Understanding Euroclass Classification and illbruck Membranes
With increasing scrutiny on fire safety performance in construction, understanding how Euroclass classifications apply to membranes is essential — especially when specifying products for external wall build-ups on ‘relevant’ or ‘higher risk buildings’ (HRB’s). At illbruck, we’ve developed a range of fire-rated membranes to meet and exceed the latest safety standards while supporting practical installation needs on-site.
What Is Euroclass?
The EN 13501-1 Euroclass system is the standard classification for the reaction to fire performance of construction products. It ranges from Class A1 (non-combustible) through to Class F (easily flammable or untested). This system testing also includes smoke production (s1–s3) and flaming droplets (d0–d2) – important indicators of how materials behave in a fire scenario.
When and Where Should A-Class Membranes Be Used?
While Class A1 and A2 membranes are not currently mandatory under Approved Document B (ADB), they are becoming increasingly preferred for ‘relevant’ or HRB’s – such as high-rise residential, hospitals, or student accommodation. This is especially true where the aim is to future-proof specifications or satisfy more stringent client expectations.
illbruck is leading in this area with the development of several A-Class membranes:
ME050: A breather membrane with a Euroclass of A2-s1, d0 – ideal for use in ventilated façade systems.
ME055 and ME060: Both meet Class A1, representing the highest available fire safety rating and suitable for applications where non-combustibility is demanded.
As more specifiers seek to go beyond the baseline requirement, these A-Class membranes offer confidence and clarity when addressing fire safety performance.
Where Do B-Class Membranes Fit In?
Class B membranes remain compliant for use on HRB’s when meeting the minimum requirement of B-s3, d0, as stated in ADB. They are commonly used across a range of applications including window perimeter sealing, breather membranes, and air and vapour control layers (AVCL’s).
illbruck’s best-in-class B-rated products include:
ME007- Fire rated membrane part of the + range.
ME481: A robust B-class membrane for window perimeter sealing internally and externally.
ME006: A high-performance AVCL achieving B-s1, d0, offering better smoke production control than the minimum.
These products provide a compliant, cost-effective solution for achieving ADB compliance without compromising on flexibility or performance.
Supporting Better Fire Safety in Modern Construction
illbruck is committed to developing fire-rated membranes that not only comply with regulation but help raise the standard across the industry. Whether you're working on a HRB façade or designing an envelope to exceed compliance, we have tested, proven solutions to support your specification.
For further details, contact us here.
