Safer plywood choice for wall and ceiling linings
AUSTRALIAN TIMBER veneer manufacturer Matilda Veneer has launched a new plywood building material suitable for the most stringent fire hazard requirements.
Matilda Fireply is ideal for use as wall and ceiling lining in Class 2-9 buildings. It can be used in accommodation and other buildings for the aged, people with disabilities and children, for example, school and hospitals. Fireply is also a suitable choice for public transport applications, boats, elevators, planes and recreation vehicles.
Matilda Veneer’s General Manager of panel products Craig Graham said the product was a game changer.
“Most fire retardant plywood is treated post-production, limiting its fire resistance,” he said, “whereas our Fireply is treated with the impregnation method prior to production, which makes it a better product in terms of fire resistance.”
He said that architects, building designers and specifiers could confidently choose Matilda Fireply for wall or ceiling linings of fire-isolated exits, public corridors and other areas where a Group 1 material is required.
Testing is currently under way for the product’s use with specific veneer types, with results expected soon.
He said Matilda Fireply was a superior alternative to fire-retardant (FR) MDF and other materials that have traditionally been used when the highest fire resistance is required. Compared to FR MDF, Fireply is lighter, more impact resistant and stronger pound-for-pound.
Mr Graham said Fireply was also easy to machine and ready to build with upon delivery; no other fire treating required.
“This product also has a high quality plywood edge detail should this be desirable for project aesthetics.
“It can also be an alternative for use under veneer in place of non-FR plywood due to its additional safety benefits,” he said.
This product has been tested by Exova Warringtonfire in accordance with AS/NZS3837-1998 and certified as a Fire Hazard Group Number 1 wall and ceiling lining.
