Such materials are self-extinguishing-flaming combustion stops within 10 seconds after removal of heat source, glowing combustion stops within 30 seconds, and materials do not drip flaming particles that could ignite cotton. 3Ĭeilings can be made from plastic rated V0 under Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 94, Standard for Safety of Flammability of Plastic Materials for Parts in Devices and Appliances Testing. 2 Surface burning characteristics are more relevant to life safety there are now Class A thermoformed ceilings that, with certain limitations, can be specified for all but the most critical occupancies. Thin plastic has such little mass it provides no significant fuel load relative to the other combustible materials in a building. It is appropriate to consider fire safety first because of plastic’s combustibility. This article uses ‘tile’ to mean a ‘ceiling element used with concealed or semi-exposed suspension systems, stapling, or adhesive bonding’ and ‘panel’ as a ‘ceiling element used with exposed suspension systems.’ 1 Since standards and manufacturers do not use terms consistently, construction documents should define terms used for particular projects. They now provide a unique constellation of characteristics making them suitable for various architectural and building applications. Forming also imparts depth to the thin material, sufficiently stiffening panels to span between conventional ceiling suspension grid members.Ĭeilings of this type have been manufactured since the mid-20 th century and have been improved with refinements in materials, fabrication techniques, and finishes. While ceilings can be made with various types of plastic and in myriad configurations, this article discusses ceiling elements made from rigid vinyl or polyethylene terephtalate (PET) sheets 0.33 or 0.76 mm (0.013 or 0.03 in.) thick, that are thermoformed to create decorative surfaces. This is changing as thermoformed plastic ceiling panels and tiles have proven their mettle in rigorous testing and through approvals and listings by building product evaluation services. Plastic has been frequently used for floorings and wallcoverings, but not for ceilings. By Ed Davis, David Condello, CSI, and Michael Chusid, RA, FCSI, CCS
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