The Science Behind Intumescent Fireproofing and How It Works
If you're looking for a fireproofing solution for your home, business, or property, intumescent coating applications might be your solution. Intumescent coatings come in the form of a paint or stain and can be applied to most surfaces. They're a great way to protect you, your family, and your property from the ever-present danger of fire.
If you want to learn more about intumescent coating applications for your home or business, Global Fireproof Solutions, Inc. is here to help. Contact us online or call (877) 751-0990 today.
What is Intumescent Fireproofing?
This distinctive fireproofing method involves the application of a paint-like or stain-like chemical, which creates a protective layer upon contact with surfaces. It represents a passive fireproofing approach, as these coatings activate without the need for manual intervention. Following application, they provide continuous, round-the-clock fire protection autonomously, requiring no external triggers.
Intumescent fireproofing is commonly administered in liquid formulations resembling paints or stains and is typically applied by spraying or brushing with no specialized equipment required. This contemporary advancement operates on the principle of controlled expansion under elevated temperatures. This expansion results in the formation of a protective char or barrier, reinforcing the substrate on which it is employed.
How Does Intumescent Fireproofing Work?
If you’ve ever burned a marshmallow over a campfire, you’ve seen an intumescent reaction firsthand! An intumescent something that swells when exposed to high heat. However, unlike marshmallows, intumescent fireproof coatings consist of a wide range of chemical compounds, including ammonium, titanium dioxide, melamine, or polyphosphates suspended in a solution. Once the solution is applied and cured, the solids left behind are ready to do their job.
If and when the intumescent layer is exposed to extreme heat, such as a fire, the chemicals inside the binder expand. As it does, the intumescent coatings physically expand and get wider and thicker, which forms a dense layer of flame-retardant char or foam. The foam then hardens, creating an additional layer of flame-retardant insulation.
While intumescent coatings do not offer indefinite flame resistance, they do provide a sufficient window to contact emergency services and initiate your sprinkler system to help extinguish the fire. To enhance protective measures, the option exists to apply multiple layers of intumescent coatings, thereby establishing supplementary fireproof barriers.
Places to Use Intumescent Fireproofing
The advantageous aspect of intumescent fireproof coatings lies in their versatility, as they can be applied to safeguard a wide array of materials. Ranging from the interiors of residential or commercial spaces to external components like siding, wood, stone, or steel facades, intumescent coatings exhibit strong adherence and comprehensive protection across diverse substrates.
To ensure you have the correct intumescent fireproofing application, Global Fireproof Solutions is here to help. We offer solutions and services for steel, wood, flooring, lumber, plastics, fabrics, textiles, and more. Whether you need factory or field applications, we're the team to call! Call (877) 751-0990 today.