WFRGENT NV performs fire tests mainly on construction materials, materials used in transport (train, tram, bus, aeroplane, car, shipbuilding) and materials for the off-shore industrie (boats, drilling platforms).

These tests are performed in two departments:

Reaction to fire

In this department the tests on materials are performed in small scale set-ups. The goal is to evaluate the contribution of a material in the development of a starting fire.

Fire resistance

in this department tests are being performed on construction elements to evaluate their behaviour in a fully developed fire. The evaluation contains the preservation of the load-bearing capacity of structural construction elements and the capability to contain the fire: this is valid for walls, doors, floors,… The tests are being performed on a vertical and a horizontal furnace in full size if possible.

The tests can be divided into standard tests. These take mainly place in relation with the European Construction Products Directive, which has been converted into national legislation. Sometimes ad hoc tests are performed, not according to a prescribed standard, but specifically drawn-up to examine particular situations.

Hier worden proeven uitgevoerd op bouwelementen om hun gedrag te beoordelen in een vol ontwikkelde brand. De beoordeling omvat het behoud van het dragend vermogen van structurele bouwelementen en de geschiktheid tot het compartimenteren: dit geldt voor wanden, deuren, vloeren,… De proeven worden voor zover mogelijk op ware grootte uitgevoerd op een verticale en een horizontale oven.

De proeven kunnen worden opgedeeld in standaardtesten. Deze gebeuren meestal in het kader van de Europese Richtlijn voor bouwproducten, die in nationale wetgeving is omgezet. Soms worden ook ad hoc testen uitgevoerd, niet volgens een welbepaalde norm, maar specifiek opgesteld om welbepaalde situaties te onderzoeken.

WFRGENT NV also develops and produces fire testing instruments under the brand name “FIRE”.

WFRGENT NV is also an important subcontractor of the v.z.w. ISIB, an association that supplies assessments concerning passive fire protection and which certifies installers for products that contribute to the passive fire protection. More information: www.isibfire.be