Steel Column & Beam Encasements for Structural Fire Protection
At Bee Fire Protection Ltd, we install fire-rated steel column and beam encasement systems designed to protect structural steelwork during a fire.
Structural steel can rapidly lose strength when exposed to high temperatures. Fire protection systems are therefore required to ensure the building structure maintains its integrity long enough for safe evacuation and firefighting operations.
Our experienced passive fire protection team installs tested and approved encasement systems in accordance with manufacturer specifications, ensuring full compliance with fire strategy requirements and building regulations.
We work with main contractors, developers and facilities managers across Hull, Yorkshire and throughout the UK, delivering reliable fire protection solutions for buildings of all sizes.
Why Structural Steel Requires Fire Protection
While steel is strong and durable under normal conditions, it can lose up to 50% of its load-bearing capacity at temperatures around 550°C.
Without appropriate protection, structural beams and columns may weaken quickly during a fire, increasing the risk of structural failure.
Fire protection systems such as encasements help to:
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Maintain the structural integrity of steelwork
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Achieve required fire resistance ratings
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Slow the transfer of heat to structural members
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Support safe evacuation of occupants
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Protect property and reduce fire damage
These systems are commonly required in commercial buildings, modular structures, retail environments, industrial facilities and public sector projects.
Types of Structural Steel Fire Protection
There are several methods used within passive fire protection to protect structural steelwork.
Intumescent Coatings (Reactive Coatings)
Intumescent coatings are reactive fire protection systems typically spray applied directly onto structural steel.
When exposed to high temperatures during a fire, the coating reacts chemically and expands, forming an insulating char layer that slows heat transfer to the steel beneath.
These systems are commonly used where aesthetic finishes or exposed steelwork are required.
Learn more about our
Intumescent Painting Services →
Non-Reactive Fire Protection Coatings
Non-reactive coatings are typically cementitious or mineral-based spray systems applied to structural steel.
Rather than reacting to heat, they provide a stable insulating barrier that protects steel members from heat and flame exposure during a fire.
These coatings are often used in industrial or large commercial buildings where durability and cost efficiency are key factors.
Steel Column & Beam Encasements
Encasement systems involve installing fire-resistant board materials around structural steel columns and beams.
Boards such as gypsum-based or calcium silicate systems are cut to size and installed around the steelwork to form a protective enclosure.
This system provides:
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Reliable fire protection performance
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Clean boxed finishes
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Consistent fire ratings
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A practical solution for many commercial interiors
Encasements are widely used in commercial developments, modular construction and refurbishment projects where a neat architectural finish is required.
Understanding Section Factor (A/V or Hp/A)
The level of fire protection required for structural steel depends on its Section Factor, often expressed as A/V or Hp/A.
This ratio compares the heated surface area of the steel to its volume, which determines how quickly the steel will heat up during a fire.
Steel sections with:
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Higher surface area
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Lower mass
will heat more rapidly and therefore require thicker fire protection systems.
By analysing the Section Factor and required fire resistance rating, the correct encasement system and board thickness can be specified and installed in accordance with tested manufacturer systems.
Applications for Steel Encasement Systems
We install encasement systems across a wide range of sectors, including:
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Modular building developments
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Commercial and retail environments
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Industrial facilities
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Education buildings
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Healthcare environments
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Residential and multi-occupancy buildings
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Infrastructure and specialist projects
Our team works closely with main contractors, architects and fire engineers to ensure installations meet the required fire protection standards.
Need Structural Steel Fire Protection?
If your project requires steel column encasements or structural fire protection, our team can help.
Address
Unit 38, Craven Park Training and Enterprise Centre, Poorhouse Lane,
Hull, HU9 5HE