When a pipe passes through a fire rated wall, what is the required thickness of the sleeve?

When a pipe passes through a fire-rated wall, it is crucial to use a sleeve that ensures the integrity of the wall's fire resistance. The required thickness of an 18-gauge sleeve is specifically mandated by the Massachusetts Plumbing Code, as it provides a balance of strength and compliance with fire safety standards.

The thickness of 18-gauge is sufficient to withstand the potential stresses imposed on the sleeve while also supporting firestop materials that may be required around the pipe and sleeve interface. This thickness is critical for preventing the passage of smoke or flames in the event of a fire, maintaining the fire-resistance rating of the wall.

Additionally, while other gauges like 16, 20, and 22 may have applications in different situations, they do not meet the specific requirements set forth in the code for ensuring fire safety when penetrations are made in fire-rated assemblies. The use of 18-gauge thus ensures that the installation complies with the necessary regulations to maintain safety in a plumbing installation through fire-rated walls.