Fireproofing switch panel - removed asbestos

Reece · 10-05-11, 08:47 PM

I just discovered that my old switch panel was lined with asbestos that I have carefully removed, cleaned, and painted over with clear lacquer. Only problem is I now need to fireproof it, Hardiflex would be ok but very hard to cut, anyone have any ideas? I have to cut and cover 8 sides.

Thanks.

Penguin · 10-06-11, 04:56 AM

I am not exactly sure what you mean by a switch panel. Is it something like a fuse box? And I guess it sits in your home.

In professional environments we cover all (cable) holes with a special fire-proof expanding foam. It is still easy to cut through when it is has hardened out. It costs between 25 and 100€ per can here, depending on the brand and standard.

There are also flame retardants available, which at my work, is mixed 1:2 with paint and used to cover wooden set constructions, our carpenter confirmed to me that you can mix it also into clear lacqueur. The one we use here is called Ecogard B45, about 50€ per container (1kg, sufficent for 2-4m²). You can also use it to impregnate fabrics if you want to.

Jimbuna · 10-06-11, 06:15 AM

I was going to suggest the foam too but it can be a bit messy if your not careful.

A lot depends on where the panel is sited, is it in view etc.

Reece · 10-06-11, 06:49 AM

The foam is no good, the panel is fireproof but the frame it screws to is wood and was lined with 1/16" asbestos sheet, I am about to get solar panels installed but the company refuses to work with asbestos so I removed it but need to replace with fibro sheet or something, I will check out this Ecogard B45, there might be something here in Australia similar, trying to import something like that would be a no no with customs!

Jimbuna · 10-06-11, 07:36 AM

Ah, right...I see what you mean.

10-05-11, 08:47 PM	#1
Reece CINC Pacific Fleet Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Down Under Posts: 34,688 Downloads: 171 Uploads: 0	Fireproofing switch panel - removed asbestos I just discovered that my old switch panel was lined with asbestos that I have carefully removed, cleaned, and painted over with clear lacquer. Only problem is I now need to fireproof it, Hardiflex would be ok but very hard to cut, anyone have any ideas? I have to cut and cover 8 sides. Thanks. __________________ *Sub captains go down with their ship!*

10-06-11, 06:15 AM	#3
Jimbuna Chief of the Boat Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: 250 metres below the surface Posts: 190,461 Downloads: 63 Uploads: 13	I was going to suggest the foam too but it can be a bit messy if your not careful. A lot depends on where the panel is sited, is it in view etc. __________________ Wise men speak because they have something to say; Fools because they have to say something. Oh my God, not again!!

10-06-11, 06:49 AM	#4
Reece CINC Pacific Fleet Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Down Under Posts: 34,688 Downloads: 171 Uploads: 0	The foam is no good, the panel is fireproof but the frame it screws to is wood and was lined with 1/16" asbestos sheet, I am about to get solar panels installed but the company refuses to work with asbestos so I removed it but need to replace with fibro sheet or something, I will check out this Ecogard B45, there might be something here in Australia similar, trying to import something like that would be a no no with customs! __________________ *Sub captains go down with their ship!*

10-06-11, 07:36 AM	#5
Jimbuna Chief of the Boat Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: 250 metres below the surface Posts: 190,461 Downloads: 63 Uploads: 13	Ah, right...I see what you mean. __________________ Wise men speak because they have something to say; Fools because they have to say something. Oh my God, not again!!

10-06-11, 04:56 AM	#2
Penguin Ocean Warrior Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Rheinische Republik Posts: 3,322 Downloads: 92 Uploads: 0	I am not exactly sure what you mean by a switch panel. Is it something like a fuse box? And I guess it sits in your home. In professional environments we cover all (cable) holes with a special fire-proof expanding foam. It is still easy to cut through when it is has hardened out. It costs between 25 and 100€ per can here, depending on the brand and standard. There are also flame retardants available, which at my work, is mixed 1:2 with paint and used to cover wooden set constructions, our carpenter confirmed to me that you can mix it also into clear lacqueur. The one we use here is called Ecogard B45, about 50€ per container (1kg, sufficent for 2-4m²). You can also use it to impregnate fabrics if you want to.