EI Class Fire Rated Glass: Integrity and Insulation Glass Systems

Class EI (Integrity & Insulation) is considered the highest performance classification level for fire compartmentalization, offering the maximum level of protection for people and property in the event of a fire. Fire rated glass integrity and insulation, including high-performance insulation glass, not only ensures integrity under fire exposure but also measures the ability of construction products, such as fire resistant glass, to limit the transfer of heat from the exposed side to the unexposed side. This prevents ignition of the unexposed surface or nearby materials and provides a strong heat barrier for people close to the glass.

Class EI (Integrity & Insulation) rated glass is classified in accordance with European standard EN 13501-2, Fire classification of construction products and building elements. It prevents the spread of fire by blocking heat transfer for a defined period of time, expressed in minutes such as 30, 60, or 90. Accordingly, products are classified as EI30 glass, EI60 glass, or solutions offering EI90 fire resistance, depending on the duration of protection provided.

Performance criteria for EI (Integrity plus Insulation) rating include:

• No sustained flames on the side of the glass not exposed to fire
• No openings larger than Ø 25 mm or 6 × 150 mm
• No ignition of cotton insulation
• No temperature increase on the unexposed side of the glass greater than 140°C on average or a maximum of 180°C