What Is The Difference between Smoke Rated And Fire Rated?

**Smoke rated** and **fire rated** are terms used to describe the performance of materials, components, or structures in relation to fire and smoke. Here are the main differences:

#### Definition

- **Smoke rated**: Refers to the ability of a material or assembly to resist the passage of smoke.

- **Fire rated**: Denotes the ability of a material or structure to withstand fire for a specified period.

#### Purpose

- **Smoke rated**: To prevent or limit the spread of smoke, which can be harmful and impede visibility during a fire.

- **Fire rated**: To provide fire resistance, allowing time for evacuation and fire suppression.

#### Testing and Classification

- **Smoke rated**: Typically tested using standards such as ASTM E84 or UL 263, measuring smoke density and flame spread.

- **Classification**: Often classified based on smoke density ratings.

- **Fire rated**: Tested according to standards like ASTM E119 or UL 1479, assessing fire endurance.

- **Classification**: Classified based on the duration they can withstand fire, e.g., 1-hour, 2-hour ratings.

#### Applications

- **Smoke rated**: Commonly used in areas where smoke control is critical, such as stairwells, elevator shafts, and corridors.

- **Fire rated**: Used in firewalls, fire doors, and fire partitions to provide fire separation.

#### Importance

- **Smoke rated**: Crucial for reducing smoke-related hazards and improving safety in buildings.

- **Fire rated**: Essential for preventing the rapid spread of fire and providing structural integrity.

In summary, while both smoke rated and fire rated materials play important roles in fire safety, they serve different purposes and are assessed using different criteria.