During the Serramentalk in the Nuova Finestra stand, at MADE expo, we talked about the direct application of the results (DIRAP), but above all about the potential of EXAP.
Here is a summary of the speech for the readers:
What are Exap?
Eros Chemolli , CEO of Chemolli Fire will explain.
- So Eros, how is it possible to modify the fire resistant windows compared to the tested ones?
First of all it is good to remember that fire doors are tested in the laboratory by means of the destructive test according to EN 1634-1 and all technical information is included in specific documents, extremely detailed in detail, which also include fixing techniques and possible protection.
The direct field of application of the results, DIRAP is part of the test standard and can allow the reduction or increase of the measurements, the increase in thicknesses and the possibility of changing support (from masonry to plasterboard and vice versa). The manufacturer can make changes without further approval but cannot intervene on construction components such as locks or hinges.
- To make other types of changes, how to proceed?
To make other changes, a new test is required: EXAP, the Extended Application field of test results for fire resistant and smoke tight doors, diversified by areas, materials and types, belonging to the family of standards EN 15269.
The potential of EXAP is enormous & nbsp; and allows modifications on: materials, geometries, hinges, locks, handles, pull handles and door closers. The EXAP can only be requested by the manufacturer and must be drawn up by a recognized test laboratory, according to the standards, which will issue proof of evidence.
- What if multiple tests are required for a lock change for example? Isn’t that a problem?
Yes, it is a problem and to solve it, a new standardized tool has been developed, the HPS (Hardware Performance Sheet) which allows the interchangeability of accessories. In practice, observes the CEO of Chemolli Fire, its purpose is to create a real identity card of the accessory to ensure that the notified body that issued a test report, can approve that accessory for different door types.
In summary, with the EXAP it is possible to create an optimized test plan (also in terms of expenditure for the manufacturer) and request changes after the first tests, bringing undoubted benefits to producers.
- How are EXAPs managed in Chemolli Fire?
Once the need for changes has been verified and the application has been prepared, some application requests may be discarded or additional supporting evidence, existing or to be created from scratch, may be required.
EXAP enables benefits to manufacturers, with reduced test plans and variations without further (and less expensive) testing. The asseverators must know that producers do not necessarily have to test all possible variants but it is unlikely that a producer will be able to get away with a single test without EXAP.
Heartfelt thanks to DBInformation and Olga Munini for having dedicated a space to this important and constantly evolving issue and for giving us at Chemolli Fire the opportunity to explain and clarify the dynamics to the interested public.
An in-depth study of the intervention has been published on the magazine’s website: