During a fire exposure test, how long do wood beams typically last?

Wood beams typically last about 5 minutes per inch of thickness during a fire exposure test. This benchmark is significant in understanding the fire resistance of wood structures. Fire exposure tests are designed to measure the time that structural elements can withstand fire before reaching critical failure, and wood's performance is often quantified this way.

The reasoning behind the 5-minute rule stems from research and testing methodologies used to determine how various materials behave under fire conditions, including how long it takes for flames to consume structural integrity. For instance, thicker beams can offer more protection and load-bearing capacity over a longer duration compared to thinner ones. Additionally, this standard helps engineers and fire safety professionals design safe buildings by assessing the fire resistance of wood and ensuring compliance with safety codes.