Fire Barrier vs. Fire Wall

Fire barriers and fire partitions may function in a similar manner to fire walls but do not hold the same value in regards to regulation. They are both interior structures which function to prevent the spread of fires. The minor differences between the two serve are major in the results of its ability to act as a safeguard in a fire.

Fire barriers and partitions subdivide floors and supported by structural fixture conjoined with the building. They are often installed to extend the time needed for escape in case of a fire. Fire walls are used to divide buildings and are much more functionally structured to contain fires in the building itself. Fire walls are usually constructed with reinforced concrete and brick.

The differences between a fire wall and a fire barrier are tremendous. They are vital in securing the safety of buildings and facilities. To learn more about safety tools and products to improve your job sites and projects visit our online 3M superstore.

What is a Fire Barrier?

A fire barrier can be a vertical or horizontal structure, designed according to detailed resistance ratings. These walls and assembly structures prevent or minimize the potential of fire spreads and decrease the rate of smoke expansion. Fire Barrier walls are usually non-structural for support and rarely extend to the floor level above. They are fire rated wall assemblies that run continuously from one exterior wall to another exterior wall. There are many guidelines regulating the function and construction of fire barrier walls:

•      Usually have lower resistance ratings than firewalls
•           Most effective when heat and smoke vents are functioning
•      Fire barriers provide building occupants with more time to evacuate
•          One-way fire barriers must be non-load bearing
•          Should be built to gain vertical strength from structural column patterns
•          Must be continuous throughout concealed spaces

Our 3M Fire Barrier products can be used in a variety of fire stop applications, mounting brackets, conduit, electrical communications, cable trays and plastic/metal pipe fire stop devices. Our  variety of fire barriers includes water tight sealants, silicone foam, mold-able putty, and quick pass products. Learn more about fire barriers and fire barrier products at our 3M online superstore.

3M Disc Retainer Nut

Try this 3M Disc Retainer with all 3M disc pad hub. The retainer also works with face plates and 3M fibre disc holders. The disc retainer has a M14-2 INT thread and has 5/16 inch thread length. It can also be used with a spanner wrench and has 1/4 inch diameter holes. Check out our extensive inventory at our 3M online superstore. 

3M Hook and Loop Pad Holder

3M Hook and Loop Pad Holder for use in a chemical environment with Scotch-Brite sheets (4 in x 10 in). The Hook and Loop Pad Holder has a swivel attachment which accepts a threaded broom handle. The holder also features Brass Pins (BP) in the swivel which provides a more durable swivel and allows the holder head to stay in the position.      

3M Vacuum Hose Swivel Adapter

The 3M Vacuum Hose Swivel Adapter is used to attach a 1 in ID vacuum hose to another 1 in ID vacuum hose. The hose has a 1 inch internal hose thread in both ends of the adapter. This allows the customer to connect 2 lengths of 1 inch vacuum hoses to create a longer vacuum hose. Check out our large inventory of vacuum hose adapters on our online superstore.         

3M Vacuum Hose End Adapter

Use this 3M Vacuum Hose End Adapter to attach a 1 in ID vacuum hose to a 3/4 in ID vacuum hose. It has a 1 in internal hose thread in one end of the adapter and a 3/4 in. internal hose thread in the other end of the adapter. The vacuum hose allows the customer to connect the 3M Random Orbital Sander - Two-Hand to a 3/4 in. vacuum hose. It also features the option to use a section of 1 in vacuum hose to connect the adapter to the ROS exhaust assembly.

3M PPS Liner Dispenser

Keep your liners organized and protected with 3M's PPS Large Liner Dispenser. This wall mountable dispenser is designed to hold both 650 mL and 850 mL PPS liners.It holds at least 50 of either size. The dispenser also features easy access for top loading and dispenses one liner at a time. Keeps liners clean, neat, organized and free from contamination.   

3M Mega Swivel Concrete Anchorage Device

The 3M Mega Swivel Concrete Anchorage Device is durable for the toughest projects. This fall protection concrete bolt anchor is for use in temporary and permanent applications. The 3M design includes a swivel D-ring for 360 degree movement that is combined with an anchor bolt. Add this dependable anchorage device to your safety kit. 

3M Concrete Anchor Strap 4823-8

This 3M Concrete Anchor Strap fall protection concrete anchor strap is a low cost temporary anchorage device for concrete forming work. Designed to be cut and removed upon job completion. Includes steel D-ring and soft loop with wear pad for improved abrasion resistance.    

3M SafeLok Reusable Anchorage Device 4011

This 3M SafeLok Reusable Anchorage Device 4011 fall protection reusable anchor can easily be inserted into and removed from precast or hollow-core concrete to form a secure anchor point. It can also be used on steel beams. Check out our complete line of fall protection supplies to secure the safety of your work site and team.

3M BeamWalk Adjustable Sliding Beam Anchorage Device

This 3M BeamWalk Adjustable Sliding Beam Anchorage Device is an adjustable sliding anchor provides horizontal mobility on I-beams. Attach overhead or at your feet using a PowerStop energy absorbing lanyard. Lightweight aluminum construction, quick and easy installation. 3M Fall Protection equipment has earned the confidence of companies and workers across the country by offering a broad line of fall protection products and systems. 

3M Permanent D-Bolt Anchorage Device 4005

This fall protection anchor is for use on concrete, metal or wood surfaces. Design includes D-bolt anchor with 1.5 inch diameter bolt, nut and washer hardware. This permanent anchor can be bolted or welded to structure. 3M Fall Protection equipment has earned the confidence of companies and workers across the country by offering a broad line of fall protection products and systems.