Fire Rated Electric Strikes & Fire Doors

Posted on: 20.04.2021

Electric strike door hardware ironmongery kit for fire doors

Do you have a fire door that requires access control but have no idea how to tackle this problem? Then look no further as Door Controls Direct are proud to introduce to you; two fire rated electric strike access control kits.

As discussed in our blog Fire Doors Vs Fire Escape Doors, there are two types of doors that fall under the concept of a Fire Door – A Fire Escape Door and a Fire Control Door. These kits have been designed for use on Fire Control doors and as such their component parts have been successfully tested for use on 30 minute fire rated doors. We have included appropriate intumescent to ensure full compliance with their fire rating. Electric Strikes can only be fire rated in the UK if they have been successful in certified Fire Tests.

How do the kits work?

Both of our kits include a Fire Rated Electric Strike, a nightlatch, a single 45mm Euro cylinder, a matching escutcheon, intumescent fire kit and a half set of lever handles. The kits do not contain a break glass or an exit button as emergency and general egress is always via depressing the lever handle on the inside. You do not need to wire this up to a fire alarm interface, which makes installation quick and easy. This is a very good cost saving product over maglocks, where you do need to have these. Also, it is a lot neater and there is no risk of injury from head impact. Electric strikes are higher security than maglocks.

A keypad, biometric reader or proximity reader can be added to provide access from the outside. These kits can be integrated with almost any access control system. Power Supplies and access control activation like keypads are not included within these kits so that our customers have more choice and can customise their installations.

What is the difference between the ES1 and the ES2 kits?

The ES1 Kit includes the AL900 electric strike and is a cost-effective solution for low traffic doors. It should only be used on internal doors and it offers a moderate level of security.

The ES2 Kit includes the Trimec ES9000 electric strike which offers a high level of security and high performance. This is ideal for high traffic doors in areas where there is a high chance of door misuse and little incentive to exercise due care. It can also be used on both internal and external doors.

Ease of Installation

The electric strikes in both kits – the AL900 and the Trimec ES9000 are both dual voltage which means that they are suitable for either a 12V DC or 24V DC Power Supply Unit. Electric Strikes offer a higher level of security than a maglock and they are concealed within the door edge which makes them aesthetically more pleasing and less obtrusive. As with all ironmongery, ensure that you fit these products in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Please note that it is not recommended that you install an electric strike in an emergency situation; where escape traffic is required in both directions through the door.