The use of fireproofing has increased dramatically over the past twenty years, and with a combination of advanced fireproofing technology and materials, buildings can now be protected from fire damage with virtually no chance of fire spreading to nearby structures. Advanced fireproofing technology is comprised of numerous different elements which work together to create fireproofing in a structure. These fireproofing components are commonly made out of materials such as steel and plastics. The latest advances in fireproofing technology enable building occupants to be able to withstand even the worst conditions without being harmed by the smoke, fire, heat or water produced during fire-related emergencies. By learning more about how these components work and why they are so effective in protecting your investment, you will be able to invest more confidently in future building projects.
Foam Barrier Coating
One element of fireproofing technology is a foam barrier coating. Foam barriers are typically applied directly to structures using an adhesive foam and are then combined with a fire retardant material, or a more passive resistant material. The foaming agent can be a fairly inexpensive process which yields a high degree of fire protection when properly applied, although it is important to ensure that the proper type of foams is used. A high-quality foam that meets your specific requirements should be purchased and installed by a professional fire protection engineer. The thickness of a foaming agent will depend upon the actual thickness of the structure to be protected. If the structure is too thin, foam may not be able to be applied successfully, and may even rupture and collapse under the load needed to apply it.
Intumescent Cementitious Coatings
Another type of fireproofing technology is Intumescents such as Intumescent Cementitious Coatings. These coatings offer the same fire protection as foam, but are less toxic than foam. This is because intumescent coatings have a lower toxic compound content than most foam products, meaning that the air surrounding the fireproofing will not be contaminated with harmful substances during the application process. Most fire protection engineers will recommend that intumescent coatings are applied to structures over other forms of fireproofing due to its overall safety.
Others Forms Of Fireproofing Technology
Other forms of fireproofing technology are more passive and do not alter the structure of a structure in any way, allowing for safekeeping of property even after a fire has occurred. One of these methods is made up of using steel ribs as fireproofing components. The steel ribs can either be applied directly or indirectly through the use of a coating, and the type of coating will vary depending on the application needs of the building. Some of these steel fireproofing components are permanently affixed to buildings, while others are designed to be removed, only to be reinstalled in future years.
Additionally, some fireproofing is also done through the use of steel intumescent coatings. These coatings are applied to steel structural members and to areas that are vulnerable to fire damage, such as walls and ceilings. These components will protect the structure from fire damage by dampening the burning temperature of the flame and making it less likely to spread, as well as protecting the structural members from the effects of heat. These components are often applied over a non-fireproof surface, such as floors and walls.
Some commercial buildings may have both intumescent and fireproofing material installed. This allows for a quick, less expensive fire protection solution for buildings that are protected with one type of solution or another. For example, buildings may contain exposed steel that must be fireproofed, but if there is an existing leak, the exposed steel can be replaced with fireproofing material so that the building can continue to be protected even if there is a leak.
