Firespray launches first “no-weld” rectangular grease duct system in U.S.

Jan. 19, 2010 - PRLog -- Contact:  Linda Lewis (954) 428-4477
                llewis@smith-knibbs.com

FIRESPRAY INTERNATIONAL INTRODUCES FIRST ASTM E2336-TESTED
FACTORY-COATED GREASE DUCT SYSTEM FOR U.S. COMMERCIAL KITCHENS

Faster On-Site Assembly Lowers Costs
for Restaurants, Hotels, Universities and Hospitals

Firespray International has introduced the first factory-coated fire resistant grease duct system for commercial kitchens available in the United States that is tested and evaluated to ASTM E2336 and UL1978 standards. Based on the company’s highly successful Flamebar BW11 system of fire rated ductwork, the innovative grease duct solution also fully complies with the requirements of NFPA 96.

“To eliminate the need for costly, time consuming welding, grease duct is finally available in rectangular segments with bolted flanges that allow for on-site assembly using bolts and specialized gaskets and sealants,” said Ken Baker, president of Firespray International’s operations in the United States and North America.

“That means faster, safer installation, major savings on labor costs and far less disruption to ongoing operations at a jobsite,” added Baker.  “Creating a Flamebar BW11 grease duct joint typically takes 75 percent less time than a welded joint – about 15 minutes, compared with well over an hour for the welded joint.  But best of all, it eliminates the hazard and liability associated with welding grease duct on site.”

With its lightweight, coated fire resistant ductwork and ease of on-site assembly, Flamebar BW11 has demonstrated its advantages in commercial kitchens worldwide for over 25 years, Baker noted.  “Simply put, the Flamebar BW11 fire resistant ductwork system is the better grease duct solution.”

With the grease duct system recently tested to the relevant U.S. standards, London-based Firespray is rapidly expanding operations throughout the United States and in Canada, from North American headquarters in Virginia.  Firespray has provided Flamebar BW11 fire resistant ductwork systems in high-profile commercial, healthcare and university facilities nationwide, including the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Harley Davidson and Crowne Plaza Hotel in Wisconsin, St. Anthony Hospital in Chicago and Lemmen Holton Cancer Center in Grand Rapids, Mich. and dozens of high rise condominiums and hotels in South Florida.                                        

Firespray’s BW11 commercial kitchen extract ductwork is made in the U.S. from 20-gage galvanized sheet steel manufactured to an enhanced standard – creating the lightest weight fire rated kitchen extract ductwork available. After ductwork is degreased, the outside surface is factory sprayed with a specially formulated water-based compound that contains selected mineral filters in a low permeability elastomeric binder.  The ductwork’s smooth internal finish allows for easy cleaning.  The ductwork complies with the requirements of the International Mechanical Code (IMC), the Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC), and the NFPA96. It is also highly resistant to impact, moisture, chemicals and mold.

Flamebar BW11 fire resistant kitchen ductwork offers other advantages to specifiers, contractors and end users, Baker added.

“From design to installation, Firespray provides single-source responsibility for every aspect of its grease duct systems,” he said.   As part of its general assurance process – and for customers’ peace of mind -- Firespray also arranges inspection for every installation and provides a Certification of Compliance, indicating the completed job meets all necessary requirements of the UL and Intertek classification.  

Firespray International is recognized worldwide in the design and manufacture of specialized fire ducting systems in a diverse range of industrial sectors, including fire-rated ductwork (smoke exhaust, pressurization, lab exhaust, car park exhaust, risers in multi story buildings, etc), and commercial kitchen extract duct work. For further information and system documentation, contact Ken Baker at Firespray International, (540) 292-9521 or fax (540) 949-7936 or email info@firesprayusa.com.