Fire protection calculations for steel structures will become instantaneous, following an interesting development from industry leaders Tekla and Leighs Paints.

A collaboration between the two global companies has brought about a new and innovative technology, which looks set to impact the whole of the supply chain.
The bi-directional link between Tekla Structures’ building information modelling (BIM) software and Leighs Paints Firetex software speeds up the task of fire protection paint calculations.
The new technology allows the user to import and transfer information regarding the steel structure at the click of a button, allowing a 'just-in-time' approach to be adopted, according to a spokesperson from Leighs Paints.
“Once calculated, the intumescent coating’s thickness can then be inserted directly onto the model parts for visualisation and also automatically on to the structural drawings.
“The data can then be linked to project management tools, allowing steelwork contractors to improve efficiencies within their own organisations and also that of their sub-contractors,” the spokesperson says.
Early trials, according to him, have shown that the new bi-directional link has reduced the time taken to calculate the amount of fire protection needed for a steel structure.
The usual manual approach currently involves several processes, taking days to complete. This new technology has reduced this to hours, removing various steps and reducing associated risks quite considerably, he points out.
“The improved accuracy of the calculations allow for better planning for both parties, cutting down waste and better managing stock, resulting in improved cost effectiveness,” says the spokesperson.
The bi-directional link will be available shortly.