Protective metal treatment against fire is an event that allows you to maintain the structural strength of metal elements under high temperature conditions. In extreme situations, metal heats up quickly and loses its bearing properties, which can lead to the collapse of buildings and structures. Flame retardant treatment prevents such consequences by extending the time required for evacuation and fire extinguishing.
The main ways to protect metal structures from fire
There are several methods of fire protection of metal, the choice of which depends on the specifics of the object, operating conditions and the required level of protection.
- Installation of protective screens and insulation systems.
Special fire-resistant panels or suspended ceilings are mounted on metal structures, which serve as a barrier to heat. This method is used for rooms with high fire safety requirements. - Filling structures with flame retardant.
The cavities of the metal elements are filled with a special coolant that slows down heating and reduces the likelihood of deformation when exposed to fire. - Application of flame retardants.
Special coatings are applied to the metal surface, which form an insulating layer that prevents rapid heating. This is one of the most popular methods of protection, as it provides long-term effectiveness and ease of use.
Types of flame retardant coatings
Flame retardants are divided into two main groups:
- Non-volatile coatings.
They are created on the basis of silicates or liquid glass. These materials form a durable protective layer that is resistant to high temperatures. They are used in facilities where the durability of the coating is important. - Bulging coatings.
When heated, the paints of this group increase in volume, creating a porous thermal insulation layer. Such a coating can increase in thickness up to 70 times, which significantly reduces heat transfer to the metal.
Stages of flame retardant treatment
To achieve maximum protection efficiency, metal structures are processed in several stages:
- Surface preparation.
Rust, old coatings and dirt are removed. For this purpose, grinding machines or metal brushes are used. - Dust removal and degreasing.
Before applying the protective compound, the metal is cleaned of fine dust and traces of processing. - Application of an anti-corrosion primer.
This step is necessary to prevent metal corrosion, especially in conditions of high humidity. - Application of a flame retardant coating.
The composition is applied with a brush, roller or using a spray gun. The thickness of the layer depends on the type of paint and fire safety requirements. - Checking the quality of the coating.
After drying, the layer is inspected for defects such as gaps or irregularities. If required, a second layer is applied.
The advantages of professional fire protection
High-quality flame retardant treatment provides the metal with resistance to fire, minimizing the risks of structural failure. To ensure reliability, it is recommended to contact qualified specialists who comply with all technological stages and requirements of regulatory documents.
Fire protection of metal structures is an investment in the safety of the building and the people in it. Properly executed processing allows you to maintain the structural integrity of the object even in the most critical situations.