FAQ – Treating steel surfaces with Fontefire ST 60-1 intumescent paint

What is Fontefire ST 60-1?

The CE-marked Fontefire ST 60-1 is a waterborne intumescent paint designed to provide effective fire protection for various steel structures. The paint is certified for ‘H’ or ‘I’ shaped beams and columns and rectangular/circular hollow section columns. 

How long does Fontefire ST 60-1 provide fire protection?

In the event of a cellulosic fire, Fontefire ST 60-1 provides efficient fire protection for constructional steelwork, up to class R120 in the fire resistance classification.

How does Fontefire ST 60-1 contribute to environmental safety?

Fontefire ST 60-1 is a waterborne paint with a with very low volatile organic compound level of 0.5 g/litre of paint. It does not contain boron compounds or alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEO).

What are the key benefits of Fontefire ST 60-1?

Due to highly competitive loadings, Fontefire ST 60-1 reduces paint consumption thus saving costs and throughput time. As a one-component product, Fontefire ST 60-1 is easy to apply on site. The CE-marked Fontefire ST 60-1 is compatible with a wide range of primers and topcoats. Fontefire ST 60-1 has extremely low volatile emissions compounds thus resulting in a safer working environment.

Is Fontefire ST 60-1 suitable for exterior use?

No, Fontefire ST 60-1 is suitable for indoor use and semi exposed conditions.

How does Fontefire ST 60-1 enhance efficiency of the painting process?

Due to highly competitive loadings, Fontefire ST 60-1 reduces paint consumption thus saving costs and throughput time. In addition to that, lower loadings enable faster overcoating of painted sections. Fontefire ST 60 -1 can also be considered a cost-effective option especially for R30 fire class.

Is it possible to apply Fontefire ST 60-1 directly onto steel surfaces?

No, an approved primer is always needed. Fontefire ST 60-1 is compatible with various approved primers and topcoats, allowing for both aesthetic and protective results. Fontefire ST 60-1 can be used without topcoat in type Y environments. 

Below table shows a selection of suitable primers and topcoats for Fontefire ST 60-1, making it easy to choose the right system for your requirements. Each Fontefire ST 60-1 system for structural steel has been tested in accordance with ETA 19/0602 and can be selected based on VOC emission limits, desired aesthetics, system application and mechanical properties, or product availability.

Are there options for a completely waterborne system?

Yes, the approved primers and topcoats include also waterborne options.

How to calculate the needed dry film thickness?

We have created a calculator which helps you to select the required dry film thicknesses in mm of Fontefire ST 60-1 according to the valid European Technical Assessment (ETA). You can access the calculator here.

_{Statements and methods described herein are based upon the best information and practices known to PPG Industries, Inc. (“PPG”). Any statements or methods mentioned herein are general suggestions only and are not to be construed as representations or warranties as to safety, performance, or results. Since the suitability and performance of the product is highly dependent on the product user’s processes, operations, and numerous other user- determined conditions, the user is solely responsible for, and assumes all responsibility, risk and liability arising from, the determination of whether the product is suitable for the user’s purposes, including without limitation substrate, application process, pasteurization and/or processing, and end use. No testing, suggestions or data offered by PPG to the user shall relieve the user of this responsibility. PPG does not warrant freedom from patent infringement in the use of any formula or process set forth herein. Continuous improvements in coatings technology may cause future technical data to vary from what is in this bulletin. Contact your PPG representative for the most up to date information.}