Fire rated roller curtains

Fire resistant curtains from Metacon-Next are flexible fire barriers that close automatically when a fire is detected. They are built from heat-resistant fabric and roll down from a compact housing above the opening. Once deployed, they block the movement of flames and smoke between areas in a building for a defined period.

For dealers and installers, fire resistant roller curtains are a practical solution for projects where a rigid steel shutter does not fit the building layout or the architectural requirements.

How does a fire rated curtain work?

A fire rated curtain is connected to the building’s fire detection system. When smoke or heat is detected, the system sends a signal to the curtain unit. The curtain then drops automatically using a gravity fail-safe mechanism. This means it closes even when power is lost during a fire.

Once closed, the curtain forms a barrier that limits heat transfer, blocks flames and reduces smoke movement between compartments. The barrier holds for the period defined by the fire resistance classification.

What fire resistance classifications are available?

Metacon-Next fire resistant curtains are available in EW and EI classifications. The classification determines how long the curtain resists fire and what it protects against.
An EW classification means the curtain limits flame spread and heat radiation for the defined period. An EI classification adds insulation and limits the temperature rise on the unexposed side of the barrier. The right classification depends on the building type, the size of the opening and the local fire safety requirements.

Available classifications for the RGT series:

• EW 60: up to 10,000 mm wide, up to 8,000 mm high, max. approx. 70 m²
• EW 90: up to 6,000 mm wide, up to 6,000 mm high, max. 19.25 m²
• EI(1) 45 / EI(2) 60: up to 7,000 mm wide, up to 7,000 mm high, max. approx. 35 m²
• EI(1) 60 / EI(2) 120: up to 7,000 mm wide, up to 7,000 mm high, max. approx. 24.5 m²

Contact the Metacon-Next team for current dimensions. Larger openings are available on request.

Where are fire resistant roller curtains used?

Fire resistant curtains are used in buildings where large openings need fire separation but a steel shutter is not practical. The compact housing allows for concealed installation, which makes curtains suitable for environments where appearance matters.

Typical applications include:

• Atriums and open stairwells in commercial and public buildings
• Large openings in logistics centres and production facilities
• Hotels, offices and retail spaces where a visible barrier is not acceptable
• Situations where wall space for a rigid shutter is not available

The curtains are only suitable for indoor use and are designed to operate in emergency conditions only, not for daily opening and closing.

What certifications do Metacon-Next fire rated curtains carry?

Every fire resistant curtain from Metacon-Next is tested and certified before delivery. The RGT series carries the following certifications:

• Tested in accordance with EN 1634-1 (and EN 1634-3 for EI versions)
• Classified according to EN 13501-2
• CE marked in accordance with EN 13241 and EN 16034
• Validated cycle test in accordance with C2 (more than 10,000 cycles)

CE certificates, classification reports, product specifications and DWG drawings are available in the downloads section. This documentation supports project specification, building permit submissions and dealer quotation processes.

What standard features does the system include?

Each Metacon-Next fire resistant curtain comes with a gravity fail-safe tubular motor (230V) and a control box, optical and acoustic warning signals, galvanized steel side guides and a cover box.

Available options include an emergency battery (UPS) to maintain the open position during power failure, powder coating in RAL colour of choice, stainless steel components, a smoke detector for stand-alone systems and a low-temperature version for environments down to minus 25 degrees Celsius.

Why do dealers choose Metacon-Next fire rated curtains?

Fire safety systems must work without hesitation when they are needed. That is why every curtain in the RGT series is tested, certified and documented before it leaves the production facility in Moordrecht.

For dealers, this means a product with clear technical specifications, defined classifications and full documentation ready for project use. DWG drawings, CE certificates, classification reports and product specification sheets are available directly from the downloads section.

Metacon-Next works exclusively through a dealer network. That means direct support for project configuration, ordering and after-delivery questions.

Request a project quotation

Every project has specific requirements around opening size, fire resistance period and installation context. Contact the Metacon-Next team to discuss your project and receive a proposal based on the right curtain configuration.

FAQ: Fire resistant curtains

What is a fire resistant curtain?
A fire resistant curtain is a flexible barrier made from heat-resistant fabric. It installs above an opening in a compact housing and drops automatically when fire or smoke is detected. It limits the movement of flames and smoke between areas in a building for a defined period.

How does a fire rated curtain close during a fire?
A fire rated curtain closes through a gravity fail-safe system connected to the building’s fire detection. When smoke or heat triggers the alarm, the curtain drops automatically. It will also close if power is lost during the fire.

What is the difference between EW and EI fire resistant curtains?
An EW-classified curtain limits flame spread and heat radiation for the defined period. An EI-classified curtain adds insulation and also limits the temperature rise on the unexposed side of the barrier. EI offers a higher level of protection and is required in situations where heat transfer through the curtain must be controlled.

What openings can a fire resistant roller curtain cover?
Metacon-Next fire resistant curtains can cover openings up to 10,000 mm wide and 8,000 mm high, depending on the classification. Maximum opening surface ranges from approximately 19 to 70 m², depending on the model. Larger dimensions are available on request.

Are fire resistant curtains suitable for outdoor use?
No. Metacon-Next fire resistant roller curtains are designed for indoor use only. They are used in indoor-to-indoor situations and are activated only in emergency conditions.

Can fire rated curtains be integrated into an existing fire detection system?
Yes. The curtains connect directly to an existing fire detection system. A stand-alone version with a built-in smoke detector is also available for situations where no central system is present.

Every project starts with the right specification. If you are working on a project that requires certified fire separation for large or architecturally complex openings, contact the Metacon-Next team. We can advise on the right curtain configuration, provide full technical documentation and support you from specification through to delivery.