When people talk about “rubber profiles” in the context of sealing profiles, they often mean the family of flexible materials such as EPDM, NBR, or silicone. They may look similar at first, but their properties and best use cases can differ significantly. Understanding those differences helps ensure your profiles last longer and perform better.

Silicone is technically a type of synthetic rubber, with a structure that differs from conventional organic and synthetic (black) rubbers. Its polymer backbone is made up of silicon and oxygen, with carbon and hydrogen present in the organic groups attached to it. This distinctive structure gives silicone rubber a combination of properties that sets it apart from many other elastomers.

That’s why you’ll often see the term silicone rubber. It refers to silicone in its elastomeric form, as opposed to silicone oils or resins used in other applications. Silicone rubber remains flexible across a wide temperature range and has excellent resistance to UV, ozone, weathering and ageing. Compared with many conventional rubbers, it can retain its flexibility and performance for a long service life.

Performance That Withstands the Extremes

What makes silicone rubber stand out is its stability. It stays elastic at temperatures from around –80 °C up to +300 °C, tolerating even higher peaks for short periods. UV light, ozone, and moisture have little effect on it, which is why silicone profiles are often chosen for outdoor, hygienic, or high-temperature applications.

Silicone is also the material of choice when fire safety is non-negotiable. Our own Fire X silicone rubber profiles are designed for demanding environments such as public transport and industrial equipment, where certified flame resistance and long-term performance are critical.

Traditional rubbers such as EPDM perform well in many standard sealing and insulation tasks, but they have their limits. EPDM, for example, can handle weather exposure but not high heat. In other words, each material has its place; the choice depends on what kind of environment the profile must endure.

Finding the Right Fit for Your Application

If your product needs to withstand constant temperature fluctuations, outdoor exposure, or stringent hygiene standards, silicone rubber is often the safest bet. It offers exceptional durability, a clean surface, and excellent color stability qualities that make it popular in sectors ranging from construction and lighting to medical and food technology.

For projects where cost-efficiency or fuel resistance matter more than extreme temperature tolerance, other rubbers or thermoplastic elastomers can be the smarter choice. Materials such as TPE and TPV combine the flexibility of rubber with the processing advantages and recyclability of plastics, making them well-suited for modern, sustainable product design.

High-Performance Profiles, Made to Measure

At V.A.V. Group, we manufacture silicone rubber, TPE, and TPV profiles tailored precisely to your needs, from small production batches to medium-scale deliveries. Our materials are chosen for their reliability, long life, and consistent quality, ensuring that every profile we deliver is ready to perform from day one.

Looking for the right material for your next project? Our experts are happy to help you find the ideal balance between performance, durability, and cost.

Artikkeli Silicone Rubber and Rubber Materials julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.

WHAT ARE FIREPROOF SEALS AND PROFILES?

Fireproof seals and profiles are specially designed components. They are used to seal gaps and openings in walls, floors, and ceilings to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. These seals and profiles are made from materials that are capable of withstanding high temperatures without breaking down, degrading, or catching fire.

Fireproof seals are typically made from fire-retardant or intumescent materials. They are designed to expand rapidly when exposed to high temperatures. In general, fireproof seals and profiles create a barrier that prevents flames and smoke from spreading or slows the spread of fire. Fireproof profiles are similar to seals but are typically used in larger gaps or around the edges of doors and windows.

HOW DO FIREPROOF SEALS AND PROFILES WORK?

Fireproof seals and profiles work by creating a physical barrier that prevents or slows down the spread of fire and smoke. There are different solutions to do that, for example, fire-proof silicone, ablative sealants, or intumescent seals and fire-retardant profiles.

Fire X profiles are made of self-extinguishing silicone that withstand temperatures up to 300°C. Not only does the Fire X withstand extremely high temperatures for long periods of time, but it is also fire-retardant and non-flammable in itself.

In comparison to intumescent seals and profiles that expand when exposed to high temperatures, Fire X profiles, for example, are airtight in all temperatures. This prevents the spread of smoke, carbon monoxide, and other dangerous gases to other rooms or compartments before the temperature rises to a certain level. Since carbon monoxide can reach dangerous levels without an actual fire, Fire X seals are significantly safer than seals and profiles that only prevent the spreading of fires. 

Furthermore, if the compartments are sealed air-tight with Fire X profiles, they will significantly slow the spread of fire or even suffocate the flames in certain conditions. In normal conditions, the Fire X profiles act as normal silicone profiles. By comparison, intumescent seals have little to no sealing capability without high temperatures.

WHY ARE FIREPROOF SEALS AND PROFILES IMPORTANT?

Fireproof seals and profiles are incredibly important for several reasons. First and foremost, they can help to save lives in the event of a fire. By containing flames and smoke in the area where the fire originated, these seals and profiles provide occupants or passengers with more time to evacuate the building or vehicle safely. Additionally, fireproof seals and profiles can help to prevent extensive damage to the building, vehicle, or the possessions and cargo inside, as they can help to contain the fire in a smaller area.

Up to code

Fireproof seals and profiles are also essential for meeting building codes and regulations. In most jurisdictions, building codes require the use of fireproof seals and profiles in specific applications. These include e.g., doors, windows, and other openings. Specific areas within buildings or compartments often have different fire classification requirements. Those can be met with different seals and profiles. By using these components, building owners and operators can ensure that their buildings are in compliance with local regulations and are as safe as possible for occupants. In public transportation, the criteria are similar to those, but with certain additions or alterations. First and foremost, they can help to save lives in the event of a fire.

Buying valuable time in emergencies

Fireproof seals and profiles are essential components of any building that is designed to withstand the damaging effects of fire. By sealing gaps and openings in walls, floors, and ceilings, these components can help to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. This gives occupants or passengers valuable time to evacuate the building or vehicle safely. If you are involved in the design, construction, or maintenance of a building, it is essential that you understand the importance of fireproof seals and profiles and ensure that they are used appropriately in your building. In the maritime, railway, military, or transportation industry, the importance of fireproof seals and profiles can be even more important. The environment is very different, and first responders may have difficulties in reaching the site fast enough.

DID YOU KNOW?

Where are fireproof seals used? Many of our fireproof seals go into rolling stock or maritime transportation, but these seals are used for plenty of other applications as well; here are just a few examples of them!

FIRE X – A FIREPROOF SILICONE PROFILE BY V.A.V. GROUP

What is Fire X?
V.A.V. Group developed Fire X profiles for fire-rated applications such as fire doors, trains, urban transport, and maritime transport. They are used in conditions that require a high thermal resistance (< +270 °C) and where the seal must slow the spread of fire in extreme conditions. The primary material used in Fire X is silicone or TPV, with fire-retardant agents added to it.

Fire X is a silicone profile enhanced with fire-retardant and halogen-free materials. In short, the seals and profiles (along with other materials used in trains and their interiors) cannot ignite easily, burn aggressively at any point, or emit toxic fumes when predisposed to extreme heat. Fire X profiles are treated so that they will not burn but rather smolder and char even at the highest temperatures, maintaining their ability to prevent fires from spreading. This is a crucial feature for any profiles used in doors, windows, and latches on rolling stock.

Halogen-free profiles enhance the safety of railway passengers, as they will not be exposed to toxic gases but also the safety of firefighters. Halogen gases are also highly corrosive, which may cause further damage to other components of the vehicle (or building).

We produce Fire X profiles entirely at our manufacturing site in Ii, northern Finland. We use our own recipe and carefully selected raw materials. This way we can ensure that our Fire X profiles meet the highest standards for fire-retardant profiles.

FIRE X DEVELOPMENT AND TESTING

The main raw material that is used for Fire X is silicone. TPV, while not as heat resistant, is also an option for some components. A basic silicone profile will burn through fairly quickly, as many basic materials do. For silicone Fire X, chemicals are added to the raw silicone material that gives it heat and fire retardant properties. When Fire X catches fire, only the surface will burn momentarily. Due to its fire-retardant constitution, any flames die out quickly. Fire X has been developed to fit European standards in railway applications and is regularly tested to ensure its quality.

Trial by fire

Our testing for Fire X is outsourced and measures various aspects in a controlled environment. The tests are used to time how long the material takes to burn, how much smoke is generated, and what kind of toxicity levels are found in the smoke. Smoke and gas tests have strict directions and conditions. The test chamber and specimen are prepared to code, and the data is meticulously collected and analyzed. The goal of these tests is to ensure that in the case of a fire, the material will slow down the spread and produce a minimal amount of smoke into the environment. 

Sometimes the materials are tested in collaboration with the client. This lets us see how the material behaves in its intended use or environment. This can mean, for example, testing the whole component, such as a train door. 

The fire-retardant Fire X profile ensures the safety of the crew and passengers and has the following fire safety certificates:

• IMO FTPC Part 2 & 5
• UL 94 V Classification V0
• EN 45545-2

EN 45545-2:2020
V.A.V. Group’s self-extinguishing Fire X silicone has passed the most demanding railway transportation safety tests. It is now classified as HL3 level profiles according to the EN 45545-2:2020 standard. The Fire X material has passed the tests before, but now we have reached the highest level of fire safety. The renewed Fire X product is known as Fire X 2023.

Manufacturers of materials, components, and systems used in railway vehicles must ensure that their products comply with the relevant fire safety requirements. These requirements are specified in EN 45545-2:2020. The standard is part of the broader effort to harmonize safety standards for railway systems across Europe. It helps ensure consistent fire safety standards for railway vehicles in European countries.

It’s important to note that the EN 45545 series is part of a larger framework of European standards related to railway safety. It works in conjunction with other standards that cover different aspects of railway systems and components. Compliance with EN 45545-2:2020 is essential for manufacturers and operators. It ensures the fire safety of railway vehicles and protects passengers and personnel in the event of a fire.

CURRENT APPLICATIONS  FOR FIRE X

Because the railway industry demands such high standards for fire safety, the Fire X can be easily used in other environments with less strict requirements. The halogen-free Fire X does not burst into flames at any temperature, nor does it emit toxic fumes. It is a safe choice for small enclosures as well as large rooms or buildings. For example, the building and automotive industries have their own standards, but Fire X meets them in most cases. Of course, there are other alternatives. Our silicone or TPV profiles can also be treated to enhance their natural heat-resistant properties even further. For example, server rooms are often equipped with automatic fire extinguishers that protect the rest of the building in case of fire in the server room itself. Sealing the doors with Fire X can enhance fire safety even further.

We produce Fire X profiles entirely at our manufacturing site in Ii, northern Finland. Using our carefully developed recipe, we can ensure our clients that Fire X meets the highest standards for fire-retardant profiles.

Artikkeli Testing and functions of fireproof profiles julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.

Doors for Generations

Hellbergs Dörrar is a Swedish steel door manufacturer that specialises in fire protection, soundproofing, and other high-security doors.

Since the early 1950s, spanning over 70 years of dedicated service, Hellbergs Dörrar has evolved into a prominent leader in delivering security solutions throughout Sweden.

But what makes this company from the small town of Mellerud in western Sweden so well-known, and how is V.A.V. Group related to Hellbergs Dörrar?

Hellbergs Dörrar is a part of its parent company Hellbergs Door Company AB, with three other subsidiaries related to safety and security solutions. In 1950, Kurt Hellberg began manufacturing heavy duty safety doors for the Swedish market in the post-war era in Gothenburg. The growing market and superior products helped Hellbergs build a lucrative business in  rural yet charming Mellerud.

Nowadays, family-owned Hellbergs Dörrar is one of the key manufacturers of rated steel doors in Sweden, employing over 70 people in Mellerud.

Seals: Vital Components in Fireproofing Systems

Back in 2019, Sebastian Hellberg, the owner of Hellbergs Dörrar was working on a project within the shipbuilding industry when he discovered V.A.V. Group, and our flagship product, Fire X. This led to further discussions with V.A.V. Group’s Mia Ahlgren, who delivered a sample order to Hellbergs Dörrar for thorough tests and research. Fire X profiles proved to be of high quality and exceeded the standards, which was the first step on a common journey.

“The previous profiles used in our safety doors could not meet the requirements of the renewed fire certificates, therefore a new type of fireproof profile was needed”

“Fire X is a fireproof seal that is easy to use and of great quality. That is why it has become the standard profile material for all our doors, even the ones that don’t have a fire rating.”

Alvin Johansson, the purchasing manager of Hellbergs Dörrar, explains. 

The vast selection of Hellbergs steel doors,access doors, as well as door frames and thresholds, requires different sealing solutions of variable shapes, sizes and thicknesses. Since the Fire X silicone is a great material to work with, so far all requisites have been met and V.A.V. Group is now a household name at Hellbergs.

Making fireproof doors foolproof

Hellbergs Dörrar manufactures classic style steel doors as well as painted and /or laminated doors that have an aesthetically pleasing decorative layer for industrial, infrastructural, and housing purposes. Fireproofing is an essential part of housing safety, especially in large housing units in cities. In addition to constructing rated doors, careful attention to aesthetics and usability is paramount. These factors, alongside their diverse range of security ratings, are consistently taken into account at the Swedish steel door company.

“We have three variations of Fire X profiles that we use for our doors. Depending on the rating of the door we use them in different combinations. The purpose of the profiles could be fire, smoke and/or soundproofing. In short, we take all kinds of safety aspects into consideration with our products”, he continues.

Apart from showcasing a laminated surface that could easily fool anyone into believing that the sturdy steel door is actually a wooden door, Hellbergs Dörrar have a variety of additional features that turn a door into a highly functional element of everyday life. Some of the rated features are visible, but just like the fire and soundproof profiles, others are hidden.

“Most people wouldn’t realise what kind of features their front door has until its features got tested, for example during an attempted break-in or a fire. For the sake of our customers, we hope they never have to experience such a scenario. However, in an unfortunate situation where this might occur we have complete trust in our products”, Johansson states.

Forging a better future

Upon analyzing both Hellbergs and V.A.V. Group, it becomes evident that they share comparable core principles. Both companies prioritize high quality in their products, reliable delivery, and exceptional customer service, albeit articulated with slightly varying terminology on their respective platforms. Their fundamental objectives align closely, underscoring a shared commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.

”We align closely on core values and share a unified mindset aimed at delivering products and services of high quality to our customers. This enables great communication, especially with Mia, who has a service focused mindset along with speaking fluent swedish, we’re very grateful for that.”

Cathleen Nyman, marketing coordinator of Hellbergs Dörrar explains.

Environmental considerations hold significant importance within the Swedish family business as well. 

“Our production aims to minimize our environmental impact. We pay great attention to material selection and recycle the byproducts with care.We also consider our environmental values when selecting subvendors and V.A.V. Group is a company we can relate to for that matter”, Nyman adds.

Achieving top quality products that both companies are known for, communication is key.

“We have never had difficulties understanding each other, moreso we’ve made minor improvements to make our production more efficient. Mia is a true expert in her field and helps us with product development. Often V.A.V group adjusts their products to suit our needs which is something we greatly appreciate.”, Alvin Johansson says. 

When we ask about the “minor improvements”, he gives an example:

“Well, because we aim to reduce waste to the max, we noticed that the bottom rounds of the coiled Fire X profile were a bit compressed, which made them tricky to install and thus the last few meters of the profile didn’t quite meet our standards. It’s not a big problem per se, but I still told Mia about it. She understood and came up with a solution together with her team in Ii.”

At the end of our interview with Cathleen and Alvin, we asked them to summarize the cooperation with V.A.V. Group. Without hesitation, Alvin says: “If you are looking for a contractor who is flexible and able to produce detailed custom products, we will happily recommend V.A.V. Group.”

For those unfamiliar with the family-owned business located in Mellerud, Sweden, take a moment to explore their website: https://www.hellbergs.se/sv

More information about Fire X

Fire X Certifications

V.A.V. Group’s self-extinguishing Fire X silicone has passed the most demanding railway transportation safety tests and is now classified as HL3 level profiles according to the EN 45545-2:2020 standard.

Learn more

What is Fire X?

Fire X silicone is self-extinguishing and designed to slow down the spread of fire in extreme conditions. Its combustion gases are non-toxic, and it is operable at temperatures under +270 °C.

Learn more

Artikkeli Custom Fire X Profiles for Hellbergs Dörrar julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.

What is the EN 45545 standard?

EN 45545-2:2020 is a European standard specifying fire behaviour requirements and testing methods for materials, components, and systems used in railway vehicles. This standard is part of a series of European standards (EN 45545) that were developed to improve the safety of railway vehicles concerning fire hazards. It is specifically concerned with the fire safety of railway rolling stock.

EN 45545-2:2020 covers the fire behaviour and fire resistance of materials and products used in railway vehicles. It provides requirements and testing procedures for assessing the reaction to fire of these materials, components, and systems. The standard applies to various materials used in the construction of railway vehicles, including seat covers, flooring materials, insulation, cables, and other interior and exterior elements.

EN 45545-2 categorizes railway vehicles into fire performance categories (HL1, HL2, and HL3) based on the vehicle’s intended use and passenger occupancy. Each category has specific requirements for fire behaviour. The standard outlines specific tests and methods for evaluating fire performance, including flame spread, smoke emission, and toxic gas production tests. These tests are used to determine whether a material or product meets the requirements for its intended use. EN 45545-2:2020 is the latest version of the standard and supersedes the previous version, EN 45545-2:2013. It reflects updates and improvements in fire safety standards for railway vehicles.

All new railway projects should be following the updated 2020 version of the EN 45545 standard, and meet all its requirements in all components.

Why is it important?

Manufacturers of materials, components, and systems used in railway vehicles must ensure that their products comply with the relevant fire safety requirements specified in EN 45545-2:2020. The standard is part of the broader effort to harmonize safety standards for railway systems across Europe. It helps ensure consistent fire safety standards for railway vehicles in European countries.

It’s important to note that the EN 45545 series is part of a larger framework of European standards related to railway safety, and it works in conjunction with other standards that cover different aspects of railway systems and components. Compliance with EN 45545-2:2020 is essential for manufacturers and operators to ensure the fire safety of railway vehicles and to protect passengers and personnel in the event of a fire.

How is it made?

Fire X is a silicone profile enhanced with fire-retardant and halogen-free materials. In short, the seals and profiles (along with other materials used in trains and their interiors) cannot ignite easily, burn aggressively at any point, or emit toxic fumes when predisposed to extreme heat. Fire X profiles are treated so that they will not burn but rather smoulder and char even at the highest temperatures, maintaining their ability to prevent fires from spreading. This is a crucial feature for any profiles used in doors, windows and latches on rolling stock.

Halogen-free profiles enhance the safety of railway passengers, as they will not be exposed to toxic gases, but also the safety of firefighters. Halogen gases are also highly corrosive, which may cause further damage to other components of the vehicle (or building).

We produce Fire X profiles entirely at our manufacturing site in Ii, northern Finland. Using our own recipe and carefully selected raw materials, we can ensure our clients that our Fire X profiles meet the highest standards for fire-retardant profiles.

Other use cases

Because the railway industry demands such high standards for fire safety, the Fire X can be easily used in other environments with less strict requirements. The halogen-free Fire X does not burst into flames at any temperature, nor does it emit toxic fumes, so it is a safe choice for small enclosures as well as large rooms or buildings. For example, the building and automotive industries have their own standards, but Fire X meets them in most cases. Of course, there are other alternatives, such as our silicone or TPV profiles, which can also be treated to enhance their natural heat-resistant properties even further. For example, server rooms are often equipped with automatic fire extinguishers that protect the rest of the building in case of fire in the server room itself, but sealing the doors with a simple solution could enhance fire safety even further.

Fire X and TPV can replace the commonly used EPDM, which can also be treated to withstand extreme temperatures. The advantages of Fire X, compared to EPDM, are a greater variety of hardnesses and colours, along with more manageable and often more reliable joints in angles or round shapes. In our previous article, you can read more about replacing EPDM with TPE/TPV.

Do you want to take fire safety to the next level?

The EN 45545-2:2020 is a specific standard for the railway and rolling stock industry, but our fire-resistant, fire-retardant, halogen-free, and self-extinguishing profiles can be adapted to suit your particular needs in other industries. If you want a modern, safe and versatile profile material, contact our sales so we can find the right solution for you!

Artikkeli Fire X silicone profiles receive highest HL3 hazard level of updated EN 45545-2:2020 standard julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.

What are fireproof seals and profiles?

Fireproof seals and profiles are specially designed components. They are used to seal gaps and openings to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. These seals and profiles are made from materials capable of withstanding high temperatures without breaking down, degrading, or catching fire.

Fireproof seals are typically made from fire-retardant or intumescent materials. They are designed to expand rapidly when exposed to high temperatures. In general, fireproof seals create a barrier that prevents flames and smoke from spreading, or slows the spread of fire. Fireproof profiles are typically used in larger gaps or around the edges of doors and windows.

How do fireproof seals and profiles work?

Fireproof seals work by creating a physical barrier that prevents or slows down the spread of fire and smoke. There are different solutions to do that, for example, fire-proof silicone, ablative sealants, or intumescent seals and fire-retardant profiles.

Fire X profiles are made of self-extinguishing silicone that withstand temperatures up to 300°C. Fire X withstands extremely high temperatures for long periods of time, and is also fire-retardant and non-flammable in itself. In comparison to intumescent seals and profiles that expand when exposed to high temperatures, Fire X profiles are airtight in all temperatures. This prevents the spread of smoke, carbon monoxide, and other dangerous gases before the temperature rises to a certain level. Since carbon monoxide can reach dangerous levels without an actual fire, Fire X seals are significantly safer than seals and profiles that only prevent the spreading of fires. Furthermore, if the compartments are sealed air-tight with Fire X profiles, they will significantly slow the spread of fire or even suffocate the flames in certain conditions. In normal conditions, the Fire X profiles act as normal silicone profiles, unlike intumescent seals that have little to no sealing capability without high temperatures.

Learn more about Fire X

Fire X silicone is self-extinguishing and designed to slow down the spread of fire in extreme conditions. Its combustion gases are non-toxic, and it is operable at temperatures under +270 °C. 

Read more

Why are fireproof seals and profiles important?

Fireproof seals and profiles are incredibly important for several reasons. First and foremost, they can help to save lives in the event of a fire. By containing flames and smoke in the area where the fire originated, these seals and profiles provide occupants or passengers with more time to evacuate the building or vehicle safely. Fireproof seals contain the fire in a smaller area. This can help to prevent extensive damage to the building, vehicle, or the possessions and cargo inside.

Fireproof seals and profiles are also essential for meeting building codes and regulations. In most jurisdictions, building codes require the use of fireproof seals and profiles in specific applications, such as around doors, windows, and other openings. Specific areas within buildings or compartments often have different fire classification requirements. These can be met with different seals and profiles. By using these components, building owners and operators can ensure that their buildings are in compliance with local regulations and are as safe as possible for occupants. In public transportation, the criteria are similar to those, but with certain additions or alterations.

Fireproof seals are designed to save lives and precious items

Fireproof seals and profiles are essential components of any building that is designed to withstand the damaging effects of fire. By sealing gaps and openings in walls, floors, and ceilings, these components can help to prevent the spread of fire and smoke, giving occupants or passengers valuable time to evacuate the building or vehicle safely. If you are involved in the design, construction, or maintenance of a building, it is essential that you understand the importance of fireproof seals and profiles and ensure that they are used appropriately in your building. The importance of fireproof seals and profiles can be even more important depending on the industry. In the maritime, railway, military, or transportation industry the environment is a lot different, and the first responders may have difficulties in reaching the site fast enough.

Artikkeli Fireproof seals and profiles julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.

V.A.V. Group developed Fire X profiles for fire-rated applications such as fire doors, trains, urban transport and maritime transport. They are used in conditions that require a high thermal resistance (< +270 °C) and where the seal must slow the spread of fire in extreme conditions. The primary material used in Fire X is silicone or TPV with fire-retardant agents added to them.

Main requirements for rolling stock fire safety

When choosing materials for fire safety we must consider: 

1. How long the seal can stall the spread of the fire
2. How much smoke could it generate
3. What kind of toxic products overheating of the material could create. 

These considerations apply to all materials inside trains from insulation to furnishings, as heavy smoke and toxic gases can hinder evacuation during a fire. Simplified, the requirement is that even if the train were passing through a tunnel when a fire breaks out, all materials, including door and window insulation, would slow the spread of fire long enough for the train to exit the tunnel and for all passengers and staff to evacuate safely.

In rolling stock, for example, Fire X can be applied to components found on the interior surfaces, which include elements such as walls, ceilings, interior and external doors and windows. To ensure that the materials used in these components meet the requirements of European Standards, they must be meticulously tested according to standards.

Development and testing

The main raw material that is used for Fire X is silicone, but TPV, while not as heat resistant, is also an option for some components. A basic silicone profile will burn through fairly quickly as many basic materials do. For silicone Fire X, chemicals are added to the raw silicone material that give it heat and fire retardant properties. When Fire X catches fire, only the surface will burn momentarily but any flames die out quickly because of its fire-retardant constitution. Fire X has been developed to fit European standards in railway applications and is regularly tested to ensure its quality.

Our testing for Fire X is outsourced and measures various aspects in a controlled environment. The tests are used to time how long the material takes to burn, how much smoke is generated, and what kind of toxicity levels are found in the smoke. Smoke and gas tests have strict directions and conditions, from how the test chamber and specimen are prepared to how the data is collected and analysed. The goal of these tests is to ensure that in the case of a fire, the material will slow down the spread, and produce a minimal amount of smoke into the environment. 

Sometimes the materials are tested in collaboration with the client to see how the material behaves in its intended use or environment. This can mean for example testing the whole component, such as a train door. 

Application areas

The European standard has combined the requirements that used to be individual for most countries and specifies how and when materials are tested and what conditions they must meet. Fire X is suitable for example different categories of passenger trains and application areas for Fire X in rolling stock including components such as doors and windows. We have produced Fire X for subcontractors and manufacturers, especially for passenger trains, but Fire X also meets conditions for maritime transport and is used for similar components there. It is also used for more metropolitan ways of transportation, for example in tram and subway doors. 

Efficiency through flexibility and speed

Our clients and we at V.A.V. Group are conscious of the ecological aspects of our production methods and materials. Even though silicone as a raw material is not exactly green/recyclable, it has important advantages, like its long service life, that still makes it an ecological choice, especially when you get it from us. We at V.A.V. Group have the advantage of creating small to medium-sized batches, perfectly meeting the needs of rolling stock manufacturers. This means that our clients can always get the amount that they need without wasting resources on storage or wasting the product itself.

Combined with our fast delivery times we are able to deliver Fire X reliably with both safety and ecology in mind.

FireX is certified in accordance with European and Global standards.

The European standard has combined the requirements that used to be individual for most countries and specifies how and when materials are tested and what conditions they must meet. Our testing for Fire X is outsourced and measures various aspects in a controlled environment. The tests are used to time how long the material takes to burn, how much smoke is generated, and what kind of toxicity levels are found in the smoke. 

The fire-retardant Fire X profile ensures the safety of the crew and passengers and has the following fire safety certificates:

• IMO FTPC Part 2 & 5
• UL 94 V Classification V0
• EN 45545-2

Fire Protection of Rolling Stock 2024

On the 12st and 13nd of March we are attending Fire Protection of Rolling Stock, an annual conference that brings together global operators, manufacturers, and component- and material suppliers. The two-day conference is a great opportunity to gain insight into regulatory updates, new developments and technology, and to connect with Europe’s fire safety leaders!

This year’s agenda includes for example topics on fire safety in regard to electric trains and other new technology present in modern rolling stock. You can find the agenda for the conference here.

For more information on Fire X, you can request a meeting by filling out the contact form online, or by contacting us directly by call or email:

Artikkeli Fire X – Safety in Transportation julkaistiin ensimmäisen kerran V.A.V. Group.