A new coating is changing the face of fire protection for steel structures with its ultra rapid drying process and high durability pushing the boundaries of technology.
The FIRETEX FX6000 intumescent fire protection coating from Sherwin-Williams enables drying in one hour, speeding up projects and output through the shop for coating applicators.
The lasting durability of up to 20 years, improved adhesion and hardness - whilst retaining its aesthetic appearance - are added benefits to the marketplace for the protection of steel beams, columns and braces used in major building projects.
This also enables quality of application within a shop environment, rigorous inspection and a reduction in the time spent working at height for applicators.
The fire protection performance of the patented FIRETEX FX6000 technology is independently certified under Exova Warringtonfire’s Certifire scheme and in durability testing under ETAG 18 Part 2 it meets the requirements for Type X, internal, semi-exposed and exposed locations.
Rick Perkins, FIRETEX Project Development Manager for Sherwin-Williams Protective & Marine Coatings Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), said: “This technology means there is a much faster throughput in the shop, less mechanical handling damage and the potential to save costs on heating in the shop.
“We have listened to our customers who want quicker drying times to speed up projects and make further project efficiencies.”
Trials have already proved successful, and customers are starting to use the technology for the first time on major projects.
Sherwin-Williams has supplied its diverse range of fire protection coatings to a number of landmark construction and engineering projects including London’s The Shard, and Azerbaijan’s Flame Towers, and the Leadenhall Building, known as ‘The Cheesegrater’ because of its iconic shape.