What is fire-rated glass?
Fire-rated glass is glass that helps slow the spread of fire, smoke, and heat. It is used in areas where a building is divided into fire-resistant zones, such as facades, windows, doors, storefronts, and partition walls.
Fire resistance is expressed in classifications such as E, EW, and EI. The duration is also important, for example, 30 or 60 minutes. The specific type required depends on the application, the window frame, and the tested glass assembly.
BENGglas combines the strength of Pyroguard fire-rated glass with the insulating power of vacuum glazing. This makes it suitable for projects where both fire safety and sustainability are important.
Fire-rated glass with high insulation
Fire-rated glass from BENGglas offers up to 60 minutes of fire resistance and three times better insulation than double glazing—all in one solution. Thanks to the thin profile of vacuum glazing , a slim installation is possible starting at just 15 mm. This makes the glass not only lightweight but also compatible with existing window frames.
Benefits at a glance:
- Superior insulation up to U=0.35 —up to 3× better than double glazing
- 30 or 60 minutes of fire resistance – available with EW or EI classification
- Slim glass assembly starting at 15 mm – suitable for many facade and window frame situations
- Safety – available with injury protection and fall-through protection in accordance with NEN 2608
Need advice for your project?
Fire-rated glass must always be part of a tested assembly. That’s why we’re happy to review each project’s specific application, desired classification, window frame, and requirements for insulation and safety.
Fire-rated glass: 30 minutes or 60 minutes
Fire-rated glass is available in various classifications. In many projects, the required fire resistance is 30 or 60 minutes. Which version is needed depends on the application, the building, and the applicable fire safety requirements.
The classification is always determined based on a tested glass assembly. Factors considered include flame resistance, heat radiation, and heat transfer. The window frame, installation method, and the location where the glass is installed also play a role.
For facade applications, BENGglas offers solutions with EW30 or EW60 classifications. This allows you to combine fire safety with high insulation, injury prevention, and fall protection within a suitable, tested assembly.
Benefits of fire-rated glass
Fire-rated glass from BENGglas combines the safety of fire-rated glass with the insulating power and slim profile of vacuum glazing. It slows the spread of fire, smoke, and heat for up to 60 minutes, helping to better protect people and buildings.
Whereas traditional fire-rated insulating glass often provides inferior insulation, BENGglas combines fire safety with an extremely low U-value of up to U=0.35—which is no less than three times better than double glazing. Ideal for facades of offices, factory buildings, healthcare facilities, and other commercial buildings where safety and energy efficiency go hand in hand.
- High fire safety —available with 30- or 60-minute fire resistance
- Strong insulation up to U=0.35 – up to 3 times better than double glazing
- Slim glass assembly starting at 15 mm – Fits even in slim and lightweight window frames
- Safe to use – injury-proof and fall-through-proof on both sides
- Backed by an independent test report – always based on a tested assembly
Order fire-rated glass
Fire-rated glass requires the right solution for each project. The glass assembly depends on the application, the desired fire resistance rating, the frame, and the requirements for insulation and safety.
That’s why we first assess your specific situation. Is it for a facade, window, door, storefront, or fire partition? Is 30 or 60 minutes of fire resistance required? And does the glass also need to meet requirements for injury prevention or fall protection?
Based on this, we recommend which BENGglas solution fits within a valid test configuration. This allows you to combine fire safety with high insulation and a slim glass assembly.
When is fire-rated glass required?
Fire-rated glass is required when glass is part of a fire barrier, such as between two fire compartments. The Building and Living Environment Decree (Bbl) specifies a requirement for Resistance to Fire Penetration and Fire Spread (WBDBO) in such cases.
- Fire Penetration
In this case, a fire spreads from one room to another through interior walls or ceilings— not through the outside air. The fire resistance of these partition structures is determined in accordance with NEN 6069 (as referenced in NEN 6068). - Fire Spread
In this case, the fire spreads via the outside air to another space. This is assessed in accordance with NEN 6068, which establishes the resistance to fire penetration and fire spread between spaces.
BENGglas and Pyroguard
BENGglas can be combined with Pyroguard fire-resistant glazing. This allows for various EW and EI classifications, always depending on the tested assembly and the project requirements.
References
Are you curious about where vacuum glazing is already being used? Check out our references and discover how BENGglas is being used in all kinds of projects—from historic buildings and protected heritage sites to sustainable new construction, canal-side homes, and sleek office spaces.
This is how, pane by pane, we contribute to energy-efficient buildings with lower CO₂ emissions.
Sustainability of modern office building
Easily meet BENG standards with BENG glass!
Sustainability improvements to an office building in Leeuwarden
Differences at a glance
| BENGglas | Double glazing | Triple glazing | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
U-value (W/m²K) |
>0,35 | 1,10 | 0,70 |
|
Thickness from (mm) |
6,7 | 21 | 38 |
| Fits existing window frames | Yes | Sometimes | No |
| Tempered |
Standard EN3569 Except for BENGglas 6,7 mm (half tempered) |
Optional | Optional |
|
Light Transmission (LTA in %) |
> 83 | 80 | 65 |
|
Solar Heat Gain (G-value) |
>0,33 | 0,76 | 0,52 |
|
Sound Insulation Rw (C;Ctr) dB |
36 (–2; –3) to 41 (-2;-6) for BENGglas Hybrid |
31 (-1;-4) | 33 (-2;-6) |
| Insulation degradation at horizontal tilt (%) | 0 | 60 | 40 |
| Expected lifespan (years) | 50 | 20 - 25 | 30 |
| U-value degradation over time? | No | Yes | Yes |
| BENGglas Extra Clear | BENGglas Single Coated | BENGglas Double Coated | BENGglas Triple Coated | BENGglas Monu | BENGglas Monu Restover | BENGglas Solar Control | BENGglas SUN | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
U-value (W/m²K) |
0,50 | 0,40 - 0,50 | 0,40 | 0,35 | 0,50 | 0,50 | 0,50 | 0,50 |
|
Thickness from (mm) |
8,3 | 6,7 | 8,3 | 8,3 | 8,3 | 12 | 10,3 | 14 |
|
Maximum dimensions (in mm) |
2.350 x 4.150 | 2.350 x 4.150 | 2.350 x 4.150 | 2.350 x 4.150 | 2.350 x 4.150 | 1.500 x 2.500 | 2.350 x 4.150 | 1.500 x 2.500 |
| Light Transmission (LTA %) | 83 | 78 | 70 | 68 | 83 | 83 | 45-47 | Adjustable |
|
Solar Heat Gain (G) |
0,68 | 0,58 | 0,39 | 0,33 | 0,68 | 0,68 | 0,29 | Adjustable |
| Sound Insulation Rw (C;Ctr) dB |
36 (-2;-3) up to -41 dB (-2;-6) in the hybrid version |
36 (-2;-3) up to -41 dB (-2;-6) in the hybrid version |
36 (-2;-3) up to -41 dB (-2;-6) in the hybrid version |
36 (-2;-3) up to -41 dB (-2;-6) in the hybrid version |
36 (-2;-3) up to -41 dB (-2;-6) in the hybrid version |
39 (-2;-3) |
36 (-2;-3) up to -41 dB (-2;-6) in the hybrid version |
39 (-2;-3) |
| Properties |
Extra clear Extra thermal Extra light |
Clear Color-neutral glass Ultra thin: > 6,7 mm |
Solar control glass |
Best U-value Extra solar control Commercial buildling |
Heritage glass (light drawn) |
Heritage glass (strongly drawn) |
Solar control glass | Energy-generating glass |
Find a certified installer
BENGglas has an extensive network of over 150 certified installers across Europe, specializing in vacuum glass installations. This way, you’re always assured of a professional close to home! Want to get the best deal easily? Fill out our quote form and receive three competitive offers from the three nearest BENGglas dealers in your area!
Frequently asked questions
How much does fire-rated glass cost?
The price of fire-rated glass depends on the desired fire resistance rating, the glass construction, dimensions, thickness, safety requirements, and application. Glass with an EW60 or EI60 rating is usually more expensive than glass with a 30-minute rating. Because fire-rated glass must always fit within a tested assembly, customized advice is needed to provide a reliable price.
Please contact us directly at [email protected], and we’ll be happy to provide you with a no-obligation quote.
Which glass is fire-rated?
Fire-rated glass is specially tested glass that slows the spread of fire, smoke, and heat. The glass is assigned a classification, such as EW30, EW60, EI30, or EI60. This indicates how long the glass remains fire-rated and what level of protection it provides. Standard insulating glass, double glazing, or triple glazing is not automatically fire-resistant.
When is fire-rated glass required?
Fire-rated glass is required when glass is part of a fire barrier, for example, between two fire compartments. The Building and Living Environment Decree (Bbl) sets requirements for resistance to fire penetration and fire spread, also known as WBDBO.
What is the difference between EW and EI fire-rated glass?
EW fire-rated glass limits flames and heat radiation. EI fire-rated glass also provides additional insulation against heat transfer. The required classification depends on the application and the requirements specified in the building plan or fire safety report.
EW30 means that the glass resists flames for 30 minutes and limits heat radiation. The exact application must always be in accordance with a valid test report.
Is fire-rated glass also insulating?
Traditional fire-rated glass is not always highly insulating. BENGglas combines fire resistance with the insulating properties of vacuum glazing, enabling insulation that is three times better than double glazing (up to U=0.35).
Can I order fire-rated glass from BENGglas?
Yes, BENGglas can be combined with Pyroguard fire-resistant glazing. Depending on the project, EW classifications of 30 or 60 minutes are possible. Since every application must comply with a valid test setup, we always recommend a project-specific assessment first. Please contact [email protected] for this.
What do EW30 and EW60 mean in the context of fire-rated glass?
EW30 provides 30 minutes of fire resistance. EW60 provides 60 minutes of fire resistance. The required class depends on the fire compartment and the building’s requirements.
Can fire-rated glass be installed in existing window frames?
This is sometimes possible, but only if the glass configuration, dimensions, and frame setup meet the requirements of the tested application. That is why prior consultation is necessary.
However, BENGglas is thinner than standard fire-rated glass. This is because vacuum glazing, with fewer layers and a thinner profile, can achieve up to three times better insulation than double glazing. Therefore, there’s a significantly higher chance that you’ll be able to keep your existing window frames with BENGglas.
Please contact us at [email protected] to inquire about the possibilities.