Firetex Top SB (previously known as Sika Unitherm Top S) is a high build single pack topcoat specially designed for Firetex intumescent fire protection systems against humidity and mechanical strain. The topcoat has no impact on the formation of the heat insulating foam of the intumescent coatings.

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• Features & Benefits
• Recommended Use
• Technical Data
• Recommended Spreading Rate Per Coat
• Average Drying Times
• Surface Preparation
• Mixing
• Application Conditions
• Application Equipment
• Recommended Systems

Features & Benefits

• No impact on the foaming reaction of intumescent coatings
• Applicable on all Unitherm intumescent coating systems for steel
• Meets Type X classification (e.g. exterior conditions) as part of the coating system
• Simple application, does not increase static load
• 560+ RAL shades
• Individual coloration possible with corresponding topcoat, various colour shades in RAL, others available

Recommended Use

Used as topcoat on fire protected structural steelwork and concrete for weathering and / or decorative reasons.

In special conditions, e.g. frequent formation of condensation and / or heating up of surfaces above + 45°C, adequate arrangements should be taken. In dry and clean conditions, topcoating with Firetex Top WB on Firetex and Unitherm fire protection coatings may not be required.

Technical Data

Recommended Spreading Rate Per Coat

* This figure makes no allowance for surface profile, uneven application, overspray or losses in containers and equipment.

Average Drying Times

For 60 μm Dry Film Thickness:

A complete drying of the fire protection coating prior topcoat application is highly recommended.

Through-drying of the used Firetex or Unitherm intumescent coating can be checked by ‘finger-nail-test’.

Final cure: Approx. 2 days after application at + 20°C object temperature and 60 % relative humidity.

These figures are given as a guide only. Factors such as air movement, film thickness and humidity must also be considered.

Surface Preparation

Prior application of the topcoat, the surface to be coated must be dry, clean and free from dirt, oil, grease or any other contamination.

Mixing

The material is supplied ready for use; stir thoroughly with a mechanical paint mixer prior to application.

During mixing and handling of the materials always wear protective goggles, suitable gloves and other protective clothings.

Application Conditions

Substrate temperature shall be between + 5°C and + 40°C* and at least 3°C above the dew point.

Material temperature shall be above + 15°C

Relative air humidity shall be below 80%.

During application and drying of total Firetex or Unitherm intumescent coating system including Firetex topcoats as well as transportation special protection measures must be taken against weathering.

Note: With critical situations e.g. frequent formation of condensation and / or heating up of surfaces above + 45°C, adequate arrangements should be taken.

* If higher temperatures occur, please consult Rawlins Technical on 0113 2455450 (option 2) or send a message to [email protected].

Application Equipment

The following is a guide. Changes in pressures and tip sizes may be needed for satisfactory application characteristics. Always purge spray equipment before use with listed cleaner.

Airless Spray

• Unit: Efficient airless equipment (pressure ratio > 30: 1)
• Tip Size: 0.28 – 0.38 mm (0.011 – 0.015 inch)
• Fan Angle: 40° - 80°
• Operating Pressure: min. 200 bar (2900 psi)
• Spray hoses: Ø ⅜ inch (10 mm), max. 20 m
• + 2 m with reduced Ø of ¼ inch (6 mm)
• Hoses must be used for water-based products only

Material shall be applied undiluted.

The airless spray details given above are intended as a guide only. Details such as fluid hose length and diameter, paint temperature and job shape and size all have an effect on the spray tip and operating pressure chosen. However, the operating pressure should be the lowest possible consistent satisfactory atomisation.

As conditions will vary from job to job, it is the applicators responsibility to ensure that the equipment in use has been set up to give the best results.

If in doubt consult Rawlins Technical on 0113 2455450 (option 2) or send a message to [email protected].

Brush and Roller

• Material shall be applied undiluted
• Solvent resistant brush or roller must be used
• Application of more than one coat may be necessary to give equivalent dry film thickness to a single spray applied coat

Recommended Systems

Steel

Surface and / or primer:

• See corresponding product data sheet of the Firetex or Unitherm intumescent coating range

Intumescent coating:

• Firetex or Unitherm intumescent coating for steel

Topcoat:

Interior use (Type Z1 / Z2):

• 1 x 60 µm Firetex Top SB / Firetex Top SB EG

Exterior use (Type X):

• 2 x 50 µm Firetex Top SB / Firetex Top SB EG

Galvanised steel

Interface:

• Macropoxy 2706 EG

Intumescent coating:

• Firetex or Unitherm intumescent coating for steel

Topcoat:

Interior use (Type Z1 / Z2):

• 1 x 60 µm Firetex Top SB

Exterior use (Type X):

• 2 x 50 µm Firetex Top SB

IMPORTANT FIRE PRODUCTS NOTICE: The information displayed on this website should be used as a guide ONLY and our Technical Department should be contacted to obtain a tailored specification and any advice necessary before you place an order for fire protection products. Fire protection products are non-returnable except in accordance with Condition 8 of the Terms and Conditions and should be applied only by an individual with the necessary expertise and experience. We will not be held liable for any resulting damage to property, human life or monetary costs incurred due to the incorrect specification you have prepared or use of fire protection products caused by your negligence, including your failure to have contacted us to obtain the relevant advice/specification.