There are several building codes that need fireproofing protection to structural steel as a safety precaution. Spraying low density fiber or cementious compounds, now also known as spray applied fire resistive material (SFRM) is the most common way to give such protection in countries like the US.
When Steel fireproofing is needed?
Commercial structural steel columns should meet at least the X106 or 120 mins, fire resistance rating among other needs. Two, three and four hour ratings are the most common fire resistance ratings. A certified AISC column fabricator is qualified to take care of such fireproofing requirements, thus you do not have to stress over whether your steel structure will need to pass additional inspections.
Reasons on why fireproofing used in steel structures?
We know that steel is not indestructible and can melt at 2500 degrees Fahrenheit and hydrocarbon and average building fires can burn at 2000 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it won’t necessarily melt, steel can become deformed as well as lose its strength when it exposed to very high temperature. Steel fireproofing helps maintain a building’s shape in case of a fire accident. This way more peoples are able to escape. Fireproof steel columns are used in everything. Fireproofing methods that incorporates fireproof paint can be health hazards to the people and to everyone on your team too.
Fireproof coatings: the chemical mixture should be exposed to extreme heat so as to activate the paint. It releases vapors and then turn into the foam, known as Fireproof paint for steel structures. It is more appealing than spray and does not need a column cover but the vapors can still be dangerous to people’s health.
Fireproofing spray: manufacturing companies of SFRM include fundamental ingredients such as carbon black, gypsum and cement in their fireproofing sprays which is not sufficient. They think that by adding harsh chemicals to speed up the hardening process, they can save time for contractors but what they are really doing is rising these people’s risk of contracting health problems. It can lead to contractors taking time off to cover as well as wasting money in doctor’s visit. People who have been regularly exposed to fireproof spray are suffering from bronchitis, lung cancer and sinus infections.
Fireproofing materials like SRFN and intumescent paints are supposed to make our job easier but they only make completing the project more challenging in most of the cases. No matter whether you employ someone to come on your site and fireproof your building support or you have someone on your team do the dirty work, but you put everyone at risk of dangers of fireproofing materials.
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