Standardization News

Intumescent coatings produce an insulating char when activated by heat or flame. Such coatings are designed to safeguard the structural integrity of steel under fire conditions and to maintain safe temperatures for a specified period of time. A new ASTM International standard will cover the specification, application and inspection of intumescent fire-resistant materials to structural steel.

The new standard, E2924, Practice for Intumescent Coatings, provides recommendations to specify best practices for intumescent coatings. Manufacturing, testing, labeling, transportation, delivery and storage (including shelf life) are all covered in E2924.

"Intumescent coatings are a vital component in the modern building design of structures such as schools, hospitals, residences, offices, petrochemical and manufacturing plants," says ASTM member Philip Mancuso, technical services manager, Isolatek International. "In the event of a fire, the steel load is compromised and devastating failures can occur. It is important that intumescent coatings be directly protected in order to ensure life safety."

Architects, specifiers and building owners will now be able to incorporate reference to E2924 in their building specifications. In addition, engineers, installers and inspection agencies will find the standard to be useful when dealing with intumescent coatings.

E2924 was developed by Subcommittee E06.21 on Serviceability, part of ASTM International Committee E06 on Performance of Buildings. All interested parties are invited to participate in the standards developing activities of E06.21.

"E2924 was designed to be expanded upon," says Mancuso. "E06.21 also hopes to develop product-specific test methods and standards." Specifiers, manufacturers and representatives of both inspection agencies and accredited testing laboratories are invited to join E06.21.

To purchase ASTM standards, visit www.astm.org and search by the standard designation, or contact ASTM Sales (phone: 877-909-ASTM; sales@astm.org).

CONTACT Technical Information: Philip Mancuso, Isolatek International • Stanhope, N.J. • Phone: 1-800-631-9600, ext. 214 | ASTM Staff: Stephen Mawn • Phone: 610-832-9726 | Upcoming Meeting: Oct. 5-8 • October Committee Week • New Orleans, La.