Apply fire-retardant paint to cable trays on site

Fire-retardant paint should be applied to cable trays using water-based, certified coatings with proper surface preparation, controlled environmental conditions, and the recommended dry film thickness to ensure effective fire protection.

Selecting the Right Paint

Use a water-based fire-retardant paint specifically designed for electrical cables and cable trays, such as AF CABLE COAT or UGAMCOAT 290908, which are certified under IEC 60332-3-10 and IEC 60332-3-22 standards for flame retardancy . Avoid oil-based paints, as they can degrade cable sheaths, reduce flexibility, and negatively affect low-smoke or zero-halogen properties .

Surface Preparation

1. Clean the cable trays and cables to remove dust, grease, or moisture.
2. Ensure the surface is dry and free of contaminants that could prevent adhesion.
3. For metal trays, lightly abrade the surface if recommended by the paint manufacturer to improve bonding.

Application Methods

• Airless Spraying: Preferred for large runs; allows thick, uniform coatings in a single pass.
• Air-Assisted Airless Spraying: Combines high transfer efficiency with fine atomization for smoother finishes.
• Brushing or Rolling: Suitable only for small areas or touch-ups; may result in uneven film thickness and is generally not recommended for primary application .

Application Guidelines

1. Follow manufacturer's recommended dry film thickness (DFT) to achieve the specified fire protection.
2. Apply in controlled environmental conditions: optimal temperature and humidity ranges are usually specified by the manufacturer.
3. Coverage: For horizontal cable trays, apply the paint along the tray every 20 meters, ensuring complete coverage of all cables .
4. Curing: Allow sufficient drying and curing time as per the paint's technical datasheet before energizing the cables or exposing them to potential fire hazards.

Safety Considerations

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, goggles, and respirators if spraying.
• Ensure adequate ventilation to avoid inhalation of fumes.
• Follow all manufacturer safety data sheet (SDS) instructions for handling and storage .

Maintenance and Inspection

• Inspect the coating periodically for damage, peeling, or wear.
• Repair or reapply paint as needed to maintain fire protection integrity.
• Document the application and inspection process for compliance and safety audits. By following these steps, fire-retardant paint can effectively slow flame propagation, protect cable insulation, and enhance overall fire safety in industrial, commercial, or residential installations .