REI60

REI60 is a designation referring to a fire resistance rating. Specifically, it indicates that a building material or fire-rated assembly can withstand a standardized fire exposure for a minimum of 60 minutes without failing. This failure is typically defined by criteria such as integrity (preventing flames and hot gases from passing through), insulation (limiting temperature rise on the unexposed side), and load-bearing capacity if the assembly is structural.

Fire resistance ratings are determined through rigorous testing conducted in accredited laboratories. These tests simulate the conditions of a real fire, exposing the material or assembly to increasing temperatures over time according to a specific time-temperature curve. The REI60 rating signifies that the tested item successfully maintained its critical properties for the full 60-minute duration.

In construction, REI60 rated products are crucial for compartmentalization, helping to slow the spread of fire within a building. They are commonly found in fire doors, fire walls, fire-rated flooring and ceiling systems, and fire-stopping materials used to seal penetrations through fire-rated barriers. Building codes and regulations often specify the required fire resistance ratings for different building elements based on the building's occupancy, size, and location to ensure occupant safety and property protection. The REI designation itself may vary in its exact meaning depending on the specific standard or region, but the core concept of a 60-minute fire resistance threshold remains.