Title:
A Case Study on the Durability of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Fireproofing in Aggressive Industrial Environments
Author(s):
Nicholas Triandafilou, Mark Guirguis, Ephraim Dissen, Olu Awomolo, and Mustafa Mahamid
Publication:
Symposium Paper
Volume:
351
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
54-69
Keywords:
Passive Fireproofing, Fiber-Reinforced Concrete, Industrial Structures, Constructability
DOI:
10.14359/51734674
Date:
4/1/2022
Abstract:
Fireproofing deterioration is widespread in industrial facilities throughout the country. Spalling concrete has potential to damage equipment and harm personnel. Replacing concrete fireproofing like-in-kind, without consideration for proper anchorage or material durability, does not eliminate the hazard as spalls may potentially occur again over time. However, when properly designed and installed, concrete is a durable option for replacing deficient fireproofing in aggressive environments typically present in industrial processing units. This paper presents the results of a case study on a structure in a Midwest industrial complex. Extensive concrete fireproofing repairs were performed on the structure 12 years ago. Design requirements included normal weight concrete with polypropylene fibers which enhance durability by improving cracking resistance. During a fire, the fibers melt forming relief channels for moisture to escape, thus eliminating explosive spalling. Installation methods included welded wire reinforcement (WWR) with positive anchorage to structural steel. WWR was attached to post-installed adhesive anchors between column flanges where existing fireproofing was sound and difficult to remove. After 12 years in service, repairs exhibit no significant defects. This level of durability is attributed to the design and installation methods utilized. Concrete fireproofing is a durable option for fire protection, provided structures are designed to support its weight, its mixture design is properly proportioned, and it is adequately anchored and reinforced.
Related References:
1. American Petroleum Institute (API) Recommended Practice 583, 2014, Corrosion Under Insulation and Fireproofing, 1st Edition, Washington, DC.
2. ASTM E1529, 2013, Standard Test Methods for Determining Effects of Large Hydrocarbon Pool Fires on Structural Members and Assemblies, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA.
3. Jha, Shambhu Nath, Intumescent Coatings Application Increasing in the Oil and Gas Industry for Fire Protection, ShaleMag Magazine, July/Aug 2021.
4. American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Design Guide 19, 2003, Fire Resistance of Structural Steel Framing, Chicago, IL.
5. American Petroleum Institute (API) Publication 2218, 1999, Fireproofing Practices in Petroleum and Petrochemical Processing Plants, 2nd Edition, Washington, DC.
6. ACI 363R-10, Report on High Strength Concrete, Section 6.18, American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI.
7. ACI 213R-14, Guide for Structural Lightweight-Aggregate Concrete, American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI.
8. Smith, Ken and Atkinson, Trevor, TunnelTech Publication November 2010, PP Fibres to Resist Fire-Induced Concrete Spalling.
9. Kosmatka, Steven H., Design and Control of Concrete Mixtures, 16th Ed, Portland Cement Association 2016.
10. ACI 201.2R-16, Guide to Durable Concrete, Section 6.1 & 10.3, American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI.
11. ACI Committee 216.1-97 / TMS 0216.1, 1997, Standard Method for Determining Fire Resistance of Concrete and Masonry Construction Assemblies, American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI.
12. ASTM C39, 2005, Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens, ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA.