Metal structures are widely used in the construction of industrial, commercial, and public facilities due to their strength, versatility, and speed of installation. However, metal has a significant drawback: low fire resistanceWhen exposed to high temperatures, steel quickly loses its load-bearing capacity, which can lead to deformation and collapse of structures within the first minutes of a fire.
That's why fire protection of metal structures is a mandatory element of building design and operation. ArtMetal (art-metal.com.ua), with experience in the manufacture and processing of metal structures, applies modern and proven fire protection methods depending on the facility's purpose and operating conditions. In this article, we will examine the main fire protection methods for metal structures, their features, and areas of application.
Why do metal structures need fire protection?
Steel doesn't burn, but its strength decreases sharply when heated above 400–500°C. At temperatures as low as 600°C, the metal loses up to 50% of its load-bearing capacity. This means that without fire protection, metal structures are unable to ensure the required evacuation time and the building's stability during a fire.
Fire protection allows:
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increase the fire resistance limit of structures;
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slow down the heating of the metal;
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maintain the load-bearing capacity for the specified period;
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improve the safety of people and property;
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comply with building and fire safety regulations.
Basic methods of fire protection of metal structures
There are several basic methods of fire protection, each of which has its own advantages and limitations.
1. Fire-retardant paints and intumescent coatings
One of the most common and technologically advanced methods of fire protection.
Operating principle
When exposed to high temperatures, fire-retardant paint expands, forming a porous, insulating layer. This layer slows the heating of the metal and prevents heat transfer.
Advantages:
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small coating thickness;
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minimal increase in structural weight;
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preservation of architectural appearance;
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possibility of application on complex shapes;
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Suitable for internal and external structures.
Flaws:
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sensitivity to mechanical damage;
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the need for precise adherence to application technology;
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limited service life without renewal.
This method is widely used in commercial and public facilities.
2. Facing with fire-protective boards
Metal structures are covered with highly fire-resistant slab materials (gypsum fiber, vermiculite or cement boards).
Advantages:
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high degree of fire resistance;
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stability of characteristics over time;
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protection from mechanical impacts.
Flaws:
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increase in the dimensions of the structure;
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complexity of installation;
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limited applicability for open elements.
Most often used in industrial and technical facilities.
3. Fire-retardant plaster compositions
A thick-layer fire-retardant solution is applied to the metal surface, which, after drying, forms a heat-insulating layer.
Advantages:
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high fire resistance;
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the ability to protect massive structures;
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relatively cost-effective for large areas.
Flaws:
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significant increase in weight;
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less aesthetic appearance;
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difficulty in repairing damaged areas.
The method is relevant for warehouses, industrial buildings and engineering structures.
4. Combined fire protection systems
In some cases, a combination of several methods is used, for example:
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fire-retardant paint + decorative coating;
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slabs + anti-corrosion protection;
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plaster + additional thermal insulation.
The combined approach allows us to take into account:
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fire resistance requirements;
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terms of Use;
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architectural features of the object.
5. Structural methods for increasing fire resistance
In addition to applying protective materials, there are design solutions:
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increasing the cross-section of metal structures;
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use of closed profiles;
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use of fire-resistant steels.
However, such methods tend to increase the cost and weight of the structure, so they are often used in combination with fire-protective coatings.
How to choose the optimal fire protection method
The choice of method depends on several factors:
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required fire resistance limit;
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type of building and its purpose;
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operating conditions (humidity, temperature, aggressive environment);
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architectural requirements;
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project budget.
IN ArtMetal Fire protection is considered as part of a comprehensive approach to the quality of metal structures, taking into account all technical and operational parameters.
The relationship between fire protection and corrosion protection
It's important to understand that fire-retardant materials don't always provide corrosion protection. Therefore, a multi-layer system is often used:
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surface preparation;
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anti-corrosion coating;
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fire protection layer;
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finishing protection (if necessary).
This approach ensures the durability of the structure without losing its fire-resistant characteristics.
Why is it important to trust fire protection to professionals?
Errors in selecting or applying fire protection materials can completely negate their effectiveness. Incorrect layer thickness, improper surface preparation, or inadequate operating conditions are common causes of ineffective protection.
Company ArtMetal uses a professional approach to working with metal structures, taking into account regulatory requirements, the specifics of the facility, and actual operating conditions.
Conclusion
Fire protection for metal structures is not an optional extra, but a necessary safety feature for modern buildings and structures. Modern fire protection methods effectively slow down the heating of metal, maintain the load-bearing capacity of structures, and gain critical time during a fire.
A competent choice of method and professional execution of work, as is practiced in ArtMetal, ensure the reliability, safety and durability of metal structures under any operating conditions.
