How is Durasteel used for passive fire protection?
Durasteel systems deliver up to 240 minutes of fire integrity, tested to BS 476, BS EN 13501-1 and BS EN 1364. Their structural performance under high heat, moisture and mechanical stress makes them suitable for environments where compartmentation is critical. Durasteel modules can be installed without foundations, and are particularly suited to retrofits, confined spaces and operational facilities. Typical uses include:
- Compartment walls and fire barriers
- Ceilings and duct enclosures
- Cable and service trunking
- Protected escape routes and high-risk enclosures
Sector-specific uses of Durasteel
Power generation and distribution:
Transformer separation, substations, switch rooms and cable protection routes, including major UK projects such as the Sellindge Converter Station.
Transport infrastructure:
Airports, rail and metro systems, tunnel linings, plant rooms and tunnel-rated enclosures where the rapid spread of hydrocarbon fires is a known risk.
Commercial and public buildings:
Data centres, institutions, hospitals and retail complexes requiring fire-resistant zones that protect operations and evacuation routes.
High-rise buildings:
Lift shafts, risers, stair cores, plant rooms and curtain wall fire breaks within complex multi-storey structures.
Industrial and warehousing:
Production facilities, logistics hubs and storage sites with high fire loads, protecting machinery, stock and processes.
Using Durasteel for fire doors
Using Durasteel in fire door installation extends the performance of the wider system, with fire integrity ratings up to 240 minutes and, where specified, partial insulation performance. Promat DURAFIRE® DD 120/240 doors are available as single or double leaf units and can be manufactured to bespoke dimensions with optional vision panels.
Constructed from the same composite material as Durasteel barriers, these doors provide strong resistance to fire, blast and impact, and are Certifire approved under CF 418. All systems are manufactured under ISO 9001, 14001 and 45001.
What are the key benefits of Durasteel?
Exceptional protection
Durasteel delivers reliable fire and blast performance in the most demanding environments, maintaining structural integrity under extreme heat, impact and hydrocarbon fire conditions. Its proven resistance to hose-stream forces ensures continued protection even during active firefighting.
Durability and longevity
Built from a robust fibre-cement and steel composite, Durasteel withstands vibration, moisture and mechanical wear. Its long service life and minimal maintenance needs make it a dependable solution for high-risk, high-duty operational settings.
Versatility
Durasteel’s modular design makes it suitable for walls, ceilings, ducts, doors and specialised enclosures. It installs quickly, adapts easily to confined or complex spaces, and is ideal for both new-build and retrofit applications.
Certified assurance
Every Durasteel system is manufactured within ISO-accredited quality environments and supported by CERTIFIRE-approved performance. Installations can be supplied with full documentation and conformity certification, ensuring complete traceability and compliance.
Work with accredited Durasteel installers
Sharpfibre is a licensed installer of Etex Durasteel® Barrier Systems. All installations follow relevant building regulations, manufacturer standards and third-party accreditation requirements. Projects are fully documented with installation drawings and quality records.
Our team has delivered some of the country’s most complex Durasteel installations, including the multi-year programme at Sellindge Converter Power Station. We ensure every installation meets the required levels of fire, blast and structural resistance essential to high-risk environments.
