3M has developed a new tape named 3M Fire and Water Barrier Tape (FWBT) that provides contractors and architects with an easier way to stop fire, water, smoke and sound.

This is the first of its kind, and contains self-adhered membranes that provide a tough, elastomeric seal. The FWBT is engineered with a pressure sensitive adhesive that sticks to a wide variety of construction substrates, including damp surfaces, at both high and low temperatures.

3M Fire and Water Barrier Tape is available in sizes starting with 2 inches (51 mm) all the way to 12 inches (303 mm) width and 75 ft (22.8 m) length, this is to cover a wide range of site applications.

Each tape is designed for specialised functionality and application. 3M Fire and Water Barrier Tape is ideal for sealing perimeter joints (curtain-wall joints) and other construction joints, as well as selected through penetration applications. This tape is recommended for areas that require both fire protection with the added feature of watertight seal. 3M Fire and Water Barrier Tape has also been engineered to prevent the transmission of smoke and sound.

Tapes can simplify the firestop process for building contractors because they are more portable than other methods, and do not require application equipment. As with caulks and sprays, tapes must be installed per the UL system to meet the building code.

However, caulks and sprays are often not installed correctly as the proper depth of material must be installed with the proper overlaps onto the wall or floor. If not installed correctly, the application will not meet the building code. If installed improperly, entire sections of firestop must be re-installed.

With tapes, you get a consistent installation the first time – there is no need to leave correct installation up to the skill of the installer, reducing re-work and wasted time, said Paul Fannin, 3M technical service engineer.

“3M knows tape, so adding these products to our firestop portfolio was a natural progression. The industry has never seen tapes like these before, and we know that the addition of tape will give building contractors a more efficient and reliable way to firestop,” he added.

As with all 3M firestop products, the new tape meet ASTM and NFPA requirements. They also satisfy all requirements for water, smoke and sound, keeping the project up-to-code and tightly sealed.

FWBT is also supported by tested UL systems available for a range of perimeter joints (curtain-wall), construction joints, and through penetration openings. This product has also gained local Civil Defence (CD) approvals. – TradeArabia News Service