Interior
Application is performed through a three step process.
- The first step of the intumescent system is the application of a compatible steel primer to the steel substrate.
- Next, the intumescent base coat is applied to the primed steel substrate to the required thickness. This layer provides the fire protection to the structural member.
- Finally, a decorative and protective top coat may be applied over the installed intumescent coating. This finish coat can be any color and gloss level and should be a material that will protect the intumescent coating against high humidity and other potentially harsh interior environmental conditions, while providing a smooth, attractive, architectural finish.
Exterior
Application is performed through a four step, process.
- The first step of the intumescent system is the application of a compatible steel primer to the steel substrate.
- Next, the intumescent base coat is applied to the primed steel substrate to the required thickness. This layer provides the actual fire protection to the member.
- Then, SprayFilm WB 4 / ISOLATEK Type WB 4 is coated with two coats of SprayFilm Topseal.
- Finally, a decorative and protective top coat shall be applied over the installed Topseal. The exterior finish coat can be any color and gloss level and must be specifically approved for use by Isolatek International. This exterior finish coat will protect the SprayFilm WB 4 system, while providing a smooth, attractive, architectural finish.
Products
In order to obtain optimal results, the following spray equipment setup for Isolatek Type Intumescent Coatings is required:
- Use standard shielded drywall mixing paddle or Jiffy style mixer for 3-5 minutes prior to use, depending upon material temperature.
- Use a pneumatic, electric or gas powered airless spray pump operating with a minimum fluid pressure of 3,000 psi (227 bar, 22.7 Mpa) and 1.25 gpm (4.73 lpm).
- Remove all filters and rock catcher screens. A direct immersion pump is recommended.
- High pressure hose, rated to exceed pump capacity, minimum 3/8 in. (10mm) I. D. hose. Hose length is dependent on pump type being used. Optional 1/4 in. (6mm) whip hose is allowed at a maximum length of 2 ft. (0.61 m) Remove all in-line filters. Maximum hose lengths are dependent upon the application equipment being used.
- Reversible type spray tip. Tip size minimum is 221 and maximum is 431.
- For brush application, use a high-grade soft bristle latex paint brush. Brush lightly in one direction using as few strokes as possible.
- For use only with CAFCO SprayFilm WB 3 / ISOLATEK Type WB 3 Trowel Grade (TG), use a straight edge trowel to apply to a smooth even finish.
The information contained herein is not intended to replace a thorough understanding of Isolatek application guidelines. For further information on all application methods contact Isolatek International or one of our business partners.
Wet Film Gauge
Dry Film Gauge
All structural steel to be coated with CAFCO® SprayFilm® / ISOLATEK® Type Intumescent Coatings must first be primed with an approved primer. The primed surface must be free from any grease, oil, dirt, loose mill scale, rust or any other contaminant that would inhibit the bonding of the product to the primer. The primer must be fully cured in accordance with the primer manufacturer’s application instructions before application.
Specific approved primers can be located within our approved primer list.
Proper adhesion of CAFCO SprayFilm / ISOLATEK Type Intumescent Coatings depends on clean substrates. Make certain that the following conditions do not exist before application:
- Unprimed steel
- Unapproved or unknown primer
- Oil, dirt, grease, rust or mill scale
- Old chalked or oxidized paint
- Poorly primed steel, i.e. rust bleed through
- Galvanized steel
- Condensation
- Over-cured or under-cured primer
- Zinc-Rich Primers
The direct application of Intumescent Coatings over zinc-rich primers and galvanized steel without the use of an approved barrier (key coat or prime coat) is not allowed. An approved key coat or prime coat must be applied in accordance with the specific manufacturer’s instructions.
The finish quality of the product is dependent on the quality of the surface to which it is being applied. All substrate blemishes should be repaired prior to initial application of product.
The information contained herein is not intended to replace a thorough understanding of Isolatek application guidelines. For further information on all application methods contact Isolatek International or one of our business partners.
Maintenance of Intumescent Fire Resistive Materials (IFRMs)
Intumescent Fireproofing, also known as Intumescent Fire Resistive Materials (IFRMs), is designed to provide hourly fire resistance ratings to the structural steel framework of a building. Routine inspection of IFRMs ensures that the product will be in-place for the design life of the structure and will perform in actual building fire conditions.
IFRMs are typically specified and installed in areas where structural steel columns and beams will be exposed to view and where high amounts of foot traffic and contact are prevalent, due to their ability to resist damage, impact and abrasion. Severe impacts to IFRMs caused by the operation of heavy equipment, transportation of goods, etc. may damage the IFRM and if so, will require inspection and remediation in those areas.
The procedures outlined below are intended as a guide for the inspection of IFRMs while conducting your periodic maintenance program.
- Identify all areas throughout the structure that are subjected to severe impact. In addition, identify all areas that are susceptible to periodic or regular maintenance traffic and periodic or regular public traffic.
- Visually inspect the aforementioned areas and note all IFRM deficiencies such as material that has been damaged.
- Inspect surrounding IFRM near the damaged areas to ensure the required thicknesses are maintained.
- Identify the type of IFRM utilized to protect the structural steel framework; i.e. beams and columns. The type of IFRM can usually be determined by reviewing construction documents or by contacting IFRM Manufacturers.
- Obtain instructions from the applicable IFRM Manufacturer detailing the repair procedures.
- Secure a sufficient quantity of IFRM from the applicable Manufacturer or contact the Manufacturer for names of qualified installers of the IFRM type. Repair of the existing IFRM shall be performed in accordance with the Manufacturer’s published installation instructions.
The publication, “Technical Manual 12-B Third Edition-Standard Practice for the Testing and Inspection of Field Applied Thin-Film Fire Resistive Materials; an Annotated Guide”, developed by The Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industries (AWCI) shall be consulted for specific information on thickness testing of IFRMs. An additional reference is ASTM E2924 – “Standard Practice for Intumescent Coatings”.
It is important to note that some IFRMs require a finish coat over the surface of IFRMs approved for interior use. IFRMs that are approved for the protection of exterior structural steel generally require a multi-component finish coat system. The finish coat(s) must also be inspected and maintained in accordance with the procedures outlined above.
Additionally, IFRMs begin to react when exposed to temperatures ranging from approximately 300°F to 400°F (149°C to 205°C). Caution should be exercised when performing work near IFRMs to prevent activation of the IFRM.
Isolatek International recommends that Commercial Building Owners/Managers develop and implement a comprehensive plan detailing a Periodic Inspection and Maintenance Program for IFRMs. Should you have further questions pertaining to this matter, please contact the Isolatek International Technical Service Department at 800.631.9600, extension 269.
Specifications Assistance
Provides the design professional with assistance in generating the most current, accurate, and comprehensive construction specifications.
Support
Our unsurpassed technical support and recognized applicator network.
