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Distinguishing Fire Resistance, Flame Retardancy, Heat Resistance, and Thermal Shrinkage in Materials
A detailed comparison of fire resistance, flame retardancy, heat resistance, and the thermal shrinkage behavior of fire-rated materials. This article helps clarify common misconceptions and guide proper material selection.
In fire protection, it's important to distinguish between:
  • Flame Spread Resistance: The material may catch fire at a point but does not allow flames to spread across its surface.
  • Fire Resistance: The ability of materials or structures to withstand fire for a period (30, 60, 90 minutes…) without collapsing or allowing fire and heat to pass through.
  • Heat Resistance: The ability to work under high temperatures without burning, melting, or degrading—often used in industrial insulation.
  • Thermal Shrinkage: Some fire-rated materials shrink or change shape under flame, but this does not mean they are burning. It’s a physical reaction, not combustion.
Each property serves a different purpose. Choosing the right material depends on the specific fire safety requirements of your project.
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