Fire Protection of Steel

Question 1

At what temperature does steel rapidly lose strength?

Answer 1

above 500-600 degrees F

Question 2

At what temperature does steel lose all strength?

Answer 2

1,600 degrees F

Question 3

What role does fireproofing play in steel?

Answer 3

fireproofing acts as insulation, protecting structural steel from the heat

Question 4

What’s driving the need to provide fire protection for structural steel?

Answer 4

the IBC

Question 5

What is the difference between active and passive fire protection?

Answer 5

• active: a fire protection system that requires some type of action in order to work in a fire event
• passive: a fire protection system that utilizes fire-resistant construction to limit the spread of fire or protect structural members

Question 6

Name six common methods of fire protection for steel.

Answer 6

• concrete encased
• plaster covered
• gypsum board enclosure
• spray-applied insulation
• loose insulation with column cover
• concrete filled

Question 7

What are two less common methods of fire protection for steel?

Answer 7

• fire resistant insulation blankets

- intumescent coatings

Question 8

What is the time rating for drywall?

Answer 8

two hours

Question 9

What is the most common method of fire protection for steel?

Answer 9

spray-applied fire-resistive material (SFRM)

Question 10

What is the least expensive method of fire protection for steel?

Answer 10

spray-applied fire-resistive material (SFRM)

Question 11

How does spray-applied fire-resistive material (SFRM) function?

Answer 11

insulates the steel from high temps for a long period of time

Question 12

Which steel members are not required to be fire protected?

Answer 12

bracing