STI Pulls Back the Curtain on Hose Stream Testing

One of the more esoteric aspects of fire testing must be the hose stream requirements. Anyone who has witnessed the hose stream component of a fire test has an appreciation of how very dramatic the assault of pressurized water can be on a test specimen. The hose stream is usually the most difficult step in validating the performance of a firestop. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to understand and picture exactly what is happening during a hose stream test unless someone is fortunate enough to have access to a fire lab. STI is proud to share the “Firestop Hose Stream Test” video we have prepared to explain the entire process.

The video does a great job of explaining what the hose stream test entails and what it is intended to simulate. Keep in mind the goal is not to mimic the actions of firefighting, but rather measure the ability of the firestop system to withstand the impact falling debris, thermal shock, etc. The water pressure of the hose stream and the duration of its impact are prescribed within many of the relevant firestopping test standards. Interested readers can find the specifics in UL 1479 and/or ASTM E814 for penetrations and within UL 2079 and/or ASTM E1966 for joint systems. Please contact our Engineering Services with any additional questions related to hose stream testing.

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