The ability of Promat VERMICULUX® to withstand the effects of moisture has led to this lightweight fire protection board being specified for a major new energy project in Wales. The board has been specified to protect structural steelwork in various parts of the new Trident Park Energy-from-Waste (EfW) plant in Cardiff, where its moisture resistant characteristica are delivering particular benefits.
Initially, 20mm thick Promat VERMICULUX® boards were specified to provide 60 minutes of fire protection for 360m2 of roof support columns at the plant. During the construction process, the columns were due to be left exposed to the elements for some 6 weeks before the roof was added to the building. “Promat VERMICULUX® combines long-term resistance to moisture with proven fire protection abilities so it was the perfect choice for this application,” says Promat’s David Murden.
However, Promat VERMICULUX® was then considered for use on other parts of the building, where 3 and 4 hour fire protection was required in locations where the recycling processes would create a moisture-laden atmosphere inside the building. “A conventional board might have been used in these areas, but it’s likely that this could have eventually led to problems once it had been exposed to the moisture in the atmosphere for a period of time,” adds David.
“We were happy to provide proof that Promat VERMICULUX® meets the atmospheric corrosivity category C3 (medium) as defined in EN ISO 12944-2:1998 Table 1. In short, that makes it suitable to the typical environments found in places such as food-processing plants, laundries and breweries, where there is a high degree of humidity and some air pollution. This led to an additional order for Promat VERMICULUX® boards in 30mm, 35mm and 45mm thicknesses.
“We worked closely with Promat on this project,” adds managing director Mr Phillip Pook of interior fit-out specialist SDL Interiors LTD of Bridgend, South Wales. “Promat were able to provide some valuable technical advice, plus the reassurance we needed that the Promat VERMICULUX® would provide the performance we needed. It proved to be exactly the right solution for this challenge.”
Designed especially for structural steelwork applications Promat VERMICULUX® is a lightweight non-combustible low density calcium silicate board, containing vermiculite and reinforced with selected fibres and fillers. Depending on the dimensions of the steelwork being protected, Promat VERMICULUX® can deliver up to 240 minutes fire resistance. It is fast and easy to install and can be worked with ordinary woodworking tools. It is supplied with two rebated edges which allow cross-joints to be made without the need for noggins, cover strips or adhesives.
Promat VERMICULUX® has a sanded finish on both faces and can be painted, or left undecorated. It is resistant to moisture and will not disintegrate, warp or swell. This allows it to be installed at any time during the building programme, even before the building is made weathertight.
