Steel Beam and Column Fire Protection

What is the maximum temperature that can be reached behind the calcining plane during the gypsum wallboard process?

What provides 2-hour fire protection for structural beams according to the content?

How are metal studs typically arranged around I-beams for wallboard application?

What happens to the material after the calcining process is complete?

What is the primary purpose of using gypsum wallboard on steel columns?

Steel Beam and Column Protection

Steel columns or other structural members are protected from fire using gypsum wallboard.
Fire resistance ratings range from 2 to 4 hours.
Gypsum wallboard, when exposed to heat, undergoes a process of calcination.
This process combines water in the gypsum chemically.
The result is a material that retards heat transfer, acts as insulation, and is non-combustible.
A white, chalky material remains after calcination.
This process maintains the temperature below the boiling point of water (212°F).

Metal Stud Furring

Metal stud furring is sometimes used to cover large I-beams with gypsum wallboard, providing fire protection.
This is covered by gypsum wallboard, then fastened to ceiling runners that are attached to a concrete slab using tools and fasteners.
Sections of studs run downward from the ceiling runners to a bottom runner.
Studs are spaced 24 inches apart.
This assembly should extend at least 12 inches below the beam.
This allows for future expansion or contraction of the beam.
Staggered joints and screws or lamination are used to minimize the number of fasteners.
Using Type X wallboard in two layers provides 2-hour fire protection for the beam.

This quiz explores the methods used for protecting steel beams and columns from fire, focusing on gypsum wallboard and its properties. Learn about fire resistance ratings, the calcination process of gypsum, and the assembly of metal stud furring with gypsum for enhanced fire safety. Test your knowledge on these critical construction safety measures.