In Australia, all construction work must comply with the Fire Resistance Levels (FRLs) established by the National Construction Code. To meet the criteria of structural adequacy, integrity, and insulation for structural steel, there are different options available and intumescent paint is becoming one of the most cost effective methods for fire protection. These protective fire coatings are vital for safeguarding structures against fire damage.
A Versatile Fire Protective Paint
Intumescent paint is a versatile protective fire coating that can be applied to numerous structural materials, including steel, wood, and concrete. Fire rated paints, when applied correctly, provide protection in the event of a fire to help slow the spread and prevent structural collapse. When exposed to high temperatures, these protective fire coatings are designed to expand to form an insulating layer to slow the steel’s temperature, helping to preserve the structural integrity for a specified period.
Where is Intumescent Paint Required?
Intumescent paint is generally required in buildings where passive fire protection is required to maintain the fire safety of a building in the event of a fire. The primary use of intumescent paint is on structural steelwork and load-bearing elements. While steel is strong and durable, it loses its load-bearing capacity at high temperatures, making protective fire coatings critical for slowing the temperature rise in structural steel during a fire.
The National Construction Code dictates where fire rated paint is required and in spaces like airports, hotels, hospitals, and commercial buildings, the safety of a large number of occupants is paramount. These buildings require materials that can provide extended fire protection to facilitate safe evacuation. Intumescent coatings on structural steel are often required in such high-occupancy buildings to meet fire safety codes and protect critical escape routes.
Where fire resistance regulations require that a building must meet certain fire resistance ratings, the team at Blastcoat are trained and qualified to apply intumescent coatings to ensure the structural adequacy, integrity, and insulation of the build. During application, measuring the dry film thickness (DFT) is essential in determining how long the structure should be able to withstand fire exposure. At Blastcoat, our team of specialists are trained and qualified to assess and recommend appropriate fire protective coatings for each project’s fire protective needs.
Why Choose Intumescent Paint?
The growing use of intumescent paint for fire protection is driven by its numerous advantages over more traditional fireproofing methods. This fire protective coating not only meets rigorous fire safety standards but also offers benefits that make it a preferred choice in modern construction. Below are some key reasons why architects, builders, and engineers choose intumescent paint for fire protection:
1. Aesthetic Appeal
Fire rated coatings allow architects to retain the visual appeal of exposed steel while ensuring fire protection. Traditional fireproofing methods like concrete encasement or fire rated boards can interfere with design by adding bulk or altering the appearance of steel elements. Intumescent paint, however, is a thin, transparent protective fire coating that preserves the visual integrity of the steel while also maintaining strict fire protection regulations
2. Cost Effective
Compared to alternative methods like concrete encasement, intumescent paint is more cost-effective and easier to apply. The paint can be sprayed, rolled, or brushed onto the surface of steel, making it a practical option for both new construction and retrofitting existing buildings
3. Minimal Impact
Because the coating is thin and lightweight, this fire protective coating can be applied to a wide range of structural elements as it does not add significant weight to the structure.
Blastcoat: The Specialists in Intumescent Coatings
While intumescent paint offers reliable fire protection for structural steel, its long-term performance is dependent on regular inspections and proper maintenance. Like any protective system, intumescent coatings can be exposed to environmental factors and physical wear over time, which may affect their integrity and, ultimately, their ability to provide fire resistance. Ensuring the coating remains intact and effective is essential for continued compliance with fire safety regulations and for guaranteeing the safety of the building’s occupants.
Based in Newcastle and servicing clients Australia-wide, Blastcoat is a leading provider of protective coating solutions. With extensive industry experience, we specialise in applying intumescent coatings to steel structures and ensuring continued compliance through inspections and maintenance. Trust Blastcoat for all your protective fire coating needs.
For more information on how intumescent coatings can be integrated into your project, contact our professional team today.
