Picture 1.2- Integrated Structural Steel Members

1.2 Existing Fire Protection Methods

1.2.1 Light Steel Framed Buildings

Fire protection systems for light steel framed buildings can be maintained by integrated structural member systems, insulating boards or suspended ceiling assemblies.

1.2.1.1 Integrated Structural Steel Members

Concerning the fire safety of light gauge steel systems, it is observed that the load bearing studs are embedded into the wall and floor assemblies so that the steel building achieves a considerable amount of fire protection system as a result of this structural assembly. It is a real advantage to be able to use the ceiling and wall boards (e.g., gypsum boards) that can protect the column and beam studs against a fire case for up to two hours depending upon the fire ratings and thickness of these covering materials.

1.2.1.1.1 Insulating Wall Boards

Gypsum-based boards, mineral fibre boards or covers made with light aggregates like perlite or fibre silicate are the insulating materials that can supply the required structural fire protection for steel members.

Picture 1.3- Insulating Wall Boards

1.2.1.1.2   

Suspended Ceilings

Suspended ceilings can be used as a fire insulation layer acting as a protective cover on the bottom face of the floor beams. Their fire rating values must be known prior to design and use. Rock wool or mineral wool insulation materials can be used in ceiling or floor member cavities which are quite fire resistant. On the other hand, suspended ceilings also can be used to hide the plumbing materials of the buildings.

1.2.2 Hot Rolled Steel Framed Buildings

Fire protection methods used for hot rolled steel framed buildings can be mainly defined as passive and active protection systems.

1.2.1.1 Active Fire Protection Methods

Both the water filling system for the structural hollow members and the water sprinklers can used as active fire protection methods.

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