Fire protection of metal structures is aimed at increasing the fire resistance of buildings and structures, preventing fires or reducing their destructive impact.
Fire retardant treatment of metal structures is an integral part of construction and repair work. This is one of the mandatory requirements to ensure a reliable level of building security.
The purpose of fire protection for metal structures is to create heat-insulating qualities that can withstand both high temperatures and the influence of fire itself. Creating a screen on metal structures allows you to complicate the heating of the metal and gain time to extinguish the source of fire before irreversible processes occur in the metal structure.
ADVANTAGES OF FIREPROOF TREATMENT OF METAL IN A-GROUP
- The company SK "A-Group" performs a full range of works on fire protection of metal structures in accordance with Federal Law-123.
- We have all SRO permitting certificates and licenses to carry out fire retardant metal processing.
- modern equipment;
- qualified specialists;
- Extensive experience in this field.
Before performing such a technologically complex type of work, we evaluate several key points:
- resistance of the structure to fire;
- operating conditions and ambient temperature;
- reduced metal thickness;
- the thickness of the dry composition and the number of its layers.
PECULIARITIES
One of the most difficult aspects of carrying out fireproof metal processing is the calculation of the reduced metal thickness (RMT).
PTM is measured in mm and calculated according to NPB 236-97 using the formula:
Fpr = Sx10/P, where S is the cross section of the metal structure, and P is the heated part of its perimeter.
Modern fire retardant treatment of metal structures is carried out by applying materials and filling substances.
For protection, expanded perlite, mineral fiber, vermiculite, plasterboard and other materials with high thermal insulation characteristics are used. All of them have their advantages and disadvantages related to acceptable operating conditions, application features, cost and durability. Only taking into account all these factors can you make the right choice of fire retardant coating.
PRICES FOR FIREPROOF TREATMENT OF METAL
The cost and method of fire-retardant metal treatment depend on the specifics of the object, surface features, thickness and type of metal structures.
Fire protection of metal structures (load-bearing beams, columns, trusses) is an important element in the construction of buildings and structures for any purpose. The fate of the building during a fire and the further possibility of its restoration depend on the implementation of this measure.
According to its properties, the metal is capable of maintaining its strength characteristics until an environment is created around it that promotes its melting and deformation. With such changes, the structure of the building as a whole is damaged, which provokes the collapse of the structure and the appearance of possible casualties.
From high temperatures in a fire, the metal begins to “lead”
Why is it necessary to provide fire protection for metal?
The structure of any metal is sensitive to flame, as well as to any heat. Fire retardant treatment of metal structures is carried out precisely for this reason. This increases the strength and stability of the structure as a whole. From a fire safety point of view, the metal base of any building is the most vulnerable element in a fire, but it is impossible to avoid its use in construction.
The limit of resistance to heat during a fire for metal is only up to a quarter of an hour, while existing building codes require fire protection to be provided during the construction of structures for up to 2.5 hours.
Fire protection of metal structures consists of creating a heat-insulating screen on the surface of the element being processed. This way the metal is reliably preserved until the fire is completely extinguished. The less the metal structures heat up, the less the risk of building collapse, and, consequently, the time for the safe evacuation of not only people, but also material assets increases.
Specialized methods of fire protection
In addition to painting, fire-retardant coating of metal structures can be done in the form of plaster, concreting, lining with bricks and other modern non-combustible materials based on mineral fiber, perlite and other fillers.
Today, the popular fire-retardant coating of metal structures is made using liquid glass, mineral fibers, vermiculite and cements. There is fire-resistant paint for metal on sale that can instantly foam, which also consists of inorganic and organic elements. All materials used have one common property - the ability to increase in volume and create a porous structure that forms a protective heat-resistant screen for fire.
When choosing a method for ensuring the fire resistance of a structure, it is necessary to take into account the reason why a fire may occur at a construction site, as well as what critical air temperature can form during a fire and affect the metal structure. It is also important to take into account that during operation the building is subject to various influences that can shorten the service life of the fire retardant treatment (sudden changes in temperature and air humidity, meteorological phenomena, vibration, mechanical impact).
How to protect metal structures with paint
There are a large number of construction methods for protecting metal from a possible fire, for example, plastering on a mesh or laying bricks. But they are in greatest demand non-construction techniques, as required by regulatory documents. Fire protection of metal structures according to SNiP consists in the fact that fire-retardant paint is applied to the selected element.
From the outside, the event looks quite simple and not labor-intensive; you just need to purchase paint and process the structure. For complete protection, it is necessary to have accurate calculations of the number of coating layers on each metal element of the building, having previously determined the percentage of their resistance to flame, as well as choosing the technically correct method of applying fire-retardant paint for metal. The convenience of the paint and varnish material lies in the absence of deformation load on the surface of the protected object.
To calculate the number of layers, data on the fire resistance of the structure and the time period during which the metal will not lose its strength under the influence of fire are required. Based on calculations, the number of paint layers that will increase the heat resistance of the metal is determined.
Fire-resistant paints based on water or latex are the cheapest, odorless, and environmentally friendly. If the paint is based on acrylic, then it is more easily tinted.
There are two types of fire-resistant paint - intumescent and non-intumescent. The first has a higher degree of fire protection, since they form a thick porous layer on the metal surface, which, when interacting with heated air, releases inert gases. The paint contains talc, kaolin wool and perlite. The paint allows you to keep the metal intact for 2-2.5 hours, which is a regulatory requirement.
The most difficult thing when choosing paint is determining its quality. Often, unscrupulous manufacturers pass off ordinary water-based paint as fire retardant. So even the presence of certificates does not guarantee that this composition is of high quality. To determine whether the paint is suitable for fire protection of metal structures, it is enough to process a small area of metal. The quality of the coating will be determined by the formation of cracks, swelling and other defects.
Video - fire protection of metal with organic-based paints:
How is processing done?
Fire retardant paint for metal structures is applied using airless devices. When applying, it is important to maintain the thickness of the coating, since when drying, a thin layer will become covered with cracks, and a layer that is too thick will take a long time to dry. In both cases, surface treatment will be meaningless.
When applying a coating, specialists always take into account the drying shrinkage coefficient. When applying each layer, its thickness is monitored using an electromagnetic vortex thickness gauge.
It is important to prepare the surface for processing. If improperly prepared and applied, metal fire protection can be destroyed in a short time under any external influence. Initially, the metal is cleaned. There are 2 most accessible methods known - chemical and mechanical. The first method is to apply a special composition that completely removes old paint and rust. The second method is to treat the element with an abrasive tool or sandblasting machine, which can also be used to get rid of traces of rust, paint residues and other materials.
After cleaning, the metal structure must be degreased using an organic solvent in order to completely remove traces of oil and grease. Simultaneously with this procedure, dust is removed from the surface.
Application of fire retardant paint
Immediately, almost degreasing, the first layer of fire retardant is treated, i.e. padding. You can use acrylic as a primer to increase the metal's resistance to corrosion. After the primer layer has dried, you can begin applying paint.
Protection with vermiculite boards
The material vermiculite is endowed with the highest flame resistance. Vermiculite boards as structural fire protection for metal structures require minimal metal preparation before installation.
Using sandblasting machines, metal is cleaned of traces of paint, rust, scale and other contaminants. Priming and degreasing are not required, which significantly reduces costs.
Based on thickness, vermiculite slabs are divided into:
- 30 mm - allow you to increase the fire resistance time to 90 minutes.
- 40 mm - allow you to increase the fire resistance time to 120 minutes.
- 50 mm - allow you to increase the fire resistance time to 150 minutes.
The slabs are fixed to the structures using standard screws and self-tapping screws. It is recommended to treat the joints between the plates with non-flammable sealant. Installing slabs involves creating a frame that surrounds all metal structural elements.
Vermiculite boards are environmentally friendly, safe for humans and the environment, easy to install, and do not require metal processing costs.
Protection with basalt
Fire retardant composition for metal structures - this is a coating of basalt and specialized mastic. Basalt in roll form has good fire retardant properties. Supplied in two forms - with and without foil surface.
Fire retardant basalt
Installation of basalt consists of the following steps:
- Standard metal cleaning.
- Cutting the fiber to the dimensions of the protected element.
- Preparation of glue and tools for its application.
- Applying glue to metal.
- Gluing the basalt to the outside with the foil side.
- Insulating joints between pieces of basalt fiber using aluminum tape.
Protection with liquid glass
Liquid glass is an aqueous solution of sodium silicate. It is obtained by firing a sand mixture and soda. Concrete, fire-retardant paints and other materials are produced from this composition. In addition to fire protection in construction, liquid glass is used for waterproofing foundations and installing swimming pools.
Liquid glass for fire protection
To prepare a fireproof solution, you need to mix liquid glass with cement, sand and fire retardant in proportions of 1.5: 1.5: 1.5: 4. It is applied to the surface in the same way as paint, but in one layer.
Features of fire protection of metal structures
In those areas where metal structural elements and their fire-resistant layer will be in an expected aggressive environment (in special climatic zones, chemical production), it is necessary to use zinc-rich primers, which have anti-corrosion properties. This method is called cold galvanizing, which also forms electrochemical protection of the metal.
In addition to the standard procedure for preparing the surface for painting and priming, it is necessary to thoroughly clean all welded joints and joints, as well as dry the structure.
Protection with concreting and bricks
The most rational way to increase the fire resistance of a building during its reconstruction, when reinforcement of metal floors is required. Brick cladding is effective only for metal structures that are vertical. At the same time, according to SNiP 2.03.11-85, it is necessary to take measures to protect the metal from corrosion. Concreting of building elements depends on the thickness of the required fire protection.
These two methods of enhancing fire resistance are often used together because they maximum results are achieved, and the materials themselves are very resistant to aggressive environments, precipitation and mechanical stress.
Despite the many advantages, the process of concreting and organizing brick cladding is a labor-intensive process, because formwork work is required. During the production of brick cladding and concreting, the frame of the structure becomes heavier.
To achieve flame resistance of up to 2.5 hours, it is necessary to perform concreting or laying with bricks 20-60 mm thick.
Protection with sheet cladding
The cladding of protected metal structures is made of plasterboard, gypsum fiber, asbestos-cement, perlite-phosphohelium sheets and slabs. To secure them, fasteners must be welded to the metal. Only after this can the slabs and sheets be attached to the structure through pins and corners. When installing this method of fire protection, there is no need to spend money on specialized metal preparation, removing rust and previously applied paint and varnish coatings.
Fire protection of metal structures is a set of measures to reduce or completely eliminate the influence of fire and increase the fire resistance of metal for a certain time.
Metals under the influence of high temperatures:
- become soft, plastic, melt;
- deform, delaminate, crack;
- lose strength.
The main danger is the loss of strength by the metal in a fire. A decrease in quality by several points can lead to the collapse of walls; sometimes 3–5 minutes are enough for this. intense direct flame. Building metal structures are non-flammable (NG), therefore the influence of fire is reflected by the term “fire resistance limit” - the time before loss of load-bearing capacity and other abilities.
Regulatory documents
Fire retardant treatment of metal structures is regulated by the following standards:- main topics:
- (means);
- (compositions);
- (tests, fire resistance);
- basics of fire hazard, classification, tables:
- (SP 112.13330.2011) instead of the outdated SNiP 2.01.02-85;
- SP 21-101, 21-102 (requirements for buildings);
- Fire protection regime (FPR, );
- reference books and recommendations:
- to “Handbook for determining fire resistance limits...” (tables, classes);
- technical regulations;
- , ;
- reference materials of the main acts on the topic, for example:
- (varnishes, paints);
- (phosphate coating based on mineral fibers).
Which metal structures are subject to fire protection?
According to the air safety regulations, the following must have fire protection:- elements:
- load-bearing;
- supporting;
- with constructive meaning;
- open;
- connections, fastenings.
- steel;
- cast iron;
- iron;
- aluminum.
- all supporting structures;
- pillars, supports, beams, purlins, trusses;
- headscarves;
- columns;
- stairs;
- roofing, its parts, supports;
- frame parts;
- elements of fire barriers (guides, strengthening, fixing).
No fire protection required:
- parts that are not structural components of the building;
- if according to the NPB:
- the object is not standardized according to the classification of fire hazard and fire resistance;
- for the building it is allowed to use unprotected metal structures with a resistance limit of R15 and lower.
Fire resistance limit of metal structures without fire protection
Fire resistance depends on:- mandatory fire protection;
- selection of means and methods;
- deadlines for re-work.
Fire resistance limit is the ability of a metal to prevent the spread of fire and at the same time maintain load-bearing, construction, and enclosing functions for a certain number of minutes.
The fire resistance limit is indicated in Latin letters and numbers (minutes):
- R – load-bearing function;
- E – integrity;
- I – thermal insulation value, extreme point of ignition, heating of nearby objects.
Calculation of reduced metal thickness
When determining fire protection, the concept of “reduced metal thickness” (RMT) is used. The required processing parameters depend on the PTM.The calculations take into account NPB 236-97 and display the dependence of the coating thickness on the given metal thickness. The calculation procedure uses several formulas and takes into account the parameters of the section of the part - the perimeter.
Calculation of coating thickness and PTM looks approximately like this: 
Table of reduced metal thickness
The file contains tables with ready-made values for the range of construction metal products available on the market. The data required by the technical specifications is compared with the values and manufacturer’s instructions for the selected type of CO.ATTENTION! If the document is not displayed, reload the file Update or download from the link below!
Groups of fire-retardant efficiency of metal structures
There are 7 groups of fire retardant efficiency (FE) products. The categories depend on the time at which the critical state of the processed material is reached. The classification is specified in GOST 53295-2009 (clause 5.5.3), “Guide to determining fire resistance limits...”.Withstands direct fire (at least, min.) |
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7 (not fireproof) |
Types and methods of fire protection of metal structures
For buildings of 1st and 2nd degrees, structural metal protection is used, and if the reduced thickness is from 5.8 mm, thin-layer metals are used. At R15, with the exception of fire barriers, the use of unprotected elements is allowed.Funds are grouped:
Means, methods |
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Constructive |
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Processing |
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Combined methods | Several ways at the same time. For example:
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Fire protection requirements
Air safety standards contain the minimum requirements for fire protection of metal structures. Taken into account:- different classifications of fire resistance (table SNiP 21-01-97, GOST 30247 and SP 2.13130.2012):
- limits;
- degrees;
- classes;
- types of obstacles;
- fire danger:
- constructive;
- functional.
There are 5 degrees of fire resistance of buildings and their elements. Each corresponds to a resistance limit (clause 5.18, table 4 of SNiP 21-01-97). For example, load-bearing elements from 1 to 4 degrees, respectively, must meet R120, 90, 45, 15. CO must fit the listed parameters.
For each element the following is installed (SNiP 21-01-97):
- fire resistance limit - for example: according to clause 5.14. walls classified as type 1 and 2 with REI150 / REI45;
- class - example: for fire barriers - K0 or K1 (clause 5.14).
- Structural protection with slabs, brickwork, and concreting is effective, but it will require:
- metal waterproofing;
- anchors and reinforcement, since the material cracks at temperatures and expands;
- It is dangerous to veneer beams, so plaster, cement, and concreting are used.
Means and compositions
Compositions applied to the surface (GOST 53295-2009) create a thin layer without affecting the shape of metal structures. Contains flame retardants. Types:- paints:
- intumescent - when heated, they create a coke coating, releasing substances and gases for self-extinguishing. Increases 10-70 times. For example, 4 mm of coating forms 4 cm of protection;
- non-intumescent- the main component is silicates, “liquid glass”. Like varnishes, but with pigments and greater thickness. They absorb heat, release inhibitors, non-flammable gases, and water. Less effective intumescents;
- varnishes;
- pastes, coatings, mastics, plaster (thin layers). They form a coating of up to 2 cm. They differ from paint in their greater dispersion. Contain vermiculite, clay, binders, chemical additives;
- fireproof primers.
Types of fire protection compositions:
- for places:
- open;
- closed;
- for premises:
- heated;
- unheated;
- with special conditions;
- according to the specific application:
- applied to the surface;
- in combination with other RMs;
- according to the properties of the metal:
- for galvanizing or plain steel.
Protective structures
Structural methods of protecting metal structures from fire modify, complement or improve the object itself, not just its surface. Create a thick thermal insulation coating or barrier:- thick layer sprayed insulation;
- plaster;
- brickwork, concreting;
- slabs, fencing with internal filling:
- with mineral wool, with fiberglass;
- with fire-fighting powders and similar compositions;
- sheet, roll materials, windings:
- mineral winding (with basalt, fiberglass, foil);
- protective screens, suspended ceilings.
Recommendations for the use of fire retardant coatings for metal structures
Protective equipment is supplied with instructions, certificate, technical documentation (TD), registered by government agencies and containing (clause 4.2. GOST 53295-2009):- OE group;
- consumption per m², thickness, density;
- application technology:
- Preparation;
- priming;
- layers;
- drying time;
- warranty periods, storage conditions.
Each product has its own application nuances. The application technology recommended by the manufacturer is carefully followed, and the as-built documentation takes it into account. For example, work without a primer may not be considered fire protection if its use is provided for in the TD composition.
Application technologies
Application requirements:- several layers, each must dry;
- when applying several compounds, anti-corrosion preparation and primer are mandatory;
- surface:
- cleared;
- polished;
- low fat;
- apply:
- frames are simple or with air gaps;
- anchors, reinforcement.
- spraying, dusting;
- wrapping;
- pasting;
- coating;
- applying paintwork;
- cladding;
- plastering;
- laying tiles, bricks, concrete.
- Fire protection project.
- Surface cleaning. Sandblasting is often used, which simultaneously
creates a perfectly clean surface and roughness (adhesion) for adhesion to CO. - Primer.
- Coating with a composition with periods for drying the layers.
- At the finishing stages, decorative layers and varnishes are applied.
Work is carried out only by organizations licensed by the Ministry of Emergency Situations (clause 4.3 of GOST 53295-2009) and includes the creation of a project with calculations and a technological map. The cost of processing per m² depends on the volume of work performed, the complexity and the CRM used: for paint the approximate price is from 450 to 900 rubles.
Application Equipment
To apply CO, use:- spray guns;
- production conditions, paint shops, cameras;
- special equipment for spraying with a fire hose;
- kneading tools (drill with attachment);
- manual work is done with rollers, spatulas, brushes;
- for bricklaying and concreting, standard tools will be required: mixing containers, trowels;
- for rolled materials, plasterboard sheets: non-flammable fastening elements, adhesives.
Frequency of processing of metal structures
The frequency rule is established in Resolution No. 113 of February 17, 2014:- if there are no manufacturer’s instructions - once a year;
- within the period specified by the manufacturer in the technical documentation or in the warranty;
- the date is set by the fire inspector in the order if deficiencies are found.
Checking the quality of fire protection treatment of steel structures
The presence of fire protection and passing inspection confirms:- certificates of quality, inspections;
- act of hidden work;
- additional papers: thickness measurement report, testing.
The procedure includes:
- visual methods (inspection);
- instrumental (with or without destruction);
- magnetometer;
- particle sampling;
- testing, processing examination. Specialized licensed laboratories are involved.
Check frequency
- The first check is after finishing is completed.
- Subsequent quality control - in accordance with PPR No. 390 dated March 25, 2012, at least once a year.
Certificate of inspection of fire retardant treatment of metal structures: sample
An act of verification of the processing status is created by a commission of representatives of the owner of the object and the State Border Service.Atmospheric factors greatly affect metal structures and subject them to corrosion. They gradually lose their original characteristics. When such situations arise, a natural question arises: is there effective anti-corrosion protection for metal structures that can protect the metal from negative influences?
Corrosion is a reaction that destroys metal due to contact with the environment. To prevent the destructive process, anti-corrosion treatment of metal structures is provided. Such protection involves increasing the service life of the structural material and reducing the costs of subsequent restoration of the broken element. Anti-corrosion protective coatings have received universal recognition and have become a generally mandatory procedure in the construction of industrial objects. The main purpose of protection is to isolate metal surfaces from an aggressive environment. The elements for anti-corrosion work are based on an epoxy or polyurethane base. This characteristic allows you to reliably protect the material.
Standard anti-corrosion treatment scheme
In some cases, classical anticorrosive technology is used:
- Sandblasting or mechanical cleaning of the base. The type of cleaning depends on many factors: the condition of the structure being treated, ease of use, location of the item;
- Dust removal and priming of the surface;
- Coating with a special polymer, painting of metal structures;
- Creation of a durable varnish layer.
It is rational to carry out time-based anti-corrosion protection of metal structures at the following facilities:
- metal structures;
- structures on a metal frame;
- bridge structures;
- technical equipment;
- pipelines;
- transport by sea, river and rail;
- tanks and reservoirs for petrochemical products.
Systematization of corrosion
Corrosion of metal structures has been spoiling human existence for more than one generation, so this unfavorable process has been studied quite widely. Corrosion is divided into several classifications.
Electrochemical rusting
Rust stains occur on two different metals connected to each other when, for example, moist air enters the place of their contact. Metals have different electrochemical potentials, thereby forming a galvanic material. An element with a lower redox potential begins to corrode. This property is especially evident at welds, near bolts and rivets.
Protection of building structures and equipment from corrosion of this type of influence, as a rule, involves the use of galvanization. In the composition of a metal element and zinc, the zinc element should undergo rusting, but this does not happen, since an oxide film appears, which regulates and slows down the negative process.
Chemical rust
Such rusting occurs in cases where the metal comes into contact with an aggressive environment, but no electrochemical reaction occurs. A clear example of a chemical interaction is the appearance of scale when a metal compound reacts with oxygen in the air at extreme temperatures.
SNiP norms and rules
The protection of building structures from corrosion has been considered since the inception of the project. All financial losses concentrated on the protection of metal structures are already included in the price component of the product. In SNiP such methods of protecting equipment from corrosion are called constructive. The main task of methods for protecting metal structures is the selection of components that can protect the metal environment from an aggressive environment.
In addition to choosing a special application for metal products, SNiP also recommends ways to rationally use metal structures:
- elimination of cracks and other defects in the surface of the structure, in which condensation or some dangerous temperature region may form, leading to the loss of the properties of the anti-corrosion coating;
- preservation of metal structures from exposure to water;
- introduction into extreme environments of substances that slow down the undesirable course of physical and chemical processes.
Download SNiP 2.03.11-85 “Protection of building structures from corrosion”
Methods of preservation
Rusting of metals leads to multimillion-dollar losses. The main damage lies in the significant cost of components destroyed by rust. Therefore, there are special ways to protect structures and equipment from corrosion.
There are three methods of preservation:
- structural;
- inactive;
- active.
The constructive method involves the introduction of alloys of various metals, the use of insulating rubber gaskets and materials to block the corrosive environment.
Protection of building structures and equipment from corrosion involves electrochemical protective mechanisms. Active methods of protection and anti-corrosion are aimed at modifying the structure of the double electrical layer. A constant electric field is applied to the metal to be protected to increase its electrode potential. In practice, a material “sacrifice” in the form of an anode is also used. This material is more active and will degrade, protecting the required structure.
Methods of protecting structures and equipment from corrosion are noted, for example, using zinc:
- Hot galvanizing. This metal processing of structures requires careful and thorough preparation of the surface, namely cleaning from oxides and sandblasting. The prepared structure is placed in a tank with zinc melt. Next, the part is rotated, and when the thin zinc layer hardens, a smooth surface with a good degree of anti-corrosion protection emerges.
- Electrogalvanic reception. This method of anti-corrosion protection of metal structures takes a significant amount of time. First, the steel structure is lowered into a reservoir of electrolyte. An electrical cable is connected to the part and the zinc product. Both cables are connected to DC current. Thanks to diffusion (the process of matter transfer), zinc ions are deposited on the steel part. This creates a small layer of zinc that is bonded to the metal at the molecular level.
- Thermal diffusion. The procedure is quite complex and requires special equipment. The steel product is placed in a heating furnace, into which zinc dust is supplied. All this happens at temperatures above 300 degrees Celsius. With this factor, zinc molecules begin to melt, and this allows them to penetrate even into the thickness of the metal. Such anti-corrosion treatments are effective as metal structures treated with this method can withstand even extreme environments. Weld seam protection will be at a high level.
Non-active (passive) protection of metal structures is the use of various varnishes, paints, enamels that isolate metals from interaction with the external atmosphere. Protective coatings can be applied to metal surfaces in different ways. Galvanizing, for example, is carried out in a hot shop and by spraying. You can paint with enamel elements using a roller, spray, or brush.
Preparing the metal surface
The metal preparation process includes several stages:
- cleaning the surface from lubricating liquids and previously applied coatings with brushes, scrapers, or washing with water under high pressure of 210 bar;
- the use of organic solvents to degrease the surface;
- getting rid of scale by thermal, chemical or mechanical methods;
- drying the cleaned surface;
- dust removal, that is, blowing with clean air to remove dust.
New methods of protection
Anti-corrosion components are constantly being improved. New methods of corrosion protection and the emergence of fresh ideas for metal processing are simplifying the application process.
Coating ferrocontaining elements with paints and varnishes is considered the most affordable method of protection. But it is worth noting that the protective layer will need to be updated once every five years, which requires a lot of labor effort. Galvanic and electrochemical treatment of metal structures against corrosion also has some drawback - it is expensive. There are modern rust protection technologies available not only to large production enterprises, but to ordinary consumers.
Fire protection of metal structures helps prevent complete destruction of the structure in the event of a fire. Fire is a threat not only to wood, but also to metal. Due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, the internal structure of the material begins to change, resulting in deformations and a decrease in the strength of the product. That is why the services of our company’s specialists are relevant for individuals and organizations.
In case of fire, a steel structure without a protective layer has a fire resistance limit of no more than a quarter of an hour. Fire protection of metal by applying special paint helps to increase the potential significantly - from 30 minutes to 4 hours. Specialists apply a heat-insulating coating to the work surfaces that can withstand high temperatures and flames. The services of the company's employees are appropriate for the protection of civil and industrial facilities.
What methods of fire retardant treatment of metal structures do we use?
Traditional fire protection methods include brick lining and plastering with special cement-based compounds. Also for these purposes, cladding with asbestos, plasterboard and other materials is used. By resorting to constructive methods of protecting metal structures from flames, it is possible to increase the cross-section of steel products by creating an additional layer. The time fire resistance limit increases from half an hour to 200 minutes (indicators vary depending on the thickness and other characteristics of the metal, as well as the mortar layer).
A modern method of protecting metal structures involves the use of special paints. Such compositions have a number of undeniable advantages: they do not weigh down the structure, can be easily restored after damage, and also have a long service life. It is also worth noting the decorative and aesthetic functions that fire retardant paints are also not deprived of. Our company’s specialists use materials of various colors and shades, choosing a composition to match the interior or exterior. Moreover, painted surfaces require the application of a facing layer.
Advantages of special paint:
- The design does not add weight
- Fast recovery
- Long-term operation without loss of original characteristics
- Excellent decorative and aesthetic functions
- Variety of colors
- It is possible to apply facing materials
Paints can be intumescent or non-intumescent. If we talk about intumescent compositions, then it is worth mentioning an important characteristic - the composition, with intense and prolonged heating, increases in thickness tens of times, and inert gases are released. Thanks to this, a foam layer of non-flammable substances is formed. The unique properties of intumescent paints make it possible to improve the fire-resistant qualities of treated steel structures. That is why, during prolonged exposure to flame, load-bearing metal structures retain their original strength and strength potential.
When choosing a method for processing metal structures, craftsmen pay attention to the following factors: fire-technical characteristics of a particular object, practical and aesthetic requirements, temperature and humidity levels, as well as the type and purpose of the structural element.
Fireproof materials used and metal structures processed
Applying fire retardant paint to metal surfaces is a mandatory procedure in a number of circumstances. Processing of metal structures is required for load-bearing and supporting units, steel elements that are necessary in the structure of a building or structure. For an operation such as fire protection of metal structures, the project serves as the starting point, since the work begins with documentation. Design is carried out taking into account the individual characteristics of the object.
Our employees apply paint to various steel elements:
- Beams, purlins and trusses
- Support columns
- Guide structures for fire walls
- Flights of stairs (partially or completely made of metal)
- GKL metal structures, provided that the support beams are covered with plasterboard materials in order to increase the strength characteristics
To impart fire-retardant properties to metal structures, professionals use various compositions and materials. Paints and varnishes are used most often, as they are capable of creating effective protection for metal during prolonged exposure to flame. Metal structures are painted with a spray gun (if the surface area to be treated is large) or with hand tools - a brush and roller. The mixtures are applied by hand as this job requires a high level of professionalism and skill.
Plaster mixtures are also often used to impart the necessary protective qualities to steel structures. Load-bearing structures are treated with vermiculite-based compounds. Low thermal conductivity and insignificant mass of the plaster mixture position the material favorably when it is necessary to carry out the work in question. The plaster layer has impressive operational potential and is capable of creating reliable protection without the formation of cracks.
It is allowed to manufacture a protective housing. A team of specialists uses plasterboard or gypsum fiber sheets. If the room is assigned fire resistance class 1 or 2, additional processing of the profile will be required. Each of the methods is worthy of attention, but the most popular method involves the use of paint and varnish. Fire protection of metal structures, price, sequence of work - find out everything from the company manager or on the website.
How we carry out fire protection work on metal structures
As in the process of solving any important tasks, applying special fire retardant compounds to the surface of metal structures involves following the established algorithm. First of all, the working surface is prepared. At this stage, the surface is cleaned of debris, dust and rust. Next, the specialist applies a primer, after which he prepares a composition suitable for the characteristics of a particular metal structure. Then the prepared composition is applied to the surface of the structure.
The company's employees use methods of airless spraying of intumescent paints using special equipment. Fire retardant coatings are applied to the surface of metal structures in several layers, and each of them requires time to dry. The duration of technological drying depends on the properties of the material used for metal processing.
During work, our employees always adhere to safety rules, performing operations in accordance with established standards and requirements. Thanks to a responsible approach to work, company employees can guarantee long-term operation of the applied coating without loss of original characteristics and protective properties.
Unused materials are subject to mandatory disposal in accordance with technology requirements. Special places are used for this. A mandatory measure is the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) for visual and respiratory safety.
Formation of the cost of services for the treatment of metal with fire protection
Calculating the cost of fire protection involves a lot of nuances. For our company’s services, which include fire protection of metal structures, the price is calculated taking into account the complexity and volume of work to be done, the amount of consumables and some other characteristics of a specific order.
To estimate the cost and implement it, you will need the following information: the fire resistance limit of the metal (set by an experienced employee), the type of fire retardant composition (also determined by a company employee), the timing and schedule of work. Fire protection of metal structures (price per m2 is indicated on the website in the table) is a mandatory procedure in a number of circumstances. With the help of the operation in question, it is possible to protect the integrity of buildings and structures in the event of a fire.
| Types of work | Unit measurements | Price, rub |
| Preparing the surface for fire protection and degreasing, priming the surface with GF-021 primer and/or analogues | m2 | from 90 |
| Fire retardant treatment up to fire resistance limit R30 (application of fire retardant paints using airless spraying) | m2 | from 310 |
| Fire retardant treatment up to fire resistance limit R60 (application of fire retardant paints using airless spraying) | m2 | from 430 |
| Fire retardant treatment up to fire resistance limit R90 (application of fire retardant paints using airless spraying) | m2 | from 830 |
| Coating with structural fire retardants and coatings up to fire resistance limit R90 | m2 | from 830 |
| Coating with structural fire retardant compounds and coatings up to fire resistance limit R120 | m2 | from 930 |
| Coating with structural fire retardant compounds and coatings up to fire resistance limit R150 | m2 | from 1000 |
| Coating with structural fire retardant compounds and coatings up to fire resistance limit R180 | m2 | from 1100 |
| Coating with structural fire retardant compounds and coatings up to fire resistance limit R240 | m2 | from 1200 |
Advantages of the company and services for processing metal structures
Our company produces a set of fire protection measures for metal structures on a turnkey basis. We work in Moscow and the Moscow region, offering high-quality service according to the terms specified in the contract and agreed with the client. The company guarantees high-quality results from the work of its specialists for many years. Specialists create design documentation in accordance with the characteristics and features of a particular facility, and each project is coordinated with representatives of the Ministry of Emergency Situations or VNIIPO.
By contacting our company, you get more than you expect:
- Loyal and flexible pricing policy
- We use exclusively high-quality, certified compounds and paints
- Discounts and special offers possible
- Wide selection of modern materials
- SRO approval for design and construction, license from the Ministry of Emergency Situations, allowing to carry out activities in the field of fire protection of metal structures
- Departure of a specialist for calculations
- It is possible to carry out work in the conditions of facilities under construction or in operation (also in buildings under reconstruction)
- Work is carried out at any time of the day (if necessary)
The company's staff consists of qualified craftsmen with many years of experience in the field in question. We carry out professional activities of any type in Moscow and the capital region. The organization’s pricing policy allows us to obtain high-quality results for many years at optimal prices. Professionals have the necessary buildings and experience, tools and materials at their disposal. Contact us by phone or leave a request for a manager’s call back on the company’s website. When you contact us, be prepared to receive state-of-the-art service with a guarantee of quality and durability.
