Fire Protection Panel

The primary objective of fire safety in tunnels is to protect users by providing sufficient time and safe evacuation routes. Secondary objectives, such as structural protection, are equally crucial as they extend evacuation time, allow for the arrival of firefighters, and prevent tunnel collapse, mitigating catastrophic outcomes.

European regulations acknowledge that the temperature evolution in tunnel fires differs significantly from above-ground fires. Tunnel fires can result in temperatures rising rapidly, reaching up to 1200ºC within the first 5–10 minutes and potentially up to 1300ºC in confined hydrocarbon fires. Such rapid temperature escalation can severely weaken reinforced concrete, leading to structural collapse.

The rapid heating of concrete generates steam from its internal water content, causing explosive spalling. This effect exposes reinforcement materials, increasing the risk of tunnel collapse. High-performance, low-permeability concrete is particularly susceptible to spalling, which typically occurs within the first 20–30 minutes of a fire.

Thermal barriers, such as cement mortars with mesh or mechanically fixed special plates, are the most effective systems for minimizing fire-related damage to concrete. These barriers shield the substrate from direct fire exposure, reduce heat transfer, and slow the rate of heating.

Fire protection systems must meet specific requirements based on tunnel type, usage, and national regulations. Standards such as the German ZTV and Dutch RWS specify maximum allowable temperatures and spalling effects. Protection systems undergo laboratory testing to ensure compliance with these standards

Effective ventilation and smoke extraction are critical in tunnel fires. Fire-resistant ducts and thermal barrier protections are essential for maintaining ventilation and smoke control systems during a fire, ensuring the safety of users and firefighters.

Panacor has developed a protection system featuring metal acoustic panels that provide a minimum of 2 hours of fire resistance, following the hydrocarbon curve. These panels also deliver exceptional acoustic performance, reducing road traffic noise and improving tunnel design efficiency.

Benefits of PANACOR PANEL ROCK

• Fireproof: Withstands 1100º C for 2 hours.
• Weather Resistant: Impervious to frost and rain.
• Acoustic Performance: Tested to BS EN 354:2003 under typical tunnel lining conditions.
• Customizable: Available in a range of colors and sizes.
• Flexible Installation: Suitable for curved surfaces and can be cleaned without detergents.
• Environmentally Friendly: Manufactured using sustainable and eco-friendly materials.

Fixings for wall-mounted panels include bespoke horizontal omega sections designed for quick and secure installation. These sections incorporate anchors to the tunnel walls. The panels are mechanically fixed using self-drilling screws, with alternative installation methods available for specific site conditions.

Technical Information

• Physical Properties: Standard size: L x 1000 mm x 100 mm, with a maximum length of 11 meters. Weight: 22.5 kg/m².
• Fire Resistance: Tested by APPLUS for compliance with EN 1364-1:2015 and UNE EN 1363-2:2000 standards.
• Impact Resistance: Complies with EN 1794-1 for road traffic noise reduction devices.
• Acoustic Absorption: Meets EN ISO 354 and EN 1793-1 standards.

Colors: Available in any RAL color.