall with single-pane, annealed (not tempered) glass
windows.
3
Increase separation by 25% for asphalt-coated metal walls.
2.3.2.2 Operable Windows

Operable windows can obviously be open and thus provide no resistance to convection, radiation or burn-
ing brands.
The hazard with windows is that they break and fall out when exposed to significant heat. (While the win-
dows are in place, much of the radiation is reflected or absorbed and does not transmit through the glass.)
2.3.3 Exposing Wall Length (L)

2.3.3.1 Unless adjusted by 2.3.3.2-2.3.3.4, the length of the exposure (L) is the length of the exposing building
up to a maximum length of 500 ft (150 m).
2.3.3.2 When the buildings overlap each other, use Figure 39 to determine the length of the exposure (L).

Fig. 39. Length of exposing wall for overlapping buildings
Fig. 40. Length of exposing wall for offset buildings
2.3.3.3 Evaluate buildings that are offset from one another using a 90 degree angle of exposure, a length
of the exposure (L) based on a 45 degree angle (see Fig. 39) up to a maximum of 100 ft (30 m) (see Fig. 40).
2.3.3.4 When the exposed buildings are at an angle to one another, use Figure 41 to determine the exposing
length (L) and use Figure 45 to determine the multiplier to account for the reduced radiation due to the angular
exposure.

Fig. 41. Exposed buildings at angles
2.3.4 Stable Fire-Resistive Exposing Walls

2.3.4.1 If the wall and structural frame of the exposing building is fire resistive (i.e., the wall is expected to
remain in place throughout the duration of the MFL fire), the required space separation can be reduced.
Determine the percent openings in the exposing wall and multiply the required separation by this percentage
to obtain the actual space required.
2.3.5 Exposing Occupancy

1. Light/Ordinary. This category includes manufacturing, office, hotel, and similar occupancies where there
are no significant storage areas over 50 ft (15 m) in length as measured parallel to the exposed wall; see
Figure 42. In process storage, up to 6 ft (1.8 m) is not considered storage.
Fig. 42. Small storage areas in light/ordinary hazard buildings

Do not use this category for multi-story combustible construction. See the storage categories below.
Do not use this category for multi-story buildings with unprotected openings between floors and combustible
interior finish material (walls and ceiling). If both of those are present, treat the building as a storage
occupancy up to 30 ft (9.1 m) high.
2. Storage occupancies up to 30 ft (9.1 m) high. This category includes storage of any commodity up to 30
ft (9.1 m) in height. It also includes multi-story combustible-construction buildings up to 30 ft (9.1 m) tall.
Storage of noncombustible goods in noncombustible packaging can be considered light/ordinary.
3. Storage occupancies greater than 30 ft (9.1 m) up to 45 ft (13.7 m) high. This category includes storage
of any commodity over 30 ft (9.1 m) up to 45 ft (13.7 m) in height. It also includes multi-story combustible
construction buildings up to 45 ft (13.7 m) tall. Storage of noncombustible goods in noncombustible packaging
can be considered light/ordinary.
4. Storage occupancies over 45 ft (13.7 m) high. This category includes storage of any commodity above
45 ft (13.7 m) in height. It also includes multi-story combustible construction buildings above 45 ft (13.7 m)
tall. Storage of noncombustible goods in noncombustible packaging can be considered light/ordinary.
5. Evaluating Occupancies with Ignitable Liquids.
• Classify production areas with isolated systems with less than 500 gal (1,900 L) capacity per reservoir of
ignitable liquids as light/ordinary hazard.
• Classify production areas with systems with greater than 500 gal (1900 L) reservoirs of ignitable liquids
in closed pipe systems (i.e., not ignitable liquids storage) as storage up to 30 ft (9.1 m) high.
• Evaluate the storage of ignitable liquids (i.e., storage in drums, totes, IBCs, etc.) as follows:
Inside Buildings
− Use the greater of the two spacings in Table 3 in DS 7-88; assume all liquids have a flash point below
140°F (60°C).
− Variable D for use in Table 3 is defined by the expected pool fire size. This is determined by the
presence of any containment and/or the total amount of ignitable liquid.
− The minimum space separation is 75 ft (22.3 m) for noncombustible exposed walls and 125 ft (38.1
m) for combustible exposed walls.
− The maximum space separation is 200 ft (61 m) for noncombustible exposed walls and 300 ft (91.4
m) for combustible exposed walls.
− If only a small amount of the storage area has ignitable liquid analyze the space for the hazard
from the rest of the occupancy.
− Evaluate exposure to fire-rated walls using Table 5 and storage over 45 ft (13.7 m).
Outside Storage Areas

− Use the greater of the two spacings in Table 3 in DS 7-88; assume all liquids have a flash point
below 140°F (60°C).
− Variable D for use in Table 3 is defined by the length of the contained area.
− The minimum space separation is 75 ft (22.3 m) for noncombustible exposed walls and 125 ft
(38.1 m) for combustible exposed walls.
− The maximum space separation is 200 ft (61 m) for noncombustible exposed walls and 300 ft
(91.4 m) for combustible exposed walls.
− If there is no containment, assess the slope of the land and the ability of the liquid to flow into
and compromise the space.
− Evaluate exposure to fire-rated walls using Table 5 and storage over 45 ft (13.7 m).
For all occupancies with ignitable liquids, evaluate whether or not ignitable liquids can compromise the
space by flowing into the area. Provide containment if needed.
2.3.6 Yard Storage, Conveyors, Pipes, Passageways, and Roof Protection

2.3.6.1 Remove combustible yard storage that can negate a space separation. If yard storage cannot be
avoided, maintain adequate space between yard storage and the exposed building considering the yard
storage as an exposing building.

2.3.6.2 Provide protection for conveyors, pipes, bridges, tunnels, and other connector links that could damage
or otherwise compromise the protective wall of an exposed building. Bridges must be independently
supported with fireproofed supports to prevent the protecting wall of the exposed building from collapsing.
Ensure construction of all passageways is noncombustible (i.e., no Class 2 steel deck roofs). Provide fire
doors at each end of tunnels, passes, connector links, etc., with a minimum fire resistance equal to the needed
fire resistance of the walls in accordance with Table 5, but not less than1 hour.
2.3.6.3 If the buildings are within 50 ft (15 m) of each other, provide the roof of the exposed building with a
gravel surface or paver blocks for at least the portion of roof within 50 ft (15 m) of the exposure. For other
types of roofs, such as standing seam or lap seam steel roofs, provide the protection on the underside as
recommended in Section 2.2.2.9.4(d).
2.3.7 Side Wall Protection

2.3.7.1 When the exposing wall is longer than the exposed wall, side wall protection may be needed. If the
space is adequate per this data sheet, then no side wall protection is needed, as long as the construction
of the side wall is the same as the exposed wall. If the space is inadequate, analyze the exposure to the side
wall as a 900 angle exposure.
The length of the protection needed for the side wall is equal to the space needed for a 900 exposure minus
the actual space separation provided. See DS 1-20 for more details.

500
Above 45 ft. storage fire hazard
Up to 30 ft. storage fire hazard

30 to 45 ft. storage fire hazard
Light/ordinary fire hazard

450
400
350
Noncombustible exposed wall
300
Exposing building length (ft.)
250
200
150
100
50
0
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
170
160
150
140
130
120
100
0
110
Required separation (ft.)
Fig. 43a. Required space separation for exposed noncombustible walls (English units). (In some cases the required space
may be reduced. See Sections 2.3.3 and 2.3.4.)
150
Above 13.5 m storage fire hazard

9 to 13.5 m storage fire hazard
Up to 9 m storage fire hazard
140

130
120
110
100
Exposing building length (m)
Noncombustible exposed wall
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
45
35
25
15
50
40
30
20
10
0
Required separation (m)
Fig. 43b. Required space separation for exposed noncombustible walls (metric units). (In some cases the required
spacemay be reduced. See Sections 2.3.3 and 2.3.4.)
500
Above 45 ft. storage fire hazard
Up to 30 ft. storage fire hazard

30 to 45 ft. storage fire hazard

450
400
350
Exposing building length (ft.)
300
Combustible exposed wall
250
200
150
100
50
0
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
220
210
200
190
180
170
160
150
140
130
120
100
0
110
Required separation (ft.)
Fig. 44a. Required separation for exposed combustible walls (English units). (In some cases the required spacemay be
reduced. See Sections 2.3.3 and 2.3.4.)
150
Above 13.5 m storage fire hazard

9 to 13.5 m storage fire hazard
Up to 9 m storage fire hazard
140

130
120
110
100
Exposing building length (m)
90
Combustible exposed wall
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Required separation (m)
Fig. 44b. Required separation for exposed combustible walls (metric units). (In some cases the required spacemay be
reduced. See Sections 2.3.3 and 2.3.4.)
180
170
160
150
Angle between the exposure and the exposed wall (0) (degrees)
140
130
120
110
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
0
1
0.9
0.8
0.7
0.6
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
Exposure angle adjustment factor (M)
Fig. 45. Multiplier for buildings exposed at an angle
2.3.8 Vegetation
Trees in temperate climates without significant undergrowth do not contribute to fire spread if the space
separation is otherwise acceptable. Each case must be evaluated on its own merits and it is possible that
there are exceptions to the above position. In non-temperate or non-tropical climates such as deserts and
other hot, arid locales, trees and undergrowth can contribute to fire spread. Data Sheet 9-19, Wildfire/Bushfire
Exposure, is a good guide to identifying geographic areas where vegetation should be considered a possible
contributing factor in MFL scenarios.
Typical urban and suburban areas of eastern North America receive sufficient rainfall or supplemental
watering that this type of foliage would not be expected to contribute to the MFL scenario. However, a large
tree canopy that spans the entire space and actually comes in contact with wood roofs or wood eaves may
result in a space being unacceptable.
2.3.9 Motor Vehicle Parking
2.3.9.1 Grade-Level Open Parking Lots

Private vehicle parking (passenger cars) in an open lot generally will not spread a fire across an open space.
Commercial vehicles (trucks, buses, tractor trailers) with or without trailers (loaded or unloaded) can spread
a fire across an open space. They have the potential for a significant increase in combustible loading due
to the larger plastic body panels and amount of on-board fuel. Each case must be evaluated on its own merits.
2.3.9.2 Open Aboveground Parking Garages and Car Parks

Private vehicle parking (passenger cars) generally will not spread a fire across an open-sided aboveground
parking garage.
Commercial vehicles (trucks, buses, tractor trailers) with or without trailers (loaded or unloaded) can spread
a fire across an open-sided parking garage.
2.3.9.3 Underground and Enclosed Parking Garages and Car Parks

Private and commercial vehicle parking can spread a fire across an underground and enclosed parking
garage.
2.3.10 Ignitable Liquid and Gas Loading and Unloading Stations
2.3.10.1 Ignitable Liquids

The MFL space separation analysis must consider all the foreseeable hazards associated with these facilities.
Consider the following scenarios:
• The fire occurs when a tanker truck is parked at the station in the space.
• The spill of a tanker’s entire contents and a subsequent fire.
• The spill of a tanker’s entire contents into an existing fire.
• Failure of piping and pumping systems and then a subsequent fire.
• Failure of piping and pumping systems at the station that feeds an existing fire.
Also refer to DS 7-43 and 7-88.
2.3.10.2 Flammable Gases

The MFL space separation analysis must consider all the foreseeable hazards associated with these facilities.
Consider the following scenarios:
• A vapor cloud fire
• A vapor cloud explosion
Also refer to Data Sheet 7-42, Evaluating Vapor Cloud Explosions Using a Flame Acceleration Method.

2.3.11 Rail Lines and Sidings

The MFL space separation analysis must consider all the foreseeable hazards associated with these facili-
ties. Consider the following scenarios:
• The fire occurs when the siding or rail line is occupied by open cars carrying a combustible material.
• The fire occurs when the siding or rail line is occupied by any one of the typical types of rail car (boxcar,
refrigerated boxcar, flatcar, tanker, container carrier, gondola, hopper, center partition car, auto trans-
porter).
• If ignitable liquids are normally delivered to the site via rail, consider that the fire occurs when a tanker
car is parked in the space.
• The spill of a tanker’s entire contents and a subsequent fire.
• The spill of a tanker’s entire contents into an existing fire.
2.4 MFL Limiting Factor: Prevention of Exterior Vertical Fire Spread
2.4.1 Mechanical Floors

A mechanical floor can serve as a fire break and stop vertical fire spread. A fire-resistive floor stops interior
vertical fire spread. It stops exterior spread when its walls are high enough to prevent exterior flames from
reaching beyond the top of the window on the floor above. If both conditions exist, the fire break is adequate.
The formula below provides the minimum floor height needed to stop vertical fire spread. In order to credit
a mechanical floor, the following must be true:
• There are no interconnected floors directly below the mechanical floor.
• There are no combustible interior finishes on walls and ceilings.
These factors will help ensure the fire does not spread to a significant number of floors at one time.
Br = 4.78h - S1 - 2(S1 + S2)
Where
Br = required minimum height of the mechanical floor (ft, m)
h = window height (ft, m)
S1 = height of the lower spandrel (ft, m)
S2 = height of the upper spandrel (ft, m)
Note: Floor height is equal to S1 + S2 + h (see Fig. 46)
Example: A 30-story, reinforced concrete frame high-rise building has no interconnected floors, has 12 ft
(3.7 m) high stories, with 5.8 ft (1.8 m) high windows, and spandrels centered on the floor slabs. It has a
20 ft (8 m) high, 17th story mechanical floor with no windows and negligible combustibles. What is the mini-
mum required height for an acceptable mechanical floor break?
Solution:
English Units:
h = 5.8 ft
S1 = 3.1 ft
S2 = 3.1 ft
Br = 4.78(5.8) - 3.1 - 2(3.1 + 3.1)
Br = 27.7 - 3.1 - 12.4
Br = 12.2 ft
The mechanical floor is 20 ft tall, so this is an acceptable fire break.
SI Units:
h = 1.8 m
S1 = 0.95 m
S2 = 0.95 m

Fig. 46. Window and spandrel heights
Fig. 47. Mechanical floor fire break and theoretical flame height

Br = 4.78(1.8) - 0.95 - 2(0.95 + 0.95)

Br = 8.6 - 0.95 - 3.8
Br = 3.85 m
The mechanical floor is 6.1 m tall, so this is an acceptable fire break.
* The bottom section of spandrel S17 may be deeper than on other floors to accommodate deeper beams
supporting the mechanical floor. If S17 is deeper, we can consider the mechanical floor fire break to be higher
by that distance; e.g., if S17 = 5 ft, the effective height of the 17th story fire break could be considered 12.2
+ (5 - 3.1) = 14.1 ft
2.4.2 Setbacks
A high-rise may have one or more abrupt reductions in floor area. Consider the reduction deep enough to
stop exterior fire spread if its depth is equal to or greater than the height needed for a mechanical floor break
and it extends around the entire building perimeter. In the previous example, we needed a mechanical floor
height greater than 12.2 ft. So a setback that goes completely around the building that is greater than
12.2 ft would be sufficient to stop vertical exterior fire spread.
All other criteria in 2.4.1 must also be provided.
2.4.3 Balconies
Noncombustible balconies of adequate size can deflect flames and stop upward exterior fire spread. To qualify
as an adequate vertical fire break, the balcony must overlap the openings on the lower floor by at least 4
ft (1.2 m) both outward and to the sides.
2.4.4 Podium Floors

Floor-ceiling assemblies can be used as limiting factors in multistory construction. Typically, a large retail
or casino floor is separated from a hotel tower by a reinforced concrete podium floor supported by a reinforced
concrete frame. Due to the many variables involved, a complete list of requirements cannot be provided.
The following are general guidelines:
• the floor-ceiling assembly must be 4-hr rated.
• the structural frame supporting the podium must be 4-hr rated.
• All penetrations must be adequately fire stopped.
• All openings must be protected with minimum 3-hr rated fire doors. Elevator shafts, vent shafts and utility
shafts must be minimum 2-hr. rated assemblies.
• Elevator doors must be at least 2-hr rated. Enclosed elevator lobbies must be at least 2-hr rated.
• External fire spread must be prevented by either extending the podium a minimum of 40 ft from the base
of the tower on all sides, or by providing mechanical floor breaks, set backs, or balconies as described
above.
• The tower exterior cladding must be noncombustible.
2.5 Protection of Openings in MFL Limiting Factors
2.5.1 Introduction
This section provides guidelines for the protection of openings in MFL limiting factors. Openings are defined
as personnel, vehicle, and material-handling-system openings. For guidelines on the protection of
penetrations (pipes, cables, etc.), see Section 2.2.2.11.
2.5.2 Construction and Location

Minimize the number of doorways or other openings in MFL fire walls. When they are necessary, keep them
as small as practical.
For general information on door types, refer to Appendix C.

2.5.2.1 Fire Doors

2.5.2.1.1 Ensure fire doors in MFL fire walls are FM Approved and labeled (see Fig. 48) and have a minimum
3-hour fire rating. Do not use glazing material in fire doors in MFL fire walls. Except where single fire doors
are acceptable, provide one door on each side of the opening. Since MFL conditions assume fire protection
is out of service, water spray is not an acceptable substitute for fire doors. Also, do not use sprinkler water
flow as the sole means of initiating fire door closure.
2.5.2.1.2 Keep the number of openings in fire walls to a minimum, especially during the design of new MFL
fire walls. The fewer the openings, the greater the reliability of the limiting factor.
2.5.2.1.3 Ensure architectural drawings and specifications call for the use of FM Approved fire doors and
do not use the phrase ″or equal.″
2.5.2.1.4 When purchasing fire doors, specify the hardware, frame (swinging doors), operators, and related
devices as part of the assembly.
2.5.2.1.5 When selecting new fire doors in MFL fire walls used to separate warehousing areas, take into
consideration the temperature-rise rating of the door. (See Appendix C, Section C.8.)
2.5.2.1.6 When it is necessary to have an opening in an MFL fire wall that is larger than any FM Approved
fire door, protect the opening with a door that has a minimum 3-hour FM Approvals oversize label.
2.5.2.1.7 When horizontal sliding doors are mounted in pairs (bi-parting), ensure the center joint is rabbeted
or provided with an astragal (Figs. 49, 50, and 51) to provide a minimum lap projection of 3/4 inch
(19 mm).2.5.2.1.8 Where side-by-side exit (egress) doors are required by local authorities to open in opposite
directions, use separate doors latching into a mullion (vertical framing member). Where egress doors swing
in pairs and have a minimum 3-hour fire rating, ensure they either latch into a mullion or are equipped with
an astragal that conforms to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard No. 80, Fire Doors and
Windows (Fig. 52). Provide a device to coordinate door closure.
2.5.2.1.9 Ensure all horizontal sliding doors and metal-clad or sheet metal vertical sliding doors lap the sides
and the top of the opening by at least 4 in. (102 mm). Ensure steel sectional vertical sliding doors lap the
top and sides of the openings by at least 2 in. (51 mm).
2.5.2.1.10 When an elevator is to be located next to an MFL fire wall, arrange it so the elevator door is not
in the plane of the MFL fire wall.
2.5.2.1.11 Ensure doors that are normally closed are self-closing (install weights, door closers, or spring
hinges if necessary) and are equipped with a latch. Make doors that are normally open self-closing by
installing a mechanism that will close the door automatically when activated by a detector (Figs. 53 and 54).
Locate the activating mechanism where it will be protected against mechanical damage.
2.5.2.1.12 Install doors in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and their FM Approval requirements
to ensure proper operation and tightness. Doors that are designed for mounting on the face of the wall are
sized to lap or rabbet the top and sides of the opening as noted in 2.5.2.1.9.
2.5.2.1.13 Enclose all weights (counterweights, hold-open weights, etc.) used for automatic closing
mechanisms in substantial metal enclosures for the entire length of travel. Provide slots in the enclosure to
permit raising the weight manually during inspection of the doors (Figs. 55, 56, and 57).
2.5.2.1.14 Use aircraft cable (Fig. 58) for connecting fusible links and weights (counterweights, hold-open
weights, etc.) to automatic closing mechanisms. Ordinary cable may take a permanent set, and chain can kink
or hang up on other components. Avoid sharp changes in direction (> 90°) unless pulleys are used.
2.5.2.1.15 Provide adequate clearance for vertical guides on rolling steel and vertical sliding fire doors. This
clearance allows for the expansion of the steel guides and prevents buckling at elevated fire temperatures.
Attach the vertical guides with bolts located in slotted holes to allow for expansion.
Do not attach the guides by welds unless specifically FM Approved and listed that way in the Approval Guide.
2.5.2.1.16 Provide adequate clearance between the curtain end locks and the guides on rolling steel doors
to allow for horizontal expansion and to prevent buckling of the curtain slats at elevated fire temperatures
(Fig. 59).

Fig. 48. Labels for FM Approved doors

Pipe Sleeve Through Wall Ceiling/Roof
Trigger Assembly
Trigger Assembly
Fusible Link
Fusible
Links
Roller
Hold-open Strip
Weights Stay Rolls
Floor
Reprinted with permission from NFPA 80, Fire Doors and Windows.
Fig. 49. Pair of metal-clad sliding fire doors (biparting) on inclined track
⁵⁄₈ in. (16 mm) dia. minimum
Ceiling line
Fusible links
Box-type track
Pendent hanger
Labeled sliding
door closer
¹⁄₂ in. (13 mm)
dia. minimum Listed latch if
Not fewer than two
or more than four required in
panel sections in manufacturer’s
a single door leaf published listing
Intermediate
rear binder
closed position Sill binders Concealed guide roll
Note: Fusible links are needed on both sides of the wall.
Fig. 50. Sliding doors on level tracks

Fig. 51. Preferred details at center joint of doors mounted in pairs.

Top bolt
A hinge for each 30 in.

(762 mm) or fraction
thereof of the height
of the door
Single-point latch
Bottom bolt Normally

Active door
stationary door
Astragal
Note: The astragal can be permitted to be attached to the inside of the

inactive leaf or the outside of the active leaf.
Fig. 52. Doors swinging in pairs—flush mounted.

High ceiling
Pipe sleeve Fusible

through wall links Trigger
assembly
Pulley
Suspended
weights
Door Pilot
weight
Metal
enclosure
Opening
Floor
Fig. 53. Single swinging fire door.

Fig. 54. Swinging fire door with door closer.

Fig. 55. Telescoping vertically sliding doors.

Ceiling line
Fusible
Pipe sleeve Eye
links
through wall bolt
Pulleys Swivel arm
Door
Metal
enclosure
Fusible Hold-open
link weights
Opening Track
Counterbalance
weights
Floor
Fig. 56. Vertically sliding door.

Fig. 57. Horizontal sliding level track counterweight closure.
Fig. 58. 7×19 aircraft cable.

All Thread Stud

Nut Thru Wall
Washer or
Crush Plate
Flat Washer Wall Opening Width
W/PVC Washer
Concrete /
Masonry Stud Jamb
Jamb
Bolt, Flat Washers

Nut & Flat Washers And PVC Washer
With PVC Washer Wall Angle
Endlock
1/4" (6 mm) Back
Set Typ. Both Sides Min. Depth
"A" "B" "A" of Guide
Guide Schedule Chart

Opening width Min. depth of Minimum Dimensions
(Face of wall) guides ‘‘A’’ ‘‘B’’
thru 8′ 21⁄2″ 1⁄2″ 2″
8′ thru 12′ 3″ 3⁄4″ 21⁄4″
12′ thru 14′ 31⁄4″ 7⁄8″ 23⁄8″
14′ thru 16′ 31⁄2″ 1″ 21⁄2″
16′ thru 20′ 4″ 11⁄4″ 23⁄4″
20′ thru 28′ 5″ 13⁄4″ 31⁄4″
28′ thru 36′ 6″ 21⁄4″ 33⁄4″
36′ thru 44′ 7″ 2 ⁄4″
3 41⁄4″
44′ thru 52′ 8″ 31⁄4″ 43⁄4″
Fig. 59. Clearance for curtain endlocks.
2.5.2.1.17 Use FM Approved or listed hardware where applicable. Ensure all bolts supporting guides/tracks
extend completely through the wall. As an alternative in concrete, brick, or grouted (filled) concrete masonry
units, expansion anchors may be used according to Figure 60. Ensure expansion anchors engage the brick
or masonry unit and not the mortar joint. Ensure through bolts do not extend through both walls in a double
fire wall.

Fire door guide

hardware
Expansion
bolt
8 x Bolt ø
minimum
6 x Bolt ø
minimum
Fig. 60. Use of expansion anchors to secure guides/tracks

2.5.2.1.18 Ensure lintels and opening framing are of fire-resistive construction, such as brick, reinforced
concrete, concrete masonry, or protected steel (Fig. 61).
Fig. 61. Lintels of fire-resistive construction.
2.5.2.1.19 Ensure combustible flooring does not extend through the wall.
2.5.2.1.20 Where it is important to prevent the passage of liquids through openings, install sills, curbs, or
ramps made of fire-resistive construction at the opening above floor level (Fig. 62), and provide adequate floor
drains nearby.
Fig. 62. Asphalt emulsion floor over concrete ramp.
2.5.2.1.21 After installation, have rolling steel fire doors satisfactorily tested, reset, and tested again to ensure
the installer/operator has reset the door-closing mechanism correctly. When spring tension is used to close
the door, make chalk marks noting the gear alignment to the release lever until the proper spring tension
has been established. The door can then be reset and placed back in service.
Springs for rolling steel fire doors are under extreme tension. Have only properly trained and qualified
personnel test, reset, repair, or adjust these doors.

2.5.2.1.22 Ensure the closing device housing (end cover) on all rolling steel fire doors (Fig. 63) is reinstalled
after the door is reset. The housing must also be in place during testing. This will prevent the accumulation
of dirt and debris, which could hamper the door closure, and help to detect (during tests) restrictions that
will prevent movement of the release lever.
2.5.2.1.23 Use flame baffles (to close the space created when the curtain unrolls, see Fig. 63, 64) on FM
Approved rolling steel fire doors.
Roof/ceiling Fusible link

• • • • • •
• •
Closing
device Hood
Flame
baffle
Guide
Interlocking steel
slat curtain
Expansion
Bottom bar clearance
Floor
Elevation
(Double Door)
Steel channel Masonry

or frame
Machine bolts Curtain
Guide
Bottom bar Through bolts
Plan
(Double Door)
Fig. 63. Rolling steel doors—surface mounted.

Roof/ceiling Fusible link
Flame
Flame baffle Hood baffle
fusible link
release
Opening height
Guide
Interlocking steel
slat curtain
Bottom bar
Floor
Expansion clearance
Elevation
(Double door)
Bottom bar Masonry

Guide
Machine bolts
Steel angles and Curtain Through

steel plate bolts
Plan
(Double door)
Fig. 64. Rolling steel doors between jamb mounted.

2.5.2.1.23 To help prevent mechanical damage to fire doors, resulting in their failure to operate, provide the
following at any existing installation with a history of vehicular damage:
1. Guard posts (such as concrete-filled steel pipe) rigidly secured to the floor or foundation installed in
front of all guides or tracks for rolling steel and vertical sliding fire doors used to protect personnel-operated
vehicle openings.
2. Guard rails (such as highway guard rails) installed in front of the entire length of horizontal sliding fire
doors (in the open position) to prevent storage from being placed against it, as well as damage from
impact.
3. A heavy steel horizontal guard installed in front of the hood of a rolling steel door. Ensure the guard
is vertically supported directly off the floor with posts. An alternative is to use surface-mounted doors with
at least 2 ft (0.6 m) of clear space between the top of the opening and the bottom of the door hood.
2.5.2.1.24 To ensure the prompt operation of fire doors, locate detectors (such as fusible links; see Appendix
C.2) per Data Sheet 5-48, Automatic Fire Detection.
2.5.2.1.25 Where fusible links are used, provide at least one link near an upper corner of the opening.
2.5.2.1.26 Where activation is by electric or pneumatic power, arrange the system so the door will close if
power is interrupted.
2.5.2.1.27 Arrange all doors on an opening to close automatically upon activation of a detector on either
side of the wall.
2.5.2.1.28 When cable is used to interconnect fire door closing mechanisms and detectors on both sides
of the MFL fire wall, ensure it passes freely through 1⁄2 inch (13 mm) inner dimension steel pipe embedded
in the wall. Ensure the distance between the inlet to the pipe or eyelets and the detector on each side is
at least adequate to allow the door mechanism to fully release and allow the door to close. Cut the steel pipe
flush with the face of the wall on each side and grind it smooth at each end to prevent abrasion and resistance
to cable movement (Fig. 65). It is not necessary to penetrate the wall at the ceiling level. Other arrangements
that meet the intent of this recommendation are acceptable.

Fire wall
Ground smooth or
bevelled to reduce
resistance to cable
Nom. ½ in. (13 mm)

I.D. steel pipe
Flexible
cable or Concrete grout
sash
chain
Fig. 65. Interconnection of trip assemblies through fire wall.
2.5.2.1.29 Where personnel doors (up to a maximum size of 4 by 8 ft [1.2 × 2.4 m]) swinging in the direc-
tion of the exit route are required for egress according to the governing codes, a single minimum 3-hour rated
fire door may be provided. Provide the door with a positive latch and door closer. Ensure the door is nor-
mally closed.
If a double MFL fire wall is used, provide a narrow, reinforced concrete, self-supporting frame that passes
through (but is not structurally connected to) both walls with one normally closed, self-closing fire door sup-
ported by the frame.
If double egress doors (a pair of side-by-side doors swinging in opposite directions) are required by the local
code, one set of doors may be used on a single fire wall only if the doors are self-closing and latch into a
fixed (non-removable) mullion. Otherwise, provide two sets of doors, with one set at each end of a vesti-
bule constructed as described above.
2.5.2.1.30 Ensure vehicle openings in double MFL fire walls use a reinforced concrete, self-supporting frame
that passes through (but is not structurally connected to) both walls. Ensure the fire doors on either side
of the opening (surface mounted) or in the opening are supported by the frame (Figs. 66 and 67).

Fig. 66. Rolling steel fire doors in double MFL wall using reinforced concrete frame.

Fig. 67. Rolling steel fire doors in double MFL wall using reinforced concrete frame.
2.5.2.1.31 Locate and arrange storage of small, pressurized containers of aerosol products so the rocketing
cans cannot pass through protected openings. For other details of protection, see Data Sheet 7-31, Storage
of Aerosol Products.
2.5.2.1.32 The following recommendations apply to all doors protecting openings where the occupancy is
highly susceptible to smoke damage:
1. Arrange fire doors to close automatically by actuation of smoke detectors. Ensure the smoke detector
is suitable for the environment.
2. In the case of conveyor openings, make arrangements to shut down the feed conveyor and allow
conveyed material to clear the opening before the door is allowed to close. This can be accomplished
by using cross-zoned detectors on each side of the wall. Have the first signal initiate feed conveyor
shutdown. Receipt of a second signal must initiate door closure. Provide a 15-ft (4.6 m) space between
the detectors on respective sides of the fire wall to allow sufficient time delay for the feed conveyor to be
shut down and the opening to be cleared.

3. An alternative to cross-zoning is to provide a single smoke detector on each side of the wall that upon
actuation will shut down the feed conveyor and activate a time delay switch, which will allow delayed door
closure. The time delay must be adequate to allow clearing of the opening, but generally must only be
a few seconds. In either case, connect the door holder to a back-up power supply using an uninterrupt-
ible power supply (UPS) system. This will prevent premature door closure during a power failure.
4. Equip doors with listed 3-hour rated fire door gasket material (that will not restrict door closure). Pro-
tect the bottom of swinging personnel doors with either an automatic door bottom or listed 3-hour rated fire
door gasket material.
5. Ensure openings protected by horizontal sliding doors are equipped with continuous front, rear, and
top binders (Fig. 68), and have listed fire door gasket material at their bottom edges to reduce smoke pas-
sage.
6. Ensure fire dampers used to protect openings for air-handling systems have a Class 0, I, or II leak-
age classification. (See Section 3.3.5.)
Fig. 68. Binder arrangements to reduce smoke penetration around horizontal sliding doors.
2.5.2.1.33 Anchor fire doors and fire door frames to masonry or concrete walls at locations in FM Global earth-
quake zones 50-year through 500-year.
2.5.2.1.34 Use FM Approved horizontal sliding fire doors in FM Global earthquake zones 50-year through 500-
year.
2.5.2.1.35 Where toppling of equipment or stock positioned close to fire doors may interfere with complete clo-
sure of the doors, properly anchor or relocate equipment and stock away from doors.
2.5.2.2 Material Handling Systems

The following recommendations apply to all material handling systems, with the exception of automatic guided
vehicle systems (AGVS). For AGVS recommendations, see Section 2.5.2.6.
2.5.2.2.1 Except where otherwise noted in 2.5.2.2.13, provide automatic closing fire doors on both sides of
the opening for all MFL fire walls. In the case of a double wall, provide one door on each wall.
2.5.2.2.2 Ensure the design of the material handling system allows for complete closure of the opening upon
automatic release of the fire door. (See Section 3.3.1.) Ensure the design is as simple and reliable as pos-
sible.

2.5.2.2.3 Design material handling systems to provide a clear distance perpendicular to the opening equal
to the maximum dimension (height or width) of the opening. Maintain a clear space of 2 ft (0.6 m) in the
direction parallel to the wall. (See Fig. 69 and Sections 2.5.2.4 and 2.5.2.5.)
(0.6 m) (0.6 m)
Fire wall 2 ft. 2 ft.
Fire door
Maximum
dimension of
opening but not Potential area of ingition
less than 6 ft.
(1.8 m)
PLAN
Fig. 69. Clearance area at fire doors.
2.5.2.2.4 Ensure combustible conveyor belts are not continuous through the fire wall. Ensure the system
has a discontinuity of combustibles, as well as an opening that will allow for complete closure of the fire door.
2.5.2.2.5 Arrange detectors to do the following:
1. Stop the feed conveyor or otherwise initiate the mechanism that clears the path of the fire door.
2. Provide an adequate time delay to clear the opening.
3. Activate the fire door closing mechanism.
When multiple detectors are used to provide a fire-dependent time delay between the clearing of the opening
and closure of the door, ensure the detectors have different temperature ratings and are located no more
than a few inches apart.
Ensure the temperature rating of the device used to clear the opening and/or stop the feed conveyor is rated
at 135°F or 165°F (57°C or 74°C), but not less than 50°F (28°C) above ambient temperature. Use a
combination rate-of-rise, fixed-temperature detector arranged for fail-safe operation for MFL fire walls, except
where otherwise noted.
Ensure the detector that initiates fire door closure is 286°F (141°C) rated or the next highest standard rating
that is over 100°F (38°C) above the rating of the detector used to clear the opening.
Locate closely spaced devices of each type near the top of the opening and at ceiling level on each side
of the fire wall, and arrange so operation of any one set of devices will allow stoppage of the conveyor and
fire door closure, in that order. Where smoke damage is a concern, also see Section 2.5.2.1.32.
2.5.2.2.6 Ensure clearance around rails or chains is a maximum of 3/8 in. (10 mm) and a special factory-
applied label (Fig. 71) is attached to the door. Small openings for clearance around conveyor rails or chains
are acceptable if necessary (Fig. 70), except in occupancies with a significant amount of combustible dust
or lint.

Direction Of Closure
For Doors
Edge Of Wall
Conveyor Opening
Rail
Edge Of
Door
Door
Face
Door
Face
3/8" (10 mm)
Max.
Astragal
Junction Of Doors
Fig. 70. Fire door arrangement around conveyer rail.
(COMPANY NAME)
(CITY AND STATE)
THIS DOOR CONFORMS TO A 3 HOUR RATED CONSTRUCTION BUT IS
NOTCHED FOR A CONVEYOR
IT WAS PRODUCED UNDER THE FACTORY MUTUAL AUDIT
INSPECTION PROGRAM
ACCEPTANCE IS THE PREROGATIVE OF THE AUTHORITY HAVING
JURISDICTION
SERIAL NO.
Fig. 71. Notched fire door label.
2.5.2.2.7 Arrange the conveyor drive mechanism to shut down the conveyor if conveyed material can become
lodged in one position and obstruct closure of the fire door. Ensure sections of the conveyor downstream
of the obstruction can continue to operate.
2.5.2.2.8 Ensure the fire door(s) at the opening are capable of effective closure regardless of whether or
not any section of the conveyor is operating.
2.5.2.2.9 Where it is impractical to provide inclined sections at the junction of the fire wall with roller or belt
conveyors, special design is necessary to allow a clear path for the fire door to close (Section 2.5.2.5).
Detectors must still be provided as outlined in Section 2.5.2.2.5.
2.5.2.2.10 Design the material-handling system and its support structure in such a way that its collapse will
not damage or put any significant loading or stress on the fire wall.
Ensure conveyor sections on either side of the fire wall are supported by the floor or roof, and not by the
fire wall. The short section within the plane of the fire wall (between fire doors) may be supported directly by
the fire wall (only one of the fire walls in the case of a double fire wall). Where the supports for the sections
on either side of the fire wall may be exposed to lift truck traffic, provide guards to prevent movement of
these sections into the fire door path.

2.5.2.2.11 Ensure tow conveyors use vestibules with at least one 3-hour rated fire door at each end, and
that vestibule walls, roof, and floor are made of 4-hour fire-rated, reinforced concrete (fully grouted and
reinforced concrete masonry wall is also acceptable) designed for 100 psf (488 kN/m2). Ensure the vestibule
is free-standing and independent of the MFL wall.
2.5.2.2.12 Ensure the clear distance between carts on tow conveyors is greater than the vestibule length,
including door widths. Ensure the clear distance between doors is greater than the length of the carts. Only
use carts at clip-on points (points where carts are attached to drive chain). Do not place carts between clip-on
points and allow them to be pushed by the carts behind them. (See Section 3.3.4.)
2.5.2.2.13 Protect chain or rail conveyors with door packs. (See Fig. 72 and Section 3.3.3.)
Fig. 72. Door-pack installation.
2.5.2.2.14 Ensure the enclosure and baffles in the door pack are constructed of at least 4-hour fire-rated
material. If the door pack enclosure is above floor level, ensure its supporting structure has a fire-resistance
rating equivalent to that of the wall. Ensure fire doors are rated for at least 3 hours.
2.5.2.2.15 Provide devices to stop the conveyor if a door drifts into a fouling position, and before allowing
automatic closure.

2.5.2.2.16 Ensure ″Go″ and ″Return″ passes for chain or rail conveyors do not penetrate the same wall
opening or use the same door pack enclosure.
2.5.2.2.17 Use the following formula to determine the minimum number of 3-hour fire-rated doors in door
packs for chain or rail conveyors (see Section 3.3.3 for an example):
N = Sh/(Sc–Td)
Where: N = number of doors
Sh = horizontal spacing between hangers, in. (mm)
Sc = clear space between stock, in. (mm)
Td = thickness of the door, in. (mm)
2.5.2.2.18 Ensure the door spacings for door packs in chain and rail conveyors are even and meet the
following criteria:
Sd = Sc–Td
Sd = (Ls + Td)/(N–1)
Where: Sd = center-to-center spacing of doors, in. (mm)
Ls = length of stock perpendicular to wall, in. (mm)
2.5.2.2.19 When it is not practical to provide door packs, arrange the chain or rail conveyor system so all
fire wall openings can be cleared at the same time. Provide double, minimum 3-hour rated fire doors at each
opening along with photo eyes that will allow the openings to be cleared before the material handling system
is shut down for any reason. Provide a back-up power supply to prevent conveyed material from stopping
in the path of fire doors due to power failure.
2.5.2.2.20 House lowerators for handling of roll paper in a 4-hour fire-rated enclosure. Provide minimum
3-hour rated FM Approved fire doors at each end of the enclosure. Keep at least one door closed at all times.
2.5.2.2.21 Where emergency stops are required on material-handling systems, arrange them in such a
manner as to not compromise the reliability of fire door closure. This can be accomplished on conveyor
systems by providing an inclined gravity section at the wall, and separately powered feed and take-away
sections. Another alternative is to provide three separately powered sections (feed, middle, and takeaway
sections) with the middle section at the wall enclosed in a cage that would thus not require an emergency stop
mechanism. The feed and take-away sections could then be equipped with the necessary emergency stop
mechanisms.
2.5.2.3 Pneumatic Conveyors

2.5.2.3.1 Do not penetrate MFL fire walls with pneumatic conveyors carrying combustible material.
2.5.2.3.2 Protect pneumatic conveyors carrying noncombustible material with two 3-hour fire-rated dampers
located in the fire wall. (Provide at least one in each wall in the case of a double wall.) Arrange the dampers
for automatic closure by activation of detectors rated at 135°F or 165°F, or 50°F above ambient temperature
(57°C or 74°C, or 28°C above ambient temperature) located on each side of the wall (Fig. 73).

Connector
Angle
Alternate
Frame location
fasteners for duct
(typical) connections
Sleeve
Curtain Type
Wall
Fusible link
Flow
Fire
door
Duct work
Latch
Duct connection flange
Frame
Thru bolt
Swinging Type
(Courtesy of the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractor’s National Association, Inc. [SMACNA].)
Fig. 73. Fire dampers.
2.5.2.3.3 Provide a service opening adjacent to each fire damper and fire detection device (e.g., smoke
detector, fusible link). Ensure the opening is large enough to permit testing and resetting of the damper.
2.5.2.3.4 Provide slip joints in the pneumatic conveyor on both sides of the wall (Fig. 74). If a double fire
wall is used, provide a slip joint between the two walls.

(Courtesy of the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractor’s National Association, Inc. [SMACNA].)
Fig. 74. Breakaway connections (slip joints).
2.5.2.4 Roller and Belt Conveyors with Inclined Gravity Sections

2.5.2.4.1 Interlock the sections of conveyor on each side of the wall so the feed section can only move when
the downstream takeaway section is moving. Arrange the feed conveyor to stop prior to operation of the
fire door, allowing the gravity roller section to clear the opening. Provide a sufficient gap in the roller conveyor
to allow the fire door to close fully (Fig. 75).
2.5.2.4.2 Ensure combustible conveyor belts are not continuous through an opening in an MFL fire wall.
Arrange conveyor belts to turn back on each side of the wall, and use an inclined section of roller conveyor
of adequate length at the opening. Make arrangements to prevent stock from backing up into the inclined
section or wall opening.
A. Provide interlocks so that, if primary power is lost or shut down to the take-away section, the feed
conveyor will automatically shut down and cannot be started until the take-away section is operating.
Provide photo-eyes at the take-away side of the wall opening so that if a back-up of goods is sensed they
will shut down the feed conveyor. Provide a time-delay switch so that, during normal shutdown, the

take-away section will continue to operate briefly after the feed section has been shut down so the opening
is clear.
B. Ensure the distance between the upper end of an inclined gravity section and the face of the fire door
on its respective side (Y) of the fire wall is at least equal to the maximum dimension of the opening (Figs.
75 and 76). When this is not practical, provide fire doors with a 30-minute temperature rise rating of 250°F
(121°C) on the opening.
Fire Wall
Fire Door
Fire Door
X
Y
Motorized
Feed
Gravity
Sections
Take-Away Gravity Section
Elevation
Fig. 75. Roller conveyor protection.
Fire barrier
Fire door (either side)
Feed
Gravity roller or chute
Take-away
Elevation
Fig. 76. Belt conveyor protection.

C. Ensure the distance between the lower end of the inclined gravity section and the face of the fire door
on its respective side (X) is at least equal to the maximum dimension of the opening plus twice the length
of the longest parcel to be conveyed (2L) (Figs. 75 and 76). A distance of 2L is acceptable if fire doors
with a 30-minute temperature rise rating of 250°F (121°C) are provided. If this is still not practical, provide
the above rated doors with a downstream incline at least equal to L, and the following:
1. Totally enclose the control panel for the take-away section nearest to the fire wall in metal casing,
and interlock it so the control panel will not operate unless its access door is closed.
2. Ensure the motor for the same section has a totally enclosed metal housing, and wiring in conduit.
3. Locate the control panel and motor adjacent to the door opening.
4. Connect the take-away section of the conveyor to a back-up power supply. The back-up power supply
may consist of a pneumatic system, a flywheel system, or float-charged batteries with dc-ac inverters
capable of powering the take-away section for a long enough period to clear the opening (usually only
a few seconds).
If it is not practical to install the control panel and motor near the wall opening, provide a 135° or 165°F (57°
or 74°C) detector (or minimum 50°F [28°C] above ambient) over the control panel and motor, or extend a
temperature-detection wire over the take-away section nearest the fire wall. Arrange the detector to shut down
the feed conveyor. This will help ensure proper fire door closure before the panel or motor on the take-away
section is damaged by a fire. Interlock control panels so they will not operate unless the control panel door is closed.
2.5.2.5 Roller and Belt Conveyors without Inclined Gravity Sections

2.5.2.5.1 Where it is impractical to provide inclined sections at the junction of the fire wall, special design
is necessary to allow a clear path for the fire door to close. The design generally relies on a normal electrical
feed as the primary power supply. In case of a failure of the primary power supply, provide a secondary power
supply to temporarily power the intermediate and take-away portions of the conveyor (Fig. 77). This
secondary power supply may consist of float-charged batteries with dc-ac inverters, a pneumatic system,
or flywheel system.
Fire barrier
Fire door (either side)
Take-away Feed
Elevation
Fig. 77. Conveyor penetration without incline

2.5.2.5.2 Do not connect the secondary power feed to a switchboard common to the main power feed. Ensure
wiring is in conduit, and control panels and motors are totally enclosed in metal casings and located as close
to the fire wall opening as possible.
2.5.2.5.3 Regardless of the power supply arrangement, provide a photo-eye on the take-away side of the
opening to prevent back-up of goods near the door. Arrange it to shut down the feed conveyor before goods
can back up within a distance equal to the maximum opening dimension.
2.5.2.6 Automatic Guided Vehicle Systems (AGVS)

2.5.2.6.1 Provide a central control station and electromagnetic guidance.
2.5.2.6.2 To maintain the reliability of the opening protection, use one of the following methods:
A. Keep one of the two fire doors at each vehicle opening in MFL fire walls normally closed and equipped
with power operators. Arrange the AGVS for automatic door control. A high-service door may be needed.
B. Provide a 4-hour fire-rated reinforced concrete vestibule. Ensure the vestibule has at least one 3-hour
rated fire door at each end and the clear space between fire doors is longer than the longest vehicle or
group of vehicles. Station the zones (see Section 3.3.2) so the horizontal clear space between vehicles
or groups of vehicles is greater than the length of the vestibule (including fire door widths). This alternative
is more practical when individual vehicles are used.
C. Provide a vehicle block system. Ensure the first zone station before the MFL fire wall is at least the
maximum dimension of the opening away from the fire wall. Ensure the first zone station beyond the MFL
fire wall is further away from the fire wall than the length of the vehicles (based on the maximum number
of vehicles that can be coupled together, if applicable), plus the maximum dimension of the opening.
Ensure the block system allows only one vehicle between the stations at one time. Provide the vehicles
with a backup on-board power supply that will power the vehicle to the next station in the event of a loss
of power to the central control station. Provide one 3-hour rated fire door on each side of the opening.
2.5.2.6.3 Provide fire door interlocks to immediately stop any oncoming vehicles at the first zone station prior
to the fire wall upon fire door closure.
2.5.2.6.4 When multiple detectors are used to create a time delay provide detectors at each door opening
and at ceiling level over the door opening on each side of the fire wall (in close proximity to each other). Use
a 165°F (74°C) rated, fail-safe combination rate-of-rise, fixed temperature detector to stop all vehicles at
the next zone station. Use a 286°F (141°C) rated detector to initiate door closure.
2.5.2.6.5 If two-way travel is needed, arrange controls so oncoming vehicles clear the opening prior to
approach by the second vehicle(s).
2.5.2.6.6 Ensure an adequate clearance width is marked and maintained along the entire length of vehicle
paths.
2.5.2.7 Air Handling Systems

2.5.2.7.1 Provide slip joints in the ductwork on both sides of the wall (Fig. 74). If a double fire wall is used,
provide a slip joint between the two walls.
2.5.2.7.2 Provide openings for ductwork with two 3-hour rated fire dampers located in the plane of the fire
wall. (Provide at least one in each wall in the case of a double wall.) Arrange the dampers for automatic closure
by activation of 135°F or 165°F, or 50°F above ambient temperature (57°C or 74°C, or 28°C above ambient
temperature) rated detectors located on each side of the wall (Fig. 73).
2.5.2.7.3 Ensure duct coverings (insulation) do not extend through the wall. Ensure coverings do not conceal
or interfere with the use of any service opening.
2.5.2.7.4 Interrupt duct linings at fire dampers so as not to interfere with automatic closure.
2.5.2.7.5 Provide a service opening adjacent to each fire damper and fire detection device (e.g., smoke
detector, fusible link). Ensure the opening is large enough to permit testing and resetting of the damper.

2.5.3 Operation and Maintenance

2.5.3.1 Keep fire doors and accessories in good working condition. Remove dust, lint, and debris. Lubricate
parts in contact as recommended by the door manufacturer.
2.5.3.2 Inspect doors, hardware, and closing devices for all fire doors weekly. Replace when necessary, using
parts obtained from the original manufacturer. Check the doors to ensure they are free-moving and otherwise
in proper operating condition and free from obstructions. Record inspections.
2.5.3.3 Trip-test fire doors at least semi-annually by fusing a link (using an electric heat gun and standing
back to avoid solder splatter) or setting off a detector. Trip-testing by shutting off the power supply or other
means is acceptable provided the method constitutes an actual test of the door-closing mechanism.
Cutting or removing the links could give false results as this could loosen dirt and debris that might otherwise
restrain the door.
For convenience in higher buildings, it is acceptable to fuse the link located near the top of the door opening.
However, ensure there is enough room for movement in both directions between fusible links or S-hooks
to allow sufficient chain movement for the door to close. The direction of movement of a section of chain may
be reversed depending on which link actually fuses.
Example: An eyelet is located immediately below a ceiling-level fusible link. If the link located near the top
of the opening is fused, the chain is free to move upward. However, if the ceiling level link is fused, the chain
cannot move sufficiently downward to release the door.
2.5.3.4 Close fire doors during idle periods as this increases the reliability of protection for the openings and
helps to detect potential mechanical problems.
2.5.3.5 Ensure adjustments of counterbalancing mechanisms are made by factory-trained personnel or
comparably trained, qualified employees.
2.5.3.6 Instruct facility personnel in the importance of keeping openings clear of stock and equipment.
2.5.3.7 Post signs instructing employees to keep fire wall openings clear and to report all damage to fire
doors or hardware immediately.
2.5.3.8 Keep combustibles far enough away from fire doors to prevent their ignition. Ensure the clear distance
perpendicular to the wall is equal to the maximum dimension (height or width) of the opening. Maintain a
clear space of 2 ft (0.6 m) in the direction parallel to the wall (Fig. 69). Unless specifically labeled as a
temperature-rise rated door, the door offers virtually no resistance to the passage of heat.
2.5.3.9 Keep doors clean and painted (except as otherwise noted below), particularly when subject to
deterioration from corrosion. Examine metal-clad fire doors periodically for evidence of deterioration of wood
cores. Keep flame baffles and binders clean and free.
After installation, do not apply paint to the slats of rolling steel fire doors or to the operating components
(moving parts) of any type of fire door. This includes detectors, chain, cable, cords, rope, gears, pulleys,
springs, the inside of tracks, or any part that must slide, pivot, rotate, or drop.
Do not paint over labels on fire doors, frames, or operators.
2.5.3.10 Keep door tracks clean at all times.
2.5.3.11 Fill in all openings no longer required for passage with concrete or masonry of a fire-resistance rating
equivalent to that of the original wall. Remove steel jambs or cover them with fire-resistant material and mortar
the masonry fill against the perimeter of the opening.
The following alternative may be applied to openings that are only temporarily out of service: Tightly stack
(no mortar needed) concrete masonry units or bricks of a type and thickness equivalent to that of a fire wall
in the opening, fill any joints of significant width (such as between the door jambs and masonry units) with
mineral wool or ceramic fiber, close the fire doors on both sides, and keep storage at least 1 ft (0.3 m) away
from the fire doors on both sides.
2.5.3.12 Replace a fire door if either of the following is true:
1. The door is obsolete and parts cannot be obtained. (Do not have parts fabricated by installers,
contractors, or maintenance personnel.)

2. The door has failed more than once for the same or for related mechanical reasons.
2.5.3.13 Test the AGVS interlocks at least semi-annually.
2.5.3.14 Instruct AGVS operators as follows:
1. Investigate and correct all vehicle alarm conditions immediately after discovery.
2. Take vehicles with low batteries out of service and recharge them.
3. If the emergency bumper is actuated, remove any remaining obstacles, restart the vehicle and continue
its route.
4. In the event of a control system malfunction, shut the system down (after all vehicles are stopped at
the next zone station); investigate AGV passages through fire walls and remove vehicles from the path of
fire doors immediately.
2.5.4 Use of Other Codes and Standards
2.5.4.1 FM Approved Versus Listed Products

Products tested/listed by UL, ULC, Warnock Hersey, and other internationally recognized testing laboratories
can be accepted when FM does not Approve that category of product or material or where FM Approved
products are not available. This includes fire-rated glass, dampers, and fire door gasketing material.
The following references will assist in this area:
• UL Fire Resistance Directory
• UL Building Materials Directory
• ULC List of Equipment and Materials, Vols. II and III
• Warnock Hersey Certification Listings
3.0 SUPPORT FOR RECOMMENDATIONS
3.1 Application of MFL Limiting Factors

Larger properties generally are subdivided into fire areas to limit the spread of fire. Horizontal fire spread is
limited by space separations between buildings, or by MFL fire walls. In multi-story buildings, vertical spread
from one story to another is limited by floor construction, exterior wall construction, mechanical floors,
setbacks, balconies, and by enclosures around stairways, elevator shafts, and other openings.
The need for MFL limiting factors is usually determined by the values exposed in a single fire. Limiting factors
may be walls, space separation, lack of continuity of combustibles, fire response or a combination of these.
If an MFL fire wall is used, the wall must be designed for stability as well as fire resistance, and must confine
an uncontrolled fire to the side of origin. In addition to stability and fire resistance, other factors that must be
considered in the design are protection of openings, exterior walls, parapets, penetrations, and roof details.
The system design must prevent fire spread through, under, over, or around the MFL fire wall.
The placement of MFL fire walls takes into consideration property damage and loss of production. MFL fire
walls are used to subdivide production and to separate manufacturing lines from storage.
Considering MFL fire walls in the design of new construction is imperative. When MFL subdivision is indicated,
consideration must be given to providing separate electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems on each
side of the wall to help eliminate the need for penetrations through the wall. Consideration at the planning
stage also may help in limiting the number and size of openings in the wall as well as in ensuring that loading
docks, roof penetrations, and roof-mounted structures are at an adequate distance from the fire wall.

3.2 MFL Fire Walls
3.2.1 Fire Resistance of Wall Construction

An MFL fire wall must have insulating qualities so temperatures on the unexposed face of the wall will not
ignite combustibles. The recommended fire rating of the wall is determined by the expected severity and
duration of the fire. MFL fire walls normally need a 4-hour fire-resistance rating. The selection of durable
materials and methods to meet this criterion is the designer’s responsibility.
See Data Sheet 1-21, Fire Resistance of Building Assemblies, for methods of providing fire resistance.
3.2.2 Stability and Strength

Stability is an essential property of an MFL fire wall because it must remain standing during a fire, even if
the building frame on one side collapses.
Several different types of MFL fire walls exist. Each type achieves stability in a different way. Consequently,
combining the stability aspects of two different types of MFL fire walls may result in a lack of stability under
fire conditions. Unless otherwise noted, general recommendations for integrity apply to all types of MFL fire
walls.
Strength is necessary so the wall will be able to resist glancing blows from falling materials, force and thermal
shock of fire hose streams, thermal stresses from the fire, and forces from collapsing portions of floors and/or
roofs adjacent to the wall.
Many modern industrial buildings depend on structural steel frames for stability. A wall that obtains its lateral
support from a steel frame can be destroyed by collapse of part of the frame in an uncontrolled fire. As
unprotected steel trusses, girders, or beams approach and exceed temperatures of 1000°F (538°C), they
initially expand and then lose some of their strength, twisting and sagging. Large horizontal forces can develop
toward the wall as the steel expands, and then away from the wall as the steel fails. Design considerations
must be made to prevent damage as a result of these forces, which may crush the wall or deflect it laterally
to the extent that its structural integrity is destroyed.
Reinforced concrete frame buildings have some degree of fire resistance and will remain structurally sound
until heat penetrates the concrete cover over the reinforcing steel and weakens the steel. For the amount
of cover necessary, or a given fire-resistance rating of a reinforced concrete member, see Data Sheet 1-21,
Fire Resistance of Building Assemblies.
The potential for a fire during or after an earthquake increases due to the damage caused by the ground
movement. The likelihood that automatic fire protection systems will be damaged or completely out of service
also increases as a result of the earthquake. Therefore, passive fire protection, such as fire-resistant
construction and fire walls, becomes increasingly important in active seismic zones. The maximum
foreseeable loss philosophy dictates that MFL fire walls must remain stable during and after an earthquake
in order to perform their purpose of subdividing properties into separate fire areas. To accomplish this, the
wall must be designed for seismic loads as well as stability under fire conditions.
The recommendations in Section 2.2.2.12 were developed to ensure reasonable stability during an
earthquake. The design criteria are based on Standard SEI/ASCE 7, Minimum Design Loads for Buildings
and Other Structures (Structural Engineering Institute/American Society of Civil Engineers). The SEI/ASCE 7
criteria are incorporated in building codes such as the International Building Code (International Code
Council, USA).
Meeting earthquake design requirements may eliminate one or more of the options for achieving stability
that would otherwise be allowed in non-earthquake areas. For example, preventing damage to a fire wall from
steel expansion during a fire by aligning the steel members on both sides of the wall and providing essentially
no clearance is not an option in active seismic areas if it will allow pounding during an earthquake.
Since MFL fire walls must be the most reliable method of preventing horizontal fire spread, they are equated
with an essential facility. Essential facilities are those structures that must remain functional subsequent to
an earthquake. Therefore, an importance factor (IE) of 1.5 is used for MFL fire walls.
The earthquake accelerations given in Section 2.2.2.12.5 are only intended to be used when other appropriate
earthquake acceleration parameters are not available. These accelerations were chosen to provide a degree
of reasonableness given the combination of factors relating to both probability and severity.

Specifying a minimum reinforcing ratio is a method of ensuring a minimum level of strength and crack control
for the wall.
Example 1: Calculation of reinforcing ratios for a masonry wall.
Given:
8-in. nominal (7.625 in. [195 mm] actual) masonry wall;
10 ft (3.0 m) in height;
No. 9 (W1.7) horizontal joint reinforcing (two 0.148 in. [3.7 mm] diameter steel wires) at 16 in. (406 mm)
on center;
One bond beam reinforced with two #4 bars (1⁄2 in. [13 mm] diameter);
Vertical reinforcing #5 (0.625 in. [16 mm] diameter) spaced at 24 in. [610 mm] on center.
Steel Area Calculations
#4 bars steel area = 0.20 in2
#5 bars steel area = 0.31 in2
No. 9 wires (2) steel area = 2 x 0.0172 in2 = 0.0344 in2
Calculate Ratios:Gross horizontal area = 10 ft x 12 in./ft x 7.625 in. = 915 in2
Minimum horizontal steel area = 0.0007 x 915 in2 = 0.64 in2
Check horizontal steel area = (2)(0.20 in2) + (7)(0.0344 in2) = 0.641 in2 > 0.64 in2
Gross vertical area = 12 in./ft x 7.625 in. = 91.5 in2/ft
Minimum vertical steel area = 0.0007 x 91.5 in2/ft = 0.064 in2/ft
Check vertical steel area = (0.31 in2/24 in.)(12 in./ft) = 0.155 in2/ft > 0.064 in2/ft
Check total steel area = (0.641 in2/ 15 in2) + (0.155 in2/91.5 in2) = 0.0007 + 0.0017 = 0.0024 > 0.002
Therefore, the wall reinforcing meets the prescribed minimum values.
3.2.3 Cantilever Fire Walls

Cantilever MFL fire walls (see Figs. 9 and 10) are entirely self-supporting without any ties to adjacent framing.
They are usually constructed of reinforced concrete masonry, brick, or reinforced concrete. Such walls are
erected at an expansion joint in the framing, but are not fastened to the building frame on either side.
Horizontal forces in cantilever walls are induced by fire. The horizontal forces may be caused by the pull of
roof flashing as the burning portion of the building collapses, by irregularities of construction, or by warping
of the wall under fire exposure.
For stability against horizontal forces, the wall must rely on its own strength as a cantilever. Such lateral
strength may be obtained by providing vertical reinforcing bars in the wall, or reinforced pilasters. Unreinforced
pilasters or pilasters constructed on only one side of the wall usually do not adequately strengthen the wall.
Cantilever walls over 30 ft (9 m) high become expensive to stabilize.
Use of tilt-up concrete panels for cantilever (and other types) of fire walls has become increasingly popular
in recent years. Some key requirements during design and review are the following:
• Stabilize the wall as a cantilever using footing, floor slab, soil, etc., to resist the required overturning
moment.
• Pay attention to joint details between panels to ensure they are adequately sealed and no relative panel
movement occurs.
• If precast panels are used, ensure they do not contain foam plastic or other combustible material in the
cores.
Steel framing on the fire side of the wall will expand and may cause failure of the wall, particularly when
steel on each side does not line up horizontally and vertically (see Fig. 78). Clearance between the wall and
steel framing (Table 1) on both sides is needed to allow steel framing on the fire side to reach the point of
maximum expansion without exerting force on the fire wall (see Fig. 3).

Fig. 78. Steel not lined up vertically
3.2.4 Tied Fire Walls

Tied MFL fire walls (see Figs. 4, 5, and 12) are fastened to (and usually encase) members of the steel building
frame. To remain stable, the pull of the collapsing steel on the fire side of the wall must be resisted by the
strength of the unheated steel framing on the other side.
Because the fire can occur on either side of the wall, the wall must be located at the center of strength of
the building frame. The center of strength is the plane within the building frame in which the steel framing on
either side has equal resistance. In small structures, the center of strength generally is in the middle of the
building frame (see Fig. 13). The center of strength may lie between two double-column expansion joints
(see Fig. 14) in large buildings. Single column line expansion joints do not break the continuity of the building
frame.
Fire exposure can cause bowing of the wall. This movement of the wall out of its normal vertical plane could
allow normal gravity loads (live and dead roof loads) to overstress the wall. Also, the sagging of the steel
on the collapsing side will result in lateral and twisting forces at the top of the wall, which could collapse or
otherwise damage the wall.
3.2.5 One-Way Fire Walls

A wall that is tied to a steel building frame on one side and is entirely independent of the frame on the other
side is a one-way fire wall. Generally, this type of wall is only effective if an uncontrolled fire starts on the
side of the wall that is not providing structural stability for the wall.
One-way walls also may reduce the MFL when used in combination with MFL fire walls. As an example (see
Fig. 79), a building could be separated into three areas by an MFL fire wall (A) and a one-way wall (B) tied
to the steel frame of areas 1 and 3. Fire originating in area 1 could involve two of the areas (1 and 2) but
would be prevented from entering the third area (3) by the one-way wall.
Fig. 79. One-way fire walls

Two distant one-way walls in parallel and supported by separate framework can be built at double-column
line expansion joints. As an example (see Fig. 80), one-way fire walls (A) could be tied to the steel framework
of Areas 1 and 3 respectively. A single fire would not involve more than two areas. Usually a 4-hour fire rating
is needed.
Fig. 80. Two one-way fire walls tied to areas 1 and 3 respectively
3.2.6 Double Fire Walls

A double MFL fire wall (Figs. 17 and 18) consists of two one-way walls back to back. It is most adaptable
where an addition to a facility necessitates an MFL fire wall between an existing structure and a new building.
The existing wall, which is secured to the building frame, is altered to provide the proper fire resistance if
necessary. Another fire wall is then constructed adjacent to the existing one and secured to the new building
frame. With an uncontrolled fire on either side of this double wall, one building frame will collapse, pulling
the wall on that side with it. The other wall, being supported by steel on the protected side, will remain in place
to stop the fire spread.
3.2.7 Panel Walls in Reinforced Concrete Buildings

This type of MFL fire wall consists of wall panels (usually 4-hour rated) tied to the columns and/ or floor(s)
and roof framing of a reinforced concrete building (columns, floor, and roof supports) of equal fire resistance.
Because the building to which the wall is tied will be stable throughout the duration of the fire, no special
considerations need be made regarding stability. The span between, and connection to, columns and/ or
floor(s) and roof framing should be adequate to resist the loads specified in Section 2.2.2.2. If construction
on both sides of the wall is 4-hour fire-rated reinforced concrete, the roof or floor framing would not sag onto
pipe penetrations through the wall and then collapse. Consequently, the structural aspects of
recommendations 2a and 4 in Section 2.2.2.11, need not apply to this situation. However, penetrations must
still be sealed with FM Approved fire stop materials.
3.2.8 Control of Cracking

MFL fire walls must have expansion joints in line with those of the building frame to prevent cracking. The
width of these joints is determined by normal building temperature change.
Control joints also must be provided in masonry walls to accommodate initial shrinkage in the wall. These
normally are narrower than expansion joints and usually are spaced one per bay.
3.2.9 Parapets and Roof Protection

MFL fire walls have no value if an uncontrolled fire can sweep over them and spread to the protected area
via the roof. Parapets are needed to help prevent this.
Parapets must be high enough to protect adjacent combustible monitors, penthouses, cooling towers, and
saw tooth roofs from direct ignition by heat or flames passing over the wall. Resistance of the parapet to wind
or earthquake loads also must be considered. Extremely high parapets are impractical to construct;
consequently the design of the buildings must allow for roof structures to be as remote as possible from the
MFL fire wall.
Burning embers and heat radiating over a parapet of reasonable height necessitate surface protection for
the roof covering, and space separation between equipment or structures mounted on or penetrating the roof
(see Fig. 27).

3.2.10 End Walls and Angle Exposure

The building walls at each end of an MFL fire wall must be designed to prevent fire from sweeping around
the MFL fire wall (see Figs. 29 [a and b], and Fig. 30).
There is also danger of fire spread from the exterior walls of two buildings or sections of a building that form
an angle at or near the end of the MFL fire wall (see Fig. 31). Flames or heat can penetrate openings in
walls across this intersection and start fires around the MFL fire wall. The degree of protection needed
depends upon the expected durability of the exterior walls during an uncontrolled fire, and on the hazards of
the occupancies and construction.
3.2.11 Pipes, Conduit, Cables, and Ducts

Pipes, conduit, cables, and ducts must not penetrate MFL fire walls because they could destroy the structural
integrity and the resistance of the wall. If pipe, duct, conduit, or cable penetrations of MFL fire walls are
necessary, they must be kept to a minimum and the precautions recommended in Section 2.2.2.11 must be
taken to maintain the integrity of the wall. Recommendations 2a and 4 do not apply to panel MFL fire walls
in reinforced concrete frame buildings, except that penetrations must still be sealed with FM Approved fire
stop materials.
Although automatic sprinklers are not depended upon to limit an MFL loss, feeding the sprinkler systems
on each side of the wall separately will reduce the chance of both systems being out of service.
3.3 Openings in MFL Fire Walls

Openings present a severe threat to the integrity of an MFL fire wall and need the best protection available.
The fewer openings in an MFL fire wall, the greater its reliability.
Protection of material-handling system openings in MFL fire walls is usually a challenge requiring ingenuity
and careful design.
3.3.1 Material-Handling Systems

The intent of the recommendations in Sections 2.5.2.2, 2.5.2.4, and 2.5.2.5 are to ensure that neither the
material-handling system nor the material being conveyed will prevent the fire doors from complete automatic
closure and that a clear space is provided on either side of the opening. Other arrangements that meet this
intent with the same degree of reliability are acceptable.
Protecting openings for material-handling systems in MFL fire walls is a challenge requiring ingenuity and
careful design. Conveyors present a problem because of the variety of arrangements and the variation in
shapes and sizes of the material being conveyed.
The most desirable solution is to arrange material flow so material-handling systems need not pass through
an MFL fire wall. When this is not possible, the openings in the wall must be protected with an arrangement
of automatic closing fire doors. Since the design of MFL subdivision assumes sprinkler protection will be
out of service, the use of water spray protection in lieu of fire doors and the use of water flow for initiation
of fire door closure is not recommended.
For any material handling system passing through an opening in an MFL fire wall, the fire door assembly
with its related hardware and controls must be arranged so the doors will close under fire conditions despite
the materials on the conveyor.
Controls are needed so that, in the event of fire, the opening is cleared and then the doors automatically
operate, completely closing the opening. With chain, rail, or tow conveyors, the conveyor must be
de-energized immediately, and then at least one door will find a clear path between the material on the
conveyor . With roller or belt conveyors, the feed conveyor is stopped immediately and the downstream
conveyor continues to operate (at least briefly) until the opening is cleared, after which the door closes (Figs.
75, 76, and 77)
Unless a gravity section (Figs. 75 and 76) is provided through the MFL fire wall, conveyor protection may
not work if the power fails. Systems not using a gravity section (Fig. 77) are consequently less reliable unless
a standby power supply, UPS, or mechanical system is provided. In either case, the door closer must function
by gravity or by mechanical means, not by electric motor.

3.3.2 Automatic Guided Vehicle Systems

Automatic guided vehicle systems (AGVS) consist of electric-powered, driverless vehicles that can be
programmed to follow various paths and load and unload at various stations. There are two types of guidance
systems for the automatic guided vehicles (AGV), both consisting of a sensing unit and steering mechanism.
An electromagnetic system follows a signal sent through a guide wire located below the surface of the
desired path. An optical system uses a guide path that contrasts in color with the floor.
AGVs can be controlled in any of the following manners:
1. Controls can be located on the vehicle.
2. Programming panels can be located at various fixed stations throughout the systems.
3. A single central control can be provided
The central control station (CSS) is the most elaborate of the three control methods. The CCS can be
programmed to interrogate the vehicles on a regular basis and obtain information, such as the identity and
location of the vehicle and the status of its route. It can also monitor vehicle alarm conditions such as loss
of guide signal, loss of blocking signal, low battery, and emergency bumper actuation.
An AGV may come equipped with the following safety features:
• Warning lights
• Intersection warning horns
• Emergency bumpers
• Brakes
• Wheel bells
• Emergency stop buttons
• Fire door safety interlocks
• Ramp controls
• Door controls
• Low battery indicators
In an emergency stop, the vehicle will stop with maximum deceleration. The emergency bumper projects in
front of the vehicle. When it comes in contact with a person or object, the vehicle will stop immediately. Loss
of guidance signal or manual actuation of an on-board emergency button can also cause an emergency stop
of the vehicle. The vehicle must then be manually restarted. AGVs can be programmed for automatic door
control, which allows it to open and close power-operated doors.
3.3.3 Chain or Rail Conveyors

A door pack (see Fig. 72) consists of a set of fire doors spaced in relation to the stock on the conveyor so
at least one door will always be able to close fully no matter when the conveyor stops. A door pack requires
uniform fixed spacing and length of stock. Its use is impractical where the length of stock (perpendicular
to the fire wall/partition) exceeds a maximum of about 2¼ times the clear distance between the stock. Take
this into consideration when designing chain conveyors and give ample spacing between main hangers. If
the conveyor chain is shortened or lengthened, ensure this is done without reducing the distance between
hangers. Conveyors with adjacent ’’go‘‘ and ’’return‘‘ passes can be arranged similarly, but ensure there is
a noncombustible dividing partition between conveyors as the stock will usually be in a different position
relative to the doors at the two openings.
The following is an example using the formula for determining the minimum number of door packs:
Given: Sh = 65 in. (1651 mm)
Ls = 45 in. (1143 mm)
Td = 3 in. (76 mm)
1. Is a door pack practical?

2. How many doors are needed?

3. What is the center-to-center spacing of the doors?
Solution:
1. Sc = Sh–Ls = 65–45 = 20 in.
(Sc = Sh–Ls = 1651–1143 = 508 mm)
Ls = 45 in. ≤ (2.25)(Sc) = 45 in.
(Ls = 1143 mm ≤ (2.25)(Sc) = 1143 mm)
Yes. A door pack is practical.
2. N = 65/(20–3) = 3.8
(N = 1651/(508–76) = 3.8)
Use four doors.
3. Sd ≤ Sc–Td = 20–3 = 17 in.
(Sd ≤ Sc–Td = 508–76 = 432 mm)
Sd ≥ (Ls + Td)/(N–1) = (45 + 3)/(4–1) = 16 in.
(Sd ≥ (Ls + Td)/(N–1) = (1143 + 76)/(4–1) = 406 mm)
Use Sd = 16.5 in. (420 mm)
3.3.4 Tow Conveyors

If the clip-on points of tow conveyors are far enough apart to give a clear space between carts greater than
the length of the cart, a fire-resistive vestibule abutting the wall with fire doors at each end is adequate.
Ensure the walls and roof of the vestibule are equal in fire resistance to the fire wall, and that the roof is
constructed of reinforced concrete to protect against damage from collapsing roof members.
The same principles apply as for door packs, but conditions are usually much simpler.
Dc > Lv + 2 Td
DD > Lc
Where: Dc = clear distance between carts, ft (m)
Lv = length of the vestibule, ft (m)
Td = door thickness, ft (m)
DD = clear distance between doors, ft (m)
Lc = length of the carts, ft (m)
This assumes doors are mounted on the face of the vestibule.
Example: The distance between clip-on points is 12 ft (3.7 m); carts are 4 ft (1.2 m) long; the space between
carts is 8 ft (2.4 m); the vestibule is 6 ft (1.8 m) long and the doors are 0.25 ft (0.1 m) thick and mounted
on the faces of the vestibule.
Lc = 4 ft (1.2 m)
Dc = 12 ft–4 ft = 8 ft (3.7 m–1.2 m = 2.5 m)
Lv = 6 ft (1.8 m)–DD
Td = 0.25 ft (0.1 m)
Dc = 8 ft> 6 ft + 2 (0.25 ft) = 6.5 ft, (meets criteria)
(2.5 m > 1.8 m + 2 (0.1 m) = 2.0 m, meets criteria)
DD = 6 ft > 4 ft (1.8 m > 1.2 m, meets criteria)
3.3.5 Air Handling Systems

Penetration of MFL walls and fire walls with ductwork must be avoided. When they are necessary, they must
be treated like other openings. The recommendations for slip joints on either side of the wall, and for dampers
in the plane of the wall, are intended to prevent a collapse on the fire side from reducing the effectiveness
of the fire dampers.
Fire dampers are tested in much the same way as fire doors. The assembly is subjected to an exposure
conforming with the standard time-temperature curve for the specified time. Immediately after the fire
exposure, the assembly is subjected to a hose stream test whose duration and water pressure depend on
the size of the assembly and the length of the exposure. Like fire doors, the pass/fail criteria is based on the

passage of flames and restrictions on the size of openings created by the exposure. Fire dampers generally
do not have any significant insulating value or ability to prevent the passage of smoke.
Listed leakage rated dampers used to control the passage of smoke (smoke dampers) are also available.
These dampers do not necessarily have a fire endurance rating. They are classified according to the rate of
smoke leakage through the damper under specified pressure differentials (Table 7).
Table 7. Damper Leakage Classification

ft3/min/ft2 (m3/s/m2)
Class 1 in. H2O (0.249 kPa) 4 in. H2O (0.995 kPa) 8 in. H2O (1.99 kPa) 12 in. H2O (2.99 kPa)
0 0 0 0 0
I 4 (0.0204) 8 (0.0408) 11 (0.0561) 14 (0.0714)
II 10 (0.0510) 20 (0.1020) 28 (0.1429) 35 (0.1786)
III 40 (0.2041) 80 (0.4082) 112 (0.5714) 140 (0.7143)
IV 60 (0.3061) 120 (0.6122) 168 (0.8571) 210 (1.0714)
3.4 Space Separation
3.4.1 General Space Separation Information

MFL subdivision may be provided by adequate space separation between buildings. The area must remain
clear of combustible material.
Space separation is one aspect of MFL subdivision where judgment is extremely important. Many factors
need to be considered in determining how much separation is needed. These factors include the height and
severity of the exposure hazard, the floor area, type of building construction, and length of the exposing wall
of the exposing structure, in addition to the construction of the walls and roof of the exposed building.
In evaluating space separation, items to consider include:
• building height
• slope of land between buildings
• vehicle parking between buildings
• clear space
• yard storage
• vegetation
3.4.2 Categorizing Exposed Construction in MFL Space Separations

In evaluating space separation, the construction features on each side of the separation must be considered
individually because, under MFL conditions, the MFL exposure could occur from either side.
When categorizing the exposed wall construction you must consider not only the combustibility and
susceptibility of the wall itself but also any openings, penetrations and anything attached to the wall. The
assigned wall category must be driven by the least fire resistant element. For example, a concrete masonry
wall consisting of 1-hr fire-rated concrete masonry units, type S mortar has several single-pane, annealed
glass windows. The least fire resistant element of the wall is the windows. The wall must be categorized as
combustible because when exposed to enough radiation, the single-pane, annealed glass windows will break
and expose ordinary combustibles inside the building to radiation and possibly burning brands.
When categorizing exposed walls, consider the fire resistance of the following elements:
• Wall external surface
• Wall insulation
• Penetrations (pipe, cable, utilities, etc.)
• Windows (type of glazing and number of panes)

• Doors (fire-rated, unrated, noncombustible and combustible)

• Roof eaves (wood eaves and soffits)
• Exposed roof surfaces (gravel surfaced, unprotected, ASTM E108 ratings, mineral surfaced cap sheets,
etc.)
• HVAC openings
Tempered glass is also called safety glass. It is treated with a special heating and cooling process to increase
its resistance to stress. This treatment also changes the way the glass breaks, making it better for use where
safety is a concern, such as in doors and car windows. The international codes specify that all safety glass
be marked by etching, embossing, or ceramic firing so the label cannot be removed or destroyed.
• Examine the thickness of the glass. Tempered glass is up to five times thicker than standard glass.
• Check for optical distortion. Tempered glass gives a distortion to reflected images as opposed to any other
glass. This happens as it is made through extreme heat and cold temperatures.
• Look for roller marks. These will be small whitish-colored streaks on the tempered glass that occurred
when it was made.
• Inspect each corner of the glass to see whether it has an etched logo. This may be covered by a frame.
The logo may contain wording indicating that it is tempered glass, along with the manufacturer’s identifying
information.
• Look along the surface of the glass with light reflecting off it. Tempered glass may have a very slight wavy
surface, caused by the rollers used to move it through a horizontal surface. If this is not apparent, the
glass may have marks on one edge where tongs held it when moving through the furnace.
• Put on polarized glasses and look at the glass at an angle. A vague checkered pattern is visible at the
right angle on tempered glass, which is a result of the tempering process.
3.4.3 Space Separation Analysis Methodology

There are several basic assumptions built into the methodology of analyzing MFL space separation in this
document. The first is that the burning building’s exposing wall is either (a) stable, fire resistant, and will remain
standing for the duration of the fire, or (b) likely to collapse early in the fire. In the case of the former, the
wall will shield some of the radiation allowing only that fraction coming through the openings to reach the
exposed wall. In the latter case, there is no shielding of the radiation by the exposing building wall and thus
the exposed building is subject to 100% of the expected radiation from the fire.
The second assumption is that adequate space separation for exposed wall constructions is based on
maintaining a heat flux below the critical heat flux (CHF) for the exposed wall construction.
The third assumption is that the radiant flux on the surface of the exposed wall is generated by the visible
portion of the wind-tilted flames above the commodity and from the visible portion of the flames on the
commodity itself, to a vertical target.
And the fourth assumption is that the length of the burning array is the length of the exposing building.
3.4.4 MFL Space Separation Analysis Example

Example: Two 1-story buildings, each 20 ft (6 m) high, are separated by a distance of 35 ft (10.7 m). The
exterior walls facing each other across the space separation each have 2-hour fire resistance and parapets.
The length of each wall is 80 ft (24 m). Neither wall has any window openings and all door openings are
provided with Class D fire doors. The roof of each building is Class 1 steel deck on exposed steel framing.
Occupancy in each building is storage. Is the space separation adequate for MFL subdivision?
Solution: From Table 5 for 2-hr fire-rated construction and storage occupancy up to 30 ft (9.1 m). A separation
of 30 ft (9.1 m) is needed; 35 ft (10.7 m) is available, so the separation is adequate.

4.0 REFERENCES
4.1 FM Global
Data Sheet 1-2, Earthquakes
Data Sheet 1-3, High-Rise Buildings
Data Sheet 1-20, Protection Against Exterior Fire Exposure
Data Sheet 1-21, Fire Resistance of Building Assemblies
Data Sheet 1-28, Wind Design
Data Sheet 1-28R/1-29R, Roof Systems
Data Sheet 1-44, Damage-Limiting Construction
Data Sheet 1-54, Roof Loads for New Construction
Data Sheet 7-4, Paper Machines and Pulp Dryers
Data Sheet 7-32, Ignitable Liquid Operations
Data Sheet 7-42, Evaluating Vapor Cloud Explosions Using a Flame Acceleration Method
Data Sheet 7-43, Loss Prevention in Chemical Plants
Data Sheet 7-88, Ignitable Liquid Storage Tanks
4.2 Other
ASTM International. Standard Specification for Loadbearing Concrete Masonry Units. ASTM C90, latest
edition.
ASTM International. Standard Specification for Steel Wire, Plain, for Concrete Reinforcement. ASTM A82,
latest edition.
ASTM International. Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Wire. ASTM A580, latest edition.
ASTM International. Standard Specification for Grout for Masonry. ASTM C476, latest edition.
American Concrete Institute (ACI). Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete. ACI 318, latest
edition.
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures.
ASCE/ SEI-7, latest edition.
International Code Council (ICC). International Building Code. Latest edition.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Recommended Practice for Fire Department Operations in
Properties Protected by Sprinkler and Standpipe Systems. NFPA 13E, latest edition.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Standard on Industrial Fire Brigades. NFPA 600, latest edition.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Recommended Practice for Pre-Incident Planning. NFPA 1620,
latest edition.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). National Electrical Code. NFPA 70, latest edition.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Fire Doors and Windows. NFPA 80, latest edition.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Fire Walls and Fire Barrier Walls. NFPA 221, latest edition.
APPENDIX A GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Allowable stress design (ASD): A method of designing structural members so computed stresses produced
by normal gravity design loads (i.e., the weight of the building and usual occupancy live loads) do not exceed
allowable stresses that are typically below the elastic limit of the material (e.g., in steel these are typically well
below the yield point). Normal allowable stresses are commonly increased by a factor (often a one-third
increase) when design includes extreme environmental loads, such as earthquakes. Also called ‘‘working
stress design’’ or ‘‘elastic design.’’
Approved inspector: Personnel trained in conducting and evaluating tests and inspections; employed by an
independent inspection/ testing agency hired by the owner, or by the design professional in responsible
charge acting as the owner’s agent; approved by the building official.
Composite doors: Doors having a noncombustible core with untreated wood veneers or facings of plastic
or metal. Single-sliding, bi-parting, and single or double-swinging arrangements are available.

Continuous inspection and verification: Full-time observation of the work being performed by an approved
inspector.
Detectors: Devices such as fusible links, heat detectors (fixed temperature and/or rate-of-rise), and smoke
detectors.
Diaphragm, horizontal: The wood sheathing, concrete slab or fill, or metal deck at a roof or floor capable of
transferring earthquake forces to vertical lateral force-resisting elements (e.g., shear walls, braced frames,
or moment frames).
Elastic: A mode of structural behavior in which a structure displaced by a force will return to its original state
upon release of the force.
Elastic design: See allowable stress design.
Essential facility: A facility where buildings and equipment are intended to remain operational in the event
of extreme environmental loading from flood, wind, snow, or earthquake.
FM Approved: The phrase ‘‘FM Approved’’ is used to describe a product or service that has satisfied the
criteria for Approval by FM Approvals. Refer to the Approval Guide for a complete list of products and services
that are FM Approved.
Hollow metal doors: Doors made in seamless, flush panels, rail-and-panel, or stile-and-panel design. They
are manufactured from a suitable reinforced, minimum 20-gauge (0.91 mm) outer skin supplemented with an
insulating or sound-deadening material, or both. These doors are available in single-and double-swinging
units. When used in conjunction with passenger elevator entrance assemblies, they may be arranged for
swinging, sliding, vertical bi-parting, or horizontal-slide operation. Hollow metal doors for freight elevators and
dumbwaiters are counterbalanced.
Importance factor: A factor used in building codes to increase, for example, the usual wind or earthquake
design forces for important or essential structures, tending to make them more resistant to those phenomena.
Jackknife doors: Doors consisting of a curtain of interlocking steel slats that collapse horizontally when
operated.
Lap splicing: Preferred method used to get “continuous” reinforcing using several reinforcing bars laid end
to end; works by transferring forces from one rebar through the surrounding concrete to the adjacent rebar.
The length of the “lap” determines the strength of the connection for a particular rebar size and a particular
concrete strength; lap splices are specified as a certain number of bar diameters since the strength of the
lapped connection is a function of the contact area between the rebar and the concrete.
Limiting Factor: A physical barrier that stops the spread of fire or provides containment of explosive force.
The control of damage from these or other events is entirely dependent on structural integrity, susceptibility
of contents, fire-resistant and damage-limiting construction or adequate space separation. Limiting factors
can change over time and result in significantly larger losses than anticipated if improperly managed. These
factors, therefore, warrant a high level of validation, documentation, and oversight.
Load and resistance factor design (LRFD): A method of designing structural members so computed stresses
produced by service design loads multiplied by load factors do not exceed the theoretical nominal member
strength multiplied by a strength reduction (resistance) factor. Also called strength design or ultimate strength
design.
Make-up: The action of a client that is beyond their normal operating procedures and is intended to mitigate
lost production, services or revenue.
Masonry: Brick, stone, tile, or concrete block bonded together with mortar. With reinforcing steel, it is defined
as reinforced masonry; without reinforcing steel it is defined as unreinforced masonry (URM).
Metal-clad doors: Doors consisting of a two-or three-ply core of well seasoned wood covered with lock-jointed
terneplate, Ductillite, or 30 gauge (0.012 in., 0.30 mm) sheet metal. The covering is nailed to the core.
Mortar: Type M or S mortars are mixed according to the proportions in the following table:

Table 8. Mortar Proportions by Volume

Parts By
Volume of
Portland Parts By
Cement, or Volume of Parts By
Blended Type N Volume of
Hydraulic Masonry Hydrated Lime Parts By Volume of Aggregate, Measured in a
Mortar Type Cement Cement or Lime Putty Damp, Loose Condition
M 1 1 — Not less than 2.25 and not more than 3 times the
1 — 0.25 sum of the separate volumes of the cements and
S 0.5 1 — lime used
1 — over 0.25 to
0.5
Note: Type M or S mortar may also be formulated using type M or S masonry cement respectively, without further addition of cements or
hydrated lime.
Non-shear walls: Non-shear walls resist wind forces perpendicular to the face of the building façade and
distribute the wind forces into the building frame; they provide the building frame with no resistance to lateral
(horizontal) forces, such as those generated by wind or earthquake; examples are curtain walls (most
mid-rise and high-rise office building facades with glass and either steel or aluminum frames), infill walls
(concrete or masonry panels within the building frame (bounded by beams and columns), insulated metal or
corrugated metal wall panels, and EIFS walls.
Periodic inspection and verification: Part-time or intermittent observation of the work being performed, and
the completion of the work, by an approved inspector.
Prestressed concrete: A type of precast concrete panel where steel strands (wire) or bars are embedded
in the concrete under high tension that is held in equilibrium by compressive stresses in the concrete after
hardening.
Pounding: The collision of adjacent buildings during an earthquake due to insufficient lateral clearance.
Ramp-up: Part of the normal post-loss restoration period that covers the time from the start-up of production
until the time full production has resumed.
Reinforced concrete: Construction using a composite material made from concrete and steel (or another
material, such as glass fiber-reinforced plastic) where the concrete and reinforcement work compositely.
Examples of reinforced concrete walls are tilt-up construction and precast concrete construction.
Reinforced masonry: Masonry units, reinforcing steel, grout, and/ or mortar combined to act together to resist
design loads. Reinforced masonry generally has both vertical and horizontal steel reinforcement.
Rolling steel doors: Doors that have their housing and mechanism located at the head of the opening and
are composed of a curtain of interlocking metal slats that coil upon a barrel. In most models the barrel is
provided with a torsion-spring mechanism to counterbalance the weight of the curtain. A detector releases
the torsion-spring mechanism that drives the door closed. In some newer models there is no spring. Automatic
closure is powered by counterweights or simply the weight of the curtain. Rolling steel doors may be operated
by hand, chain, crank, pneumatic, or electric power under normal operating conditions.
Shear walls: Shear walls provide the building frame with substantial resistance to lateral (horizontal) forces,
such as those generated by wind or earthquakes; they provide resistance to forces parallel to the horizontal
axis of the wall; they serve the same structural purpose as steel cross-bracing; they are typically constructed
from concrete or masonry, and wood (plywood, for wood-framed structures).
Sidewall protection: an upgrade in the passive protection of the wall. For example, increasing the rating of
the wall for noncombustible to 1-hour fire rating.
Sheet metal doors: Uninsulated or insulated, these doors are two-piece, vertically or horizontally sliding, and
may be either counterbalanced or telescoping. The uninsulated doors may consist of a single thickness of
galvanized sheet-metal, corrugated or flat, riveted or welded in a structural steel frame. The insulated types
are of sandwich-panel construction having mineral-core insulation between steel-faced sheets.

Special purpose doors: Doors of special construction whose intended end use does not lend itself to being
included in other classifications. Generally, these doors are not self-latching or provided with automatic clos-
ing devices. Examples include acoustical, radiant shielding, or pressure-resistant doors.
Strength design: See load and resistance factor design.
Swinging fire doors: Doors that swing on hinges in or out of a room or building.
Tilt-up concrete: A construction method where reinforced concrete panels are formed and placed on-site.
Once the panel has cured to sufficient strength, the slabs are then lifted by crane and tilted into place. The abil-
ity to make the panels on-site eliminates the need to ship them and thus eliminates the restrictions on size
that would apply if the panels had to be transported to the site.
Tin-clad doors: Doors that have the same specifications as metal-clad doors.
Two-ply cores: These doors are available in the standard sliding and swinging type. Metal-clad doors for
freight elevators are two-piece vertical sliding, counterbalanced, bi-parting, or telescoping. Rated at 1 1/2
hours; three or more ply cores are rated at three hours, as noted in the Approval Guide.
Ultimate strength design: See load and resistance factor design.
Unreinforced masonry: Masonry unit (e.g., bricks, concrete blocks) construction that does not incorporate
steel reinforcement, or where reinforcement is minimal and therefore neglected in the structural design.
Yield point: The stress at which there is a decided increase in the deformation or strain without a correspond-
ing increase in stress. The strain is inelastic, resulting in permanent deformation.
APPENDIX B DOCUMENT REVISION HISTORY

April 2011. This document now contains all data sheet material on MFL limiting factors and the protection
of openings in MFL limiting factors.
• Data Sheet 1-23, Protection of Openings in Fire Subdivisions, former Section 2.1, Openings in MFL Fire
Walls, has been relocated to this document.
June 2009. Minor editorial changes were made for this revision.
January 2009. The following changes were made:
• The space separation section was revised.
August 2007. Corrected references in section 2.1.1. Added information to recommendation 2.2.2 on how to
treat multi-pane (2 or more) window systems with respect to fire exposure for space separation.
May 2007. Minor editorial changes were made for this revision.
August 2006. The main change to this data sheet is the addition of specific guidance for building MFL walls
in FM Global earthquake zones 500-year or less.
Some other additions were made to the MFL wall recommendations to provide better guidance on building
MFL walls.
May 2005. Recommendation 2.1.1.11.4 was revised to be consistent with recommendation 2.1.1.3.2 in the
Data Sheet 1-23, Protection of Openings in Fire Subdivisions.
September 2004. References to FM Global earthquake zones have been modified for consistency with Data
Sheet 1-2, Earthquakes.
May 2000. This revision of the document has been reorganized to provide a consistent format. Added alter-
native method for evaluating space separation. A multi-phase approach is now possible. For a conserva-
tive estimate, evaluate space first using the traditional simpler guidelines contained in Table 3. For situations
where a more precise evaluation is required, apply the more complex methodology contained in Data Sheet
1-20, Protection Against Exterior Fire Exposure, without crediting sprinkler protection on either side. Moni-
tors, penthouses, cooling towers or other roof mounted structures should also be evaluated using the Data
Sheet 1-20 methodology.
February 1993. Major changes from 1985 edition:

1. Additional information has been added for evaluation of space separation between buildings to further
clarify acceptable conditions. It is important to remember that construction features on both sides of the
separation must be considered individually, since the MFL exposure could occur from either direction.
2. Use 25% of the live load, as well as the entire dead load, when designing tied walls using the catenary
cable formula (see Recommendation 2.1.1.4.4).
3. An advisory comment has been added regarding the arrangement of racks adjacent to MFL fire walls to
prevent possible damage to the wall from collapsing racks during an uncontrolled fire.
APPENDIX C FIRE DOORS
C.1 Fire Door Construction

For door sizes and fire-protection ratings, see the latest edition of the Approval Guide.
There is a maximum size limitation on FM Approved fire doors because larger units cannot be tested. The
actual size limit is noted in the Approval Guide and varies, depending on manufacturer and model, up to 152
ft2 (14 m2). Where protection of larger openings is necessary, the practice is to use doors that are of the
same design and construction as those that have been fire-tested. Factors considered in determining
adequacy of oversized doors for a given situation include the building area, type of construction, and the
arrangement and hazard of the occupancy—all with relation to the location of the opening. When an opening
that is too large for an FM Approved fire door is contemplated, consult FM Approvals for advice as to the
suitability of an oversized door.
For sample labels, refer to Figure 48.
Oversized doors (larger than those tested and listed in the Approval Guide) must be specially labeled (see
Fig. 81) to verify construction is similar to that of an FM Approved door. Labeling of oversize doors applies
only to rolling steel or sliding doors.
Fig. 81. FM Approvals oversize label
An additional label (see Fig. 71) is available to accommodate sliding doors for use in openings in fire walls
penetrated by conveyors. Such doors are notched to provide as much closure as practical around the
conveyor track (see Fig. 70). As the track size may vary, so too may the notch; however, the maximum
clearances must not exceed those noted in Figure 70.
Vision panels may only be installed on fire doors having a maximum fire rating of 1 1⁄2 hours (interior) or ¾
hours (exterior). Consequently, they may not be used in fire doors protecting openings in MFL fire walls,
where a 3-hour fire door rating (Class A opening; see section C.8) is needed, or in exterior fire doors where
a severe exposure exists (Class D opening). The maximum area and dimensions of glazing for doors in Class
B, C, or E openings are given in Table 9.

Table 9. Allowable Glazing Area For Fire Doors

Fire Door Rating, Maximum Area, Maximum Dimension,
hr in2 (cm2) in. (cm)
1⁄2 & 1⁄3 Maximum area tested Maximum tested
3⁄4 1296 (8360) 54 (137)
1, 1 ⁄2, 2, 21⁄2
1 100 (645) 33 (84)
3, 4 0 n.a.
Fire door hardware used with the fire doors is an important part of the overall door installation. Only FM
Approved hardware may be used when hardware has been FM Approved for that type door; otherwise,
appropriate listed hardware must be used.
Fire door hardware is classified as either builders’ hardware or fire door hardware. Builders’ hardware has
a subcategory of ‘‘fire exit hardware,’’ which consists of devices FM Approved or listed for both fire and panic
protection.
Builders’ hardware applies only to swinging doors and consists of hinges, locks, latches, top and bottom
bolts, and door closers. Builders’ hardware is not required to be shipped from the factory with the fire door.
Labels on swinging doors will generally provide the minimum latch throw distance required for that size and
type door.
Fire door hardware applies to both swinging and sliding fire doors. This hardware consists of surface-mounted
hinges, latches, and door closers. This type of hardware is shipped from the factory with the fire door.
C.2 Detectors
Detectors are devices such as fusible links, heat detectors (fixed temperature and/or rate-of-rise), and smoke
detectors. Detectors operate the release mechanism that allows door closers to close the doors.
When heat detectors are used, they must be a restorable type and a combination fixed-temperature and
rate-of-rise type. Smoke detectors must be suitable for the environment. Smoke detectors may experience
false operation in dusty environments, etc. For more information, refer to Data Sheet 5-48, Automatic Fire
Detection, and the Approval Guide.
FM Approved fusible links are used to operate fire doors, shutters, dampers, and other devices at the
predetermined temperature. The fusible-type link consists mainly of two metallic plates joined together by a
special solder alloy. The solder melts at a predetermined temperature allowing the plates to separate. Other
types of FM Approved links operate by the bursting of a glass bulb due to the expansion of an enclosed liquid
or the liquefying of a chemical compound when exposed to heat.
FM Approved fusible links are stamped with the following information:
• Manufacturer’s name
• Listing agency logo
• Load rating
• Temperature rating
• Model designation
• Year of manufacture
The load rating generally varies from 5 to 50 lb (2.3 to 2.7 kg), and can be as high as 500 lb (227.3 kg).
The load rating of the links must be at least equal to the load required to hold the door open. This load will
vary, depending on the type and size of the door and the counterweights used (if applicable).
C.3 Door Closers

Door closers can be spring-operated arms located at the top of the door or spring hinges and are used to
make swinging doors self-closing. Their application must not exceed the sizes and weights listed in the
Approval Guide, and they must be used in the quantities indicated therein. No hold-open points are permitted
in this type of device.

C.4 Power Operators

Occasionally, conditions are such that either pneumatic or electric power operators are desirable for the
normal opening and closing of a fire door. Such a practice is acceptable, provided FM Approved or listed
power operators or power operator-release devices are used with the appropriate fire doors. Unless the power
operator is a ‘‘fail-safe’’ design, it must physically disconnect from the door when automatic closure is initiated.
This prevents accidental opening of the door after automatic closure.
FM Approved operators are equipped with an automatic closing feature that must be capable of closing the
door completely under fire conditions without power. The electrical components of the operator must be
suitable for the occupancy where installed as required by the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70).
C.5 Electromagnetic Door Holder Releases

Electromagnetic door holder releases are designed to hold open fire doors until they are de-energized by
FM Approved detectors or by power failure. Fire doors held open with these releases must close automatically
by either gravity or a door-closing device.
C.6 Electromechanical Door Holders

Electromechanical door holders are designed to hold fire doors open during normal use and release them
to close upon receipt of a signal from a detector.
There are two types: one type is normally energized and will release when de-energized, while the other
type is normally de-energized and will release when energized. The normally de-energized units are not
fail-safe when power is lost; thus, they are not acceptable for use on MFL fire walls.
Doors equipped with these units must be automatic closing upon their release by either gravity or a
door-closing device.
C.7 Fire Door Operation and Inspection
C.7.1 Horizontal Sliding Doors

Horizontal sliding doors may be installed on inclined tracks or level tracks (Fig. 49, 50, and Fig. 57). Either
a single door to one side of the opening or two doors (biparting) may be used. Horizontal sliding doors are
mounted on tracks that are bolted to the face of a fire wall. They are generally used to protect openings for
vehicle traffic. They move across the track over the opening to seal off the fire wall penetration. Binders (Fig.
68) are bolted to the face of the wall on the side of the opening opposite the door. They help to hold the
leading edge of the door against the wall at the edge of the opening. A stay-roll (Figs. 82, 84, and 85) is
provided at floor level near the edge of the opening where the door is held in the open position. The stayroll
helps to prevent the door from swaying during operation, and also helps to hold the closed door against
the face of the wall at this edge of the opening. A roller strip (Fig. 82) is installed across the face of the door
in the plane of the stay-roll to prevent wearing of the door face. The average closing speed for all types of
horizontal sliding doors should be between 6 and 24 in./s (0.15 and 0.60 m/s).
There are three methods of operation for a horizontal sliding fire door. They are inclined track, straight track
with counterweight closure, and straight track with spring closure.

Ceiling
Pipe sleeve Fusible

through wall links
Swivel
arm
release
Metal
enclosure
Door
Weights
Opening
Floor
Note: Fusible links are needed on both sides of the wall.

Fig. 82. Horizontal sliding door; inclined track

Ceiling
Pipe sleeve Heat detectors Automatic
through wall (other than fusible links) release
Fusible link
Pulley
Pulley
Closing Hold-
weights open
weights
Metal Door
enclosure
Opening
Floor
Fig. 83. Horizontal sliding door; level track, counterweight closure

Hanger
Hanger Track — ³⁄₄ in. (19 mm)
in 12 in. (305 mm) slope
Vent holes
— tin-clad Washer strip —
doors only chafing strip
opposite Track binder
for tin-clad doors; angles
Rear chafing strips also sheet metal
binders required on flush doors
and sheet metal doors
pockets Intermediate
required Handle pull binder
Bumper shoe Binder
Wedge Roller strip Stay roll
Fig. 84. Horizontal sliding inclined track fire door showing stay rolls and binders

Fig. 85. Stay roll for horizontal sliding fire door

C.7.2 Inclined Track

The overhead track (Figs. 82 and 84) is inclined at a slight (¾ in./ft, 63 mm/m) downward angle toward the
opening to allow for gravity closure. The door is mounted on the track so that, when open, it is on the high
side of the track. The door is kept open by hold-open weights that are connected by sash chain, cable, or rope
with fusible links in line. The cable must be flexible so as to not develop a permanent set or bind in any way.
One link should be located near the top corner of the opening and another link should be located just below
ceiling level and centered over the opening (Fig. 83). When one of the links fuses, the holdopen weight drops
and allows gravity closure of the door. Counterweights are used to limit the closing speed to 6 to 24 in./s
(0.15 to 0.6 m/s).
It is important that the track be installed at the correct angle and elevation above the floor. If the track is
too low or the angle is too steep, the door may hit the floor and stop before closing completely. If the track
is too high there may be a gap between the floor and door bottom when the door is in the closed position.
In some cases dirt or debris can accumulate at floor level and prevent complete closure of the door.
Also, improper or poorly maintained installation of the track anchor bolts can cause the track to sag resulting
in the bottom of the door hitting the floor prematurely, thus preventing complete closure. Careless placement
of storage can pin the door against the wall, thus preventing movement when the counterweight is released.
This can be avoided by the installation of a guard rail placed in front of the door in the open position.
Brief weekly (MFL fire walls) or monthly (other fire partitions) inspections can be made to detect the above
problems. Lifting the hold-open weight can help to detect any obvious problems with the door operation.
Since this is the simplest closure method for horizontal sliding fire doors, the failure rate is lower and its use
is preferred to that of the other two types.
C.7.3 Straight Track with Counterweight Closure

In this installation the track is installed in the level position. One or two sets of counterweights are used.
When two sets of weights are used, the hold-open weights are connected in line with a fusible link(s) (Fig.
83). This stabilizes the door in the open position during normal conditions. When a link fuses, the hold-open
weights are dropped and the closing weights pull the door closed.
When one set of weights is used, the closing mechanism uses a swivel arm and catch ring arrangement
(Fig. 57). The cable connecting the weights to the swivel has no fusible links along its length. At the swivel
arm is a catch-ring that hooks the cable onto the swivel arm when it is in the vertical position. Another cable,
with fusible links, is attached to the swivel arm opposite the catch ring and runs across the door and opening.
When a link in this cable fuses, the swivel arm is released and allowed to rotate. As it rotates, it releases
the catch ring. The weights pull the cable and catch ring to the leading edge of the door where the catch ring
is caught by the catch bracket. The weight then pulls the door closed by the catch bracket.
Potential problems to be noted during inspections include dirt or debris accumulations at floor level near
the door path, improper or poorly maintained installation of track anchor bolts, and storage against or in the
path of the door. In addition, storage against the wall can prevent adequate movement of the closing weight.
A substantial metal enclosure should be provided for the entire length of travel for the closing weight. Lifting
the hold-open weight can help detect obvious problems with the door operation. Guard rails should be
provided in front of the door in the open position.
C.7.4 Straight Track with Spring Closure

This installation uses a level track and a spring-actuated closing mechanism to pull the door closed (Fig.
50). The closing mechanism utilizes cable wound around a reel and is powered by springs. Normal door
operation should not result in activation of the reel; however, fusing of a link or activation of a detector releases
spring tension, allowing the door to be pulled closed. The reel must be pre-wound to ensure there will be
enough spring tension to close the door.
Consult the manufacturer’s literature for the proper number of revolutions, which increases according to door
size.
Weekly/monthly inspections must include a check for dirt and debris in the path of the door, the presence
of storage near the door, and the track condition, as well as manual operation of the door.

C.7.5 Swinging Doors

Swinging fire doors are doors that swing on hinges in or out of a room or building (Fig. 53 and 54). Composite
and hollow-metal door assemblies can be normally closed, but are also designed to accommodate a normally
open position with detector-activated door closure.
Swinging sheet-metal or metal-clad doors can be normally closed or arranged for automatic-closing under
fire conditions. Normally open doors with counterweights have a detector that releases a heavy closing weight
that drops into a bob weight used to keep the closing chain or cable taut, and both weights close the door
(Fig. 53). Normally closed doors can be equipped with either spring hinges or a spring-actuated door closer
(Fig. 54).
Doors arranged to swing in pairs should be equipped with a coordinator that will permit the active leaf to
close last. Hardware provisions for these double openings must include appropriate latch devices to maintain
the doors in a closed position. Various types of fire exit hardware, either flush or surface-mounted, are
available for this application.
C.7.6 Telescoping Vertical Sliding Doors

A telescoping vertical sliding door (Fig. 55) is divided horizontally into two leaves and, when opening, the
lower leaf overlaps the upper. A large and small counterweight are attached separately to the lower leaf, which,
in rising, lifts the upper leaf by means of an additional set of cables. The counterweights together keep the
door in balance in all positions. A detector causes release of small counterweights, permitting both leaves
to close. The size of the large counterweight controls the speed of closing. This type of fire door requires
minimum space overhead and is particularly adaptable for installations at existing elevator-well openings.
C.7.7 Counterbalanced Elevator Doors

The counterbalanced elevator doors part at mid-height, the upper leaf rising and the lower leaf descending.
The two leaves counterbalance each other by means of a chain at each side running over a ball-bearing
sheave. The regular-type doors are arranged so the two leaves butt together when in the closed position.
In the pass-type, the upper leaf is offset so that in the open position it bypasses the bottom leaf of the door
in the story above. In the closed position a formed closure plate fits over the top of the lower leaf. The
pass-type is used mainly where the vertical distance between openings and adjacent storage is limited.
Installation in existing shafts may require extensive structural modification on the car or shaft Simple automatic
safety interlocks are usually provided to permit opening a door only when the car is at the same floor, and
also to prevent the car from moving when the door is open.
C.7.8 Passenger-Elevator Doors

The operation of hollow metal doors used in passenger-elevator entrance assemblies is arranged to
accommodate vertical transportation needs. Doors may be obtained for swinging or horizontal slide operation.
The sliding doors may be bi-parting.
C.7.9 Rolling Steel Doors

Rolling steel doors (Figs. 63 and 64) are designed to be used as both service and fire doors. They are
equipped with a mechanism that closes the door automatically from any position when the mechanism is
released by a detector. One or more coil torsion springs provide counterbalancing for normal use and under
fire conditions drive the door to the closed position. Adjustment of the counterbalancing mechanisms requires
experience.
Rolling steel fire doors may be either face-of-wall (surface) mounted (Fig. 63) or between-the-jamb mounted
(Fig. 64). Listed frames are not needed for these doors. Steel plate and/or structural steel must be used
for door jambs. Pressed steel frames must not be used with this type of installation. The steel jambs are
needed for impact resistance rather than for fire rating. The door bracket assembly should be attached to the
wall with through-wall bolts. When walls are unusually thick or zinc- or cadmium-coated, steel expansion
anchors may be used in concrete, brick, or grouted concrete masonry units following guidelines in Fig. 60.
Bolts securing door guides for double fire walls must not penetrate both walls.
The steel guides for rolling steel fire doors are not usually protected by a fire-resistive coating and therefore
heat up and expand when exposed to fire conditions. When vertical steel guides are connected using bolts
in the bottom of slotted holes and adequate clearance is provided between the bottom of the guide and the

floor, the guide is free to expand with minimal stress from frictional resistance. When the guides are welded
in place or there is not adequate clearance below the guides, expansion is restricted: the guides tend to
bow, high stresses can develop, and the guides may become partially or totally disengaged from the wall,
allowing the opening to be breached.
Manual operators or power operators must be arranged so the fusing of a single detector will allow the
operator to disconnect from the door mechanism, enabling the door to close automatically in a fire situation.
The average closing speed should be from 6 to 24 in. per second (0.15 to 0.60 m/sec).
C.7.10 Vertical Sliding Doors

A vertical sliding door operates in a vertical direction but does not use a spring as does a rolling steel fire
door. The door is in one solid piece when it is installed vertically over the opening (see Fig. 56). Alternatively,
a sectional type door is used in conjunction with a sloped track (like that of a garage door).
Doors installed vertically over the opening are suspended by a system of weights and ropes, cable (as
described previously), or sash chain over pulleys. The hold-open weights keep the door in the open position
until a fusible link is actuated. Two sets of counter-balance weights, one on each side of the opening, allow
the door to close at a safely regulated speed. A substantial metal closure should be provided for the entire
length of travel for all weights. Otherwise, storage adjacent to the fire wall may prevent proper operation.
Pulleys should be shielded to prevent the cable/chain from jumping off. The average closing speed should
be from 6 to 24 in. per second (0.15 to 0.60 m/s).
Sectional doors are counterbalanced by an overhead horizontal helical spring on a shaft The shaft is attached
to a reel with a steel cable, which is attached to both sides of the door near the bottom edge.
Guides for vertical sliding doors must be installed plumb to prevent binding during operation. Guides can
be shifted or crimped by lift trucks, resulting in incomplete closure. Guard posts should be installed in front
of the vertical guides to prevent such an occurrence. During weekly/monthly inspections, in addition to a
visual check of the guide, the door should be manually lowered and raised to detect potential problems with
the guides.
C.8 Rating Practices for Fire Doors

Fire doors are rated for the type of openings for which they are suited. The designations are based on a
letter class.
For a given class of opening as defined by NFPA Standard No. 80, Fire Doors and Windows, the class of
door must match the class of opening. The classes differ according to expected exposure and use (internal
or external).
Architectural specifications may call for a door by class only, with no fire protection rating. (Note that Class
B has two ratings.) Table 10 relates class to uses and fire protection rating.
Table 10. Classification of Fire Wall Openings

Class Type of Opening Fire Rating
A Openings in fire walls separating buildings or dividing a single building into fire areas. 31
Generally fire doors are required on both sides of the wall at such locations.
2
B Openings in enclosures for vertical communication within buildings, and 2-hour rated 11⁄2
partitions providing horizontal fire separations.
C Openings in corridor and room partitions having a fire rating of 1 hour or less
D Openings in exterior walls subject to severe external fire exposure. 11⁄2
E Openings in exterior walls subject to moderate or light fire exposures. 3⁄4
1
Only Class A or 3-hour fire rated FM Approved doors are acceptable for use on MFL fire walls.
2
A 1-hour fire rated door is also available for this class of opening, but should only be used when the rating of the subdivision does not
exceed 1 hour.
The rating for fire doors in North America is based upon results of tests conducted according to ASTM E152.
There is an important difference between this specification and ASTM E119 for fire walls. For ASTM E152,
satisfactory performance for a given period is primarily a measure of the deformation of the door. For ASTM
E119, a wall assembly must prevent the passage of flame, and the average temperature on the unexposed

face must not exceed 250°F (121°C) above ambient temperature for the rated period. Combustible material
placed too near the unexposed face of a fire door could ignite from radiant heat in a time period less than
the door’s rated period (hourly rating) (Fig. 69).
Although the insulating value of the door is not part of the mandatory pass/fail criteria for fire doors as it is
with fire walls, this desirable property can be the deciding factor when considering the choice of otherwise
‘‘equal’’ doors. Some types of doors are better insulators than others. Composite, kalamein, and metal-clad
fire doors have some insulating ability, although not necessarily the same as an equivalently rated fire wall.
In the United States, during the first 30 minutes of a fire door test, the temperature rise on the unexposed
side of the door is measured. If the average temperature rise on the unexposed side does not exceed 250°F
(121°C), 450°F (232°C), or 650°F (343°C), the door receives that respective maximum temperature-rise
rating. The temperature-rise rating is independent of the fire-endurance rating (hourly rating) of the fire door.
A fire door may receive an hourly fire-endurance rating even if the temperature rise exceeds 650°F (343°C)
in the first 30 minutes. In Europe, a similar rating is provided. The time it takes for the average temperature
to reach 121°C (250°F) is monitored, and that number of minutes is assigned as an insulation rating.
Consequently, a European door with a minimum 30 minute insulation rating could be considered comparable
to a U.S. door with a maximum 250°F (121°C) temperature rise rating.
For new construction or door replacement on MFL fire walls, doors with a minimum 30-minute temperature
rise rating of 250°F (121°C) are preferred. This rating ensures the door has some thermal resistance to limit
heat conduction through it. Providing such doors is critical where, despite good preventive efforts, temporary
storage may be left too close to openings where autoignition may result from an uncontrolled fire on the
opposite side of the door. This is a particular concern in warehouses where the probability of having
combustible storage adjacent to openings in fire walls is high. The described door does not offer the same
protection a fire wall, however, and is not considered as a substitute for adequate space separation between
door openings and combustible storage.
The temperature-rise rating is noted on the fire door label. When it is not practical to use a door with a 250°F
(121°C) maximum temperature-rise rating, the next preference is to use one with a 450°F (232°C) maximum
temperature rise rating. Except where noted, all openings in MFL fire walls should be protected with two
automatic closing, minimum 3-hour rated fire doors, one on each side of the opening. Two doors are
recommended for all such openings to increase the probability of at least one door closing.
C.9 Selection of Fire Doors

Selection of a suitable fire door is mainly dependent upon its intended use, available clearances, and
appearance.
Doors with insulating value are preferred as noted above. When the use of such doors is impractical due
to space limitation, rolling steel doors may be used.
In general, single fire doors that close the entire opening without a center joint are preferred. The center
joint of doors mounted in pairs is a weakness that can be overcome by rabbeting or dividing with an astragal
(Figs. 48, 49, 50, and 51). Such paired doors are useful where wall space is limited; where conveyors or
other obstructions are such that doors can be arranged to close around them; for certain elevator enclosures;
and for other special applications.
Fire door installations include hardware, frame (where applicable), operators, and related devices. These
items are all important and deserve the same careful consideration as the door itself. Assemblies requiring
simple closing hardware are preferable to those with complicated arrangements.
Typically, doors and frames are identified by a metal label upon which all information is etched or embossed.
A printed, self-adhesive plastic film label may also be used, or the information may be embossed into the
door frame using a die. Labels for individual doors will have their own individual serial number. Since it is
impractical to make a new die for each frame manufactured, the marking will contain a die code number
assigned to that manufacturer.
Personnel door frames are FM Approved separately from the fire door. Guide rails for rolling or sliding doors
are considered part of an FM Approved door. The inside of the wall opening is protected against mechanical
damage by generic structural steel (channel, angle, or plate).

Labels are located on the hinge edge of the door, near the top hinge for personnel doors. On rolling doors,
they are located near the middle of the face of the bottom bar. On sliding doors, they are located in the middle
of the face of the door. For sample labels, see Figure 47.

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FM Global

Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets 1-22

MAXIMUM FORESEEABLE LOSS

1.0 SCOPE .................................................................................................................................................... 5

2.5.2.7 Air Handling Systems ............................................................................................... 80

©2009-2011 Factory Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved.

©2009-2011 Factory Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved.

Fig. 55. Telescoping vertically sliding doors. ............................................................................................... 59

©2009-2011 Factory Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved.

2.0 LOSS PREVENTION RECOMMENDATIONS

2.2 MFL Limiting Factor: Fire Walls

2.2.2 Construction and Location

2.2.2.1 Fire Resistance of Wall Construction

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2.2.2.2 Stability and Strength

©2009-2011 Factory Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved.

©2009-2011 Factory Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved.

Fig. 2. Double wall: Minimum clearance between fire walls

©2009-2011 Factory Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved.

©2009-2011 Factory Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved.

Fig. 6. One-way wall: Corbel arrangement for one-way wall

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Fig. 8. Double wall: Corbel arrangement

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• Equipment with a PV rupture potential

2.2.2.3 Cantilever Walls

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Fig. 10. Reinforced masonry cantilever wall

Fig. 11. Flashing detail

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2.2.2.4 Tied Walls

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©2009-2011 Factory Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved.

Fig. 15. Tied wall off center of continuous steel frame

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2.2.2.5 One-Way Walls

2.2.2.6 Double Walls

Fig. 17. Double MFL fire wall

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Fig. 19. Examples of roof flashing details

2.2.2.7 Panel Walls In Reinforced Concrete Buildings

2.2.2.8 Control of Cracking

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©2009-2011 Factory Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved.

2.2.2.8.3 Detail bond beam reinforcement as follows:

Fig. 24. Bond beam reinforcing at intersecting concrete masonry walls

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Fig. 26. Typical concrete masonry bond beam

2.2.2.9 Parapets, Roof Protection, and Elevation Differences

Fig. 27. An MFL fire wall divides a one-story facility

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©2009-2011 Factory Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved.

Fig. 28a. MFL wall arrangement at elevation difference (double wall)

Fig. 28b. MFL wall arrangement at elevation difference (cantilever wall)

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2.2.2.10 End Walls and Angle Exposure

Table 2. Length of End Wall Protection*

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Fig. 30. Alternative end wall protection

Fig. 31. Angular wall exposure protection

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Fig. 32. Exterior wall protection

2.2.2.11 Pipes, Conduit, Cables, and Ducts Penetrations