2024 Author: Howard Calhoun | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 10:16
Metal and steel structures, like other construction projects, need protection from fire. Fire extinguishers are used to prevent fire and limit the spread of fire. One of them is fire retardant paints. In everyday life, such protective measures are rarely resorted to, but in industrial construction they are mandatory.
Why protect metal structures from fire
At first glance, it may seem that structures made of metal and steel do not need protection from fire, since these materials are not prone to ignite. However, in practice things are somewhat different. Open fire in a matter of minutes leads to the incandescence of structures, which accelerates the process of flame propagation. Moreover, at critically high temperatures (from 500°C) the metal loses its strength characteristics, which can lead to structural failure.
Metal fire retardant paints take on the followingfeatures:
- reduce the rate of fire spread;
- give extra time to evacuate people.
The structure, which is coated with fire-resistant paint, is able to withstand fire for up to 1.5 hours. This method of protection is most often resorted to, since it gives an excellent result and is considered a budget option due to its low price.
Paint application steps
Fire-retardant paint is applied to metal structures in stages. The protective agent itself differs from those used in everyday life by a complex chemical composition. Such paints should be applied in several layers.
Fireproof paint application is carried out in several stages:
1. Preparing the surface to be protected.
2. Priming.
3. Applying paint.
4. Applying the finish coat.
Surface preparation
At the initial stage, attention is paid to the preparation of the surface to be treated. Failure to carry out preliminary work may result in the fire retardant paint not protecting the product from fire. Cleaning of metal structures can be carried out mechanically and chemically.
Mechanical cleaning is carried out manually or using abrasive tools. Sandblasting is also used.
As for chemical cleaning, this method involves the use of rust converters and old paint removers. After the surface cleaning work is completed, it must bedegrease to improve adhesion.
Applying primer
Priming the surface to be painted protects the metal structure from corrosion and improves the adhesion of the paint to the metal itself. It is extremely important to pay due attention to the choice of primer composition and at the same time focus on the conditions in which the structure will be operated. The quality of the primer also plays a significant role. It is necessary to give preference to the composition, which is made according to GOST. Poor-quality materials take longer to dry, and under the influence of a flame, they deform and begin to flake off soon.
Applying a primer layer is only permissible on a prepared surface that has been previously cleaned and degreased. After the primer is applied, you can start painting.
Apply fireproof paint
When applying fire retardant paints, follow the manufacturer's instructions, observe the thickness of each layer and adhere to the drying time for each. If you do not deviate from the prescriptions, cracking and swelling of the applied agent can be prevented.
One of the following tools can be used to apply flame retardant paint:
- brush;
- roller;
- spray gun;
- airless sprayer.
The paint apparatus allows you to apply the composition evenly, reduces paint consumption bylarge areas. This application method saves a lot of time. As for the use of spray guns and spray guns, they are resorted to in case of work on a small area
Colouring by hand with a roller or brush is relevant when the surface has an intricate relief. This also applies to thin pipes, stair railings.
Protective coating application
To extend the life of fire retardant paints, make the coating more resistant to moisture or change its color, you can apply a protective coating. Finishing is carried out using a composition that contains components that provide moisture resistance and abrasion resistance.
Protection measures
Flame retardant paint for metal may vary in composition. If there is a solvent in it, it is necessary to carry out work in a room with open windows. Fire-fighting agents should be applied by people who have the appropriate skills and special equipment.
Quality fire retardant paints do not emit toxic substances after drying, so you should not follow any safety measures regarding their operation.
Recommended:
Thinner for oil paints: characteristics, reviews
Construction oil paint can be thickly ground or ready to use. With thickened ones, a solvent for oil paints is necessarily used. Enamels of this type are mixed in a certain proportion with a solvent liquid. This is necessary if the paint is dry or will be used as a primer. A suitable thinner is selected based on the characteristics of the surface to be painted and absorbent properties
Fire fighting. Automatic fire extinguishing system
Fire has been used by people since ancient times, but it is not always possible to contain it within a limited framework. But the flame is considered an element, which is sometimes difficult to stop. To ensure safety, an automatic fire extinguishing system is used. At the same time, there are several types of such equipment, which have their own characteristics
Fire alarm and fire extinguishing installation
The article is devoted to the fire alarm and fire extinguishing system. The technologies for installing the main components of such systems are considered
The fire column is an important part of the fire extinguishing system
To extinguish fires, you need access to the nearest water supply network, in a modern fire-fighting system it is provided by special hydrants and columns installed on them
What kind of fire extinguishers can be used to extinguish electrical installations in case of fire?
Burning electrical wiring is extremely dangerous. Therefore, fire extinguishers must be effective enough to extinguish it. This point is important for any organization or enterprise equipped with electrical installations. Fire safety regulations require fire extinguishers. What should they be? Consider what kind of fire extinguishers you can extinguish electrical installations, taking into account their characteristics and the current state of the power grid
