Ancon is leading the way in developing solutions to meet the Government’s tough new fire safety requirements for buildings, with the launch of an upgraded range of non-combustible insulated balcony connectors. 

The development follows news that the existing 18 metres height limit for combustible materials in high rise multi-occupancy buildings is to be further reduced to 11 metres, extending the scope of the regulations to buildings over 4-storeys and affecting the vast majority of new flats, hospitals, residential care premises and student accommodation. This has again increased the focus on fire safety with contractors and developers looking to future-proof their buildings. 

Ancon’s insulated balcony connectors have been re-engineered and now feature non-combustible mineral wool insulation and improved fire-rated thermal pads to maintain their impressive thermal insulation properties and provide the required A1/A2 reaction to fire rating.  

As well as complying with the combustibility requirements in the current Building (Amendment) Regulations 2018 for wall components in high-rise residential buildings over 18 metres in height, the Ancon connectors provide contractors with a fire-safe solution for all multi-occupancy buildings, regardless of  height. 

Connectors are available in a range of types, including Ancon Isotec for concrete to concrete applications, Ancon STS for anchoring steel balconies to a structural steel frame, and Ancon STC for steel to concrete fixing.  

Ancon Isotec, which features high grade 100% non-combustible mineral wool enclosed in a protective stainless–steel U-shaped profile, carries Class A1 fire rating – the highest level of fire safety performance.   

Ancon STS, for steel to steel applications, and Ancon STC, a two-part connector used  for fixing large cantilever steel balconies to concrete floor slab, are both A1/A2 rated. Like Isotec, both now fully comply with the new regulations. 

For further information or advice contact Ancon’s Technical Team on 01142755224 or email tech@ancon.co.uk.