Author: FGF Technical
Structural steel is one of the most widely used construction materials in commercial buildings due to its strength, speed of construction and design flexibility. However, during a fire, unprotected steel can rapidly lose its load-bearing capacity as temperatures increase.
Passive fire protection systems are designed to protect structural steel by delaying the rise in temperature, helping maintain structural stability for a specified period and allowing occupants time to evacuate safely.
Fire protection boards remain one of the most commonly specified methods of protecting structural steel across commercial, residential and industrial construction projects.
Although steel is non-combustible, it loses strength as temperatures rise.
During a fire, exposed steelwork can reach critical temperatures where its structural performance is significantly reduced, potentially leading to deformation or collapse.
Protecting structural steel helps to:
The level of protection required depends on the building design, occupancy and required fire resistance period.
Fire protection boards create an insulating barrier around steel columns and beams.
During a fire, the boards slow the transfer of heat to the steelwork, helping maintain its structural integrity for the required fire resistance period.
Depending on the tested system, board solutions can provide protection for:
Products should always be specified as part of a tested construction and installed in accordance with manufacturer guidance.
Fire protection board systems are widely used within:
Protecting structural frames within office developments and mixed-use buildings.
Supporting fire compartmentation and structural protection within schools, colleges and universities.
Providing robust passive fire protection for hospitals and healthcare environments.
Protecting structural steelwork within apartment buildings and high-rise residential schemes.
Suitable for warehouses, manufacturing facilities and plant rooms where enhanced fire protection is required.
Several factors should be considered when specifying fire protection for structural steel.
These include:
Early engagement with manufacturers and suppliers helps ensure the correct system is selected.
Many fire protection board systems can be precision fabricated before arriving on site.
By machining components to project-specific dimensions, contractors can benefit from:
FGF provides CNC machining and fabrication services to help contractors receive components ready for installation.
FGF supplies fire protection boards from leading manufacturers together with precision fabrication services for projects throughout the UK.
Our capability includes:
Whether supporting a commercial office, education project or infrastructure scheme, FGF works with contractors to improve installation efficiency while maintaining consistent product quality.
Whether you're protecting structural steel within a commercial development or specifying passive fire protection for a complex construction project, FGF can provide technical guidance, specialist fabrication and nationwide supply.
Contact our team to discuss your project requirements.