Structural Steel Fire Protection
Fire affects the behavior of steel structures. In a structural fire, temperatures can exceed over 800 degrees or higher depending on the severity of the conditions and fuel loads. At around 55o degrees, the load bearing capacity of steel is severely affected and it will lose its yield strength and buckle, ultimately causing collapse.
In Australia, the assessment of either the Deemed-to-Satisfy or Performance-Based provisions of the National Construction Code (NCC) and Building Code of Australia (BCC) will result in a requirement for a level of fire protection (specified Fire Resistance Level or FRL) to be applied to structural members commensurate with building form, occupancy type and member function.
At AFR, we are at the forefront of current technology to achieve compliance with fire protection systems to structural steel, thereby greatly limiting loss of life, injury and property damage in a fire event.
We achieve this through tested systems installed and applied with latest technology and equipment that are proven.
The three methods of passively fire proofing structural steel that we undertake include:
SPRAY ON APPLICATION WITH VERMICULITE AND CEMENTITIOUS COATINGS
Spray on applications are a simple and cost effective means of fire protection for structural steel. These spray products, mineral or cement based are highly efficient in protecting steel structures, offering up to 240 minutes protection in a fire event.
They are particularly useful in areas where aesthetics are not of a priority such as beams behind a suspended ceiling. When looking for a cost effective and quick application, there is no comparison to these spray on products. The speed of application and low product cost of vermiculite (most suitable for internal use) and cementitious coating (external use) makes it the most prevalent system employed in Australia.
AFR are approved applicators for world leading Promat’s spray on products - Cafco 300 and Fendolite. Application is via latest spray machines that are mobile, robust and durable with enhanced pump rates that generate great productivity.
All works are certified and systems installed are nationally tested to rigorous Australian Standards, particularly AS1530.4
Samples of Vermiculite Coatings / Machinery – Selection of Work
FIRE RETARDANT BOARD
Fire Boards offer an aesthetic advantage over spray on applications and have a smooth finish that can painted. They are commonly used in areas where the steel is visible such as exposed columns and beams and also where fixing of window frames and other secondary steel / timber members are needed to a straight edge.
AFR are approved installers of Promat P250 and other fire resistant boards which can provide up to 240 minutes fire protection.
Thicknesses vary depending on required FRL levels and steel member sizes.
All works are certified and systems installed are nationally tested to rigorous Australian Standards, particularly AS1530.4
INTUMESCENT COATINGS
The application of thin film intumescent coatings to structural steel works by expanding and swelling up to 50 times its original thickness and forms a foam like char in a fire event. The char is slow burning and insulative, protecting the steel from losing its strength and affording time for evacuation and fire fighter response. It can provide up to 120 minutes fire protection.
The advantage of intumescent is aesthetic where it is widely used in exposed and visible scenarios. It can be applied on or off site.
AFR are approved applicators of Promat Cafco Sprayfilm WB3 and highly experienced in its application.
All works are certified and systems installed are nationally tested to rigorous Australian Standards, particularly AS1530.4