Introduction
The fire rating of aluminium composite panels is now one of the most important criteria for architects, contractors, and developers. After several global façade-related fire incidents, regulations in the UK and EU have tightened dramatically. Selecting the correct ACP core is no longer optional — it is a compliance requirement.
This guide explains EN 13501-1 fire classes, ACP core types, and what construction professionals must know in 2025.
What Determines the Fire Rating of Aluminium Composite Panels?
1. The Core Material
- PE (Polyethylene) core is highly flammable and not allowed for high-rise façades.
- FR (Fire-Retardant) core contains mineral fillers that reduce flammability.
- A2 core uses more than 90% mineral content and offers the highest fire performance available in ACP.
2. Coating Type
- Coatings such as PVDF, FEVE, and PE mainly affect durability, not fire behaviour.
3. Manufacturing Quality
- Poor bonding between aluminium skins and the core can accelerate flame spread.
Understanding EN 13501-1 Fire Classification
EN 13501-1 is the European standard used to classify the fire behaviour of aluminium composite panels.
Euroclass Levels Explained
- A1: Non-combustible (ACP cannot reach this due to their core).
- A2: Very limited combustibility and suitable for high-risk applications.
- B: Very limited contribution to fire, acceptable for many mid-rise buildings.
- C, D, E, F: Increasingly higher fire contribution, including PE core ACP.
Smoke and Droplet Classes (s and d)
- s1 means low smoke production.
- d0 means no flaming droplets.
- For façades, A2-s1,d0 or B-s1,d0 are the expected ratings depending on local regulations.
PE vs FR vs A2: Which ACP Core Should You Choose?
PE Core ACP
- Suitable only for interior decoration, signage, exhibitions, and non-structural applications.
- Not allowed for façades in regulated markets.
FR Core ACP
- Contains mineral fillers and offers improved fire behaviour.
- Commonly reaches B-s1,d0 classification.
- Accepted for many low-rise or mid-rise façade projects.
A2 Core ACP
- Required for high-rise buildings in the UK and many EU countries.
- Offers very limited combustibility.
- Preferred for hospitals, schools, public buildings, and high-occupancy structures.
Regulatory Requirements in 2025
- The UK requires A2-s1,d0 for façades above 18 metres and many public buildings.
- Many EU countries follow similar policies, prioritising A2 cores for high-rise structures.
- Developers increasingly choose A2 voluntarily to reduce long-term risk and avoid compliance issues.
How to Verify the Fire Rating of Aluminium Composite Panels
- Request the official EN 13501-1 classification report.
- Review the fire test report (such as the Single Burning Item test).
- Check the Declaration of Performance (DoP) for CE-marked ACP.
- Ensure the documents are authentic, recent, and traceable to the specific product.
Conclusion
The fire rating of aluminium composite panels is a central factor in modern building safety standards. As regulations evolve, A2 and high-quality FR core panels have become the preferred choices for responsible developers. Understanding EN 13501-1 classifications and verifying compliance documents ensures safer façades, smoother inspections, and long-term protection of property and people.
Explore our full range of SmartACP – Aluminium Composite Panels, designed for architects and modern projects.
Authored by Smartcon Int’l. Trade & Marketing Ltd. on 17.11.2025. All rights reserved.