Exentec US, Inc. has achieved a significant industry milestone by becoming the first U.S. manufacturer to receive FM Approval for large-diameter fume exhaust duct systems under the newly revised FM Approvals 4922 standard. This certification covers the company's Fab-Tech PermaShield™ duct systems across unrestricted diameters, sizes, and vertical riser heights, enabling facility owners and engineers to construct larger duct systems such as mains and submains with fully approved products.
The importance of this development lies in its direct impact on industrial safety and regulatory compliance. FM Approvals, a globally recognized certification organization, recently updated its 4922 standard to strengthen fire safety and performance requirements for duct systems. The revision introduces distinct Fire Propagation Index classifications for both exterior and interior surfaces of ductwork, with new testing protocols specifically targeting systems above 60 inches in diameter. Previously, the standard applied a unified FPI requirement across the entire duct system, but the March 2025 revision now mandates separate ratings for interior liners, ensuring both external and internal components meet elevated safety thresholds.
For industrial facilities, particularly those in high-tech sectors like semiconductors, life sciences, energy, and data centers, this certification provides crucial assurance. Facility managers and engineers can now implement larger duct systems with confidence that they meet the most current fire safety standards. The updated requirements are especially relevant for single-wall constructions, where the duct wall material itself must comply with the new criteria. This advancement reflects a growing industry focus on rigorous safety standards and property loss prevention, addressing a critical need in mission-critical environments where exhaust system failures could have severe consequences.
Jim Howard, General Manager of the Exhaust and Abatement team at Exentec, emphasized the company's proactive approach to evolving safety standards. The certification demonstrates Exentec's engineering excellence and commitment to innovation in safety-critical applications. For clients seeking high-performance, compliant solutions, this approval means access to products that not only meet but exceed the latest safety expectations, backed by proven innovation and trusted compliance. The achievement reinforces the industry's shared commitment to advancing duct system reliability and performance while addressing increasingly stringent safety requirements in industrial settings.
More information about Exentec's products and certifications is available at https://www.exentec.net.
