Fire safety is a top priority for industrial sites and chemical plants. Cellular glass insulation is widely praised for its ability to protect against fire, but what does its fire rating really mean?

Cellular glass insulation is classified as non-combustible, earning the highest possible Class A1 rating under EN 13501-1. This means it will never burn, melt, or drip when exposed to fire, making it one of the safest insulation options available.

I have seen how the insulation decision can have major safety and cost impacts in factories and processing plants. High fire resistance is essential, and cellular glass stands out for its performance. Many plant managers need to know why cellular glass is so dependable. Let’s look at how it earns these high ratings and why that matters for safety.

Contents hide
1 Is cellular glass insulation fireproof?
2 What is the fire rating of closed cell foam?
3 What is cellular glass insulation used for?
4 Conclusion

Is cellular glass insulation fireproof?

Fireproof claims are everywhere, but few materials earn them as completely as cellular glass insulation. When fires break out, every second counts, and materials can make the difference between safety and catastrophe.

Cellular glass is totally inorganic, so it will not burn, smoke, or melt in fire. It meets the strictest European fire standards, with no added toxic gases, drips, or fuel in the event of fire.

HUAYUE product certification and max temp What is the fire rating of cellular glass insulation?

Engineers in industrial plants want real answers about fire safety, not just marketing claims. I know that if a blaze begins near a tank or pipe, the insulation must not add fuel or make the situation worse. Cellular glass is free from glues and binders, which are found in many other insulation materials. In my experience, this not only helps in fire emergencies, but also reassures safety inspectors and regulators. There is no need to worry about dangerous smoke or melting insulation causing further problems. Using cellular glass insulation offers confidence that you meet every fire protection standard.

What is the fire rating of closed cell foam?

Closed cell foam insulations like PIR, PUR, and XPS are used frequently, but their fire ratings are very different from cellular glass.

Closed cell foam is not non-combustible and is usually rated Class B or lower for fire safety. It can burn, produce smoke, and melt when exposed to high heat.

cellular glass insulation fire rating What is the fire rating of cellular glass insulation?

In my years of facility management, I have learned that “closed cell” does not always mean “fire safe.” Many closed cell foams are based on organic chemicals. When these insulations catch fire, they can create thick black smoke and even drip as they melt, adding fuel and making evacuation more challenging. Local building codes typically limit their use in sensitive areas, especially around chemical tanks or tunnels. I advise my colleagues to get the full test information on any foam product, not just rely on standard labels. Safety is never something to gamble with.
 
When handling high value assets, many decision-makers turn away from closed cell foams for anything fire-exposed. The difference in performance is clear once you compare them with cellular glass.
 

What is cellular glass insulation used for?

 
Cellular glass insulation is chosen for many important industrial jobs. Its properties go beyond fire resistance, making it a good fit for several demanding uses.
 
Cellular glass insulation is widely used for cryogenic tanks, pipelines, chemical and oil storage tanks, and any fire-exposed zone that needs proven long-term protection and reliability.
 
cellular glass insulation use What is the fire rating of cellular glass insulation?
 
With my own plant projects, I always consider cellular glass when corrosion under insulation is a concern. Its closed cell structure blocks moisture, which keeps it strong and prevents rust and failure in metal tanks and pipes. It works well in both very cold or very hot settings. Because it never absorbs water, it can be installed underground or on rooftops without worry. Fireproofing is crucial for LNG tanks, tank farms, and other high risk areas. At HUAYUE, we never mix in patched or glued cellular glass. Our product edges are always straight after cutting, bubbles are even, and the glass itself has no impurities. I have seen other suppliers use low-grade or recycled glass, which can add unwanted materials and lower strength. We inspect every batch and sort out any damaged pieces, never using glue to patch products. This careful approach means customers get the insulation quality and long-term performance they expect.
 
Plant engineers like Hans in Germany rely on cellular glass where safety, long life, and top fire rating are a must. In places where people and expensive equipment must be protected, it is the right choice.

Conclusion

Cellular glass insulation earns the highest fire rating, is truly fireproof, and delivers reliable protection for the tough.