Materials Science

PPG launches new fire protection coating

PPG has launched its new advanced passive fire protection (PFP) coating, PPG PITT-CHAR NX. The epoxy intumescent coating is designed to offer reduced coating thickness, lower weight and faster application while providing outstanding strength and durability. The coating is ideal for onshore and offshore oil, gas and petrochemical environments. Testing has proven PPG PITT-CHAR NX to be suitable for industrial, marine and offshore exposure without any degradation in fire resistance.

Richard Holliday, Global Product Manager at PPG’s protective and marine coatings business, said, “PITT-CHAR NX is a major advance in passive fire protection technology, combining higher safety performance in a thinner, lighter coating that is faster to apply.”

PFP is said to be lighter than alternative PFP coatings and cementitious systems. It enables substantial material savings and reduces both transport and construction costs.

“We designed PPG PITT-CHAR NX to reduce uncertainty by ensuring it is capable of protecting against the full range of hydrocarbon hazards. Owners and designers no longer need to choose between solutions optimised for jet fire or pool fire; PITT-CHAR NX does both,” added Holliday. “Our system is comprehensively tested to comply with internationally recognised fire test standards for all types and sizes of structural steel and safety critical equipment.”

The coating is designed to prevent cracking and delamination during fabrication, transportation and construction. This is critical in today’s global market where transportation and vastly varying climatic conditions can cause challenges for coatings on steel.