How do I know if I have chosen the right system?
This a a difficult question to answer. Specifiers, installers, and inspectors need to familiarize themselves with commonly used products. The best source for information is the manufacturers themselves. Additional information can be found in the UL Fire Resistance Directory (beginning with the 1990 directory). It is important to understand, however, that the UL systems show the limitations to the test and not necessarily the limitations of the products. Get to know the limitations of the products. Ask manufacturers for guidelines on the use of their products.
What limitations are there in way of annular space requirements, depth of material used, limits on size, number, and material of penetrants. Everyone is conscious of liability these days. Reputable manufacturers are generally pretty honest about about the limitations of their products. When in doubt... ask for help. The manufacturers of firestop products have performed more fire tests than anyone else. When you have a question, take advantage of their knowledge and experience.
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