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Steel is a widely used material in modern construction due to its high mechanical performance and fast installation, as well as being classified as non-combustible, since it does not contribute to fire spread and does not release smoke or toxic gases. However, under fire conditions, its mechanical properties significantly decrease as temperature rises, making proper fire resistance design of steel structures essential.
...Read moreSteel is a widely used material in modern construction due to its high mechanical performance and fast installation, as well as being classified as non-combustible, since it does not contribute to fire spread and does not release smoke or toxic gases. However, under fire conditions, its mechanical properties significantly decrease as temperature rises, making proper fire resistance design of steel structures essential.
When a steel structure is subjected simultaneously to service loads and fire exposure, a progressive loss of load-bearing capacity occurs. As temperature increases, both strength and stiffness are reduced, potentially leading to structural collapse if the element is not adequately protected. For this reason, passive fire protection is essential to ensure the stability of steel structures during a fire.
The behavior of steel under fire conditions is influenced by several key parameters. These include the temperature gradient and the temperature reached by the element, which directly affect the loss of mechanical performance. The heat transfer coefficient determines how quickly heat is transmitted to the material, while the section factor S/V (ratio between the exposed surface area and the volume of the element) is a crucial parameter for assessing heating speed: elements with a high S/V ratio heat up more rapidly and are therefore more vulnerable in case of fire. The ductility class of the steel also plays a role, influencing the element’s ability to deform without sudden collapse.
For designers, engineers, and fire safety professionals, understanding the behavior of steel in fire conditions is essential for developing effective passive fire protection solutions. In this context, Global Building systems provide an advanced technical response, offering certified solutions such as protective coatings, board systems, and fire-resistant plasters designed to improve the fire resistance of steel structures. These technologies help delay the attainment of critical temperatures and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
On this page, you can explore Global Building solutions for the fire protection of steel structures, consult up-to-date technical documentation, and download BIM models, construction details, product catalogs including specification clauses, and official technical data sheets to effectively integrate fire safety into your structural projects.
