fire rating solutions
Fire rating is a form of passive fire protection. When buildings are designed and constructed, today's laws make it essential to consider the protection of human life in case of fire. The design must now incorporate measures which protect the structural integrity of the steel framework so that residents of the building can be safely evacuated, as well as allowing time for fire fighters to douse the flames.
The longer the structure maintains its strength and form the better the chance of getting people out safely. Naturally this is of paramount importance.
A key solution to maintaining the structural strength of steel in a fire is to fire rate the steel. Fire rating involves the application of fire retardant materials which act to protect the steel from heating up too quickly in fire. This aids the steel in maintaining structural strength longer.
The latest form of protection is offered by Remedial Building Services in the protection of your building. We are certified installers of water-based thin film intumescents. These protective coatings aim to allow the steel structure to resist the damage of fire for longer. We have products designed for achieving Fire Rated Limits (FRL) of 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes.
So what are thin film intumescents exactly? They are a thin film paint that develops a protective char during fire exposure. They are an extremely effective fire protection for steel structures with many advantages over other systems.
Some of the advantages of protecting your structural steel from fire damage by using thin film products include:
- Easy installation and application
- On-site or off-site application
- Resistance to moisture and abrasion and are therefore quite durable.
- The relatively thin coating allows unique architectural finishes to be achieved.
- A range of top coats can be applied allowing architectural designs to be maintained without compromising on safety
- Post installation repairs are relatively easy. Also, intumescent coatings are relatively easy to clean.
- Thin Film Intumescents are a viable option for the fire rating of exposed steel.
Our Fire Rating division is fully accredited (by independent authorities) in the application of thin film Intumescent coatings. We offer a full range of services to engineers, architects, building managers, government bodies and whomever else requires assistance. Our experts can analyse job sites or plans to determine the structural fire rating limits, establish the correct fire rating system required and provide recommendations. We will also work with you to determine the Bill of Quantities and what is required to correctly protect your steel structure.
We will also provide maintenance and inspection services including detailed summaries of the coatings on existing structures.