Fire awareness has become a consuming issue for those in the building supply chain. Measures to slow spread of fire are vital and retardant finishes are likely to be specified far more now.
Safety is a priority
Intumescent paint lacquers are available for wood, providing a clear finish that also preserves the appearance of the grain.
Specialist autospray machines are needed to allow precise, even application and ‘weight’ of applied lacquers such as Xerofire, a leading high-performance furniture grade lacquer system that will upgrade a non fire-rated timber substrate to BS476 Part 6 & 7 Class 0 and Class 1, and also achieve top rating (Euro Class B s1-d0) in the European Fire Standards EN13501-1 on all wood substrates including veneered MDF.
The time and temperature between applying the prime coat and the finish coat is also a major factor in achieving a certified Class 0 panel. When direct intense heat is applied, the protective coat bubbles to provide a shield, stopping oxygen reaching the substrate.
Bespoke furniture manufacturer Crown Sports Lockers’ autospray finishing line can provide wooden lockers featuring Class 0 materials, designed for public areas in hotels, while decorative wall panels, wooden ceiling panels, floors and roof beams can be sprayed with a Class 0 clear or coloured fire retardant finish up to 90mm thick.
Crown’s Class 0 and Class 1 fire retardant wood lacquering service is available for one-off projects or existing contracts and for architects to include in their Class 0 specification. Also, owners and operators can secure their premises with new furniture carrying a fire rated finish that can assure reliability.