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2006 Fire Resistance Design ManualGA-600

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Page 2: 2006 Fire Resistance Design ManualGA-600

GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL 3

The Gypsum Association FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL is referenced by thefollowing code and standards writing organizations:

INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE, published by:International Code Council, Inc.5203 Leesburg Pike, Suite 600Falls Church, Virginia 22041

(Tables 720.1(1), 720.1(2), and 720.1(3))

BOCA NATIONAL BUILDING CODE, published by:Building Officials and Code Administrators International, Inc.4051 West Flossmoor RoadCountry Club Hills, Illinois 60478-5795

(See Chapters 7, 12, and 25, Commentary to the BOCA National Building Code)

UNIFORM BUILDING CODE, published by:International Conference of Building Officials5360 Workman Mill RoadWhittier, California 90601

(See footnote a, Tables No. 7-A, -B, and -C, and Appendix Section 1209)

STANDARD BUILDING CODE, published by:Southern Building Code Congress International, Inc.900 Montclair RoadBirmingham, Alabama 35213-1206

(See Section 701.5.2)

THE NATIONAL FIRE CODES, published by:National Fire Protection Association1 Batterymarch ParkP.O. Box 9101Quincy, Massachusetts 02269-9101

(See NFPA 90A, NFPA 101, NFPA 221, NFPA 5000, and the Life Safety Code Handbook)

The FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL is also referenced in the code documents ofmajor jurisdictions in the United States such as Florida, Chicago, Los Angeles, and NewYork City. In addition, the Manual has been recognized in major jurisdictions in Canada.

FOREWORD

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GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL4

FOREWORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

TABLE OF CONTENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

SECTION I - USE OF THIS MANUAL AND GENERAL EXPLANATORY NOTES . . . . . . . . . . .7Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Description of Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7General Explanatory Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Testing Agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Product Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11Abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

SECTION II - REQUIREMENTS FOR FIRE PROTECTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Fire Resistive Properties of Gypsum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Type X Gypsum Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Performance of Gypsum Plaster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Fire Resistance Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Wall and Partition Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Area Separation Walls (Party/Fire Walls) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Floor-Ceiling and Roof-Ceiling Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Ceiling Openings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Beam, Girder, and Truss Protection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Continuous Ceiling Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15Individual Encasement Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Column Protection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16Fire Blocking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Smoke Barriers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Perimeter Relief and Control Joints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Surface Burning Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

SECTION III - SOUND CONTROL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Sound Insulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Sound Transmission Loss Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21Impact Noise Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

SECTION IV - FIRE RESISTANCE AND SOUND RATED SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24INDEX TO SYSTEMS BY STC RATING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24LISTING OF DELETED SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26LISTING OF NEW SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26WALL AND PARTITION SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Walls and Interior Partitions, Noncombustible, 1-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27Walls and Interior Partitions, Noncombustible, 2-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38Walls and Interior Partitions, Noncombustible, 3-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47Walls and Interior Partitions, Noncombustible, 4-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49Walls and Interior Partitions, Wood-Framed, 1-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52Walls and Interior Partitions, Wood-Framed, 2-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62Chase Walls, Noncombustible, 1-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65Chase Walls, Noncombustible, 2-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66Chase Walls, Wood-Framed, 1-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69Chase Walls, Wood-Framed, 2-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70Movable and Office Partitions, 1-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71Movable and Office Partitions, 2-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74Shaft Walls, 1-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75Shaft Walls, 2-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77Shaft Walls, 3-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88Shaft Walls, 4-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL 5

Exterior Walls, 1-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90Exterior Walls, 2-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95Metal Clad Exterior Walls, 1-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99Metal Clad Exterior Walls, 2-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100Area Separation Walls (Party/Fire Walls), 2-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102Area Separation Walls (Party/Fire Walls), 3-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106

FLOOR-CEILING SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107Floor-Ceiling Systems, Noncombustible, 1-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107Floor-Ceiling Systems, Noncombustible, 1½-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109Floor-Ceiling Systems, Noncombustible, 2-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109Floor-Ceiling Systems, Noncombustible, 3-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111Floor-Ceiling Systems, Noncombustible, 4-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112Floor-Ceiling Systems, Steel Frame, Wood Floor, 1-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113Floor-Ceiling Systems, Steel Frame, Wood Floor, 2-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115Floor-Ceiling Systems, Wood-Framed, 1-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116Floor-Ceiling Systems, Wood-Framed, 1½-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130Floor-Ceiling Systems, Wood-Framed, 1¾-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130Floor-Ceiling Systems, Wood-Framed, 2-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130

ROOF-CEILING SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133Roof-Ceiling Systems, 1-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133Roof-Ceiling Systems, 2-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135

COLUMN PROTECTION SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137Columns, Noncombustible, 1-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137Columns, Noncombustible, 2-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .140Columns, Noncombustible, 3-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .146Columns, Noncombustible, 4-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .150

BEAM, GIRDER, AND TRUSS PROTECTION SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .152Beams, Girders and Trusses; Noncombustible, 1-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .152Beams, Girders and Trusses; Noncombustible, 2-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .152Beams, Girders and Trusses; Noncombustible, 3-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .153Beams, Girders and Trusses; Noncombustible, 4-HOUR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .154

APPENDIX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155Commonly Used Metric Conversions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155

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This Manual is a convenient and useful specificationaid for anyone concerned with the design, construction,or inspection of fire resistive and sound control systems.Design information is quickly and easily determined.Comparison of these characteristics allows the user tobe more accurate in meeting design and coderequirements. The data provided are especially useful tobuilders, architects, code officials, fire service, andinsurance personnel.

The systems in this Manual utilize gypsum productsto provide fire resistance to walls, partitions, floor-ceilings, roof-ceilings, columns, beams, girders, andtrusses. Systems are classified according to their typicaluses and their fire-resistance ratings. Walls, partitions,and floor-ceiling systems are further classified by SoundTransmission Class (STC) or Field Sound TransmissionClass (FSTC). The Impact Insulation Class (IIC) isincluded for many wood framed floor-ceiling systems.

WHERE THE WORD "PROPRIETARY" APPEARSIN SYSTEM DESCRIPTIONS EITHER THE SYSTEMOR ONE OR MORE OF ITS COMPONENTS ISCONSIDERED PROPRIETARY. EACH PROPRIETARYSYSTEM SHALL BE BUILT UTILIZING THECOMPONENTS SPECIFIED BY THE COMPANY ORCOMPANIES LISTED UNDER THE DETAILEDDESCRIPTION FOR THAT SYSTEM. ALL OTHERSYSTEMS ARE GENERIC. GENERIC SYSTEMS AREAPPLICABLE TO THE PRODUCTS OF ANYMANUFACTURER, WHETHER A MEMBER OF THEGYPSUM ASSOCIATION OR NOT, PROVIDED THEPRODUCTS MEET THE APPROPRIATE STANDARDSLISTED IN SECTION I AND, WHEN APPLICABLE, THEREQUIREMENTS SET FORTH IN SECTION II.

To maintain industry-wide quality assurancestandards for gypsum board defined in this Manual as"type X," the Gypsum Association requires that allcompanies listing proprietary tests or systems, or relyingon the generic systems in this manual, shall subscribeto an on-going third-party, in-plant product inspectionand labeling service. Additionally, each membercompany makes annual written certification to theGypsum Association that its products manufactured foruse in systems listed in this Manual continue to beinspected and labeled by an independent third-partytesting service as listed on page 10.

Fire-resistance ratings, STCs, FSTCs, and IICs arethe results of tests conducted on systems composed ofspecific materials put together in a specified manner.Substitution of other materials or deviation from thespecified construction could adversely affectperformance. For example, if batt or blanket insulation isshown, then it is a required component of the system. Ineach system containing batt or blanket insulation the

insulation is specified to be either mineral or glass fiberand, for fire resistance, the system shall be constructedusing the type specified.

Mineral fiber or glass fiber shall not be arbitrarilyadded to floor-ceiling or roof-ceiling systems to increaseeither STCs or R-values. This practice has been shownto reduce the fire-resistance rating. The addition of up to163/4 inches of 0.5 pcf glass fiber insulation (R-40),either batt or loose-fill, to any 1- or 2-hour fire resistancerated floor-ceiling or roof-ceiling system having a cavitydeep enough to accept the insulation is permittedprovided that one additional layer of either 1/2 inch or 5/8inch type X gypsum board is applied to the ceiling. Theadditional layer of gypsum board shall be applied asdescribed for the face layer of the tested system exceptthat the fastener length shall be increased by not lessthan the thickness of the additional layer of gypsumboard.

The detailed descriptions for the systems included inthis Manual are summaries. For complete informationon the systems or components tested, the listing or testreport should be reviewed. Details regarding genericsystems may be requested from the GypsumAssociation; details on proprietary systems are availablefrom the companies listed for those systems.

For information on limiting heights of nonload-bearing steel stud walls and partitions see ASTMC 754, Standard Specification for Installation of SteelFraming Members to Receive Screw Attached GypsumPanel Products, or steel stud manufacturer’s literature.

References to ASTM standards, CAN/ULCstandards, or other standards refer to the respectivestandard in effect on the date that the test wasperformed. Each test reference contains the test reportdate.

The information in this Manual is based oncharacteristics, properties, and performance of materialsand systems obtained under controlled test conditionsas set forth in the appropriate standards in effect at thetime of the test. The Gypsum Association and itsmember companies make no warranties or otherrepresentations as to the characteristics, properties, orperformance of any materials or systems in actualconstruction. No warranty or representation is made thatany material or component of any system, other thanthe gypsum material used in such system, conforms toany standard or standards.

INTRODUCTIONNOTE: This Introduction constitutes an essential part of thesystem descriptions contained in Section IV. It is importantthat the user be familiar with this introductory material.

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GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL 7

OVERVIEWThe systems are divided into five major categories

and listed in the Table of Contents on pages 4 an 5under these headings:

- Wall and Partition Systems- Floor-Ceiling Systems- Roof-Ceiling Systems- Column Protection Systems- Beam, Girder, and Truss Protection Systems

In the case of walls and partitions, floor-ceilings, androof-ceilings, noncombustible systems are listed first,followed by wood-framed systems. They are furthersubdivided by fire-resistance rating starting with onehour and increasing. STCs (or FSTCs) are listed indescending order. Where sound test data are notavailable, estimated STCs are based on evaluations ofsimilar systems for which test data are available.

Each system has been assigned a reference number- the GA File Number. Cite this GA File Number inspecifications and on plans, or when making inquiriesabout specific systems.

All system descriptions contain a brief list of themajor components of the system followed by a moredetailed description. The detailed descriptions of interiorsystems begin with the material exposed to the test fireand its method of attachment, followed by a descriptionof the framing members and their methods ofinstallation. Finally, the unexposed side and its methodof attachment is described.

Where unsymmetrical systems were tested from oneside only, the side exposed to the test fire is indicatedby the words "Fire Side" on the system detail. Whendocumentation is available to show that the wall wastested with the least fire-resistive side exposed to thetest fire, the wall need not be subjected to tests from theopposite side and a "Fire Side" is not specified. All floor-ceiling and roof-ceiling systems were tested with fireexposure on the ceiling side.

When mineral or glass fiber insulation was a basiccomponent of a fire tested system, it is included in thedescription as an integral part of the system. Theinsulation thickness, type, and density are described,and both the fire and sound details show fibrousinsulation. If the insulation was used solely to increasethe STC, the fibrous insulation is shown only in thesound detail. When the insulation is not needed for thefire-resistance rating, but is used to improve the STC ofthe system, the last sentence of the detailed description

states, "Sound tested with [mineral] [glass] fiberinsulation." (See General Explanatory Notes 10, 11, and12 on page 8.)

Unless indicated otherwise, all load-bearing woodstud systems were tested while being subjected to themaximum load allowed by design under nationallyrecognized design criteria at the time of the test. Due toan increase in the maximum allowable loading in theNational Design Specifications (1982 and later editions),the American Forest and Paper Association issued thefollowing statement:

Where a load-bearing fire rated wood stud wallassembly contained in this Manual is specificallydesigned for structural capacity, the design value incompression parallel to grain adjusted for slendernessratio (Fc') used in such analysis shall be taken as 78percent of the maximum Fc' value determined inaccordance with normal design practice but shall notexceed 78 percent of the Fc' value for such memberhaving a slenderness ratio (le/d) of 33.

DESCRIPTION OF TERMS USED IN THIS MANUALGypsum Board - defined in ASTM C 11, Standard

Terminology Relating to Gypsum and RelatedBuilding Materials and Systems, as "the genericname for a family of sheet products consisting of anoncombustible core primarily of gypsum with papersurfacing." Gypsum board may be further describedas follows:Regular Gypsum Board - a gypsum board with

naturally occurring fire resistance from thegypsum in the core; or

Type X Gypsum Board - a gypsum board withspecial core additives to increase the natural fireresistance of regular gypsum board.

Limited Load-Bearing - this means that a constantsuperimposed load was applied to the test specimenthroughout the fire test to simulate a design load lessthan 78% of the maximum allowable design load.

Load-Bearing - unless otherwise noted in the detaileddescription, this means that a constantsuperimposed load was applied to the test specimenthroughout the fire test to simulate 78% or more ofthe maximum allowable design load.

Mineral Fiber - refers to either rock or slag woolproducts.

Metal Studs - refers to nominal 25 gage steel studs andrunners (track) manufactured to comply with ASTMC 645 unless otherwise specified in the detaileddescription.

(NLB) - nonload-bearing.NOTE: Listing of a system in a specific category in thisManual is not intended to limit its use to that category (seeGeneral Explanatory Note 13 on page 8). However, thisshall not be interpreted to imply that vertical systems, suchas walls and partitions, are permitted to arbitrarily be usedin a horizontal orientation. In addition, the manufacturershall be consulted for other products which satisfy the fireand sound requirements shown for the systems.

SECTION I - USE OF THIS MANUAL AND GENERAL EXPLANATORY NOTES

NOTE: Where the word “proprietary” appears in systemdescriptions either the system or one or more of its compo-nents is considered proprietary. Each proprietary systemshall be built utilizing the components specified by the com-pany or companies listed under the detailed description forthat system.

Page 7: 2006 Fire Resistance Design ManualGA-600

GENERAL EXPLANATORY NOTES1. All dimensions, weights, temperatures, and

pressures are in U.S. customary units. Forcommonly used metric (SI) conversions refer to theAppendix on page 155 and IEEE/ASTM S 10-2002,Standard for Use of the International System ofUnits (SI): The Modernized Metric System.

2. Nails shall comply with ASTM F 547 or ASTMC 514. Other nails, suitable for the intended use,and having dimensions not less than those specifiedin this Manual shall be permitted as substitutions.

3. Fasteners installed along the edges of gypsumboard shall be placed along the paper bound edgeson the long dimension of the board. Fasteners atthe end shall be placed along mill or field cut endson the short dimension. Fasteners on the perimeterof the board shall be placed along both edges andends.

4. Screws meeting ASTM C 1002 shall be permitted tobe substituted for the prescribed nails, one for one,when the length and head diameter of the screwsequal or exceed those of the nails specified in thetested system and the screw spacing does notexceed the spacing specified for the nails in thetested system.

5. Vertically applied gypsum board shall have theedges parallel to framing members. Horizontallyapplied gypsum board shall have the edges at rightangles to the framing members. Intermediatevertical framing members are those between thevertical edges or ends of the board.

6. Unless otherwise specified, the face layers of allsystems, except those with predecorated or metalcovered surfaces, shall have joints taped (minimumLevel 1 as specified in GA-214, RecommendedLevels of Gypsum Board Finish) and fastener headstreated. Base layers in multi-layer systems shall notbe required to have joints or fasteners taped orcovered with joint compound.

7. When a fire-resistance rated partition extends abovethe ceiling, the gypsum board joints occurring abovethe ceiling need not be taped and fasteners neednot be covered when all of the following conditionsare met.a. The ceiling is part of a fire-resistance rated

floor-ceiling or roof-ceiling system;b. All vertical joints occur over framing members;c. Horizontal joints are either staggered 24 inches

o.c. on opposite sides of the partition, or arecovered with strips of gypsum board not lessthan 6 inches wide; or the partition is a two-plysystem with joints staggered 16 inches or 24inches o.c.; and

d. The partition is not part of a smoke or soundcontrol system.

Where joint treatment is discontinued at or justabove the ceiling line, the vertical joint shall be

cross taped at this location to reduce the possibilityof joint cracking.

8. Metallic outlet boxes shall be permitted to beinstalled in wood and steel stud walls or partitionshaving gypsum board facings and classified as twohours or less. The surface area of individual boxesshall not exceed 16 square inches. The aggregatesurface area of the boxes shall not exceed 100square inches in any 100 square feet. Boxeslocated on opposite sides of walls or partitions shallbe in separate stud cavities and shall be separatedby a minimum horizontal distance of 24 inches.Approved nonmetallic outlet boxes shall bepermitted as allowed by local code.

9. Water-resistant gypsum backing board shall beinstalled over or as part of the fire-resistance ratedsystem in shower and tub areas to receive ceramicor plastic wall tile or plastic finished wall panels.When fire or sound ratings are necessary, thegypsum board required for the rating shall extenddown to the floor behind fixtures so that theconstruction will equal that of the tested system.(See Figure 1 on page 9.)Note: The use of water-resistant gypsum backingboard as a base for tile in wet areas is regulated bylocal codes. Consult local building codes forrequirements.

10. When not specified as a component of a fire testedwall or partition system, mineral fiber, glass fiber, orcellulose fiber insulation of a thickness notexceeding that of the stud depth shall be permittedto be added within the stud cavity.

11. In floor-ceiling or roof-ceiling systems, the additionor deletion of mineral or glass fiber insulation inceiling joist spaces could possibly reduce the fire-resistance rating. The addition of up to 163/4 inchesof 0.5 pcf glass fiber insulation (R-40), either batt orloose-fill, to any 1- or 2-hour fire resistance ratedfloor-ceiling or roof-ceiling system having a cavitydeep enough to accept the insulation is permittedprovided that one additional layer of either 1/2 inchtype X or 5/8 inch type X gypsum board is applied tothe ceiling. The additional layer of gypsum boardshall be applied as described for the face layer ofthe tested system except that the fastener lengthshall be increased by not less than the thickness ofthe additional layer of gypsum board.

12. In each system containing batt or blanket insulationthe insulation is specified to be either mineral orglass fiber and, for fire resistance, the system shallbe built using the type specified.

13. Although the systems are arranged in generalgroupings (i.e. walls and interior partitions, floor-ceilings, roof-ceilings, etc.), this is not intended tolimit their use only to the specific category in whichthey are listed. For example, systems listed asshaft walls shall be permitted to be used as interiorpartitions. However, systems tested vertically (walls

GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL8

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GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL 9

and partitions) shall not be permitted to be arbitrarilyused in a horizontal orientation.

14. Metal studs and runners are nominal 25 gageunless otherwise specified.

15. Greater stud sizes (depths) shall be permitted to beused in metal- or wood-stud systems. Metal studs ofheavier gage than those tested shall be permitted.The assigned rating of any load-bearing systemshall also apply to the same system when used as anonload-bearing system. Indicated stud spacingsare maximums.

16. Specified floor-ceiling and roof-ceiling framing sizesor truss dimensions are minimums. Greater joist ortruss sizes (depths) shall be permitted to be used inmetal- or wood-framed systems. Indicated joist andtruss spacings are maximums.

17. Within design limitations, the distance betweenparallel rows of studs, such as in a chase wall, shallbe permitted to be increased beyond that tested.When stud cavities in walls constructed of parallelrows of steel studs exceed 91/2 inches and crossbracing is required the cross bracing shall befabricated from steel studs.

18. Systems tested with metal furring channels attacheddirectly to the bottom chords of steel beams, barjoists, or wood trusses or framing shall be permittedto be suspended. Generally, furring channels areattached to 11/2 inch cold rolled carrying channels48 inches o.c. suspended from joists by 8 gage wirehangers spaced not greater than 48 inches o.c.

19. Floor-ceiling and roof-ceiling systems were firetested at less than 36 inches total depth. However,the total depth of the systems, with either directlyattached or suspended ceiling membranes, shall bepermitted to extend greater than 36 inches.

20. Where laminating compound is specified, taping, all-purpose, and setting type joint compounds shall bepermitted.

21. Additional layers of type X or regular gypsum boardshall be permitted to be added to any system.

22. When not specified as a component of a fire-resistance rated wall or partition system, woodstructural panels shall be permitted to be added toone or both sides. Such panels shall be permitted tobe applied either as a base layer directly to theframing (under the gypsum board), as a face layer(over the face layer of gypsum board), or betweenlayers of gypsum board in multi-layer systems.When such panels are applied under the gypsumboard or between layers of gypsum board the lengthof the fasteners specified for the attachment of thegypsum board applied over the wood structuralpanels shall be increased by not less than thethickness of the wood structural panels. Fastenerspacing for the gypsum board and the number oflayers of gypsum board shall be as specified in thesystem description.

23. Each proprietary system lists specific products thatare acceptable for use in the specific system inwhich they are listed. Consult the manufacturer forinformation on additional proprietary products thatare suitable for use in specific proprietary systems.

Figure 1Section Through Typical One-Hour System

Sufficient layers of type Xgypsum board to achieve

fire or sound rating

Water-resistantgypsum backing

board

Tile

Paper-bound edge

1/4" space

Flexible sealant

Tub support

1/4" space

Sufficient layers oftype X water-

resistant gypsumboard to achieve

fire or sound rating

Tub

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GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL10

TESTING AGENCIESEach detailed description is accompanied by a cross-

section detail of the system. Also included is designinformation giving total thickness, limiting height whereappropriate, and approximate weight of the system inpounds per square foot. Fire and sound test referencesidentifying the agency which certified the test as well asa report number and date are also provided (see TablesI and II).

TABLE IFIRE TESTING AGENCIES

BMS Building Materials & Structures, National Bureau ofStandards (now National Institute of Standards andTechnology)

CTC Commercial Testing Company

FM Factory Mutual Research Corporation

GET George E. Troxell, P.E., Consulting Engineer

ITS Intertek Testing Services NA Inc.

NBS National Bureau of Standards (now NationalInstitute of Standards and Technology)

NRCC National Research Council of Canada

OPL Omega Point Laboratories, Inc.

OSU The Ohio State University

PCA Portland Cement Association

SFT Standard Fire Test, Fire Prevention ResearchInstitute

SWRI Southwest Research Institute

UC University of California

UL Underwriters Laboratories Inc.

ULC Underwriters' Laboratories of Canada

WHI Warnock Hersey, Inc. (now Intertek Testing ServicesNA Inc.)

TABLE IISOUND TESTING AGENCIES

ACI Acoustical Consultants, Inc.

ASL Acoustic Systems Acoustical Research Facility

BBN Bolt, Beranek, and Newman, Inc.

BGL British Gypsum Limited

BMS Building Materials & Structures, National Bureau ofStandards (now National Institute of Standards andTechnology)

CK Cedar Knolls Acoustical Laboratories (now NoiseUnlimited, Inc.)

DRC Domtar Research Center

G&H Geiger and Hamme

INTEST International Acoustical Testing Laboratories

KAL Kodaras Acoustical Laboratories (now ElectricalTesting Laboratories, ETL)

KG Kaiser Acoustical Laboratories

NBS National Bureau of Standards (now NationalInstitute of Standards and Technology)

NGC National Gypsum Company's Gold BondAcoustical Laboratories (now NGC TestingServices)

NRCC National Research Council of Canada

OR Ohio Research Corporation

RAL Riverbank Acoustical Laboratories

SA Shiner & Associates

USG USG Research & Technology Center

WEAL Western Electro Acoustical Laboratory, Inc.

WHI Warnock Hersey, Inc. (now Intertek TestingServices NA Inc.)

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GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL 11

PRODUCT IDENTIFICATIONAll gypsum products are identified with the

manufacturer's name and trademark. The thickness andtype of gypsum board are shown on the end bundlingtape or on the board. Ready-mixed joint compounds areidentified on the container. Bagged products areidentified on the bag.

ASTM standard product specifications are shown inTable III.

TABLE IIIAPPLICABLE ASTM PRODUCT STANDARDS

Product ASTMGypsum Board C 1396*Gypsum Wallboard C 1396*Predecorated Gypsum Board C 1396*Gypsum Lath C 1396*Gypsum Sheathing Board C 1396*Gypsum Backing Board C 1396*Gypsum Coreboard C 1396*Gypsum Shaftliner Board C 1396*Water-Resistant Gypsum Backing Board C 1396*Gypsum Ceiling Board C 1396*Exterior Gypsum Soffit Board C 1396*Gypsum Base for Veneer Plasters C 1396*Glass Mat Gypsum Substrate for Use

as Sheathing C 1177Glass Mat Water-Resistant Gypsum

Backing Panel C 1178Fiber Reinforced Gypsum Panels C 1278Joint Compound C 475Gypsum Plasters C 28Gypsum Veneer Plaster C 587Metal Lath C 847Accessories for Gypsum Wallboard and

Gypsum Veneer Base C 1047Nails for the Application of Gypsum Board C 514Steel Drill Screws for the Application of

Gypsum Panel Products or Metal PlasterBases (Types G, W, and S) C 1002

Steel Drill Screws for theApplication of GypsumPanel Products or Metal Plaster Bases to SteelStuds from 0.033 in. (0.84 mm) to 0.112 in.(2.84 mm) in Thickness (Type S-12) C 954

Nonstructural Steel Framing Members C 645Load-Bearing (Transverse and Axial) Steel

Studs, Runners (Tracks), and Bracing orBridging for Screw Application of GypsumPanel Products and Metal Plaster Bases C 955

* ASTM Specification C 1396 is a consolidation of previousASTM Standards C 36, C 37, C 79, C 442, C 588, C 630,C 931, C 960, and C 1395, which have been withdrawn.

NOTE:ASTM Standards are available from:

ASTM International100 Barr Harbor DriveWest Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959(610) 832-9585Fax: (610) 832-9555E-mail: [email protected]: http://www.astm.org

ABBREVIATIONS

Abbreviations used in this Manual are shown inTable IV (also see Tables I and II on page 10).

TABLE IVABBREVIATIONS

ASTM American Society for Testing and MaterialsC&P carpet and paddB decibeldia diameterDOC U. S. Department of Commerceest estimatedFSTC Field Sound Transmission ClassFSTL Field Sound Transmission Lossft footga gage or gaugegalv galvanizedHz hertz (cycles/second)hr hourIIC Impact Insulation Classificationin. inchlab laboratorylb poundmfr manufacturermm millimetermin minimumnom nominalNLB nonload-bearingo.c. on centeroz ouncepcf pounds per cubic footpsf pounds per square footrev revisedsq squareSTC Sound Transmission ClassSTL Sound Transmission LossT&G tongue and groove

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GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL12

FIRE RESISTIVE PROPERTIES OF GYPSUMGypsum is approximately 21 percent by weight

chemically combined water which greatly contributes toits effectiveness as a fire resistive barrier. When gypsumboard or gypsum plaster is exposed to fire, the water isslowly released as steam, effectively retarding heattransmission (Figure 2). It can, in a sense, be comparedto what happens when a blowtorch is turned on a blockof ice. Although the ice is being melted, one can hold ahand on the opposite side without being burned. Eventhough the ice gets very thin it effectively blocks thetransfer of the intense heat and one's hand would notbe burned until the ice is melted.

When gypsum-protected wood or steel structuralmembers are exposed to a fire, the chemicallycombined water (being released as steam) acts as athermal barrier until this slow process, known ascalcination, is completed. The temperature directlybehind the plane of calcination is only slightly higherthan that of boiling water (212°F), which is significantlylower than the temperature at which steel begins losingstrength or wood ignites. Once calcination is complete,the in-place calcined gypsum continues to act as abarrier protecting the underlying structural membersfrom direct exposure to flames.

TYPE X GYPSUM BOARDASTM C 1396 describes two types of gypsum board

- regular and type X - each providing a different degreeof fire resistance. Where fire-resistance rated systemsare specified, type X gypsum board is typically required

to achieve the rating. Type X gypsum board is defined inASTM C 1396 as gypsum board that provides not lessthan one-hour fire resistance for boards 5/8 inch thick ornot less than 3/4-hour fire-resistance rating for boards 1/2inch thick, applied parallel with and on each side of loadbearing 2x4 wood studs spaced 16 inches on centerwith 6d coated nails, 17/8 inch long, 0.095 inch diametershank, 1/4 inch diameter heads, spaced 7 inches oncenter with gypsum board joints staggered 16 inches oneach side of the partition and tested in accordance withthe requirements of ASTM E 119.

In order to qualify for use in generic systemscontained in this Manual, the Gypsum Association alsorequires that 1/2 inch type X gypsum board shall achievea one-hour fire-resistance rating when applied to a floor-ceiling system as described by GA File Number FC5410 on page 124.

Where 3/4 inch or 1 inch gypsum board is describedas "type X" in proprietary systems contained in thisManual, consult the manufacturer to determine whatspecific products are required.

PERFORMANCE OF GYPSUM PLASTERJob performance of gypsum plaster systems can be

affected by several factors such as: extreme weatherconditions, poor or no ventilation, thermal shock,unusual framing or frame loading, etc. Precautions shallbe taken to prevent these and other adverse conditions.

Mix ratios such as 1:2 gypsum-perlite, -vermiculite,or -sand are used to describe a mixture consisting of100 pounds of gypsum plaster to 2 cubic feet of

Figure 2How Gypsum Retards Heat Transmission

Vertical line represents the plane of calcination at a

depth of about 2". Temperature never greatly exceeds

212oF behind the plane of calcination.

Temperature of exposed surface = 1900oF

Temperature 1" from exposed surface = 950oF

Temperature 6" from exposed surface

(at back surface) = 130oF

Temperature 4" from exposed surface = 180oF

Temperature 2" from exposed surface = 220oF

AFTER TWO HOURS EXPOSURE TO HEAT FOLLOWING

THE ASTM E 119 TIME-TEMPERATURE CURVE

SECTION II - REQUIREMENTS FOR FIRE PROTECTION

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GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL 13

aggregate (3 cubic feet where the ratio is given as 1:3).Many fire tests have been conducted to show that 1:2gypsum-vermiculite mix may be substituted for 1:3gypsum-vermiculite mix in all fire-resistance ratedsystems. A 1:2 gypsum-perlite mix may be substitutedfor 1:3 gypsum-perlite mix in one-hour and two-hourrated systems only. Perlite and vermiculite shall bepermitted to be interchanged in one-hour and two-hourrated systems.

Plaster thicknesses are measured from the face ofthe lath, regardless of the plaster base used.

FIRE RESISTANCE TESTSAll fire-resistance classifications described in this

Manual are derived from full-scale fire tests conductedin accordance with the requirements of ASTM E 119 orCAN/ULC-S101 (as amended and in effect on the dateof the test) by recognized independent laboratories.Fire-resistance classifications are the results of testsconducted on systems made up of specific materials puttogether in a specified manner.

There are a number of nationally recognizedlaboratories capable of conducting tests to establish fire-resistance classifications according to the proceduresoutlined in ASTM E 119 or CAN/ULC-S101. Theconditions under which tests are conducted arethoroughly detailed and the fire-resistance classificationis established as the time at which there is excessivetemperature rise, passage of flame, or structuralcollapse. In addition, failure may result because ofpenetration by the pressurized hose stream required inthe fire test procedure for walls.

With reference to all tested systems, ASTM E 119states:

It is the intent that classifications shall registerperformance during the period of exposure andshall not be construed as having determinedsuitability for use after fire exposure.Comprehensive research by fire protection experts

has determined the average combustible contentnormally present within any given occupancy. Inaddition, evacuation times, the time required for thecontents to be consumed by fire, and the resultingtemperature rise have been quantified. Fire-resistancerequirements are established accordingly in buildingcodes and similar regulations.

In ASTM E 119 fire tests, wall, ceiling, column, andbeam systems are exposed in a furnace which reachesthe indicated average temperatures at the time stated inthe standard time-temperature curve (Figure 3) andAppendix X1 of ASTM E 119. The unexposed surface ofall systems refers to the surface away from the fireduring a test. The exposed surface refers to the surfacefacing the fire.

WALL AND PARTITION SYSTEMSAll walls and partitions tested and classified are

required to be at least 100 square feet in area with noedge dimension less than nine feet. Surfacetemperatures on the unexposed side of the testspecimen are measured at a minimum of nine locations.

When load-bearing walls and partitions are tested,the applied load is required to simulate the workingstresses of the design.

Walls and partitions are required to stop flame or hotgases capable of igniting cotton waste. The averagetemperature of the unexposed surface is not permittedto increase more than 250°F above ambient nor is anyindividual thermocouple permitted to rise more than325°F above ambient. A duplicate of the system (ratedfor one-hour fire resistance or more) is fire tested forone-half the specified fire-resistance period, but nolonger than one-hour, after which it is required towithstand the impact, erosion, and cooling effect of ahose stream.

Openings in walls for fire door frames and firewindow frames shall be coordinated between thearchitect, the general contractor, the drywall contractor,and the frame supplier to ensure that installation detailsfor the wall and the frame are considered. Theinstallation instructions supplied with frames vary andshall be followed to comply with local coderequirements. All fire door and fire window assembliesare required to be installed in accordance withANSI/NFPA 80 and subject also to the conditions,limitations, and/or allowances of their certification labeland listing.

Figure 3Standard Time-Temperature Curve

(ASTM E 119)

1200

1000

800

600

400

200

00

400

800

1200

1600

2000

2400

0 2 4 6 8Time, hr

Tem

pera

ture

, deg. F

Tem

pera

ture

, deg, C

Page 13: 2006 Fire Resistance Design ManualGA-600

GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL14

AREA SEPARATION WALLS (PARTY/FIRE WALLS)Fire-resistance rated gypsum board systems (solid

and cavity types) can serve as area separation walls(also known as party walls or fire walls) betweenadjacent wood frame and steel frame dwelling unitssuch as townhouses, condominiums, and apartments;and in commercial and institutional buildings. Thesewalls are erected one floor at a time, beginning at thefoundation and continuing up to or through the roof. Atintermediate floors metal floor/ceiling track shall beinstalled back-to-back to secure the top of the lowersection of the partition to the bottom of the next sectionbeing installed.

At intermediate floors and other specified locationsthe area separation walls shall be attached to adjacentwood or steel framing on each side with aluminum clipsthat soften when exposed to fire (Figure 4). If one sideof the structure becomes involved in a fire, the clips onthe fire side allow collapse of the structure on that side.The clips on the other side support the area separationwall keeping it in place, thereby protecting the adjacentstructure. Consult gypsum board manufacturer for clipdetail, placement, and height limitations.

FLOOR-CEILING AND ROOF-CEILING SYSTEMSFloor-ceiling and roof-ceiling systems tested and

classified are required to be a minimum of 180 squarefeet in area with their shortest edge dimension not lessthan 12 feet. The system is required to sustain thedesign load throughout the test and not permit thepassage of either flame or hot gases capable of ignitingcotton waste. Surface temperatures on the unexposedside of the test specimen are measured at a minimum ofnine locations. The average temperature of theunexposed surface is not permitted to increase morethan 250°F above ambient nor is any individualthermocouple permitted to rise more than 325°F aboveambient.Ceiling Openings

Many fire-resistance rated floor-ceiling systems havebeen tested with openings through the ceilingmembrane for air ducts, electrical outlets, and lightingfixtures.

Building codes permit air duct openings in mostceiling systems when the air duct openings areprotected with approved ceiling dampers.

Building codes also permit membrane penetrations inmaximum two-hour fire-resistance-rated horizontalsystems by steel outlet boxes that do not exceed 16square inches in area provided the aggregate area ofsuch penetrations does not exceed 100 square inchesin any 100 square feet of ceiling area and the annularspace between the ceiling membrane and the box doesnot exceed 1/8 inch.

Many approved recessed lighting fixtures requirespecial protection. Consult the fire test report or listingfor the specific system for protection details and theopening area limitation.

Figure 4Typical Gypsum Board Area

Separation Wall Construction

Aluminum Clips

Roof

Trusses

Area Separation Wall

(Party/Fire Wall)

Fire Blocks

Floor Joists

or Trusses

Slab or Foundation

Gypsum Board Ceiling

Aluminum Clips

Gypsum Board

Ceilings and Walls

Roof

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GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL 15

BEAM, GIRDER, AND TRUSS PROTECTIONSYSTEMS

Beams are tested with superimposed loads appliedto simulate the maximum theoretical dead and live loadspermitted by nationally recognized design standards. Afire-resistance rating is established for a system whenthe test specimen supports the load during the test andmeets specific temperature requirements for theprescribed period. Beams, girders, and trusses shall beprotected by either (1) a continuous ceiling membraneof either gypsum lath and plaster or gypsum board or(2) enclosing them individually.Continuous Ceiling Protection

Building codes allow for the use of the gypsum boardor gypsum lath and plaster ceilings described in theFloor-Ceiling Systems portion of this Manual for beamor girder protection. The complete floor-ceiling systemshall provide no less than the rating required for thestructural member being protected.

If the bottom of the beam projects 6 inches or lessbelow the plane of the ceiling, the ceiling is furred downand around the beam (Figure 5). If the projection isgreater than 6 inches, the gypsum board or lath andplaster beam protection system shall extend from theceiling to the floor above. (See Individual EncasementProtection.)

A ceiling used as membrane fireproofing usuallyconsists of either gypsum board or gypsum plaster overgypsum or metal lath. These systems may be eitherattached directly to or suspended from the primarystructural elements. The tested assembly consists of theceiling membrane, beams, girders, joists, or trusses andthe floor or roof deck system above.Individual Encasement Protection

Individual encasement of beams, girders, andtrusses with gypsum lath and plaster or gypsum board(Figure 6) is permitted where one or more of thefollowing conditions exist.

1. When the fire-resistance requirement for thebeam, girder, or truss is greater than the fire-resistance requirement for the floor-ceiling orroof-ceiling system being supported. Where thereare relatively few three-hour or four-hourprotected beams or girders, and only a two-hourfloor-ceiling requirement, it is generallyuneconomical to use a three-hour or four-hourfloor-ceiling system throughout, or

2. When either no ceiling is required or a non-ratedceiling is used, or

3. When the bottom of the beam projects greaterthan 6 inches below the plane of the ceiling.

When structural members support more than onefloor, or a floor and a roof, consult local building codesfor requirements.

Figure 6Steel Beam - Individual Encasement Protection

Figure 5Membrane Protected Steel Beam- Continuous

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GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL16

COLUMN PROTECTION SYSTEMSColumns are tested under a temperature limit

criteria. The temperature of the steel is measured by notless than four thermocouples at each of four levels. Atest is successful when the average temperature of anylevel does not exceed 1000°F and no individualthermocouple exceeds 1200°F within the prescribedtime period.

All column systems in this Manual were tested withthe column size specified in the system. Fire-resistanceratings for the heavier steel columns are not applicableto the lighter steel columns.

Typical column protection systems are shown inFigures 7 and 8.

Figure 8Column Protection -

Metal Lath and Plaster

Figure 7Column Protection -

Gypsum Board or Veneer Base

Page 16: 2006 Fire Resistance Design ManualGA-600

FIRE BLOCKINGAll fire-resistive systems shall be fire blocked in

accordance with applicable code requirements.All penetrations in a fire rated system shall be filled

with firestopping material as required by the local code.

SMOKE BARRIERSBuilding codes require certain designated wall and

ceiling systems to function as "smoke barriers" whichare defined in the codes as continuous membranes thatresist the passage of smoke. Fire-resistive gypsumsystems with perimeters and penetrations sealed toachieve listed STCs also function to resist the passageof smoke.

Minimum one-hour fire-resistance rated gypsumboard systems with joints finished in accordance withLevel 1 as specified in GA-214, Recommended Levelsof Gypsum Board Finish, (all joints and interior anglesshall have tape embedded in joint compound) withperimeters and penetrations sealed with an approvedsealant satisfy building code requirements for a smokebarrier.

PERIMETER RELIEF AND CONTROL JOINTSEngineering studies and fire tests have been

conducted on perimeter relief and control joint systems.This research demonstrates that the perimeter reliefsystems detailed in Figure 9 can be used in mostnonload-bearing metal stud partition systems withoutreducing the fire-resistance rating of the partition. Theresearch also demonstrates that the control jointsystems detailed in Figure 10 on page 18 can be usedin all one-hour or two-hour, load-bearing or nonload-bearing, wood or steel framed, wall and partitionsystems in this Manual without adversely affecting thefire-resistance rating. The tests were conducted inaccordance with ASTM E 119 and utilized perimeterrelief systems and control joint systems as detailedherein. Other similar systems are available fromindividual manufacturers.

GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL 17

Figure 9Perimeter Relief Details

(FM 16738.69, 6/18/69; UL R4024-7-8, 6/23/66)

1/2" min.

1/2" max.

Plaster trim

Gypsum veneer

plaster

Gypsum veneer

base

Acoustical gasket

or flexible sealant

Drywall trim

Drywall screw

Steel runner

(track)

Steel stud

Steel Stud Partition

1/2" max.

1/2" min.

Glass or mineral

fiber insulation

Steel stud

(runner)

Gypsum board

Acoustical gasket

or flexible sealant

Drywall trim

Steel runner

(track)

Drywall screw

Multi-ply

gypsum stud

Semi-Solid Gypsum Stud Partition

1/2" max.

1/2" min.Steel stud

Gypsum board

Glass or mineral fiber insulation

Steel runner (track)

Drywall screw

Drywall trim

Acoustical gasket or flexible sealant

Partial Cross Section

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GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL18

SURFACE BURNING CHARACTERISTICSThe test method used to establish surface burning

characteristics is ASTM E 84 or CAN/ULC-S102, com-monly referred to as the Tunnel Test. This test measuresthe relative flame spread and relative amount of smokegenerated by the material being tested when comparedto inorganic reinforced cement board and red oak floor-ing. Table V lists typical surface burning characteristicsfor gypsum products as well as the standard materialsreferenced in the test method.

Surface burning characteristics are intended to beused as a guide in the selection and use of interior fin-ish materials and are obtained under controlled labora-tory conditions.

5/8" gap

1/2" max. gap

5/8" type X gypsum board

strips fastened to studs

Vinyl or metal

control joint

Steel stud

1-5/8" Type S

screws 24" o.c.

5/8" gap

1/2" max. gap

5/8" type X gypsum board

strips fastened to studsVinyl or metal

control joint

Steel stud

1-5/8" Type S

screws 24" o.c.

5/8" gap

1/2" max. gap

5/8" type X gypsum board

strips fastened to studs

Vinyl or metal

control joint

Wood stud

2-5/8" Type W or S

screws or 8d coated

nails 24" o.c.

5/8" gap

1/2" max. gap

5/8" type X gypsum board

strips fastened to studs

Vinyl or metal

control joint

Wood stud

2-5/8" Type W or S

screws or 8d coated

nails 24" o.c.

1-Hour

2-Hour

1-Hour

2-Hour

Wood-Framed Noncombustible

Figure 10Control Joint Details

(WHI-651-0318-1, 3/20/90; UL R4024, 96NK13566, 7/29/96)

TABLE VSURFACE BURNINGCHARACTERISTICS

FLAME SMOKESPREAD DEVELOPED

Inorganic ReinforcedCement Board 0 0

Gypsum Plaster 0 0Glass Mat Gypsum

Substrate for Useas Sheathing 0 0

Fiber ReinforcedGypsum Panels 5 0

Gypsum Lath 10 0Gypsum Wallboard 15 0Gypsum Sheathing 15 0Water-Resistant Gypsum

Backing Board 15 0Red Oak 100 100

Page 18: 2006 Fire Resistance Design ManualGA-600

GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL 19

SECTION III - SOUND CONTROLSOUND INSULATION

The first essential for airborne sound insulation usingany system is to close off air leaks and/or flanking pathsby which noise can go through or around the system.Small cracks or holes will increase the soundtransmission at the higher frequencies. This can have adetrimental effect on the overall acoustical performanceand the STC, particularly for higher rated systems.Failure to observe special construction and designprecautions can reduce the effectiveness of the bestplanned sound control methods.

Systems shall be airtight. Recessed wall fixtures,such as medicine cabinets or electrical, telephone,television, and intercom outlets, that penetrate thegypsum board shall not be located back-to-back or inthe same stud cavity. Any opening for fixtures or pipesshall be cut to the proper size and sealed. The entireperimeter of a sound insulating system shall be madeairtight to prevent sound flanking. Flexible sealant or anacoustical gasket shall be used to seal between theSTC rated system and all dissimilar surfaces and alsobetween the system and similar surfaces whereperimeter relief is required. TAPING GYPSUM BOARDWALL AND WALL-CEILING INTERSECTIONSPROVIDES AN ADEQUATE AIR SEAL AT THESELOCATIONS. ASTM E 497, Standard Practice forInstalling Sound-Isolating Lightweight Partitions,provides additional information. Consult the

manufacturer of the gypsum board for any specialrecommendations.

Systems are grouped in ranges according to theirSound Transmission Class (STC) or Field SoundTransmission Class (FSTC). The higher ranges areshown first. All of the sound tests referenced wereconducted according to the requirements of either ASTME 90, for laboratory tests, or ASTM E 336, for field tests.The designer shall adhere to the specified materials andconstruction details for STC and FSTC rated systems,particularly in plaster systems, because substitution oflightweight aggregates for sand, or reduction of the sandproportion, may reduce the rating. ALL OPENINGSTHROUGH THE SYSTEM, AND ITS ENTIREPERIMETER, SHALL BE SEALED AIRTIGHT.

SUBSTITUTING MECHANICAL FASTENERS FORADHESIVES, OR THE USE OF MORE FASTENERS,MAY AFFECT THE RATING.

Details of sound tests issued by sound testingagencies are on file and a summary is available fromthe Gypsum Association or the test sponsor.

Figure 11 shows three typical resilient channelconfigurations. Where resilient channels are included insystems, the resilient channels are shown by a dashedline to distinguish them from rigid furring channels.Figure 12 on page 20 distinguishes between standardconstruction practices and those practicesrecommended for improved sound control.

B

C

A

B

B

A

A

C

CTypical dimensions for all designs:

Base metal thickness = 25 ga.

A = 1-1/4" minimum

B = 7/16" minimum

C = 1/2" minimum

Figure 11Resilient Furring Channels

Page 19: 2006 Fire Resistance Design ManualGA-600

GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL20

Figure 12Sound Isolation Construction

“NORMAL” CONSTRUCTIONARROWS SHOW

FLANKING PATHS

“SELECT” CONSTRUCTIONSEALING OF RELIEF DETAIL AT

PERIMETER OF PARTITION AND AROUNDCUT-OUTS TO PREVENT SOUND LEAKAGE

“PRE-DESIGN” CONSTRUCTIONSIMULATED LABORATORY

CONDITIONS

PLANThrough-partition openings

outlet boxes

PLANThrough-penetration openings

outlet boxes

PLANFlanking at partition-mullion intersection

PLANMetal stud

flanking around partition ends

Flexible sealant or tape

Flexible sealant or tape

PLANIntersection with interior wall

Flexible sealant or tape

Flexible sealant or tape

PLANTypical partition intersection

PLANTypical partition-mullion intersection

PLANIntersectiion with exterior wall

Flexible sealant or tape

Flexible sealant or tape

PLANBoxes offset one stud space and sealing

of openings through partitions

Offset boxes with extension rings andsealed openings

PLANOutlet box detail

PLANSealing of openings through penetrations

Void between box and gypsum board sealed

ELEVATIONTypical floor-ceiling or roof detail

Electrical box withextension ring

Gasket impedes structural flanking through floor

ELEVATION

1/4" perimeter relief andsealant to seal against

sound leaks

Wood studsystem

Steel studsystem

ELEVATIONUnder and over partitions

Wood studsystem

Steel studsystem

ELEVATIONFlexible sealant

Page 20: 2006 Fire Resistance Design ManualGA-600

GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL 21

SOUND TRANSMISSION LOSS TESTSASTM E 90, Standard Test Method for Laboratory

Measurement of Airborne Sound Transmission Loss ofBuilding Partitions, is the procedure for measuring thesound transmission loss (STL) in a laboratory. The STLis the difference between the sound energy (soundpressure level) in a source room and a receiving roomwhen the two rooms are separated by the system beingtested.

ASTM E 336, Standard Test Method forMeasurement of Airborne Sound Insulation in Buildings,is the procedure to determine the field soundtransmission loss (FSTL) between two rooms under fieldconditions.

The STL or the FSTL is measured at 1/3 octave testfrequencies (Hz) as follows and the sound transmissionloss curve is plotted:

125 315 800 2000160 400 1000 2500200 500 1250 3150250 630 1600 4000

A system's overall effectiveness in resisting thetransmission of airborne sound, whether it is a wall,partition, or floor-ceiling, is reported as a single numberderived from an analysis of the STL or FSTL curve. Thisrating is the Sound Transmission Class (STC) or FieldSound Transmission Class (FSTC). This Manual usesSTC/FSTC ranges to make comparing systems moresignificant.

ASTM E 413, Classification for Rating SoundInsulation, is the method used to derive the STC/FSTCfrom the STL/FSTL curve. Using the rules stated inASTM E 413, a reference contour is fitted to the soundtransmission loss curve. The STC/FSTC is the pointwhere the reference contour crosses the 500 Hz line.

The reference contour, shown by the dashed line inFigure 13, has a flat portion from 4000 Hz to 1250 Hz. Itdrops 5 dB between 1250 Hz and 400 Hz, and 15 dBbetween 400 Hz and 125 Hz. In fitting the referencecontour to the measured curve, the following conditionsare required to be met:

1. The STL curve is not permitted to be greater than8 dB below the reference contour at any testfrequency, and

2. The sum of the dB differences between the pointson the reference contour and the correspondingpoints on the STL curve at each of the testfrequencies is not permitted to be greater than32 dB.

Some of the STC ratings in this Manual were derivedaccording to slightly different standards in use prior to1970. For instance, ASTM E 90-61T, the previous soundtest procedure, called for measurements at 1/2 octavefrequencies, and the rules for fitting the standard curvewere different.

The smallest dimension of the system tested inaccordance with ASTM E 90 is not permitted to be less

than 7 feet, 10 inches and the minimum volume for eachof the sound source and receiving rooms is 2,825 cubicfeet. The system is constructed to separate the sourceand receiving rooms, which are arranged so that theonly significant sound transmission is through the testspecimen.

The source room contains one or more soundsources, a diffusing system such as multiple stationaryand/or rotating reflectors, and microphones located toadequately sample the sound field in the space. A singlemicrophone on a rotating boom may be optionally used.The receiving room is similarly equipped, except that thesound source(s) is used only to determine thereverberation time for correction purposes. The soundmeasurements in both rooms are made according toASTM E 90.

Research by recognized sound test authoritiesindicates that the STC's on unsymmetrical walls are notaffected by sound testing from either side. Therefore,the laboratory sound source side is not indicated forunsymmetrical systems in this Manual.

Figure 13STL Curve

7 5 4 4 3 2 4 = 29Deficiencies

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

0

100 160 250 400 630 1000 1600 2500 4000125 200 315 500 800 1250 2000 3150

Frequency (Hz)

So

un

d t

ran

sm

issio

in lo

ss,

de

cib

els

100

160

250

400

630

1000

1600

2500

4000

125

200

315

500

800

1250

2000

3150

Hz STL, dB

0

24

29

33

36

40

44

48

51

54

56

60

59

56

47

51

55

47STC

Test method: ASTM E 90

Page 21: 2006 Fire Resistance Design ManualGA-600

GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL22

IMPACT NOISE TESTTo determine the Impact Insulation Classification

(IIC) of a floor, a standard ISO impact machine withsteel hammers taps on a test floor system installedabove a special receiving room. Microphones in thereceiving room record the average sound pressure levelproduced by the tapping machine at 1/3 octavefrequency bands between 100 and 3150 Hz. Thesemeasured levels are then normalized to a standardroom absorption. The method used is described inASTM E 492, Standard Test Method for LaboratoryMeasurement of Impact Sound Transmission ThroughFloor-Ceiling Assemblies Using the Tapping Machine.

The IIC is determined by comparing the normalizedimpact sound pressure levels at the 16 test frequencieswith an IIC reference contour. The reference contourhas a flat portion from 100 to 315 Hz, a middle linesegment decreasing 5 dB in the interval 315 to 1000 Hz,followed by a high frequency line segment decreasing15 dB in the interval 1000 to 3150 Hz. In fitting thereference contour to the measured sound pressurelevels in the receiving room, the following conditions arerequired to be met:

1. The noise level at any test frequency is notpermitted to be greater than 8 dB above thereference contour, and

2. The sum of the dB differences between the pointson the reference contour and the correspondingpoints on the curve of the normalized impactnoise levels at each of the test frequencies is notpermitted to be greater than 32 dB.

The IIC for the specimen is the difference between110 and the value on the normalized impact noise levelscale (i.e., ordinate scale) at 500 Hz of the lowestcontour for which the above conditions are fulfilled.

The IIC listings for floor-ceiling systems in thisManual are for bare floors (no floor covering) and for theaddition of a carpet over a separate pad, which isidentified as "C&P."

Although any carpet, with or without a pad, willimprove the IIC, a heavy wool carpet over a goodquality pad will make a significant improvement, asillustrated for FC 5300 on page 122. The addition of a44 oz. woven loop pile carpet over a 40 oz. hair felt padincreased the IIC from 38 to 63. The IIC (C&P) listingsin this Manual are for the carpet and pad describedabove for FC 5300 unless otherwise noted. The use ofother types of carpets, both with and without pads, willresult in increases in the IIC, and in some instancesmay equal that achieved by use of the aforementionedcarpet and pad.

Page 22: 2006 Fire Resistance Design ManualGA-600

GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL24

50 - 54 WP 7051WP 7052WP 7053WP 7056WP 7057WP 7060WP 7061WP 7062WP 7064

45 - 49 WP 6800WP 7073WP 7074WP 7076WP 7077WP 7078WP 7079WP 7080WP 7081WP 7082WP 7083WP 7084WP 7095WP 7096WP 7097WP 7098WP 7099WP 7451WP 7452

40 - 44 WP 6905

35 - 39 WP 7000WP 7001WP 7008WP 7020WP 7117WP 7125

30 - 34 WP 7210

SHAFTWALLS

STC GA FILE NO.65 - 69 WP 5060

60 - 64 WP 2945WP 5005WP 5006WP 5070

55 - 59 WP 1015WP 1470WP 1505WP 1510WP 1515WP 1516WP 1520WP 1521WP 1522WP 2800WP 2960WP 2961WP 2963WP 2964WP 5105WP 5106

50 - 54 WP 1021WP 1022WP 1023WP 1024WP 1041WP 1050WP 1051WP 1052WP 1053WP 1054WP 1530WP 1545WP 1546WP 1548WP 1560WP 1565WP 1570WP 2921WP 2922WP 2924WP 2970WP 5015WP 5016WP 5130WP 5910WP 6525

45 - 49 WP 1070WP 1071WP 1072WP 1073WP 1076WP 1081WP 1082WP 1085WP 1090WP 1615WP 1616WP 1625WP 1630WP 1632WP 1635WP 6010WP 6020WP 6025WP 6040WP 6070

40 - 44 WP 1204WP 1206WP 1240WP 1290WP 1296WP 1714WP 1716WP 6130WP 6135WP 6152

35 - 39 WP 1311WP 1330WP 1340WP1350WP 1370WP 1380WP 1390WP 1400WP 1830WP 1841WP 1870WP 6210WP 6220WP 6240WP 6250WP 6254

30 - 34 WP 1930

SECTION IV - FIRE RESISTANCE AND SOUND RATED SYSTEMSINDEX TO SYSTEMS BY STC RATING

60 - 64 WP 3010

55 - 59 WP 3110WP 3810WP 3812WP 3820WP 5510WP 5520

50 - 54 WP 3240WP 3241WP 3242WP 3243WP 3260WP 3910WP 5530

45 - 49 WP 3330WP 3340WP 3341WP 3342WP 3360WP 3370WP 5512

40 - 44 WP 3380WP 3430WP 3431WP 3436WP 3441WP 4135WP 4136WP 5515

35 - 39 WP 3510WP 3514WP 3520

30 - 34 WP 3605WP 3615WP 3620

WOOD FRAMEDWALLS & PARTITIONS

STC GA FILE NO.

NONCOMBUSTIBLEWALLS & PARTITIONS

STC GA FILE NO. STC GA FILE NO.

Page 23: 2006 Fire Resistance Design ManualGA-600

GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL 25

INDEX TO SYSTEMS BY STC RATING

60 - 64 ASW 1000ASW 1001ASW 1002ASW 1003ASW 1004

55 - 59 ASW 1005

50 - 54 ASW 1100ASW 1105

45 - 49 ASW 1200ASW 1201ASW 1205ASW 1206ASW 1215

STC GA FILE NO.

AREA SEPARATIONWALLS

50 - 54 FC 1105FC 2030FC 3012

STC GA FILE NO.

NONCOMBUSTIBLEFLOOR-CEILINGS

50 - 54 FC 4340

45 - 49 FC 4370

35 - 39 FC 4490

STC GA FILE NO.

STEEL FRAMEDFLOOR-CEILINGS

WOOD FLOOR

65 - 69 FC 5000

60 - 64 FC 5011

55 - 59 FC 5104FC 5105FC 5106FC 5107FC 5109

50 - 54 FC 5110FC 5111FC 5112FC 5115FC 5116FC 5120

45 - 49 FC 5240FC 5241FC 5242FC 5250

40 - 44 FC 5300FC 5310

35 - 39 FC 5406FC 5407FC 5408FC 5410FC 5415FC 5420FC 5470FC 5490

STC GA FILE NO.

WOOD FRAMEDFLOOR-CEILINGS

Page 24: 2006 Fire Resistance Design ManualGA-600

GA-600-2006 FIRE RESISTANCE DESIGN MANUAL26

DELETED SYSTEMS NEW SYSTEMS

NOTE: Some systems appearing in previous editions have been deletedand are not included in this edition. In addition, several new systemshave been added to this edition. The following Table may be helpful.

WP 1121WP 1200WP 1201WP 1295WP 1711WP 1850WP 1940WP 3445WP 7094WP 7490WP 8003WP 8104WP 8124WP 8125WP 8201

WP 1024WP 1054WP 1350WP 1516WP 1616WP 1943WP 3242WP 3243WP 3342WP 5006WP 5016WP 5060WP 5106WP 7254WP 7255WP 7491WP 7691WP 8006WP 8111WP 8132WP 8203WP 8416WP 8417

ASW 1004ASW 1206FC 1141FC 1142FC 1143FC 1144FC 1181FC 4504FC 5011FC 5104FC 5109FC 5112FC 5509FC 5518FC 5519FC 5752RC 2604RC 2605RC 2606RC 2607RC 2752