The EZ Path Series 44+ Fire-Rated Pathway is a specialized solution designed to allow cables to pass through fire-rated walls and floors without compromising safety or requiring additional fire-stopping measures. This article provides a detailed overview of the product's specifications, installation procedures, and accessories based on the manufacturer's documentation and technical specifications.
Overview of the EZ Path Series 44+ Fire-Rated Pathway
The EZ Path Series 44+ Fire-Rated Pathway is engineered to provide a safe and efficient means of cable routing through fire-rated barriers. The device is constructed from heavy-gauge galvanized steel and lined with intumescent material that expands rapidly when exposed to high temperatures, sealing the pathway to prevent the spread of flames and smoke.
Key features of the EZ Path Series 44+ Fire-Rated Pathway include:
- Self-sealing design that adjusts to the number of cables installed, ensuring consistent fire and smoke leakage protection.
- No fire-stopping required during installation or operation, simplifying maintenance and reducing labor costs.
- UL certified for the full range of its capacity, ensuring compliance with safety and fire resistance standards.
- Compact, modular design that allows for easy installation in tight spaces and supports high cable density.
The device is painted safety orange for easy identification and is available in a variety of configurations and accessories to suit different installation scenarios, including new and existing constructions.
Installation Requirements and Procedures
The installation of the EZ Path Series 44+ Fire-Rated Pathway must be performed with care to ensure that it functions as intended and meets all fire safety requirements. The following steps outline the general installation procedure based on the manufacturer's documentation.
1. Preparing the Installation Site
Before installing the pathway, the wall or floor opening must be prepared to accommodate the device. The pathway is designed to fit into a 6-inch (152 mm) diameter round opening or multiple devices in a slot up to 6 inches (152 mm) by 22.5 inches (572 mm). The opening should be clean and free of obstructions to ensure a secure fit.
For new constructions, the pathway can be installed before or after the application of gypsum board. However, when installing around existing cables, the pathway must be mechanically attached to the barrier using appropriate mounting hardware.
2. Selecting the Appropriate Accessories
The manufacturer offers a range of accessories to support different installation conditions and configurations. These include:
- Single Wall Plates: For new cable installations where the device does not require mechanical attachment to the wall or framing.
- Split Wall Plates: For installations around previously installed cables, requiring mechanical attachment to the barrier.
- Multi-Gang Wall Brackets: For ganging multiple pathways together in new or existing walls. These brackets are suitable for stud spacing up to 24 inches (610 mm).
- Radius Control Modules (RCMs): For maintaining a minimum bend radius of 1 inch (25 mm) for cables. Sold in pairs and designed to support cable bundles at 100% rated loading.
These accessories are essential for ensuring a secure and organized installation that meets the required fire safety standards.
3. Installing the Pathway
The installation process involves securing the pathway into the prepared opening using the appropriate wall plates or brackets. For new constructions, the pathway is installed prior to the application of gypsum board, while for existing constructions, it is installed after the wallboard has been applied.
- Single Pathway Installation: Use the Single Wall Plate Kit for a single pathway in a 6-inch (152 mm) round or 4.125-inch (105 mm) by 4.625-inch (118 mm) opening.
- Multiple Pathway Installations: Use Multi-Gang Wall Brackets to install 1 to 5 pathways in a finished wall or as the wall is being built. The brackets attach directly to the studs, and the pathways are installed before applying gypsum board.
- Existing Cables: Use the Split Wall Plate to install the pathway around previously installed cables. This method requires mechanical attachment to the barrier.
After the pathway is installed, cables can be routed through the device. The self-sealing design automatically adjusts to the number of cables, ensuring that the pathway remains sealed and fire-resistant.
4. Securing the Pathway
Once the pathway is in place, it should be secured to prevent movement and ensure a stable installation. This can be achieved using the appropriate mounting hardware and following the manufacturer's recommendations for mechanical attachment.
For installations that require additional support, Radius Control Modules can be added to the ends of the pathway to maintain the required bend radius for cables. These modules snap into place and provide support for cable bundles at full rated loading.
Cable Management and Capacity
The EZ Path Series 44+ Fire-Rated Pathway is designed to accommodate a wide range of cable capacities, from 0 to 100% visual fill. This means that the device can be used in both low- and high-density applications, making it suitable for a variety of environments.
The pathway measures approximately 4 inches (101.6 mm) by 4.625 inches (118 mm) and is 14 inches (356 mm) long. Additional length can be added by installing Series 44+ Extension modules, which increase the pathway by 6 inches (152 mm) each.
The modular grid system allows for flexible cable organization and segregation by use, type, installer, or vendor. This makes it easier to manage and maintain the cable infrastructure, especially in complex or evolving environments.
Maintenance and Inspection
The EZ Path Series 44+ Fire-Rated Pathway is a maintenance-free solution that does not require periodic inspection or servicing. However, it is recommended to visually inspect the device periodically to ensure that it remains in good condition and that the self-sealing mechanism functions properly.
If any damage or wear is detected, the affected section of the pathway should be replaced to maintain the integrity of the fire-rated barrier. The manufacturer provides replacement parts and accessories to facilitate repairs and upgrades.
Safety and Compliance
The EZ Path Series 44+ Fire-Rated Pathway is UL certified for the complete range of its capacity, ensuring that it meets the highest standards for fire safety and performance. The device has been tested and approved for use in fire-rated walls and floors, providing exceptional fire and smoke leakage ratings.
In addition to UL certification, the device is acoustically tested and provides excellent sound transmission class (STC) and L ratings for noise control. This makes it suitable for environments where both fire safety and acoustic performance are important considerations.
Conclusion
The EZ Path Series 44+ Fire-Rated Pathway is a versatile and reliable solution for routing cables through fire-rated walls and floors. Its self-sealing design, modular construction, and wide range of accessories make it suitable for a variety of installation scenarios, from new constructions to existing infrastructure.
By following the manufacturer's installation instructions and using the appropriate accessories, users can ensure that the pathway functions as intended and provides consistent fire and smoke protection. The device's UL certification and maintenance-free design further enhance its value, making it an ideal choice for applications where safety, efficiency, and flexibility are essential.
For more information about the product and its specifications, refer to the manufacturer's documentation and technical manuals. These resources provide detailed guidance on installation, maintenance, and compliance requirements, helping users make informed decisions and ensure a successful implementation.