What is the role of fire stopping material when multiple cables pass through framing members?

The role of fire stopping material when multiple cables pass through framing members is primarily to maintain the integrity of fire-rated walls and floors. This material works by sealing gaps and penetrations where cables and piping may breach fire barriers, preventing the spread of fire and smoke between compartments of a building.

When cables pass through walls or floors that are designed to limit the spread of fire, fire stopping materials ensure that these fire barriers remain effective. They help to contain fire to its originating area, providing critical time for evacuation and for fire personnel to respond. Thus, maintaining structural integrity in terms of fire safety is essential for the overall protection of the building and its occupants.

The options that refer to increasing system capacity, adjusting ampacities, or reducing noise do not align with the core function of fire stopping materials. Increasing system capacity and adjusting ampacities relate to electrical load management, while reducing noise pertains to sound attenuation, neither of which addresses the critical safety function of fire stopping. The correct answer highlights the fire stopping material's crucial purpose in preserving the integrity of fire safety measures within a structure.