Effects of protective panels on charring of timber elements in timber frame assemblies

Abstract

Panels protect timber elements in timber frame assemblies during fire. The influence of the panels can be incorporated into calculations according to EN 1995-1-2, Annex C. The number of panels incorporated in this standard is limited. Moreover, the calculations performed according to this standard result in overestimation of the charred area. In this work, experimental analysis of the protective behaviour was performed. Small scale fire tests were used to monitor the temperature inside the timber element and the timber frame assembly. The measured results are compared with calculations according to the standard.