UL 263
Full Name
UL 263 – Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
Scope
UL 263 is a North American standard that evaluates the fire resistance of building construction materials and assemblies. It is a crucial tool for ensuring the safety of structures and their occupants in the event of a fire.
The standard covers a wide range of building components, including:
- Walls and partitions (both bearing and non-bearing)
- Columns
- Beams and girders
- Floor and roof slabs
- Composite assemblies
- Firestop systems and joint systems
Testing Methodology
UL 263 tests subject specimens to a standardized fire exposure, simulating a real-world fire scenario. The test measures the specimen’s ability to:
- Maintain structural integrity under load (if applicable)
- Prevent the passage of flames and hot gases
- Limit heat transmission
The duration of the fire exposure varies, with ratings typically ranging from 1 to 4 hours.
Significance
UL 263 ratings are critical for building code compliance and fire safety design. They help architects, engineers, and builders select appropriate materials and assemblies to achieve the desired fire resistance level for their projects. The standard also provides valuable information to fire protection professionals and first responders about the expected performance of building elements in a fire.
Compliance with UL 263
Building materials and assemblies that comply with UL 263 are typically marked with a label or listing that indicates their fire resistance rating. This information helps ensure that construction projects meet the required fire safety standards and contribute to the overall safety of the built environment.
Resources
Keywords
fire resistance rating; fire endurance; flame spread; hose stream test; temperature rise; fire containment; structural integrity; firestop systems; joint systems; through-penetration firestop; perimeter fire containment systems; construction joints; building elements; fire test; fire exposure; fire protection; compartmentation; fire barriers; fire-rated assemblies; protected steel; combustible materials; noncombustible materials; building materials; fire scenarios; fire tests of door assemblies; fire tests of window assemblies; fire damper; dynamic pressure test; fire door assembly; positive pressure test; fire protection rating; fire resistance directory; fire-rated glazing; glazing material; hose stream test apparatus; standard time-temperature curve; listed fire resistance designs; through-penetration firestop systems