Custom solution for the Effelsberg Radio Telescope
Erkelenz, April 2021 – The impressive Effelsberg telescope with a diameter of 100 metres is among the largest fully steerable radio telescopes in the world. In addition, the telescope completed in 1971 and commissioned in 1972 by the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy still counts as one of the most modern in the world thanks to constant further development. In addition to the impressive technology, the building also has state-of-the-art fire protection, which includes a custom-made fire resistance flap "System Schröders", manufactured by the company Frenken & Erdweg from Heinsberg.
Protection against deformation in the event of a fire
To protect the steel structure of the telescope – which carries a mass of nearly 2,000 tonnes – against deformation in the event of a fire, reliable fire protection elements are of essential importance. One of these elements is the T30 fire resistance flap "System Schröders", which is installed below the telescope in its rotating area. This horizontally installed flap separates the underground workshop and storage area from the external area and thus enables the transport of larger loads via a ceiling opening. In the event of a fire, it also prevents flames and heat from passing through this opening to the outside and damaging the steel framework.
Fire resistance flap as a custom solution
In order for the opening to be large enough, the fire resistance flap had to be constructed as a custom solution with dimensions of 1.80 x 2.40 metres. To achieve these dimensions, System Schröders developed a double-leaf fire-retardant folding sliding flap, whose leaves unfold in one direction via a roller system. In addition, two opening aids "System Schröders", specifically developed for ceiling-flaps, were integrated for simple manual opening.
Individual approval for this special fire resistance flap
This special construction was positively assessed from a fire protection perspective by the MPA Braunschweig after thorough examination and received individual approval from the Ministry for Homeland, Municipal Affairs, Construction and Equality, so that the installation of this special fire resistance flap at the radio telescope could be carried out with proof of use under building law.
Project information:
- Task: custom solution for horizontal fire protection flap
- Production and installation: Frenken & Erdweg GmbH, Heinsberg
- Execution: 2020
- Development and construction: System Schröders
- Technical testing: Materials Testing Institute Braunschweig
- Approving authority: Ministry for Homeland, Municipal Affairs, Construction and Equality of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia
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Product used:
- Fire resistance ceiling-flap T90 THF, System Schröders;