Zehnder Group UK has launched a new fire‑rated product line aimed at improving the safety of residential ventilation systems, adding two items to its existing Zehnder Fire Sleeves portfolio.
New fire collars expand protection for duct penetrations
The Zehnder Luna Valve Fire Collars are stainless‑steel shells that contain a graphite‑based intumescent material. When exposed to heat, the material expands, compressing the surrounding plastic duct and creating a seal that can resist fire for up to four hours. The collars are offered in five sizes, covering both vertical and ceiling‑mounted applications, and can be installed beneath floor slabs to protect ducts that pass through fire‑rated compartments.
These collars are compatible with the company’s Luna Valve and also with the Unity range of dMEV units. By sealing the ceiling termination opening, they aim to stop ventilation ducts from becoming pathways for fire spread. The product description notes that they are suitable for new‑build projects as well as retrofits, giving installers flexibility during different phases of construction.
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Fire‑rated airbrick and ducting kits for external wall terminations
The new Zehnder Fire‑Rated Airbrick and Ducting Kits combine an A1‑rated non‑combustible airbrick with a matching duct transition assembly. Each kit includes a 600 mm duct section and rectangular connectors that can link to either rigid PVC or metal ducting. The kits have been tested to meet Euroclass A1 and A2‑s1, d0 reaction‑to‑fire classifications, aligning with the requirements of Building Regulations – Approved Document B.
Designed for both new constructions and major refurbishments, the airbrick features an integrated picture‑frame surround that assists with precise positioning during installation. A mechanically fixed mounting system is intended to provide a durable connection that retains performance over the building’s service life.
In addition to the airbrick kits, Zehnder continues to offer its Fire Sleeves, which consist of a pressed steel casing filled with the same graphite‑based intumescent material. The sleeves are available in cylindrical and rectangular shapes, providing up to two hours of fire resistance for horizontal installations through masonry walls and plasterboard partitions. Their design allows use in both insulated and non‑insulated constructions.
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From a practical standpoint, the integration of these components could simplify compliance for architects and contractors. By providing pre‑tested, modular solutions, the need for custom fire‑stop engineering may be reduced, potentially lowering project costs and shortening timelines.
Successful implementation will still depend on proper installation and coordination with other building systems.
Overall, the combined offering of fire collars, fire sleeves, and fire‑rated airbrick kits presents a more complete passive fire protection package for residential ventilation. The products are marketed as suitable for both fresh builds and retrofit scenarios, giving specifiers a broader set of tools to meet fire safety requirements while maintaining the performance of mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) systems.
