Can Fire Protection be Integrated Without Compromising Historic Buildings?
The question of whether fire protection can be integrated without compromising historical and architectural values has been the subject of much debate. The answer is clearly yes - with the right expertise and the right solutions. Alux, a leading company with over 30 years of experience, specializes in fire protection that not only protects modern new buildings, but also respects and preserves the integrity of historic buildings.
Fire protection in Kuglegården from 1741
For Ferm Living's store in Kuglegården on Holmen in Copenhagen, Alux has supplied and installed a discreet fire protection solution. Kuglegården, part of the Maritime Arsenal and built in 1741 by architect Philip de Lange, was originally used to store cannonballs - hence the name. In collaboration with the Danish Agency for Culture and Palaces and architects, Alux integrated the fire curtains into the building to ensure both safety and aesthetics.
Ole Bredahl, fire protection specialist at Alux, comments: "It is a listed building about the same age as Børsen. A fire separation had to be made with a possible escape route via a wooden staircase. Together with the Agency for Culture and Palaces and architects, we integrated the fire curtains into the building. It's a really nice solution that you don't notice."
A Discreet Fire Protection Solution
Alux has chosen the Fire 5000 Type RGT Ei2 60 integrated fire curtain for Kuglegården. This compact system is designed to be discreet and efficient, which fits perfectly with the historic setting of the building. The fire curtain acts as a heat-insulating fire barrier that minimizes heat radiation and is easily integrated into ceilings and frames.
The product is tested and classified as EI2 60-C2 according to EN 13501-2, which means it is fire resistant for at least 60 minutes. The fire curtain is also CE marked in accordance with EN 16034, ensuring compliance with the highest safety standards.
Preservation of Architectural Integrity
By choosing such fire protection solutions, Alux can protect historic buildings without changing their appearance or structure. The solutions are carefully designed to be discreet and integrated, respecting the original architecture while ensuring maximum security.
Fire curtains have become widely used over the past 10 years. Alux is currently testing large fire curtains for Copenhagen Airport, which are around 11 meters long, to ensure that they meet the strict safety requirements and do not emit harmful particles when used as escape routes.
"The fire curtain is a small system that can be integrated unnoticed into the daily function of the building. It's a product that architects are enthusiastic about and it can be used almost anywhere there is a need for discreet fire protection - from hotels and office buildings to canteens," explains Ole Bredahl, who has more than 25 years of experience at Alux.
Integration of Fire Curtains and Fire Blinds
Alux not only integrates fire curtains, but also advanced fire blinds that meet the highest safety standards. These blinds are not only effective in preventing the spread of fire, but their robust design also makes them suitable for daily operation, where they can be easily operated up and down as needed.
"The latest addition is our fire blinds, which are now approved to RC3 and RC4 burglary and security standards. These blinds consist of two layers of steel with insulating material in between, making it extremely difficult for burglars to penetrate, especially when the alarm has gone off," he adds.
Conclusion
Alux demonstrates that effective fire protection can be harmoniously integrated into historic buildings without compromising their architectural integrity. With their expertise and specialized solutions like the Fire 5000 Type RGT Ei2 60, Alux helps to preserve and protect our valuable cultural heritage from fire damage. Alux is proud to offer solutions that not only respect, but also highlight our shared history by protecting our building heritage.
