Fireproof painting of steel
High temperatures during fires pose a serious threat to steel building elements. Once the steel’s yield point is exceeded, it loses its mechanical properties, which leads to a weakened structure and an increased risk of collapse. That’s why it’s crucial to ensure adequate fire protection for steel. This is made possible with properly selected fireproof paints.
Fireproof paints for steel – how do they work?
The operation of fireproof paints for steel is based on a thermochemical reaction triggered during a fire. When exposed to high temperatures, the coating begins to expand, forming an insulating layer of foamed carbon. This effectively slows down the heating of the steel structure and protects it from losing its load-bearing capacity. As a result, the steel maintains its mechanical properties for a longer time, which can prevent building collapse and increase the safety of evacuation efforts. These types of paints are also resistant to adverse weather conditions.
Fireproof painting of steel – layers
Primer layer
The first layer of fireproof paint is an anti-corrosion primer. Its purpose is to protect the steel from moisture and ensure proper adhesion of the subsequent paint layers.
Intumescent layer
The main layer of fireproof paint is the intumescent coating, which activates under high temperatures. In the event of a fire, the paint expands, forming a thick, foamed carbon layer. This creates an insulating barrier that slows down the heating of the steel and protects its structure from weakening.
Topcoat layer
The final layer is the topcoat. It serves both protective and aesthetic purposes. It shields the intumescent layer from mechanical damage, moisture, and other external factors, significantly extending the durability of the entire coating system.
How to choose fireproof paint for steel?
Whether fireproof painting of steel provides the desired level of protection largely depends on the type of paint used. When selecting the appropriate fireproof coating, it’s important to consider the following factors:
Fire resistance rating: The paint should meet the required fire protection time for the specific structure (e.g., R30, R60, R90, R120).
Type of steel structure: Key aspects include the thickness of the elements, their structural role, and the loads they are subjected to.
Environmental conditions: Humidity, temperature, and exposure to weather may require additional protective coatings.
Compliance with standards: The paint should be certified and meet applicable building and fire safety regulations.
When is fireproof painting of steel important?
Fireproof painting prevents steel from reaching critical temperatures and losing its load-bearing capacity. Fire-resistant coatings slow down this process, extending the time available for evacuation and providing better conditions for rescue operations. The use of fireproof paints is mandatory wherever required by fire safety regulations, including in public buildings, industrial halls, warehouses, and shopping centers.
The obligation to protect structures against fire is outlined in the Regulation of the Minister of Infrastructure of April 12, 2002, on the technical conditions buildings and their location must meet (Journal of Laws 2002 No. 75, item 690). It specifies the required fire resistance of various structures, and in the case of steel, fireproof painting is one of the most effective methods.
Spray-applied fireproof painting of steel – advantages
High protection effectiveness
The spray method of fireproof painting provides effective protection of steel structures against high temperatures and flames. The coating is applied evenly, ensuring a reliable insulating barrier across the entire surface in critical situations.
Speed and precision of application
The spray method allows for even coverage of large surfaces in a short amount of time. This technique minimizes material waste and makes it possible to reach hard-to-access areas.
Durability and resistance to weather conditions
Spray-applied fireproof paints are highly resistant to external factors such as moisture, rain, temperature fluctuations, and mechanical damage. This makes them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, ensuring long-lasting protection of the structure.
What is spray-applied fireproof painting?
Spray-applied fireproof painting of steel involves applying fire-resistant paint in liquid form using a spray unit. The paint is sprayed under high pressure, allowing the operator to reach hard-to-access areas—such as welds and corners. The process requires high precision and proper adjustment of spraying parameters according to the paint manufacturer’s specifications