Key Features
Maximum visibility with certified fire protection
Full Vision Design
Up to 90%+ glass area for maximum transparency and natural light. Narrow frame profiles maintain clean, modern aesthetics.
- Maximum daylight
- Visual connectivity
- Modern appearance
30-120 Minute Ratings
Full range of fire ratings using advanced fire-resistant glass technologies. Meets requirements from basic corridor to critical fire barrier applications.
- Flexible code compliance
- Critical applications
- Full rating range
Advanced Fire Glass
Ceramic glass (Pyran, FireLite) for integrity ratings or intumescent gel glass (Pyrostop, Contraflam) for integrity plus insulation.
- Integrity protection
- Heat insulation options
- Impact resistance
International Certifications
UL 10C listed, BS 476-22 certified, EN 1634-1 compliant. Global compliance for international projects.
- North America compliance
- UK/Middle East acceptance
- European CE marking
Minimal Frame Profiles
Steel or stainless steel frames with slim profiles. Butt-glazed options for near-frameless appearance.
- Architectural aesthetics
- Maximum glass area
- Multiple finishes
Complete Door Systems
Doors supplied with matched frames, transoms, sidelites, and fire-rated hardware for complete assemblies.
- Guaranteed compatibility
- Simplified specification
- Single-source responsibility
Note: Glass fire doors combine the safety of fire protection with the design benefits of transparency, ideal for modern architectural applications.
Glass Fire Door Ratings
Transparent fire protection from 30 to 120 minutes
Glass fire doors achieve fire ratings through specialized fire-resistant glazing combined with steel framing systems. Unlike opaque doors, glass doors must maintain both integrity (preventing flame passage) and often insulation (limiting heat transfer) while preserving transparency.
Rating Classifications
Prevents flame and hot gas passage through the door assembly
Application: Vision panels, non-exit routes where radiant heat is acceptable
Prevents flame passage AND limits heat transfer to unexposed side
Application: Exit routes, areas where occupants may be close to door during fire
Prevents flame passage with controlled radiation levels (European)
Application: Intermediate protection level between E and EI
Available Fire Ratings
Entry-level glass fire protection ideal for commercial spaces requiring transparency with basic fire compartmentation. Available in large panel sizes for maximum visibility.
Glass Types
- • Ceramic
- • Borosilicate
- • Single-pane intumescent
Applications
- • Office partitions
- • Retail storefronts
- • Interior corridors
Standard commercial fire protection maintaining full transparency. Multi-layer glazing technology provides both integrity and insulation for safe evacuation routes.
Glass Types
- • Multi-layer intumescent
- • Ceramic composite
- • Gel-filled units
Applications
- • Building lobbies
- • Stairwell enclosures
- • Hospital corridors
Enhanced fire protection for critical applications requiring extended evacuation time. Specialized glazing maintains transparency while providing robust thermal barrier.
Glass Types
- • Advanced intumescent multi-layer
- • Specialized fire-resistant composite
Applications
- • High-rise stairwells
- • Hospital fire separations
- • Data center entries
Maximum fire protection in transparent assemblies. Premium glazing technology enables two-hour fire separation while maintaining the benefits of glass architecture.
Glass Types
- • Premium multi-layer fire-resistant
- • Water-cooled systems (specialized)
Applications
- • High-rise building cores
- • Critical escape routes
- • Government buildings
Fire-Rated Glass Technologies
| Glass Type | Ratings | Insulation | Thickness | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ceramic Glass | E30, E60, E90, E120 | Integrity only (E-rating) | 5-8mm | Non-exit, sprinklered areas |
| Intumescent Interlayer | EI30, EI60, EI90, EI120 | Integrity + Insulation (EI-rating) | 15-50mm | Exit routes, EI required |
| Gel-Filled Units | EI30, EI60 | Integrity + Insulation (EI-rating) | 24-30mm | Lower ratings, IGU needed |
| Composite Fire Glass | EI60, EI90, EI120 | Integrity + Insulation (EI-rating) | Varies | Demanding applications |
Rating Selection Guide
Interior office partition
Typical Rating: E30 or EI30
E-rating often acceptable for interior non-exit locations
Corridor door
Typical Rating: EI60
EI-rating typically required for escape routes
Stairwell door
Typical Rating: EI60 or EI90
Higher ratings for taller buildings
Lobby entrance to fire stair
Typical Rating: EI90 or EI120
Maximum protection for critical evacuation points
Technical Specifications
Detailed specifications for glass fire-rated doors
Standard Dimensions
| Dimension | Single Door | Double Door |
|---|---|---|
| Width (Min) | 762mm (30") | 1524mm (60") |
| Width (Standard) | 914mm (36") | 1828mm (72") |
| Width (Max) | 1219mm (48") | 2438mm (96") |
| Height (Min) | 2134mm (84") | 2134mm (84") |
| Height (Standard) | 2438mm (96") | 2438mm (96") |
| Height (Max) | 3048mm (120") | 3048mm (120") |
| Glass Thickness | 16-54mm depending on rating and glass type | |
Fire-Rated Glass Options
Ceramic Glass
Brands: Pyran, FireLite, Neoceram
Ratings: Up to 180 minutes (E rating - integrity only)
Clear, impact resistant, remains transparent during fire. Does not provide heat insulation.
Intumescent Gel Glass
Brands: Pilkington Pyrostop, Schott Pyranova, Contraflam
Ratings: Up to 120 minutes (EI rating - integrity + insulation)
Multi-layer with intumescent interlayer. Turns opaque and blocks radiant heat during fire.
Wired Glass
Brands: Various
Ratings: Up to 45 minutes (E rating)
Traditional fire glass with wire mesh. Lower cost but limited ratings and aesthetics.
Frame Systems
Steel Frame
- Material: 16 or 14 gauge cold-rolled steel
- Profile: Slim profile (25-50mm face width)
- Finish: Powder coating in RAL colors
Stainless Steel Frame
- Material: 304 or 316 grade stainless
- Profile: Slim profile with satin or polished finish
- Finish: #4 satin, mirror polish, or PVD coatings
Aluminum-Clad Frame
- Material: Steel core with aluminum cladding
- Profile: Minimal visible profile
- Finish: Anodized or powder coated
Performance Data
Glass Fire Door Construction
Advanced glazing technology with engineered steel framing for transparent fire protection
Glass fire doors combine specialized fire-resistant glazing with robust steel framing systems engineered to maintain both structural integrity and fire performance. The construction must retain the glass securely throughout fire exposure while preventing flame passage and, for EI ratings, limiting heat transfer.
Key Construction Principles:
- • Fire-resistant glass providing integrity (and insulation where required)
- • Steel frame system with thermal management
- • Intumescent glazing systems securing glass under fire conditions
- • Certified hardware maintaining door function during evacuation
Glass Construction Types
Single sheet of glass-ceramic material (borosilicate or lithium aluminosilicate) that withstands thermal shock and maintains integrity at high temperatures.
Fire Performance
- Integrity: Excellent - no cracking or holes
- Insulation: None - significant radiant heat transfer
- Temperature: Up to 800°C surface temperature
Advantages
- • Maximum clarity
- • Thin profile
- • Impact resistant
- • Cost effective
Multiple glass layers with intumescent interlayers (sodium silicate or hydrated compounds) that turn opaque and insulating when exposed to fire temperatures.
Fire Performance
- Integrity: Excellent - intumescent foam seals any cracks
- Insulation: Good to excellent - limits heat transfer
- Temp Limit: 140°C avg / 180°C max on unexposed surface
Advantages
- • Full EI ratings available
- • Clear when unactivated
- • Thermal protection for occupants
Double-glazed unit with transparent gel fill that absorbs heat and converts to steam during fire, providing thermal barrier.
Fire Performance
- Integrity: Good - gel remains in place during activation
- Insulation: Good - effective thermal barrier for lower ratings
- Ratings: Typically EI30, EI60
Advantages
- • Good clarity
- • Thermal and acoustic properties
- • Familiar IGU construction
Steel Frame Systems
Standard Steel Frame
Ratings: E30, E60, EI30
- • Formed steel profiles with glazing rebates
- • Intumescent glazing tape bedding
- • Steel glazing beads with intumescent backing
Thermally Broken Frame
Ratings: EI30, EI60, EI90
- • Steel sections with thermal isolating strips
- • Polyamide or mineral thermal break
- • Enhanced intumescent glazing system
Heavy-Duty Insulated Frame
Ratings: EI90, EI120
- • Thick-gauge steel (2.0-3.0mm)
- • Mineral wool or ceramic fiber fill
- • Multiple thermal break zones
Glazing System Components
| Component | Function | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Intumescent Glazing Tape | Expands when heated to fill gaps between glass and frame | Up to 20x expansion, activates at 120-200°C |
| Glazing Beads | Secure glass within frame rebate | Steel with intumescent tape backing, fixed at max 150mm centers |
| Setting Blocks | Support glass weight and maintain positioning | Fire-resistant composite or silicone, at quarter points |
| Edge Spacers | Maintain consistent glass-to-frame clearance | Non-combustible materials for uniform expansion space |
Quality Checkpoints
- Glass edges fully protected—no exposed edges visible
- Continuous intumescent glazing tape with no gaps
- Glazing beads secured at consistent intervals
- Frame welds ground smooth and coated
- Fire labels on both door and frame
- Hardware reinforcement plates properly installed
- Seals continuous and properly positioned
Applications
Where glass fire doors provide visibility and protection
Building entrances, elevator lobbies, and atrium fire separations where transparency and natural light are design priorities.
Key Requirements
- • Full vision design
- • EI rating for heat protection
- • Aesthetic frame finish
Fire-rated stairwell doors providing natural light and visibility for wayfinding while maintaining required fire separations.
Key Requirements
- • Vision for wayfinding
- • Smoke sealing
- • Self-closing hardware
Fire-rated glazed storefronts and entrance doors for retail spaces in shopping centers requiring fire separation.
Key Requirements
- • Maximum glazing
- • Slim frames
- • High traffic hardware
Fire separation doors in office corridors and partitions where maintaining visual openness is important.
Key Requirements
- • Acoustic performance
- • Access control compatible
- • Modern aesthetics
Corridor separations and waiting areas in healthcare where visibility enhances safety and reduces patient anxiety.
Key Requirements
- • EI rating
- • Vision for monitoring
- • Cleanable surfaces
Libraries, common areas, and corridor doors in schools where visibility enhances safety and supervision.
Key Requirements
- • Impact resistance
- • Visibility
- • Lockdown compatible
Glass Fire Door Ratings Explained
E rating = Integrity only (prevents fire/smoke passage). EI rating = Integrity + Insulation (also blocks radiant heat). EI ratings required for escape routes in many jurisdictions.
Consult building codes for E vs EI requirements in your application.
Glass Fire Door Comparison
How transparent fire doors compare with other fire-rated door materials
Material Comparison
| Feature | Glass Fire Doors | Steel Fire Doors | Wooden Fire Doors | Stainless Steel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum Fire Rating | 120 minutes | 120 minutes | 90 minutes | 120 minutes |
| Visibility/Transparency | Excellent (Full) | Limited (Vision panels) | Limited (Vision panels) | Limited (Vision panels) |
| Natural Light Transmission | 75-90% | 0-15% | 0-15% | 0-15% |
| Cost (Comparable Rating) | $$$$ | $$ | $$$ | $$$ |
| Weight | Heavy | Heavy | Moderate | Heavy |
| Impact Resistance | Moderate | Excellent | Moderate | Excellent |
| Maintenance | Low | Low | Moderate | Very Low |
| Sound Insulation | Poor to Good | Moderate | Good | Moderate |
| Best Applications | Lobbies, storefronts, atriums | Commercial, industrial | Hospitality, offices | Healthcare, labs |
Fire-Rated Glass Type Comparison
| Property | Ceramic Glass | Intumescent Glass | Gel-Filled Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating Type | E only | E or EI | EI |
| Maximum Rating | E120 | EI120 | EI60 |
| Clarity | Excellent | Very Good | Very Good |
| Thickness | 5-8mm | 15-50mm | 24-30mm |
| Weight | Light | Heavy | Moderate |
| Heat Protection | None | Full EI | Full EI |
| Cost | $$ | $$$-$$$$ | $$$ |
| Best Use | Non-exit, sprinklered | Exit routes, EI required | Lower ratings, IGU needed |
Why Choose Glass Fire Doors?
Complete Transparency
Only fire door option providing full visibility—essential for wayfinding, security sight lines, and spatial connectivity
Natural Light Transmission
Maintains daylight penetration through fire-rated separations, reducing artificial lighting needs
Modern Architectural Aesthetic
Enables contemporary glass-dominant design while meeting fire safety requirements
Visual Space Expansion
Creates perception of larger, more open spaces even with required fire compartmentation
Emergency Visibility
Allows visual assessment of conditions on both sides of fire separation during emergency
Full Fire Rating Range
Available in ratings up to 120 minutes—matching steel door capabilities
Choosing the Right Fire Door Material
Building lobby requiring transparency
Recommendation: Glass Fire Doors
Only option maintaining visual connection and daylight
Retail storefront fire separation
Recommendation: Glass Fire Doors
Maintains merchandise visibility and store aesthetics
High-traffic warehouse corridor
Recommendation: Steel Fire Doors
Superior impact resistance for industrial use
Hotel guest room corridor
Recommendation: Wooden Fire Doors
Warmth and acoustic privacy more important than transparency
Total Cost Considerations
Glass fire doors are cost-effective where transparency provides functional benefit (wayfinding, security, daylight) or design value (modern aesthetic, space perception). The premium is justified in public-facing and tenant-visible locations.
Glass Fire Door Customization
Configure transparent fire doors for your project's aesthetic and functional requirements
Select glass technology based on fire rating and clarity requirements
E-Rated Glass (Integrity Only)
Types: Ceramic, Borosilicate, Toughened
Ratings: E30, E60, E90, E120
Maximum clarity, no heat barrier
EI-Rated Glass (Integrity + Insulation)
Types: Intumescent interlayer, Gel-filled, Composite
Ratings: EI30, EI60, EI90, EI120
Thermal barrier during fire
Enhanced Performance Glass
Types: Acoustic, Solar control, Low-E
Ratings: EI30, EI60
Combined fire + acoustic/thermal
Clear Glass
75-90% light transmission
Tinted Glass
Bronze, Grey, Green, Blue
Frosted/Acid Etched
Privacy + light
Patterned/Textured
Reeded, Fluted, Geometric
Maximum door size decreases with higher fire ratings due to increased glass weight and thermal stress
| Rating | Max Single Leaf Size |
|---|---|
| EI30 | 1300 x 2700mm approximate |
| EI60 | 1200 x 2600mm approximate |
| EI90 | 1100 x 2500mm approximate |
| EI120 | 1000 x 2400mm approximate |
Powder Coat
RAL colors available
Standard: Black, White, Anthracite
Stainless Steel
304 or 316 grade
Satin, Mirror, Bead blasted
Anodized Aluminum
Natural, Bronze, Black
Curtain wall integration
Bronze/Brass
Satin, Antique, Polished
Premium applications
Closing Mechanism
- • Surface-mounted closer
- • Concealed overhead closer
- • Floor spring
Handle Styles
- • Pull handles
- • Lever handles
- • Push plates/bars
Locking Systems
- • Mortise lock
- • Electric strike
- • Card access prep
Panic/Exit Hardware
- • Touch bar
- • Push pad
- • Rim exit device
Custom Order Process
Requirements Review
1-2 days
Configuration
2-3 days
Shop Drawings
3-5 days
Glass Procurement
5-20 days
Fabrication
10-15 days
Quality Control
2-3 days
Minimum Order Quantities
Glass Fire Door Certifications
Internationally certified transparent fire door assemblies
Primary Certifications
UL certification for complete glass fire door assemblies including frame, glazing, and hardware. Positive pressure testing ensures performance in real fire conditions.
Complete assembly bears UL fire door label. Glass carries separate UL glazing certification.
British Standard certification widely recognized in UK, Middle East, and Commonwealth countries. Separate E (integrity) and EI (integrity + insulation) classifications.
Third-party certification label with test report reference for complete assembly
European CE marking based on harmonized fire testing. Enables glass fire doors to be sold throughout the European Economic Area with declared performance.
CE mark with DoP document reference and classification details
Additional Certifications
GB 12955
China
Chinese national standard for fire-resistant doors. Required for projects in mainland China.
AS 1905.1
Australia/New Zealand
Australian standard for fire-resistant doorsets. Often accepts BS or EN test evidence with assessment.
Safety Glazing
EN 12600 / ANSI Z97.1
Impact safety certification required for glass in pedestrian areas.
Quality Management
ISO 9001:2015
Quality management system for glass fire door manufacturing
ISO 14001:2015
Environmental management system for sustainable manufacturing
Factory Production Control
CE marking requirement ensuring produced doors match tested configurations
Certification Documentation
Complete documentation package for project submittals and authority approvals:
Glass Fire Door Installation
Specialized installation requirements for fire-rated glass door assemblies
Critical Installation Note
Glass fire doors must be installed by qualified personnel experienced with both fire door requirements (NFPA 80) and glazing system installation. Improper installation voids fire certification.
Pre-Installation Requirements
Opening Verification
- • Verify structural opening dimensions match shop drawings
- • Check opening is plumb, level, and square (±3mm tolerance)
- • Confirm structural adequacy for door weight
- • Verify floor surface is level for floor closers
Component Inspection
- • Inspect all glass panels for damage, chips, or cracks
- • Verify fire-rated glass matches specification
- • Check frame components for shipping damage
- • Confirm all seals and intumescent materials are present
Site Conditions
- • Building enclosed and weather-tight
- • Clean, debris-free work area around opening
- • Adequate access for moving heavy glass panels
- • Lifting equipment available if required
Weight Considerations
- • EI-rated glass doors can weigh 100-200+ kg
- • Two or more installers required for glass handling
- • Glass vacuum lifters or suction cups recommended
- • Floor must support floor spring concentrated loads
Frame Installation Steps
Position Frame
Set frame assembly in opening. Use shims at jamb and head to achieve plumb, level, and square alignment. Allow 10-15mm gap around frame perimeter for fire sealant.
Temporary Bracing
Install temporary bracing to hold frame in position during anchoring. Verify alignment before permanent fixing.
Anchor Frame
Secure frame to structure using specified anchors. Minimum anchor points per manufacturer; typically 3-4 per jamb for fire-rated assemblies.
Floor Closer Installation (If Applicable)
Install fire-rated floor spring in prepared floor pocket. Set depth and alignment per manufacturer instructions.
Fire Seal Perimeter
Fill gap between frame and structure with fire-rated material. Use mineral wool for larger gaps; apply fire-rated intumescent sealant continuously around perimeter.
Verify Frame Alignment
Final check of plumb, level, and square before glazing. Measure diagonals to confirm square. Frame must be rigid with no flex.
Clearance Requirements
| Location | Maximum Clearance | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Jamb edges (both sides) | 3mm (1/8") | Per NFPA 80 |
| Top edge (head) | 3mm (1/8") | Per NFPA 80 |
| Bottom edge (to floor) | 10mm (3/8") | With drop seal or threshold |
| Meeting edges (pairs) | 3mm (1/8") | With intumescent astragal |
Inspection Checklist
Glazing System
- • Glass intact with no cracks or delamination
- • Intumescent glazing system intact
- • Glazing beads secure with all fixings
- • Correct fire-rated glass installed
Frame & Seals
- • Frame secure to structure
- • Perimeter fire seal intact
- • Intumescent and smoke seals continuous
- • No visible gaps at frame-to-wall
Door Operation
- • Door closes and latches from any position
- • Self-closing function operates properly
- • No binding or dragging during operation
- • Floor spring operates smoothly
Maintenance Guidance
| Task | Frequency | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Glass Cleaning | As needed | Standard glass cleaner and soft cloth. Avoid abrasives. |
| Seal Inspection | Quarterly | Visual inspection of all intumescent and smoke seals. |
| Hardware Lubrication | Semi-annually | Lubricate floor spring, pivots, and lock mechanism. |
| Closer Adjustment | Semi-annually | Check and adjust closing speed, latching speed, and back-check. |
| Structural Check | Annually | Check frame anchoring, pivot integrity, and overall stability. |
Do NOT:
- • Apply films, stickers, or coatings to fire-rated glass
- • Modify glazing system or frame
- • Replace glass with non-fire-rated substitute
- • Remove or paint over certification labels
- • Disable self-closing devices
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about glass fire-rated doors
E rating (Integrity) means the glass prevents fire and smoke from passing through. EI rating (Integrity + Insulation) also blocks radiant heat - the glass turns opaque during fire. EI ratings use intumescent gel glass and are required for escape routes in many codes.
Yes, using intumescent gel glass (like Pilkington Pyrostop) glass doors can achieve 120-minute EI ratings. Ceramic glass alone can achieve even higher E-only ratings. Frame design is also critical for achieving high ratings.
Yes, when properly specified. Both provide certified fire protection for their rated duration. Glass doors may use EI-rated glass that actually provides better heat protection than some solid doors. Safety glass also meets impact requirements.
Options include steel frames (most economical), stainless steel (corrosion resistant), and aluminum-clad steel (minimal profile). All frames can be powder coated in any RAL color. Slim profile frames maximize glass area.
Standard lead time is 20-35 days depending on glass type and frame finish. Specialty glass or large sizes may require additional time. Contact Euwoo for project-specific timelines.