Fire protection curtains in modern construction

Textile fire protection curtains are modern, space-saving solutions for fire protection. They combine a high level of protection with design restraint and can be flexibly integrated into a wide variety of building structures. Especially in complex installation situations or in architecturally demanding projects, they offer a real alternative to conventional fire doors and gates and thus make an important contribution to the safety of people and property.

Wide range of applications

Fire protection curtains are used wherever large wall or ceiling openings need to be securely closed in the event of a fire - without impairing the room effect during normal operation.

Typical locations are:

• Shopping centers and department stores
• Railroad stations, airports and other transportation buildings
• Hotels, hospitals and office buildings
• Industrial and logistics halls
• Museums, schools and cultural buildings

Thanks to their compact design, textile curtains are particularly suitable for installation situations with limited space - with rather low lintels or narrow wall areas.

How do textile fire curtains work?

A fire protection curtain is a self-closing system that is automatically activated in the event of a fire. In its normal state, the curtain is rolled up and concealed in a housing. When triggered - for example by the fire alarm system - it moves down within a few seconds and closes the opening. Fire protection curtains also have a manual release device, such as a push-button detector or a switch, which provides an additional level of safety and enables a rapid response in the event of a fire.

Structure and materials

At its heart is a highly specialized fabric made of glass fibre-reinforced material, often interwoven with stainless steel threads and coated on both sides with silicone or polyurethane. These materials are flame-retardant, heat-resistant and smoke-proof.

Protection classes and standards

Fire protection curtains are divided into different resistance classes:

• E classification (room closure - fire protection closure): Prevents the penetration of flames and smoke (in fire classes E30 to E120)
• EW classification (radiation limitation): Additionally reduces heat radiation to adjacent areas (in fire classes EW30 to EW120)
• EI classification (insulation): Provides thermal insulation in addition to room closure - thus also protects against heat transmission (in fire classes EI30)

The choice of the correct classification depends on the fire protection requirements of the building.

Control and safety

The systems are equipped with a hold-open system that keeps the curtain open during everyday use. In the event of an incident, this release is canceled - the curtain closes by gravity or an integrated motor. Modern systems have concealed end position indicators, light barriers and pre-assembled cabling, which simplifies installation and increases operational safety.

Advantages over fire doors and gates

Compared to classic fire doors or sliding doors, fire protection curtains offer a number of advantages:

• Space-saving integration Curtains do not require a swivel area and disappear when rolled up in a discreet housing. Ideal for tight spaces or architecturally sophisticated solutions.
• Design freedom Thanks to various installation options - in the reveal, on the wall or under the ceiling - fire protection curtains can be integrated unobtrusively into almost any room concept.
• Lightweight and easy to retrofit Compared to solid sliding doors, textile systems are lighter and easier to install. They are therefore also suitable for retrofitting in existing buildings.
• Cost-effective solution With a fire protection curtain, fire protection requirements can often be implemented much more cost-effectively than with fire doors or gates. The reduced installation effort and simple maintenance make them an economically attractive alternative.
• Flexible use for special requirements Fire protection curtains can be individually adapted to different structural conditions - such as irregular openings or special architectural requirements.

Limits and recommendations for use

Despite their versatility, fire protection curtains are not the first choice in all situations. Fire doors and gates are mechanically more robust and offer additional protective functions such as burglar resistance, sound insulation or thermal insulation.