Flameshield 8524 Max/S Vertical Active Fire and Smoke Curtain Barrier – BS 8524-1 & BS 8524-2 Tested

The Flameshield 8524 Max/S Vertical Active Fire and Smoke Curtain Barrier is an electrically operated, gravity fail-safe fire and smoke control system engineered for large opening applications where BS 8524 life-safety compliance is required. The system delivers 120 minutes fire integrity and up to 85 minutes radiation performance at 15 kW/m², supporting occupant tenability and protected means of escape strategies.

Designed to accommodate substantial spans, the Flameshield 8524 Max/S is available in standard sizes up to 10,000 mm wide by 10,000 mm high, while maintaining barrel deflection performance in accordance with BS 6323-5. The barrier assembly comprises a carbon steel barrel and integrated 24 V d.c. electric motor, incorporating a high-performance flexible fire curtain fabric capable of withstanding temperatures in excess of 1000°C. A two-section T-profile bottom rail ensures smooth, controlled descent and dependable gravity fail-safe operation in the event of power or system failure.

The system includes internal battery back-up, ensuring operational reliability during mains power interruption. A two-stage closing sequence, with split-drop and timed delay options, supports phased evacuation strategies and safe building management in large or complex environments.

Architectural integration is supported through the ability to conceal the curtain above ceiling lines, with end plates, guides and head boxes available in specialist RAL finishes, enabling seamless coordination with interior design requirements without compromising fire or smoke performance.

A comprehensive range of ancillary safety equipment is available, including egress switches, access switches, obstruction detection, and heat and smoke activation, all fully tested in accordance with Annex H of BS 8524-1. Optional audible and visual warning systems, including voice warning devices, can be specified to enhance occupant awareness during deployment.

The Flameshield 8524 Max/S is fully compliance-tested, offers low maintenance requirements, and is capable of full reset following fire testing without the need for specialist engineer attendance.

Independent testing and approval has been carried out by Warrington Fire Research Centre and Exova, including fire, radiation and smoke containment testing to BS EN 1634-1 and BS EN 1634-3, in accordance with BS 8524-1. Associated Warrington test references include WF 341175 (deflection), WF 347098 (smoke), WF 399170 (motor performance) and WF 399421 (surface spread of flame to BS 476-6 and BS 476-7).

Features and benefits:

• Gravity fail safe closes without mains power.
• Internal battery back up.
• Lightweight slimline compact design.
• Two stage closing operation. Split drop and delay drop.
• Compliance tested to maintain building fire safety and integrity in accordance with BS 8524-1.
• Installed in accordance with BS 8524-2.
• Can be hidden neatly above the ceiling line to assist the building design and aesthetics.
• Voice warning devices available.
• Fully resets after fire test without the need for engineers to attend.
• Low maintenance costs.
• Timed delay closing.