Fire-Rated Roller Shutter Systems

A fire-rated roller shutter (fire shutter) is a steel rolling system that closes automatically in a fire to separate two spaces. It delays the spread of flames and smoke, buying time for evacuation and firefighting. It is connected to the fire alarm system and also closes under controlled gravity when power fails. Fire shutters are produced in EI60–EI240 classes with EN 1634-1 test reports and used in shopping malls, car parks and industrial facilities.

The EI class expresses integrity (E) and insulation (I) in minutes according to EN 13501-2. EI60 means 60 minutes of fire resistance, while EI240 means 240 minutes, or 4 hours. The required class is determined by the building type, the fire compartment and the calculation under the applicable fire protection regulation. The project designer or fire authority report confirms this value.

A motorised fire shutter closes automatically via its motor or gravity system when it receives a signal from the fire detection panel. A fusible link triggers mechanical closing at 73 °C. If the power fails, fail-safe gravity closing takes over, so the compartment is protected in all conditions and the spread of smoke and flames to other areas is delayed.

No, they are different products. A fire shutter is a rolling system that closes wide openings such as warehouse and factory passages. Stair landings, escape lobbies and room compartments require self-closing hinged fire doors instead. The right product is determined by the opening size, whether it lies on an escape route and the project’s fire safety report.

A fire shutter should receive periodic maintenance and a fire scenario test at least once a year. The service checks the guide rails, seals, fusible link, motor-to-panel connections and the gravity closing speed. In heavily used facilities, inspections every six months with findings recorded in the maintenance log make regulatory audits easier.