"Fire-rated steel" refers to structural or door steel components that have been enhanced with fireproofing to delay the loss of strength and integrity during a fire, allowing more time for evacuation and firefighting efforts. While steel is inherently non-combustible and has a high melting point, its strength decreases significantly at high temperatures. Therefore, passive fire protection methods like applying intumescent paints or external insulation are applied to meet building codes and achieve specific fire-resistance ratings, typically expressed in hours.
Why Steel Needs Fireproofing
Non-Combustible Nature: Steel does not burn or feed a fire, unlike wood.
High Melting Point: Steel melts at around 2,500°F, but its structural strength significantly degrades at much lower temperatures, around 800°F (427°C), and by 1,300°F (704°C), it retains only about 20% of its yield strength.
Building Codes: Building codes require fireproofing for steel to ensure a building remains stable and to provide time for occupants to escape safely during a fire.
How Steel is Fire-Rated
Fire-rated steel is achieved through various passive fire protection methods, including:
Intumescent Coatings:
These special paints expand when exposed to heat, creating an insulating layer that protects the steel.
External Insulation:
Spray-on fireproofing materials are commonly used to form a thick, protective barrier around the steel.
Internal Insulation:
For hollow steel sections (HSS), insulation can be applied internally to increase the steel's temperature-rise rate.
Covering or Cladding:
The steel can be covered with materials that provide fire resistance.
Fire-Resistance Ratings
Testing Standards:
Fireproofing is tested to standards like ASTM E119/UL 263 to determine its fire-resistance rating.
Rating Duration:
The most common fire ratings are for 1, 2, 3, or 4 hours, indicating how long the protected steel can withstand a fire while maintaining its structural integrity.
AISC:
Certified American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) structural steel fabricators are qualified to meet fireproofing needs.
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