EN 1364-5:2026 PDF

Overview

EN 1364-5:2026 is a European Standard developed by CEN that specifies a method for determining the fire resistance of air transfer grilles (ATG) used in non-loadbearing building elements. Air transfer grilles are essential for allowing airflow in buildings while maintaining fire and smoke compartmentation. This standard addresses the performance of ATGs intended for installation in components such as walls, floors, or ceilings, with vertical or horizontal orientation. Both passive (intumescent) and active (mechanical or electrical) closing mechanisms are within its scope.

This test method evaluates the behavior of ATGs when exposed to heat and pressure conditions specified in EN 1363-1. While it collects general observations of smoke and hot gas leakage, it does not provide quantitative smoke leakage data; this is covered by EN 1634-3 for grilles with smoke control claims. Notably, EN 1364-5:2026 does not apply to ATGs used in ducts, fire dampers, fire barriers connected to ducts, or ATGs in fire doors, shutters, and openable windows.

Key Topics

• Air Transfer Grille Types: Covers fire-resistant and fire-resistant with smoke control ATGs, both modular and standard designs.
• Test Configuration: Specifies test methods for ATGs installed in both vertical (walls) and horizontal (floors, ceilings) supporting constructions, using standard fire resistance curves and pressure regimes.
• Supporting Constructions: Details requirements for standard supports (rigid, flexible, and non-standard) and the inclusion of decorative covers during testing if applicable.
• Performance Criteria: Focuses on:
  • Integrity: Observed using a cotton pad and visual inspection to check for gaps or sustained flaming.
  • Insulation: Measured via thermocouple placement and temperature rise limits.
• Test Reporting: Outlines mandatory content, including pressure data, thermocouple locations, performance summaries, and direct field of application.
• Field of Application: Test results are only valid for grilles installed in the tested orientation and position, with explicit guidance on acceptable modifications (e.g., dimension reductions).

Applications

EN 1364-5:2026 serves a vital role in the fire safety of buildings by providing a reproducible method for assessing the fire resistance of air transfer grilles as independent fire-separating elements. Typical applications include:

• Air Transfer in Compartment Walls/Floors: Verifying ATG fire resistance in walls and floors separating fire compartments.
• HVAC Integration: Ensuring grilles used for ventilation in fire-rated partitions meet required fire and, optionally, smoke control performance.
• Product Certification: Providing a test method for manufacturers seeking CE marking or national approvals for air transfer grilles.
• Building Code Compliance: Supporting designers, specifiers, fire risk assessors, and approval authorities by referencing a harmonized and robust test method.

This standard is especially relevant for projects prioritizing fire compartmentation in line with modern construction and safety regulations.

Related Standards

For comprehensive fire safety assessment and regulatory compliance, consider these related standards:

• EN 1363-1: Fire resistance tests - General requirements (heat and pressure protocols referenced by EN 1364-5).
• EN 1634-3: Smoke control tests for doors and closing devices, applicable for ATGs with declared smoke control performance.
• EN 1366-2: Test methods for fire dampers (distinct from ATGs tested as independent elements).
• EN 1366-12: Methods for testing non-mechanical fire barriers associated with ducts.
• EN 1634-1: Fire resistance testing for doors, shutters, and openable windows (not used for ATGs within this context).
• EN 1364-1/2: Testing methods for fire performance of walls and ceilings.
• EN ISO 13943: Fire safety vocabulary, providing definitions for terms used in EN 1364-5.

By referencing EN 1364-5:2026 and related standards, professionals can ensure air transfer grilles used in their buildings are tested for, and compliant with, critical fire resistance requirements. This supports enhanced building safety, regulatory acceptance, and confidence in fire separation solutions.