 UL Recognized |
FST Foam is officially UL Recognized. This recognition can go far to increase FST's acceptance and use as the preferred choice for sealing ducts. For ethical and legal reasons we should never state or imply that FST is UL Listed or Classified. It is, however, accurate to state that FST has a UL rating, and it's definitely okay to state that FST is formulated and tested to meet NEC codes and perform its intended use as a duct sealant. Putty and canned foam cannot accurately make such claims. What is UL Recognized, and how can you use it? A full definition of UL Recognized (RU) won't fit in this article, but is available on the UL website. In short, UL offers three ratings: Listed, Classified, and Recognized, each with a distinct logo. Specifically, FST is UL Recognized for passing the UL94 Class HBF fire retardant rating. This standard classifies materials by how they burn in various orientations, and their acceptability for use as part of a larger system. There is no UL standard for duct sealants. Thus, there is no such thing as a UL Listed duct sealant. Some duct putties and canned foams are UL Classified--but not for interior conduit sealing. Their intended use is gap sealing. When mentioned as a "duct sealant" it's generally to seal the exterior of an HVAC duct or pipe where it breaches a wall, not the inside of an electrical or telcom duct. Contractors face a conundrum when NEC codes demand that ducts be sealed on projects requiring exclusively UL Listed products. Putty and canned foam aren't UL Listed, and don't work effectively; it's not their intended use. Uninformed engineers and inspectors may allow the use of these inferior products, but you can point out a better solution: FST works wonderfully for it's intended use, sealing duct interiors--and carries a UL Recognized rating. Increase your project-level approvals for FST. Use the RU mark by sharing this Product Submittal Form to customers needing approval of UL rated products or exception for a UL Listed product on specific projects. Customers place their letterhead and fill in the blanks on the form for easy submittal. Use the form in conjunction with the List of Open-Ended FST Questions to help lead prospects and specifiers to the right conclusion. |
