Fire Protecting Structural Steelwork

Steelwork is pretty tough, we know. Despite the fact that it is a fairly strong material it still needs protection, especially from fire damage. There are many different ways to protect structural steelwork. If your steelwork is damaged by fire, it could seriously affect the strength of the structure. Today we’ll talk about how to protect steelwork from fire damage by using the correct paints and tools.

One of the most popular ways to protect structural steelwork is to use a thin film intumescent coating. Most thin film intumescent coatings should be used as part of a complete fire protection system usually including a compatible primer, the thin film build intumescent itself and a compatible topcoat. Although the coating is thin, in the event of a fire it will expand considerably to create a protective, insulating layer.

Many buildings have to legally reach a structural fire resistance requirement. Thin film intumescent coatings area ideal for buildings that require a resistance time of 30, 60, 90 or 120 minutes in total. Resistance times required will vary from project to project depending on the structures use, function, local requirements, etc. Find out more about Fire Safety with Approved Document B.

So which products do we recommend? The Jotun Steelmaster Range works in combination with each other to provide structural steelwork with the protection that it needs. Jotun paints protect property by providing solutions that not only enhance the appearance but also ensure long-lasting durability. They have 33 production facilities in 20 countries and are represented in over 90 countries around the world.

Jotun Steelmaster 60WB and Jotun Steelmaster 60SB

Jotun Steelmaster 60WB is ideal for interior structural steel sections that require protection up to 60 minutes. It is water based, easy to apply by brush and roller and in most cases only requires one coat. Its independently approved, low VOC and best for 60mins protection to beams and columns. Another option, if you need an intumescent paint for structural steel in a corrosive or external environment, is Jotun Steelmaster 60SB. It’s solvent based formulation makes it ideal for steel requiring protection up to 60 minutes in more demanding conditions.

Jotun Steelmaster 120sb

Jotun Steelmaster 120sb is best for protecting smaller steel sections that would require excessive film thickness or would just not be possible with other intumescent paints. It can be used internally and externally as part of a complete system including primers and topcoats. Jotun Steelmaster 120sb is a heavy-duty coating with plenty of approvals and certificates.

Jotun Steelmaster 1200WF and Jotun Steelmaster 120SB

If you need a resistance time of 2 hours (120 minutes) try Jotun Steelmaster 1200WF. Steelmaster 1200WF has been fire tested, approved and certified to leading global test standards and is the most efficient thin film water-borne intumescent coating for 120 minutes fire protection available worldwide. Jotun Steelmaster 120SB also provides up to 2 hours of protection but it is solvent based which makes it ideal for projects in corrosive or external environments.

All of these paints are designed to work specifically for steel, and have been independently tested, meaning you can be assured your steelwork is protected.

If you need any further help with protecting steelwork – get in touch today.