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Fire testing of bulkheads and decks for the maritime industry

Marine fire divisions must prevent fire and heat from spreading between compartments during fire exposure.


DBI tests A-class and B-class marine divisions and documents the fire performance of bulkheads, decks and lightweight interior divisions used in marine applications. Marine fire divisions are used in both structural and lightweight interior constructions such as cabins, corridors and accommodation areas.


The testing evaluates whether the division maintains the required fire separation during standardised fire exposure.

Container ship sailing through a port at sunset surrounded by cranes and harbour facilities.

Facts

Relevant standard: IMO FTP Code – Part 3

Typical applications:

  • A-class divisions: Insulated steel bulkheads and decks
  • B-class divisions: Lightweight partition and ceiling systems
  • Integrated units and fittings

Documentation:

  • Accredited fire test reports
  • Technical assessments

Testing fire divisions in marine constructions

Marine fire divisions are tested in large-scale furnace setups exposed to standardised fire conditions according to the FTP Code.

The evaluation includes:

  • Integrity of the division
  • Passage of flames or hot gases
  • Temperature rise on the unexposed side
  • Thermal insulation performance during fire exposure

Depending on the application, the divisions are tested as vertical bulkheads or horizontal decks.

A-class divisions and insulated steel constructions

A-class divisions are typically insulated steel constructions used in the structural parts of the vessel. The testing evaluates whether the division maintains both integrity and thermal insulation during fire exposure.

The evaluation focuses on how insulation systems and installation details influence the fire performance of the division.Temperature development on the unexposed side is a key part of the evaluation, particularly in insulated deck and bulkhead constructions where the insulation system is critical to the fire performance.

B-class divisions and lightweight interior systems

B-class divisions are typically lightweight panel constructions with integrated insulation and interior fittings used in accommodation areas such as cabins, corridors and public interior spaces.

Testing may also include integrated units such as lighting installations, inspection hatches or service openings. These integrated components must not weaken the fire performance of the approved wall or ceiling construction.

Defining test scope and certification documentation

Manufacturers often need certification documentation covering multiple construction types, insulation layouts or integrated configurations without testing every individual setup separately.

DBI helps customers define relevant test scope and certification documentation by:

  • Planning efficient test programmes
  • Identifying relevant worst-case configurations
  • Evaluating installation details and configuration variations
  • Documenting fire test results in accredited test reports

This can help manufacturers reduce unnecessary testing while still documenting the required performance range for certification and classification approval.

Technical assessments

DBI also performs technical assessments based on fire test results.
Technical assessments can support documentation of construction variations, installation methods or insulation layouts without repeating full-scale testing.

The assessment is based on practical evaluation of how configuration changes may influence the fire performance of the tested division.

Technical assessments are regularly used as supporting.

One of DBI furnaces after a fire test, where a technican is pouring water on the burning test item.

See some of our fire test furnaces in this video

Our 3,000 square meter headquarters near Copenhagen houses a modern fire laboratory with various furnaces for almost all types of fire tests.

This makes it possible for us to conduct almost all types of fire tests, from small-scale to full-scale, with items as high as 4.48 meters.

Watch the video of some of our fire testing facilities.

Let us help you navigate maritime fire testing

Mark works closely with our fire testing engineers within the maritime sector, and he will be happy to assist you with your enquiry and connect you with the right team.

Mark Lerche
Mark Lerche
International Sales Manager
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Mark Lerche

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Our headquarters and test facilities are centrally located in Copenhagen, Denmark – close to the motorway and only a 15-minute drive from Copenhagen Airport.


Address: Jernholmen 12, 2650 Hvidovre, Denmark

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