Are shipping containers fireproof?
Many people want to know the answer to this question. As shipping container modifications continue to vary, it makes sense that people would want to know that these structures are safe and secure.
Shipping containers are not fireproof, but they are fire-resistant. That means that whatever is inside your container will remain safe from fire, but not necessarily the heat generated by that fire.
It also means that if an internal fire does occur, it will not spread to the surrounding area.
Therefore, what makes shipping containers fire-resistant? Find out your answer through this article!
Shipping Container Resistance to Fire
The exterior of a container is made of Corten steel or marine-grade steel. This type of galvanized steel is fireproof. If a fire occurs, it will not significantly alter the container’s structural integrity.
A fire inside a container (regardless of its cause) would not cause significant damage to the container itself and certainly not to adjacent containers.
Research has found that fires inside containers use up all the oxygen and go out on their own.
The logic is simple: you need oxygen to start a fire. Therefore, if a fire breaks out inside a container, the fire will only last as long as there is oxygen.
In other words, shipping containers can contain the flames inside, preventing them from spreading. Once the flame burns out the oxygen, the flames will go out.
What Makes Shipping Containers Waterproof?
Steel Shell
Shipping containers are made of corten steel, a weathering steel that has a melting point over 2,500°F (1,370°C). It does not catch fire or burn like wood or plastic. This makes containers extremely resistant to external flames, embers, or radiant heat.
Coating
Applying specialized coatings can enhance a shipping container’s fire resistance, especially on the interior or in areas with added combustible materials. The intumescent coating is the most common fire-retardant coating.
When exposed to heat, this paint swells and chars, forming an insulating barrier that delays temperature rise. This coating is great for container interiors, ceilings, and structural elements.
To coat your container, you can also use fire-retardant paints. It is a regular-looking paint that contains fire-slowing chemicals – it slows flame spread but doesn’t expand like intumescent coatings.
Seamless, Enclosed Design
Containers are airtight and sealed, with very few gaps or joints. The enclosed nature helps contain or slow fire spread, especially from the outside as fires need oxygen to grow.
Minimal Flammable Materials
Original shipping containers contain no wood or plastic framing, just steel. This gives them an edge over traditional structures that use flammable materials.
Interior Matters More
If you’re using a container for housing, office, or storage, what you put inside it makes a huge difference. For example, the insulation, materials like spray foam and faced fiberglass, can burn if not fire-rated.
Modifications Can Affect Fire Resistance
Cutting windows, doors or adding wood framing can create fire risk points. Therefore, you need to install fire-resistant insulation, wall panels, and smoke detectors to improve safety.
Can Shipping Containers be Used for Fire Protection?
The answer is yes. You can use shipping containers for fire protection as they are made from fire-resistant materials and can withstand high temperatures.
Shipping containers can be a great asset in the event of a fire. However, it is important to note that while shipping containers can withstand fire, they are not necessarily designed for people to shelter inside during a fire.
If you are looking for a safe place to shelter during a fire, it is best to follow the advice of local authorities and emergency services.
Shipping Container Conversion as a Fireproof Construction
Fire-resistant container construction can be applied in various types of buildings, including:
Factories and Warehouses
Shipping containers are also essential for use in the construction of factories and warehouses. The construction can help protect the building and its contents from fire damage.
Accommodation
Accommodation buildings, such as workers’ dormitories, hotels, or temporary housing on construction sites, require extra protection from fire.
By using shipping containers, buildings can be safer and provide longer evacuation times for occupants in emergencies.
Canteens
Canteens and dining facilities often have kitchen areas that are at high risk of fire.
The use of shipping container construction helps reduce the risk of fire spreading, protects the building structure, and provides greater resilience in high-temperature environments and the use of cooking equipment.
Public Facilities
Buildings such as hospitals, schools, shopping malls, and transport stations also benefit greatly from the use of shipping containers. Fire resistance ensures the safety of occupants and reduces the potential for severe structural damage.
Conclusion
From the article above, we can conclude that the answer to the question “Are shipping containers fireproof?” is yes, they are fireproof. It is mainly because of their materials, structure, and modifications you add.
If you are looking for fireproof shipping containers, check out our products! Standing at the top of the industry, Tradecorp is widely known for its high-quality containers open to so many creative applications. Fill out our quote form, and we’ll guide you in finding the best container for your business goals!