Sunday, June 16, 2013

Key Benefits Of Fire Retardant Coatings

By Odessa Edwards


The loss of a loved one through dormitory, office or residential home fires is very unfortunate and disorienting for most families. The news of a way to cub this even to a smaller extent is therefore welcomed. For instance, products like fire retardant coatings can suppress fire and in turn save the structures and the occupants within.

The working principle of the paint is based on its ability to reduce in density but increase in volume whenever there is fire or temperatures of about one hundred fifty degrees Celsius. The increase in volume forms an insulation with poor heat conductivity hence protecting the structure as the flames are being put out by firefighters. Moreover, there is sufficient time for people to vacate the affected before the combustion can start (which is only possible at over four hundred degrees Celsius).

With such importance, it is better to know the available types of fire resistant coatings. There are two classifications i. E. Based on their components or what they act on. For instance, some of them include; facing fire retardant paint and concrete coatings. Still under this category, there is the tunnel, cable steel and wood coat paints. This type of classification, as mentioned before, is based on the structure being protected by the paint.

On the other hand, there is the water based acrylic elastomeric coatings suited for water resistance and flexibility. Broad spectrum flame retardant paints with ability to significantly reduce the flammability of the substrate and the PVC intumescent coating are additional types under the category. The later is suited for use on both interior and exterior structures. Still, there is the Latex coating and clear reducer, which are good for steel structures such as trusses, tubes or steel columns and reducing viscosity respectively.

Choosing the right product is of paramount importance when it comes to these coatings. Primarily, one should buy brand paints either from the manufacturer or reliable stores to prevent being duped by unscrupulous businessmen. Since financial prudence dictates that one saves on the cost of doing virtually anything, it is only wiser to buy economical paints but with broader use.

You should consequently compare prices and only settle on the most affordable or one with discounted rates. It is also paramount that your health and safety be considered while choosing the type of coating paint. For instance, you should not buy products with fumes, that are toxic and with odor.

In other words, buy environmental friendly paints, especially the ones with industry certifications such as ASTM. The paint should also be easy to use (it should not require special tools to use). Lastly, it should be free from halogens and chlorine.

One may ask what the benefits of fire retardant coatings are. Well, they suppress the production of toxic gases from burning structure thus saving people from unnecessary deaths. On the other hand these products can greatly improve the performance of wood structures without forgetting that they can contain flames long enough to allow the inhabitant of the building to escape. Finally, they are convenient as you can use them anywhere.




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