What is the purpose of a through penetration?

The purpose of a through penetration is to pierce through an assembly completely. This involves creating an opening that allows various elements, such as pipes, ducts, or conduits, to pass entirely from one side of the assembly to the other. This type of penetration is critical in estimating how to maintain the integrity of fire-rated barriers, as it poses a potential route for fire, smoke, and heat to travel from one compartment to another. Firestop systems are then used to seal these penetrations to prevent the spread of fire and must meet specific testing and performance standards to ensure they effectively contain potential hazards. Through penetrations must be adequately protected to maintain the fire-resistant properties of the assemblies they pass through.