Fire protection of structural steel: Design considerations for steel members, joints and connections

While steel is non-combustible, it loses its loadbearing capacity when heated above certain temperatures. Careful and informed planning is needed when it comes to protecting steel-framed structures from the effects of fire exposure. This means knowing how and when to incorporate fire protection systems – vermiculite sprays, board encasement systems, and intumescent coatings – to ensure structural integrity and safety.

In Fire Protection of Structural Steel: Design Considerations for Steel Members, Joints and Connections, we provide essential guidance on the regulations, standards and design considerations impacting the choice of fire protection for structural steel. We cover the relevant fire resistance requirements in the National Construction Code and the relevance of AS 4100:2020 “Steel structures” in the design of steel structures. We discuss the primary considerations when choosing a fire protection system. We also highlight common design scenarios relating to the fire protection of joints and connections in steel-framed buildings that should not be overlooked.

For more than 60 years, Promat has led the global industry in sophisticated fire science and passive fire protection strategies. In Australia, Promat has earned a reputation for reliable, unrivalled fire performance across a breadth of sectors and project types. Promat’s range of products includes a suite of passive fire protection products for structural steel, including PROMATECT® boards, CAFCO® sprays and intumescent coating systems.