Passive Fire Protection (PFP)

In critical environments such as refineries, chemical plants, offshore facilities, or storage terminals, a fire can compromise the stability of steel structures within minutes. Passive Fire Protection (PFP) is the line of defense that buys vital time when everything else fails.

Why Is PFP Critical in Industrial Environments?

Steel structures lose a significant portion of their mechanical strength when temperatures approach 550 °C. Without adequate protection, structural collapse becomes imminent. PFP does not extinguish the fire, but it mitigates its effects by extending structural stability, facilitating evacuation, and allowing fire control systems to be activated.

Unlike active fire protection systems such as sprinklers or suppression systems, PFP does not rely on sensors, power supply, or human intervention to perform its function.

Technical Selection Based on Fire Type and Real Exposure Conditions

Each fire scenario requires a different solution. At Aplika Control Corrosión, we specify PFP systems based on international standards and real thermal exposure conditions.

• Cellulosic Fire: Fires involving common solid combustibles such as wood, paper, textiles, and certain plastics, characterized by a gradual temperature rise. Typical in buildings and auxiliary areas. Applicable standards include ASTM E119, UL 263, and ISO 834-1.
• Hydrocarbon Fire (Pool Fire): Fires caused by spills of flammable liquids forming a pool, with rapid temperature escalation and high severity. Typical in process plants and storage areas. Applicable standards include UL 1709 and ASTM E1529.
• Jet Fire: Fires resulting from pressurized releases, primarily gases, producing a high-velocity directional flame with intense thermal load and erosive effects on the protection system. Typical in pressurized lines, manifolds, and equipment. Applicable standard is ISO 22899-1.

Additionally, we consider the following factors:

• Severe environmental exposure such as salinity, humidity, and thermal cycling.
• Compatibility with existing anti-corrosion systems and prior protection schemes.
• Risk of corrosion under fireproofing systems (CUF) and mitigation strategies.
• Ease of inspection, maintenance, and repair of the PFP system.

PFP System Types: Selection Based on Operational Reality

• Intumescent Coatings: Suitable for indoor structures or environments with controlled exposure. They feature low added structural load, ease of application, and minimal impact on the protected element’s weight.
• Cementitious and Refractory Mortars: Recommended for critical hydrocarbon fire areas. They provide high thermal resistance and robustness.
• Encapsulated or Reinforced Systems: Designed for offshore applications, jet fire scenarios, and areas exposed to vibration or impact.

Technical Advisory from Engineering Through Validation

Our approach goes beyond product supply. We support the entire process from engineering through post-application to ensure real operational performance.

• Thickness calculation and required fire resistance duration.
• Technical validation in accordance with UL 1709, ISO 22899-1, ASTM E119, and ISO 834-1, depending on the applicable fire scenario.
• Verification of compatibility with existing anti-corrosion systems.
• Supervision, QA/QC, and documentation in accordance with client requirements.

Operational and Economic Benefits

• Structural resistance during severe fire scenarios.
• Compliance with international regulations and standards.
• Reduced operational downtime.
• Lower legal risk and asset loss exposure.
• Integration with existing anti-corrosion protection systems.
• Specialized technical support from engineering through field execution.

Secure your critical infrastructure with verified PFP solutions. Request your specialized technical evaluation today and protect your industrial operations.