Method for producing a steel member having fire resistance

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for producing (creating) fire resistance and / or fire endurance in a steel component and / or for providing (equipping) a steel component with fire resistance and / or fire endurance, in particular to a method for producing (creating) a steel component with fire resistance and / or fire endurance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of fire protection technology, particularly structural fire protection, and also to fire protection in other technical fields (such as automobile and / or vehicle manufacturing).

[0002] In particular, the present invention relates to a method for producing flame-retardant and / or fire-resistant properties on or to steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, and / or for providing (equipping) steel components having flame-retardant and / or fire-resistant properties, particularly having flame-retardant and / or fire-resistant properties according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, particularly a method for producing flame-retardant and / or fire-resistant steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1967-09.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to the use of hot-dip galvanized layers containing aluminum and / or aluminum alloys for producing fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant properties on or to steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, and / or for providing (equipping) steel components having fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant properties, particularly having fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant properties according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, preferably for producing fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09.

[0004] Furthermore, the subject matter of this invention also lies in producing fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant steel components on or to steel components using hot-dip galvanizing and / or hot-dip galvanizing methods, particularly according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, and / or for providing (equipping) steel components having fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant properties, particularly having fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant properties according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, particularly for producing (manufacturing) fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant steel components, preferably fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant steel components according to DIN EN13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09.

[0005] Similarly, the present invention relates to the use of aluminum to increase and / or improve the flame retardancy and / or fire resistance of hot-dip galvanized steel components and / or steel components having a hot-dip galvanized coating, particularly according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09.

[0006] Furthermore, the subject matter of this invention also lies in providing steel components with aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers as structural design components to meet the requirements of fire resistance and / or fire resistance, particularly according to DIN EN 135012-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09.

[0007] Furthermore, the present invention relates to the use of steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer as structural components of receiving devices, particularly housings or containers, for energy storage devices or energy converters, such as fuel cells, accumulators, batteries, primary cells or the like, especially for the automotive industry, where fire resistance and / or flame retardancy are preferred.

[0008] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a support structure for buildings, particularly for buildings or parts thereof, especially steel support structures, wherein, as structural design components, the support structure comprises: a plurality of steel members provided with hot-dip galvanized layers containing aluminum and / or aluminum alloys to meet requirements for fire resistance and / or flame retardancy, and relates to structures including support structures according to the present invention, particularly buildings or parts thereof.

[0009] Finally, the present invention also relates to the use of aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coatings for providing flame retardancy and / or fire resistance to iron-based or iron-containing, especially steel-based or steel-containing articles, and / or for providing iron-based or iron-containing, especially steel-based or steel-containing articles with flame retardancy and / or fire resistance. Background Technology

[0010] Generally speaking, fire protection refers to all measures taken to prevent the development and spread of fire (i.e., fire and smoke) (i.e., preventative fire protection or fire prevention), to save people and animals, and to effectively extinguish fires (i.e., defensive fire protection). Fire protection is multi-layered and complex, and therefore involves many areas of daily life. Thus, for example, in Germany, fire protection requirements can be found in a large number of laws and regulations, such as the fire department laws and building codes of the federal states, as well as many other laws, regulations, and guidelines.

[0011] As mentioned above, a distinction is typically made between preventative firefighting and defensive firefighting. Preventative firefighting refers to all preventative measures taken to contain the development and spread of fire and to limit its impact as much as possible through structural, technical, and organizational measures. Therefore, preventative firefighting is divided into structural fire protection, plant fire protection, and organizational fire protection.

[0012] According to building codes, preventative fire protection is essential for the protection of life and limbs, the environment, and public safety, and is a prerequisite for effective firefighting. Germany has enacted public law provisions in its national building codes as minimum requirements. Apart from the Building Act, requirements concerning property protection are based on agreements under private law; the requirements imposed by property insurance companies on the design of buildings or their technical systems are often decisive.

[0013] Therefore, preventative structural fire protection is a highly complex field of work, where solutions to achieve protection objectives such as fire prevention, prevention of fire spread, rescue, and effective firefighting result in a wide variety of solutions. Each solution must be approved by the responsible building inspector. Aspects that may influence fire protection solutions include, for example, construction methods (e.g., the location of buildings on site and relative to each other), construction type (e.g., structural conditions, such as solid, skeleton, truss, prefabricated construction, etc.), selection of building materials, building location (e.g., accessibility), type and number of occupants, size (e.g., building size, configuration, and subdivision), fire load and type and quantity of hazardous materials (e.g., risk of fire and damage spread), fire and / or damage hazards (e.g., ignition sources, conditions, and probabilities), type of use (e.g., operation and use-related) and building type (e.g., operation and use procedures), fire detection (e.g., probability of detection and notification), initiation of rescue and firefighting operations, scope and duration of rescue and firefighting operations, capabilities of emergency responders (e.g., firefighters, rescue services, fire resources and other emergency responders, fire departments, provision of rescue services and extinguishing agents, etc.), availability of technical equipment (e.g., fire suppression systems, fire alarm systems, smoke and heat exhaust systems, hazard detection systems), and scope of operational hazard prevention measures (e.g., fire regulations, hazard prevention plans, training courses, operating guidelines, factory fire departments, fire auxiliary equipment, etc.).

[0014] The basic purpose and objective of preventive firefighting is to protect life, health, property, belongings, and the environment.

[0015] In the context of structural fire protection, structural measures are highly diverse, encompassing building materials and components specified in European and German regulations, such as DIN EN 13501 and DIN EN 1992-1-2 for reinforced concrete structures, DIN EN 1993-1-2 for steel structures, and DIN EN 1995-1-2 for timber structures, as well as structural fire protection in industrial buildings (as specified in DIN 18230), and also including escape route planning and the provision of building fire suppression systems. Structural measures must first consider the fire resistance performance of building materials and the fire resistance of building components.

[0016] Fire protection is particularly important in the case of steel structures, where, in the context of this invention, the term "steel structure" should be understood broadly and includes not only pure steel structures, but also composite steel structures with steel components connected to concrete, steel frame structures, and steel building structures.

[0017] Therefore, steel structures are a technical field within structural engineering, where steel is primarily used in the construction of load-bearing structures. In pure steel structures, especially rolled steel beams, plates and pipes made of structural steel are connected together by bolts, welding, or riveting to form the structure. As mentioned above, in addition to pure steel structures, steel structures also include composite steel structures, where steel components are combined with concrete, steel frame structures, and steel structural buildings. Steel structures are typically designed according to European Code 3: Design of Steel Structures (EN 1993). Steel structures combine the advantages of relatively short planning and construction times with flexible structural execution. This flexibility arises, for example, from the use of relatively lightweight and slender yet load-bearing components, and from a high degree of precision and accuracy in prefabrication, thereby reducing assembly time.

[0018] However, steel components exposed to weathering must undergo anti-corrosion treatment, such as through special surface coatings.

[0019] Steel structures and steel (structural) components are frequently exposed to high temperatures in various situations and applications. This load may occur periodically, either permanently or cyclically, such as in heat treatment plant areas, or only under exceptional circumstances, such as in the event of a building fire. For components subjected to predetermined thermal loads, high-temperature steel is typically used, whose strength decreases less with increasing temperature compared to non-high-temperature steel; however, such high-temperature steel is entirely unsuitable for structural applications in the construction industry. If the thermal load is exceptional, i.e., an unplanned load condition, it is not recommended to adjust the steel grade for economic reasons; instead, attempts are made to protect the components from supercritical thermal loads through additional protective measures. The measures required for this typically provide passive protection systems, such as coatings or the like. However, these measures involve considerable costs, including the mere application of the coating and the necessary measures to ensure the durability of the coating, cladding, or the like, such as repairs that may occur due to damage during assembly and / or the use of the relevant measures, as well as ongoing maintenance.

[0020] According to existing technology, passive fire-fighting coatings are preferably used in steel structure engineering to protect steel structures from fire; such coatings are applied to steel components. Their function is based on the fact that they contain substances that foam or expand under heat load in the event of a fire, thereby achieving an insulating effect, i.e., preventing the steel components from heating up for a specified period. However, a drawback of these coatings is that their effectiveness is only permitted for a limited time (preferably a maximum of 10 years), thus requiring regular replacement, which is particularly time-consuming and costly. Furthermore, fire-fighting coatings are susceptible to mechanical stress and must be protected accordingly from damage caused by these stresses, or, if this is not possible or desirable, inspected for potential damage during potential events. From a sustainability perspective, in addition to limited durability, the lack of roundness in the materials used is also a disadvantage.

[0021] Therefore, the fire protection required for steel components is usually ensured through passive measures, preferably through fire-resistant cladding or fire-resistant coatings.

[0022] However, steel structures typically require special fire protection because the relatively thin-walled cross-sections of steel components (such as beams) and their good thermal conductivity cause them to heat up rapidly in a fire. Since the mechanical properties of steel are highly temperature-dependent—for example, due to this heating, the yield strength of steel at 600°C is reduced by half its value at 20°C, and the modulus of elasticity (Young's modulus) also decreases with increasing steel temperature—it is necessary to ensure the structure's functionality (load-bearing capacity) for the shortest possible time, depending on the fire load and the intended use of the structure, and to prevent premature failure by using oversized steel components to match the required fire resistance period and / or by using special fire-resistant jackets or coatings.

[0023] For fire protection, the required fire resistance duration for the corresponding structure must be observed, as defined by the state building codes of each federal state for common buildings. Depending on the structure and its purpose, the required fire resistance duration is categorized into different classes, such as F30, F60, F90, F120, or F180 according to German standards (DIN 4102: Fire Behavior of Building Materials and Components, specifically DIN 4102-2:1907-09). These numbers define the minimum duration (in minutes) the structure must withstand from a fire. A standard fire assumed for oversized components and / or for determining insulation fire protection measures is the unit temperature / time curve (ETK), which describes a temperature / time line according to which the gas temperature rises sharply to over 600°C in the first few minutes and then continues to rise slowly but steadily. In this way, all additional measures protecting the steel components can be validated for their performance. On the other hand, the sizing method (according to European standard EN 1993-1-2 or DIN EN 135012:2016-12) is based on calculations, starting with the calculated steel temperature in an “ETK fire”. This steel temperature determination allows for the determination of the mechanical properties required for the design, and the actual design is carried out in a manner similar to cold design, with the thermally affected mechanical properties at a fire-resistant safety factor (where this design procedure is calibrated based on testing). In contrast, in hot design, no fire-fighting equipment is applied or connected, and the components are oversized, i.e., designed to be more robust than required in cold design. The resulting larger component size (i.e., component mass) leads to slower heating of the component under fire loads, which in turn relates to a smaller reduction in steel strength and a correspondingly higher load-bearing capacity.

[0024] For fire protection of pure steel structures, excessive size is often excessive, and therefore impractical or at least uneconomical; thus, additional passive and / or active fire protection measures are usually necessary. Fire protection measures that modify steel structures typically provide insulation, shielding, and / or heat dissipation. Insulation, shielding, and / or heat dissipation measures include, for example, sheaths or claddings made of cement sprayed with plaster containing vermiculite or mineral fibers (usually along with the necessary gypsum base), box-shaped sheaths made of plasterboard, coatings forming the insulating layer, room-sealing systems such as suspended ceilings, and filling steel cavities with pump-independent and heat-free circulating water. However, these required fire protection measures are time-consuming and costly to install, and require the application of more or additional materials and raw materials. This is disadvantageous from economic, technical, and safety perspectives, but also aesthetically. It is also detrimental in terms of sustainability.

[0025] Therefore, the fundamental problem of the present invention is to provide the required fire protection (i.e., fire resistance and / or flame resistance) for steel components in a simplified manner, in which the disadvantages of the prior art described above are at least largely avoided or at least mitigated.

[0026] In particular, a method is provided for generating fire resistance and / or fire resistant properties on steel components or for providing (equipping) steel components with fire resistance and / or fire resistant properties, which, compared with conventional structural fire protection measures of the prior art that are reliably implemented from a technical point of view, can generate (produce) fire resistance and / or fire resistant steel components in a simplified and cost-effective manner.

[0027] In particular, reproducibility in planning and execution, process economy and operational compatibility, as well as sustainability including improved cost and resource utilization, will also be achieved within the scope of this invention.

[0028] To address the aforementioned problems, according to a first aspect of the invention, the invention provides a method for generating (producing) flame retardancy and / or fire resistance on or to steel components and / or for providing (equipping) steel components having fire resistance and / or fire-fighting properties; furthermore, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments of the method according to the invention are provided.

[0029] Furthermore, according to a second aspect of the invention, the invention relates to the use of aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers for producing (generating) flame retardancy and / or fire resistance; furthermore, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments of the use according to the invention are provided.

[0030] Furthermore, according to a third aspect of the invention, the invention relates to the use of hot-dip galvanizing and / or hot-dip galvanizing methods to produce flame retardancy and / or fire resistance on or to steel components and / or to provide (equip) steel components having flame retardancy and / or fire resistance; furthermore, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments of the uses according to the invention are provided.

[0031] Furthermore, according to a fourth aspect of the invention, the invention relates to the use of aluminum in increasing and / or improving the flame retardancy and / or fire resistance of hot-dip galvanized steel components and / or steel components having a hot-dip galvanized coating; furthermore, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments according to the use of the invention are provided.

[0032] Similarly, according to a fifth aspect of the invention, the invention relates to the use of steel members having aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized as structural members to meet requirements for flame retardancy and / or fire resistance; furthermore, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments according to the invention are provided.

[0033] Furthermore, according to a sixth aspect of the invention, the subject matter of the invention is to provide steel members with a hot-dip galvanized layer containing aluminum and / or aluminum alloy as structural members of a receiving device, particularly for housings or containers for energy storage or energy converters, such as fuel cells, accumulators, batteries, primary cells or the like, especially for the automotive industry, preferably meeting the requirements of flame retardancy and / or fire resistance; in addition, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments according to the uses of the invention are provided.

[0034] Similarly, according to a seventh aspect of the invention, the invention relates to a support structure, particularly a steel structure, for construction, especially for a building or part of a building; furthermore, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments of the support structure according to the invention are provided.

[0035] Furthermore, according to an eighth aspect of the invention, the invention relates to a building, particularly a building or part of a building including the support structure of the invention; furthermore, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments of the structure according to the invention are provided.

[0036] Finally, according to a ninth aspect of the invention, the subject matter of the invention is the use of aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers for producing flame retardancy and / or fire resistance on iron-based or iron-containing, particularly steel-based or steel-containing, articles and / or for providing (equipping) iron-based or iron-containing, particularly steel-based or steel-containing articles having flame retardancy and / or fire resistance; furthermore, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments of the structure according to the invention are provided.

[0037] It will be apparent from the following explanation that the designs, implementation methods, advantages, etc., presented below to avoid repetition in relation to only one aspect of the invention will naturally also apply to other aspects of the invention, without the need for separate mention.

[0038] In the case of all relative or percentage weight-related data mentioned below, especially relative quantity or weight data, it should also be noted that these data will be selected by those skilled in the art within the scope of this invention such that they always add up or sum to a total of 100% or 100 wt%, taking into account all components or ingredients, preferably those defined below; however, this is self-evident to those skilled in the art.

[0039] In all other respects, those skilled in the art may deviate from the scope specifications given below, as necessary, depending on the application or individual circumstances, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0040] Furthermore, all values ​​or parameters mentioned below can be determined using standardized or explicitly stated methods of determination or measurement methods familiar to those skilled in the art.

[0041] Having explained these points, the present invention will now be explained in detail below.

[0042] Therefore, according to a first aspect of the invention, the subject matter of the invention is a method for producing fire resistance and / or refractory properties on or to steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, and / or for providing (equipping) steel components having fire resistance and / or refractory properties, particularly having fire resistance and / or refractory properties according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, particularly a method for producing fire-resistant and / or refractory steel components, particularly fire-resistant and / or refractory steel components according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102:21977-09.

[0043] The steel component has an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, and / or the steel component is hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt.

[0044] In particular, under such conditions and in such manner, steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath exhibit a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 at temperatures above 500°C, especially above 550°C, preferably above 600°C, more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, and even more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m In particular, at most 0.65, preferably at most 0.60, more preferably at most 0.55, even more preferably at most 0.50, and / or steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath, have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m Especially in the range of 0.05 to <0.7, preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.65, more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.60, and even more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.55.

[0045] Because the applicant has now discovered, quite unexpectedly, that the fire resistance and / or flame retardancy of steel components (particularly according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09) can be effectively achieved by providing (equipping) relevant steel components with a hot-dip galvanized coating containing aluminum and / or aluminum alloys. In a completely unexpected way, this hot-dip galvanized coating containing aluminum and / or aluminum alloys significantly reduces and slows down the heating of the components in the event of a fire (and this does not require the additional structural and costly fire-fighting measures described at the outset in conjunction with the prior art).

[0046] Of particular surprise, the fire resistance and / or flame resistance of such steel components with aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coatings are significantly improved or increased not only compared to ungalvanized steel components, but also compared to conventional galvanized steel components (i.e., steel components with a conventional galvanized coating of pure zinc, i.e., aluminum-free steel components). In the context of this invention, the term "pure zinc" is used to refer to a zinc melt composed of pure or near-pure zinc or a hot-dip galvanized coating produced therefrom (i.e., the zinc provided has no associated aluminum content or is at least substantially free of it, preferably (completely) aluminum-free).

[0047] The significant increase or improvement in the flame retardancy and / or fire resistance of steel components with aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coatings according to the present invention is unforeseen by those skilled in the art and must therefore be considered entirely surprising.

[0048] Without delving into specific theories, the surprising fire resistance and / or flame retardancy produced on or to steel components by aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coatings can be explained by the fact that, in flammable or fire conditions, a transformation from the Zn / Al phase to the Fe / Al phase occurs due to melting, which has a lower emissivity compared to the zinc and / or Fe / Zn phase, and / or the formation of heat-resistant alumina in the hot-dip galvanized coating during a fire. Thus, the surface of the steel component coated with such an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating is effectively shielded from the effects of fire or high temperatures, resulting in significant weakening and / or delayed heating of the component.

[0049] As the applicants have also surprisingly discovered, the presence of aluminum significantly increases or improves fire resistance not only compared to ungalvanized steel components but also compared to conventional galvanized steel components with a hot-dip galvanized coating based on pure zinc (explained in detail below). Furthermore, the aluminum content of the hot-dip galvanized coating allows for significantly lower coating thicknesses compared to conventional galvanized steel components (while simultaneously saving significant resources and weight).

[0050] In addition, the hot-dip galvanized layer containing aluminum and / or aluminum alloys ensures effective corrosion protection, and the corrosion resistance is improved compared with conventional galvanized steel components (preferably with a lower thickness of hot-dip galvanized layer).

[0051] The concept of this invention enables the production and / or realization of fire resistance and / or flame retardancy of steel components, eliminating the need for additional structural fire protection measures, such as those mentioned and described at the beginning in conjunction with the prior art (e.g., fire-resistant coatings, fire extinguishers, or the like).

[0052] The present invention's solution method is particularly significant based on the use of molten aluminum alloy, especially for the galvanizing of individual steel structural components for fire protection and / or a combination of corrosion and fire prevention purposes. In particular, zinc coatings formed with an aluminum content of 250 ppm and / or 500 ppm in the molten zinc (and thus in the resulting hot-dip galvanized layer) perform significantly better under heat loads than aluminum-free zinc coatings, which is typically observed in fire conditions.

[0053] In particular, the novel solution method of the present invention achieves a number of advantages and special features, some of which have already been mentioned above.

[0054] In a non-limiting manner, reference should also be made to the following advantages and special features of the invention, which, in addition to the advantages of conventional galvanized components already described above, represent a significant improvement over the prior art:

[0055] As the Al content in the zinc melt (and zinc coating) increases, the emissivity ε, a measure of the ratio of absorbed to reflected thermal radiation (ε = 0 = complete reflection and ε = 1 = complete absorption), remains at a low level until higher temperatures. Components galvanized in this manner heat up more slowly compared to components galvanized in Al-free and / or quasi-Al-free zinc melts.

[0056] When using aluminum alloy zinc melt (again, compared to components galvanized in aluminum-free and / or quasi-aluminum-free zinc melt), the level of emissivity increase at the start of the temperature-induced diffusion method under fire load is also lower, which also slows down the heating of the components.

[0057] Therefore, compared to components galvanized in aluminum-free and / or quasi-aluminum-free zinc melt, the reduction in emissivity achieved according to the method of the present invention results in lower component temperatures after a defined fire duration, which is associated with higher load-bearing capacity. Alternatively, the same component temperature, i.e., the same load-bearing capacity, can be achieved by reducing the cross-section of the steel profile, which in turn significantly saves the necessary steel mass.

[0058] The use of Al alloyed zinc melt also leads to a reduction in zinc coating thickness, particularly starting from 1200 ppm Al content in the zinc melt, but still below that value. Therefore, for applications on steel structures with no or only low corrosion requirements, such as those in corrosion categories C1 or C2 according to DIN ENISO 12944, significantly thinner zinc coatings can be applied, which also improves the efficiency of materials and components.

[0059] The use of zinc melt in aluminum alloys, particularly from zinc melts with an Al content >1200 ppm (but already below this value), has also resulted in the appearance of the zinc coating becoming increasingly independent of the steel's chemical properties. Therefore, according to DIN ENISO 14713-2, all steels from categories A to D can be used with an Al content of approximately 1200 ppm. Previous limitations on categories A and B in the prior art no longer exist in the context of this invention, which is necessary to achieve reduced emissivity up to 500°C according to the prior art.

[0060] Within the scope of this invention, it is possible, and even advantageous, to use thin layers, particularly transparent post-treatment coatings, such as passivation and / or sealing, preferably having a layer thickness in the range of a few nanometers to a few micrometers.

[0061] Therefore, as described above, the present invention provides a method for producing fire resistance and / or fire resistance on or to steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, and / or a method for providing (equipping) steel components having fire resistance and / or fire resistance, particularly having fire resistance and / or fire resistance according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, particularly a method for producing fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102 ... Flame-resistant and / or fire-resistant steel components conforming to DIN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 41022:1977-09.

[0062] The steel component has an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, and / or the steel component is hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt.

[0063] In particular, under such conditions and in such manner, steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath exhibit a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 at temperatures above 500°C, especially above 550°C, preferably above 600°C, more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, and even more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m In particular, at most 0.65, preferably at most 0.60, more preferably at most 0.55, even more preferably at most 0.50, and / or steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath, have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m Especially in the range of 0.05 to <0.7, preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.65, more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.60, and even more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.55.

[0064] The terms flame retardancy and fire resistance, as used in the context of this invention, should be understood as synonyms and used in accordance with relevant standards and regulations, particularly DIN EN 135012:2016-12 and DIN 4102-2:1977-09 (and other relevant standards and regulations, such as DIN EN 1993-1-2:2006-10 and DIN EN 1991-1-2 / NA:2015-09).

[0065] Therefore, the so-called surface emissivity (emissivity) ε m It can be used as a measure of the heating of steel components in the event of a fire and / or flame.

[0066] In the context of this invention, surface emissivity (emissivity) ε m The surface emissivity ε represents the surface emissivity according to DIN EN 1993-1-2:2006-10. m .

[0067] The emissivity (also known as emissivity) of an object represents the amount of radiation emitted by the object compared to an ideal thermal emitter (i.e., a blackbody); therefore, the value of emissivity is always between zero (no absorption) and one (100% absorption). Thus, emissivity is a measure of the intensity of thermal radiation exchanged between a material or body (e.g., a steel component in the case of this invention) and its surrounding environment.

[0068] Emissivity or emissivity ε is a dimensionless physical quantity, thus allowing the measurement of the intensity of thermal radiation emitted by a material and / or its surface into its environment; because the relevant European standard is based on Kirchhoff's law, which states that a good radiator is also a good absorber, the emissivity ε of an object is based on an approximate absorption coefficient α. The emissivity of a real object, more specifically, in the case of this invention, the emissivity of a metallic surface (e.g., a steel component), depends on many different parameters, such as surface conditions, component temperature, wavelength range, and radiation angle, and is therefore a highly variable physical quantity. Since the emissivity ε parameter combines these influencing variables into a single parameter, it is particularly suitable in the case of this invention for characterizing the flame retardancy and / or fire resistance of steel components designed according to the invention.

[0069] The surface emissivity (emissivity) ε used in this invention m The parameters are used in accordance with the relevant standard DIN EN1993-1-2:2006-10.

[0070] According to DIN EN 1993-1-2:2006-10, the emissivity of ungalvanized structural steel surfaces is assumed to be 0.70. In contrast, for conventional galvanized structural steel (structural steel with a pure zinc hot-dip galvanized coating), the surface emissivity (emissivity) ε is assumed to be higher at temperatures up to 500°C. m The surface emissivity (emissivity) ε is approximately 0.35, but at temperatures of 500°C and above, it is significantly higher. m =0.70 and above (i.e., the same as ungalvanized structural steel) (see also the second draft of SC3.T6 by the project team of the standardization body CEN / TC 250 / SC 3 / WG 2N 82 for updating EN 1993-1-2 from 2019).

[0071] In the context of this invention, it has been discovered in a completely surprising way that, due to the incorporation of aluminum into the hot-dip galvanized layer and / or due to the aluminum alloying associated with the hot-dip galvanized layer, the surface emissivity (emissivity) ε remains high even at temperatures above 500°C. m It can also be significantly reduced to below 0.70 (meaning that in the event of a fire and / or flame, the steel component in question exhibits a significantly reduced and delayed heating; see also the explanation above).

[0072] According to the present invention, this terminology means surface emissivity (emissivity) ε m Below 0.7, i.e., ε m <0.7, therefore the value of 0.7 itself is not included (hence the wording "below").

[0073] Emissivity (emissivity) of steel surface ε m Temperature-related parameters can be determined experimentally using conventional methods and measurement procedures known to those skilled in the art (particularly using thermal sensors, especially infrared sensors and / or thermocouples). In the context of this invention, determinations based on so-called emissivity performance tests, described in detail in: C. Gaigl and M. Mensinger, Technical Report "Thermal Effects of HDG Structures", Technical University of Munich, February 2018; and M. Mensinger and C. Gaigl, Paper "Feuerwiderstand verzinkter Stahlkonstruktionen", Stahlbau, Vol. 88, pp. 3-10, January 2019, have proven particularly useful in this regard. Surface emissivity (emissivity) ε mThis method of determination is also used in the context of the present invention, and particularly in the context of embodiments according to the invention. The determination method is specifically based on experimental records of temperature profiles of steel components under fire and / or flame conditions (e.g., according to DIN EN 1993-1-2:2006-10), wherein the relevant steel component or relevant specimen is subjected to continuous or increasing thermal loads. The emissivity can then be determined and / or calculated using Planck's law of radiation.

[0074] For the evaluation of internal steel structures, the so-called uniform temperature-time profile (ETK) is commonly used as a measure of thermal exposure. However, natural fire models can also be used according to existing building codes. According to DIN EN 1991-1-2, ETK is defined as thermal stress and / or load, as follows:

[0075] T = 345log 10 (8t+1)+20[℃]

[0076] in:

[0077] T = Combustion chamber temperature [°C]; t = Time [min].

[0078] Regardless of the thermal effect, heat transfer during a fire occurs through energy exchange between several systems. In this process, thermal energy is always transferred from a higher energy level to a lower energy level. If the components are not in direct contact, this can occur through two different mechanisms: convection and / or electromagnetic radiation. Temperature rise Δθ of unprotected steel components. a,t It can be calculated according to the following formula in (1) during the time interval Δt < 5 [sec]:

[0079]

[0080] In addition to the correction factor k for the shading effect sh Profile coefficient A m / V, specific heat capacity c a The bulk density p of steel a Besides factors such as net heat flux This is reflected in the heating of the components. The latter consists of two convection components. and radiation For the composition, see equations (2) to (4) below:

[0081]

[0082] As can be seen from equations (2) to (4), thermal radiation contributes more to the heating of the components, especially in areas where there is a large temperature difference between the components and the environment. The heat transfer from radiation is significantly affected by the surface of the components, and it is here that the effect caused by hot-dip galvanizing occurs.

[0083] Two emissivity types, namely the surface emissivity ε of the component. m and combustion chamber emissivity ε f All of these factors affect the radiative component of the heat flux. Based on the assumption ε in the relevant European standards... f =1.0 (i.e., DIN EN 1993-1-2, European Standard 3: Design of steel structures, Part 1-2: General, Fire-resistant structural design; and DIN EN 1994-1-2, European Standard 4: Design of steel and concrete composite structures, Part 1-2: General, Fire-resistant structural design) The emissivity of the surrounding environment is assumed to be that of an ideal blackbody. On the other hand, for structural steel, the emissivity is assumed to be ε m =0.70, without considering its actual surface properties; this corresponds to 70% thermal absorption of the introduced radiant energy.

[0084] Therefore, as described above, the use of an aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer on steel components according to the present invention results in a higher surface emissivity ε, particularly compared to the corresponding ungalvanized steel components, in the event of a fire and / or flame. m The cost is significantly reduced, and this is also true compared to conventional galvanized steel components (i.e., those with a hot-dip galvanized layer of pure zinc). In this way, within the scope of this invention, the fire protection requirements specified in relevant standards and regulations, particularly DIN EN 135012-2016-12 and / or DIN 41022:1977-09, can be achieved even without additional and / or further structural fire protection measures.

[0085] The aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coatings used in this invention, and their production and / or manufacture, are sufficiently known to those skilled in the art, and therefore require no further explanation. However, to date, such aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coatings have only been provided in the prior art for corrosion protection; that is, their effect on improving fire resistance and / or flame retardancy has not been recognized and therefore not realized in the prior art. This knowledge and technology transfer—in a completely surprising way—comes solely from the applicant of this invention.

[0086] Therefore, based on the applicant's remarkable discovery, this invention enables the production of fire resistance and / or flammability, particularly according to DIN EN 135012-201-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, on or to steel components, and / or steel components can be equipped with (provided) a fire resistance and / or flammability, particularly according to DIN EN135012-201-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, by equipping (providing) the steel components with an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or by hot-dip galvanizing the steel components using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt.

[0087] In particular, under such conditions and in such manner, steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath exhibit a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 at temperatures above 500°C, especially above 550°C, preferably above 600°C, more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, and even more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m In particular, at most 0.65, preferably at most 0.60, more preferably at most 0.55, even more preferably at most 0.50, and / or steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath, have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m Especially in the range of 0.05 to <0.7, preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.65, more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.60, and even more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.55.

[0088] In order to achieve the desired effects of flame retardancy and / or fire resistance according to the invention, certain minimum thicknesses of the hot-dip galvanized layers containing aluminum and / or aluminum alloys should be provided; on the other hand, for reasons of sustainability, material saving, and especially the weight of steel components, the layer thickness should not exceed a certain upper limit.

[0089] In this context, it has been proven useful, within the scope of the invention, to apply aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers to steel components with a layer thickness ranging from 1 micrometer to 250 micrometers, particularly in the range of 1 micrometer to 200 micrometers, preferably in the range of 1.5 micrometers to 150 micrometers, more preferably in the range of 2 micrometers to 100 micrometers, more preferably in the range of 2 micrometers to 80 micrometers, even more preferably in the range of 2.5 micrometers to 70 micrometers, even more preferably in the range of 250 micrometers to 60 micrometers, further preferably in the range of 3 micrometers to 50 micrometers, even more preferably in the range of 3.5 micrometers to 30 micrometers, and most preferably in the range of 4 micrometers to 25 micrometers.

[0090] In particular, according to the method of the invention, it is advantageous to apply a hot-dip galvanized layer containing aluminum and / or aluminum alloy to the steel member with a layer thickness of at least 1 micrometer, especially at least 1.5 micrometers, preferably at least 2 micrometers, more preferably at least 2.5 micrometers, more preferably at least 3 micrometers, even more preferably at least 3.5 micrometers, and more preferably at least 4 micrometers.

[0091] Similarly, according to the method of the invention, it is advantageous to apply a hot-dip galvanized layer containing aluminum and / or aluminum alloy to the steel member with a layer thickness of up to 250 micrometers, particularly up to 200 micrometers, preferably up to 150 micrometers, more preferably up to 100 micrometers, more preferably up to 80 micrometers, even more preferably up to 70 micrometers, still more preferably up to 60 micrometers, further preferably up to 50 micrometers, even further preferably up to 30 micrometers, and most preferably up to 25 micrometers.

[0092] With the coating thickness described above, the method according to the present invention can achieve particularly good results. However, deviations from the above values ​​and ranges are not impossible without departing from the scope of the invention, particularly on a case-by-case basis; this is to be determined by those skilled in the art.

[0093] Similarly, the amount of aluminum and / or the aluminum content of the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer used in this invention should vary within a certain range in order to ensure sufficient flame retardancy and / or fire resistance on the one hand, and to take into account and / or comply with material weight, material economy and sustainability on the other hand.

[0094] In this context, the method according to the invention proves particularly useful for aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers having an aluminum content based on the aluminum content of the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, and / or an aluminum content based on the aluminum content of the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt (used to produce aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers), from 0.025 wt% to 50 wt%, particularly in the range of 0.04 wt% to 45 wt%, preferably in the range of 0.05 wt% to 40 wt%, preferably in the range of 0.075 wt% to 30 wt%, more preferably in the range of 0.1 wt% to 20 wt%, even more preferably in the range of 1.5 wt% to 15 wt%, even more preferably in the range of 2 wt% to 12.5 wt%, further preferably in the range of 3 wt% to 10 wt%, even more preferably in the range of 3.5 wt% to 9 wt%, and most preferably in the range of 4 wt% to 8 wt%.

[0095] In this case, the method according to the invention is particularly advantageous in that the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer has an aluminum content based on the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt (for producing the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer), particularly having an aluminum content based on the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt, at least 0.025 wt%, particularly at least 0.04 wt%, preferably at least 0.05 wt%, preferably at least 0.075 wt%, more preferably at least 0.1 wt%, even more preferably at least 1.5 wt%, even more preferably at least 2 wt%, further preferably at least 3 wt%, even more preferably at least 3.5 wt%, and most preferably at least 4 wt%.

[0096] Furthermore, within the scope of this invention, it has proven particularly useful in this case that the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer has an aluminum content based on the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, and / or an aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt (for producing the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer), based on the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt, respectively up to 50 wt%, particularly up to 45 wt%, preferably up to 40 wt%, preferably up to 30 wt%, more preferably up to 20 wt%, even more preferably up to 15 wt%, even more preferably up to 12.5 wt%, further preferably up to 10 wt%, even more preferably up to 9 wt%, and most preferably up to 8 wt%.

[0097] Furthermore, according to alternative embodiments in this context, it has also proven particularly useful within the scope of the invention that the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer has an aluminum content based on the aluminum content of the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt in the range of 0.5 wt% to 20 wt%, particularly in the range of 1 wt% to 10 wt%, and / or the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt (for producing the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer) has an aluminum content based on the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt in the range of 0.5 wt% to 20 wt%, particularly in the range of 1 wt% to 10 wt%.

[0098] Regarding the composition of the aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer (for producing aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer) applied to fire-resistant and / or heat-resistant steel components according to the method of the present invention, the composition may vary within a certain range, wherein certain specifications are given regarding the overall composition of the aluminum alloy and / or aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer and / or aluminum alloy and / or aluminum-zinc melt due to the aluminum content listed above.

[0099] Within the scope of this invention, it has been particularly demonstrated that aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers and / or aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy zinc melts (for the production of aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers) have the following composition, wherein in the case of the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer is involved, and / or in the case of the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt (for the production of the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer), the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized melt is involved, and selected in such a way that a total of 100 wt% results in:

[0100] (i) Zinc (Zn), in an amount ranging from 50 wt% to 99.975 wt%, particularly in the range of 55 wt% to 99.96 wt%, preferably in the range of 60 wt% to 99.95 wt%, more preferably in the range of 70 wt% to 99.925 wt%, more preferably in the range of 80 wt% to 99.1 wt%, even more preferably in the range of 85 wt% to 98.5 wt%, even more preferably in the range of 87.5 wt% to 98 wt%, further preferably in the range of 90 wt% to 97 wt%, even more preferably in the range of 91 wt% to 96.5 wt%, and most preferably in the range of 92 wt% to 96 wt%.

[0101] (ii) Aluminum (Al), in an amount of 0.025 wt% to 50 wt%, particularly in the range of 0.04 wt% to 45 wt%, preferably in the range of 0.05 wt% to 40 wt%, more preferably in the range of 0.075 wt% to 30 wt%, more preferably in the range of 0.1 wt% to 20 wt%, even more preferably in the range of 1.5 wt% to 15 wt%, even more preferably in the range of 2 wt% to 12.5 wt%, further preferably in the range of 3 wt% to 10 wt%, even more preferably in the range of 3.5 wt% to 9 wt%, and most preferably in the range of 4 wt% to 8 wt%.

[0102] (iii) One or more other metals, particularly selected from bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, in particular in amounts from 0.001 wt% to 10 wt%, particularly in the range of 0.001 wt% to 9 wt%, preferably in the range of 0.01 wt% to 8 wt%, preferably in the range of 0.02 wt% to 6 wt%, more preferably in the range of 0.05 wt% to 5 wt%, even more preferably in the range of 0.1 wt% to 4 wt%, even more preferably in the range of 0.2 wt% to 3.5 wt%, further preferably in the range of 0.3 wt% to 3 wt%, even more preferably in the range of 0.4 wt% to 2 wt%, and most preferably in the range of 0.5 wt% to 1 wt%.

[0103] In particular, the magnesium content must be less than 0.2 wt%, and especially less than 0.15 wt%.

[0104] Furthermore, within the scope of this invention, it has been demonstrated that it is particularly useful for aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers to have the following composition, wherein all the amounts described below are related to the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and are selected in such a way that a total of 100 wt% is achieved, and / or wherein the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt (for producing aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers) has the following composition, wherein all the amounts described below are related to the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt and are selected such that a total of 100 wt% is achieved:

[0105] (i) Zinc (Zn), in amounts from 70 wt% to 99.5 wt%, particularly in the range of 90 wt% to 99 wt%.

[0106] (ii) Aluminum (Al), in amounts from 0.5 wt% to 20 wt%, particularly in the range of 1 wt% to 10 wt%,

[0107] (iii) One or more other metals, particularly selected from bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, in particular in amounts from 0.001 wt% to 10 wt%, particularly in the range of 0.001 wt% to 6 wt%.

[0108] In particular, the magnesium content must be less than 0.2 wt%, and especially less than 0.15 wt%.

[0109] Furthermore, within the scope of this invention, aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers have also proven particularly useful, having the following composition, wherein all the amounts described below are related to the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and are selected in such a way that a total of 100 wt% is achieved, and / or wherein the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt (for producing aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers) has the following composition, wherein all the amounts described below are related to the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt and are selected such that a total of 100 wt% is achieved:

[0110] (i) The zinc (Zn) content is 90 wt% to 99 wt%.

[0111] (ii) The amount of aluminum (Al) is 1 wt% to 10 wt%.

[0112] (iii) One or more other metals, particularly selected from bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, in particular in amounts from 0.001 wt% to 6 wt%;

[0113] In particular, the magnesium content must be less than 0.2 wt%, and especially less than 0.15 wt%.

[0114] The aforementioned composition and / or formation of aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers, particularly the aluminum content in aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers, can be adjusted and / or controlled within the scope of this invention by means of the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt used in hot-dip galvanizing. This is known to those skilled in the art, and therefore no further explanation is necessary.

[0115] In the context of this invention, it is particularly possible to adjust and / or control flame retardancy and / or fire resistance by means of the thickness, composition and / or formation of the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, especially by means of the aluminum content of the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer.

[0116] In particular, in this case, the flame retardancy and / or fire resistance can be improved by increasing the aluminum content of the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, and / or the flame retardancy and / or fire resistance can be improved by increasing the layer thickness of the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer.

[0117] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, an aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer is applied to a steel component with a layer thickness ranging from 4 micrometers to 25 micrometers.

[0118] In this case, it is particularly preferred that the aluminum content of the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer is in the range of 4 wt% to 8 wt%, and / or the aluminum content of the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt (used to produce the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer) is in the range of 4 wt% to 8 wt%.

[0119] According to the method of the invention, it is particularly preferred that the aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or aluminum and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt (for producing the aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer) each have the following composition, wherein all the amounts described below relate to the aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer in the case of the aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, and / or to the aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized melt in the case of the aluminum or aluminum alloy zinc melt (for producing the aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer), and are selected in such a way that a total result of 100 wt% is obtained:

[0120] (i) Zinc (Zn), in amounts of 92 wt% to 96 wt%,

[0121] (ii) Aluminum (Al), in an amount of 4 wt% to 8 wt%,

[0122] (iii) Optionally one or more other metals selected from bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, in particular in amounts from 0.001 wt% to 10 wt%.

[0123] In particular, the magnesium content must be less than 0.2 wt%, and especially less than 0.15 wt%.

[0124] According to a specific embodiment of the method of the present invention, the present invention also particularly relates to a method for producing flame retardancy and / or fire resistance on or to steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 135012-201-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, and / or for providing (equipping) steel components having flame retardancy and / or fire resistance, particularly having flame retardancy and / or fire resistance according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, particularly a method for producing (manufacturing) flame retardant and / or fire resistant steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, particularly the method as described above.

[0125] The steel component has an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, and / or the steel component is hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt.

[0126] The aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer is applied to the steel member, and its thickness is in the range of 4 micrometers to 25 micrometers.

[0127] Wherein, the aluminum content of the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer is based on the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer being 4wt% to 8wt%;

[0128] Under such conditions and / or conditions, steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.65 at a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. m Preferably, the surface emissivity (emissivity) ε is at most 0.60, and / or the steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or the steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath have a surface emissivity (emissivity) in the range of 0.05 to 0.65 at a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. m The preferred value is in the range of 0.05 to 0.60.

[0129] According to this particular embodiment, it is particularly preferred that the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer has the following composition, wherein all the amounts described below are related to the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and are selected such that the total result is 100 wt%:

[0130] (i) Zinc (Zn), in amounts of 92 wt% to 96 wt%,

[0131] (ii) Aluminum (Al), in an amount of 4 wt% to 8 wt%,

[0132] (iii) Optionally one or more other metals selected from bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, in particular in amounts from 0.001 wt% to 10 wt%; particularly provided that the magnesium content is less than 0.2 wt%, and especially less than 0.15 wt%.

[0133] According to this particular embodiment, it is particularly preferred that the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer has a proportion of optional magnesium of less than 0.2 wt%, particularly less than 0.15 wt%, based on the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer.

[0134] According to another specific embodiment of the method of the invention, the invention also particularly relates to a method for producing (generating) flame retardancy and / or fire resistance on or to steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 135012-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, and / or for providing (equipping) steel components having flame retardancy and / or fire resistance, particularly having flame retardancy and / or fire resistance according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, particularly a method for providing flame retardant and / or fire-resistant steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, particularly the above-described method.

[0135] The steel component has an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, and / or the steel component is hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt.

[0136] The aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer is applied to the steel member, and its thickness is in the range of 4 micrometers to 25 micrometers.

[0137] Wherein, the aluminum content of the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer is based on the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer being 4wt% to 8wt%;

[0138] Under such conditions and / or conditions, steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.65 at a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. mPreferably, the surface emissivity (emissivity) ε is at most 0.60, and / or the steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or the steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath have a surface emissivity (emissivity) in the range of 0.05 to 0.65 at a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. m Preferably, it is in the range of 0.05 to 0.60;

[0139] The aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer has the following composition, wherein all the amounts described below are related to the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and are selected such that the total result is 100 wt%:

[0140] (i) Zinc (Zn), in amounts of 92 wt% to 96 wt%,

[0141] (ii) Aluminum (Al), in an amount of 4 wt% to 8 wt%,

[0142] (iii) Optionally one or more other metals selected from the group consisting of bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, in particular in amounts from 0.001 wt% to 10 wt%; particularly provided that the magnesium content is less than 0.2 wt%, and especially less than 0.15 wt%.

[0143] According to another specific embodiment of the method of the invention, the invention also particularly relates to a method for producing flame retardancy and / or fire resistance on or to steel components, particularly flame retardancy according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, and / or for providing (equipping) steel components having flame retardancy and / or fire resistance, particularly having flame retardancy and / or fire resistance according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 41022:1977-09, particularly a method for producing (manufacturing) flame retardant and / or fire resistant steel components, particularly flame retardant and / or fire resistant steel components according to DIN EN 135012:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, particularly the method as described above.

[0144] The steel component has an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, and / or the steel component is hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt.

[0145] The aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer is applied to the steel member, and the layer thickness ranges from 2.5 micrometers to 70 micrometers.

[0146] Wherein, the aluminum content of the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer is based on the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer being in the range of 1wt% to 10wt%;

[0147] Under such conditions and / or conditions, steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.65 at a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. m Preferably, the surface emissivity (emissivity) ε is at most 0.60, and / or the steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or the steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath have a surface emissivity (emissivity) in the range of 0.05 to 0.65 at a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. m The preferred value is in the range of 0.05 to 0.60.

[0148] According to this particular embodiment, it is particularly preferred that the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer has the following composition, wherein all the amounts described below are related to the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and are selected such that the total result is 100 wt%:

[0149] (i) Zinc (Zn), in an amount of 90 wt% to 99 wt%,

[0150] (ii) Aluminum (Al), in an amount of 1 wt% to 10 wt%,

[0151] (iii) Optionally one or more other metals selected from the group consisting of bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, in particular in amounts from 0.001 wt% to 6 wt%.

[0152] In particular, the magnesium content must be less than 0.2 wt%, and especially less than 0.15 wt%.

[0153] According to this particular embodiment, it is particularly preferred that the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer has a proportion of optional magnesium of less than 0.2 wt%, particularly less than 0.15 wt%, based on the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer.

[0154] According to another specific embodiment of the method of the present invention, the present invention also particularly relates to a method for producing fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant properties on or to steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, and / or for providing (equipping) steel components having fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant properties, particularly having fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant properties according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 41022:1977-09, particularly a method for producing fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102:21977-09.

[0155] The steel component has an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, and / or the steel component is hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt.

[0156] The aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer is applied to the steel member, and the layer thickness ranges from 2.5 micrometers to 70 micrometers.

[0157] Wherein, the aluminum content of the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer is based on the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer being in the range of 1wt% to 10wt%;

[0158] Under such conditions and / or conditions, steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.65 at a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. m Preferably, the surface emissivity (emissivity) ε is at most 0.60, and / or the steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or the steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath have a surface emissivity (emissivity) in the range of 0.05 to 0.65 at a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. m Preferably, it is in the range of 0.05 to 0.60;

[0159] The aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer has the following composition, wherein all the amounts described below are related to the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and are selected such that the total result is 100 wt%:

[0160] (i) Zinc (Zn), in an amount of 90 wt% to 99 wt%,

[0161] (ii) Aluminum (Al), in an amount of 1 wt% to 10 wt%,

[0162] (iii) Optionally one or more other metals selected from the group consisting of bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, in particular in amounts from 0.001 wt% to 6 wt%.

[0163] In particular, the magnesium content must be less than 0.2 wt%, and especially less than 0.15 wt%.

[0164] Through the preferred embodiments described above, particularly good results are obtained within the range of flame retardancy and / or fire resistance according to the present invention.

[0165] To achieve particularly good results in terms of flame retardancy and / or fire resistance, the method according to the invention has proven advantageous in that steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath have a temperature below 500°C, particularly above 550°C, preferably above 600°C, more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, and even more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C, exhibit a resistance of less than 0.7 (i.e., therefore ε). m Surface emissivity (emissivity) ε ≥0.7 m In particular, at most 0.65, preferably at most 0.60, more preferably at most 0.55, and most preferably at most 0.50. In this way, the method according to the invention achieves particularly good results.

[0166] In the context of this invention, it is also advantageous that steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 in a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, particularly in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m In particular, in the range of 0.05 to <0.7, preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.65, more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.60, and even more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.55. In this way, the method according to the invention yields particularly good results.

[0167] According to a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, a steel component having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or a steel component hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath is provided, having a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of up to 0.40 in a temperature range of 500°C to 650°C. mIn particular, at most 0.35, preferably at most 0.30, more preferably at most 0.25, and steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath, having a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of at most 0.65 in the temperature range of 650°C to 850°C. m In particular, at most 0.60, preferably at most 0.55.

[0168] This preferred embodiment should be given special consideration.

[0169] If a hot-dip galvanized layer containing aluminum and / or aluminum alloy is applied to a steel component, it has a layer thickness ranging from 4 micrometers to 25 micrometers; and / or

[0170] If the aluminum content of the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer is in the range of 4 wt% to 8 wt% based on the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, and / or if the aluminum content of the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt (used to produce the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer) is 4 wt% to 8 wt% based on the aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt, respectively and / or

[0171] If the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer has the following composition, wherein all the amounts described below are related to the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, and are selected in such a way that the total result is 100 wt%, and / or if the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt (for producing the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer) has the following composition, wherein all the amounts described below are related to the aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt, and are selected such that the total result is 100 wt%:

[0172] (i) Zinc (Zn), in amounts of 92 wt% to 96 wt%,

[0173] (ii) Aluminum (Al), in an amount of 4 wt% to 8 wt%,

[0174] (iii) Optionally, one or more other metals selected from the group consisting of bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg), and combinations thereof, particularly in amounts from 0.001 wt% to 10 wt%.

[0175] In particular, the magnesium content must be less than 0.2 wt%, and especially less than 0.15 wt%.

[0176] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, a steel component having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or a steel component hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath is provided, having a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than, preferably more than, 0.65, in a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. m And / or steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath, having a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε in the range of 0.05 to 0.65 in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. m The preferred value is in the range of 0.05 to 0.60.

[0177] Conversely, prior to the application of aluminum-containing and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coatings, the surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of steel components at temperatures above 500°C, particularly in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, is... m ≥0.7.

[0178] Surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of steel components with aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating m Specifically, it corresponds to the definition and / or measurement (ε = surface emissivity (emissivity) according to DIN EN 1993-1-2:2006-10) m ).

[0179] Surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of steel components with aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating m The surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating can be determined using methods and / or procedures known to those skilled in the art. In particular, in this case, the emissivity (emissivity) ε of the steel component having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating is determined. m In particular, according to DIN EN 1993-1-2:2006-10, the temperature distribution under continuous and / or increasing heat loads is used to determine and / or evaluate the surface emissivity (emissivity) ε, especially in the case of a fire. m In particular, according to DIN EN1993-1-2:2006-10, according to C. Gaigl and M. Mensinger, Technical Report “Thermal Effects of HDG Structures”, Technical University of Munich, February 2018, and / or according to M. Mensinger and C. Gaigl, Article “Thermal Effects of HDG Structures”, Stahlbau, Vol. 88, pp. 3-10, January 2019.

[0180] As previously stated, steel components with an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath are fire-resistant and / or heat-resistant.

[0181] Within the scope of this invention, steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath having a fire resistance rating of at least F30 according to DIN 4102-2:1977-09, particularly at least F60, preferably at least F90, more preferably at least F120.

[0182] Furthermore, in the context of this invention, it is equally preferred that steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath have at least R30, particularly at least R60, preferably at least R90, and more preferably at least R120.

[0183] Regarding the steel components used in the method of the present invention, virtually any steel component can be used.

[0184] In the context of this invention, it is particularly advantageous if the steel of the steel component is selected from (i) low-silicon steel, especially based on a silicon content ≤0.03wt% and a phosphorus content <0.02wt%; (ii) Sandelin steel, especially based on a silicon content between 0.03wt% and 0.14wt%; (iii) Sebisty steel, especially based on a silicon content between 0.14wt% and 0.25wt%; (iv) high-silicon steel, especially based on a silicon content greater than 0.25wt%; and combinations thereof.

[0185] In the context of this invention, it is particularly advantageous if the steel of the steel component is selected from the group consisting of steels of categories A, B, C and / or D and combinations thereof according to DIN EN ISO 14713-2:2020-05.

[0186] In the context of this invention, it is also advantageous that the steel component is a steel structural element, steel beam, steel profile, shaped steel, steel plate, steel pipe or the like.

[0187] In particular, according to the present invention, the steel components are steel components for the construction industry and / or wherein the steel components are steel structural elements or components for the construction industry.

[0188] Furthermore, according to the method of the present invention, it can be specifically specified that the steel component is a steel component intended for or designed for use in the construction industry and / or for use in vehicle construction or automobile manufacturing.

[0189] As for the aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating applied to steel components, this can be applied by hot-dip galvanizing methods known per se (also referred to as hot-dip zinc plating), so no further explanation is needed in this regard.

[0190] Hot-dip galvanizing is perhaps the most important method for protecting steel from corrosion through a metallic coating; however, this method has not yet been associated with fire resistance and / or fire protection. In hot-dip galvanizing, steel is continuously (e.g., strips and wires) or piece by piece (e.g., components) immersed in a heated bath containing liquid zinc (melting point of zinc: 419.5°C) at a temperature of around 450°C to 600°C, in order to provide a resistance alloy layer of iron and zinc on the steel surface, topped with a very strong pure zinc layer.

[0191] In hot-dip galvanizing, a distinction is made between discontinuous batch galvanizing (e.g., see DIN EN ISO 1461) and continuous strip galvanizing (e.g., see DIN EN 10143 and DIN EN 10346). Both continuous and strip galvanizing are standardized and / or regulated methods. Strip galvanized steel refers to primary and / or intermediate products (semi-finished products) that have undergone further processing after galvanizing, particularly through forming, stamping, cutting, etc. Components intended to be protected by single-piece galvanizing (discontinuous batch galvanizing) are first fully manufactured and then hot-dip galvanized (this protects the component from corrosion on all sides). Single-piece galvanizing and strip galvanizing also differ in zinc coating thickness, resulting in different protection durations. The zinc coating thickness of strip galvanized sheets is typically no more than 20 to 25 micrometers, while the zinc coating thickness of sheet galvanized steel components is typically in the range of 50 to 200 micrometers or even greater.

[0192] Hot-dip galvanizing provides both active and passive corrosion protection. Passive protection is provided through the barrier effect of the zinc coating. The cathodic effect of the zinc coating produces active corrosion protection. Compared to more expensive metals in the electrochemical series, such as iron, zinc acts as a sacrificial anode, protecting the underlying iron from corrosion until it is completely corroded itself.

[0193] According to DIN ENISO 1461, hot-dip galvanizing is used for most larger steel components and structures in so-called single-piece galvanizing. Steel billets or finished workpieces (components) are immersed in a molten zinc bath after pretreatment. Immersion particularly allows good access to the inner surfaces, welds, and hard-to-reach areas of the workpiece and / or component to be galvanized.

[0194] Traditional hot-dip galvanizing is preferably based on immersing iron and / or steel components in a molten zinc bath while simultaneously applying a zinc coating and / or zinc plating to the surface of the components. To ensure the adhesion, bonding, and uniformity of the zinc coating, careful surface preparation of the components to be galvanized is usually required beforehand. This typically involves degreasing, followed by rinsing, pickling, rinsing, and finally flux treatment (i.e., flux treatment) and drying.

[0195] Generally, in the context of this invention, hot-dip galvanizing can be carried out in a temperature range of 375°C to 750°C, particularly in a temperature range of 380°C to 700°C, preferably in a temperature range of 390°C to 680°C, and even more preferably in a temperature range of 395°C to 675°C.

[0196] Furthermore, in the context of this invention, the hot-dip galvanizing time is sufficient to provide effective hot-dip galvanizing, particularly in the range of 0.0001 to 60 minutes, preferably in the range of 0.001 to 45 minutes, more preferably in the range of 0.01 to 30 minutes, and even more preferably in the range of 0.1 to 15 minutes.

[0197] The typical sequence of hot-dip galvanizing according to the method of the present invention is generally as follows.

[0198] In the context of this invention, hot-dip galvanizing is specifically carried out in such a manner that it includes pretreatment and / or post-treatment procedures, comprising the following method steps, particularly in the order listed below (although other steps may be added if necessary, but these steps are optional):

[0199] (a) Degreasing treatment of steel components, preferably alkaline degreasing treatment, especially in at least one degreasing tank;

[0200] (b) Optionally, rinsing of the steel components degreased in step (a) of the method, particularly in at least one rinsing tank;

[0201] (c) Pickling treatment of steel components that have been degreased in step (a) and optionally rinsed in step (b), preferably acid immersion treatment, especially in at least one pickling tank;

[0202] (d) Optionally, rinsing of the steel member immersed in step (c) of the method, particularly in at least one rinsing tank;

[0203] (e) Flux treatment of the steel components pickled in step (c) and optionally rinsed in step (d) in a flux bath using a flux composition;

[0204] (f) Optionally, drying treatment of the steel component that has undergone flux treatment in step (e) of the method;

[0205] (g) Hot-dip galvanizing of steel components that have been treated with flux in step (e) and optionally dried in step (f) in an aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt, preferably by immersing the steel components in an aluminum- or aluminum alloy zinc melt.

[0206] If necessary, within the scope of the invention, a cooling step (h) may be performed after hot-dip galvanizing in method step (g) and / or the steel components hot-dip galvanized in method step (g) may be subjected to a cooling treatment (h), optionally followed by further finishing and / or post-treatment steps (i). In particular, the cooling step (h) and / or cooling treatment (h) may be performed by means of air and / or in the presence of air, preferably as low as ambient temperature.

[0207] In the context of this invention, it is also preferred that hot-dip galvanizing be performed as part galvanizing, particularly discontinuous parts galvanizing, in accordance with DIN 50997:2020-08 (i.e., zinc / aluminum coating applied to steel by thin-film galvanizing).

[0208] Within the scope of this invention, additional finishing and / or post-treatment can be applied to steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath, and / or the aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip coating, particularly by passivation and / or by sealing, preferably a silicate coating or silicate. Such finishing and / or post-treatment methods are known to those skilled in the art and therefore require no further explanation. In the context of this invention, additional post-treatment and / or surface treatment can exert a further positive influence on the flame retardancy and / or fire resistance of the steel components.

[0209] For example, particularly suitable hot-dip galvanizing methods using zinc / aluminum melts according to the invention are disclosed in WO 2002 / 042512 A1 and related printed equivalents of this patent family (e.g., EP 1352100B1, DE 60124767 T2, and US2003 / 0219543 A1). The methods disclosed therein can be used to prepare anti-corrosion coatings with very low film thickness (typically well below 50 micrometers, typically in the range of 2 to 20 micrometers) and very low weight and high cost efficiency, which is why the methods described therein are commercially known by the name... The reason for using this method.

[0210] Therefore, the present invention provides an effective and economical method for providing and / or upgrading steel components with fire resistance and / or flame retardancy, particularly according to DIN EN 135012-201-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09.

[0211] Furthermore, according to a second aspect of the invention, the invention relates to the use of aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers (particularly aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers as defined above and / or particularly aluminum- or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers obtained by the methods described above according to the first aspect of the invention) for producing (generating) flame retardancy and / or fire resistance, and / or providing (equipping) steel components having flame retardancy and / or fire resistance; furthermore, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments of the uses according to the invention are provided, and are explained in detail below.

[0212] Therefore, the subject matter of the invention according to the second aspect of the invention is the use of aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coatings (particularly aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coatings as described above and / or aluminum- or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coatings obtainable, respectively, by the methods described above according to the first aspect of the invention), for producing fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant properties on or to steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, and / or for providing steel components having fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant properties, particularly having fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant properties according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, preferably for producing fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, particularly according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, particularly according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, especially for producing fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09. Flame-retardant and / or fire-resistant steel components of EN135012-201-12 and / or DIN4102-2:1977-09.

[0213] Within the scope of the inventive use according to the second aspect of the invention, it may be specifically specified that the steel component has an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, and / or wherein the steel component is hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt.

[0214] In particular, under such conditions and in such manner, steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 at temperatures above 500°C, especially above 550°C, preferably in the temperature range above 600°C, more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, and even more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. mIn particular, at most 0.65, preferably at most 0.60, more preferably at most 0.55, even more preferably at most 0.50, and / or steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath, have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m Especially in the range of 0.05 to <0.7, preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.65, more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.60, and even more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.55.

[0215] Further details regarding the uses of the invention according to the second aspect of the invention can be found in the foregoing explanation of the first aspect of the invention, which is also applied in a corresponding manner to the uses of the invention according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0216] Furthermore, according to a third aspect of the invention, the invention relates to the use of hot-dip galvanizing and / or hot-dip galvanizing methods (particularly as described above in the context of the first aspect of the invention) for producing (manufacturing) flame retardancy and / or fire resistance on or to steel components and / or for providing (equipping) steel components with flame retardancy and / or fire resistance; furthermore, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments according to the uses of the invention are provided and explained in detail below.

[0217] The subject matter of the invention according to the third aspect is therefore the use of hot-dip galvanizing and / or hot-dip galvanizing methods (particularly as described above in the context of the first aspect of the invention) for producing fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant properties on or to steel components, particularly according to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, and / or for providing (equipping) steel components with fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant properties, particularly with fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant properties according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, particularly for producing (manufacturing) fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant steel components, preferably fire-resistant and / or fire-resistant steel components according to DIN EN 135012:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09.

[0218] The steel component has an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, and / or the steel component is hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt.

[0219] In particular, under such conditions and in such manner, steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath exhibit a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 at temperatures above 500°C, especially above 550°C, preferably above 600°C, more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, and even more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m In particular, at most 0.65, preferably at most 0.60, more preferably at most 0.55, even more preferably at most 0.50, and / or steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath, have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m Especially in the range of 0.05 to <0.7, preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.65, more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.60, and even more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.55.

[0220] Further details regarding the uses of the invention according to the third aspect of the invention can be found in the foregoing explanations of the first and second aspects of the invention, which are also applied in a corresponding manner to the uses of the invention according to the third aspect of the invention.

[0221] Furthermore, according to a fourth aspect of the invention, the invention relates to the use of aluminum for increasing and / or improving the flame retardancy and / or fire resistance of hot-dip galvanized and / or hot-dip galvanized steel components; in this regard, further, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments of the use according to the invention are provided, and are explained in detail below.

[0222] Therefore, the subject matter of the invention according to the fourth aspect is the use of aluminum (i.e., the use of aluminum in hot-dip galvanized coatings) for increasing and / or improving fire resistance and / or flame retardancy, particularly according to DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 4102-2:1977-09, for hot-dip galvanized steel components and / or steel components having hot-dip galvanized coatings, wherein aluminum is incorporated and / or alloyed into the hot-dip galvanized coating, particularly in a manner and / or under conditions that produce aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy-containing hot-dip galvanized coatings, and / or for providing aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy-containing hot-dip galvanized coatings to steel components (particularly as described above in the first aspect of the invention).

[0223] Within the scope of the inventive use according to the fourth aspect of the invention, it may be specifically specified that the steel component has an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, and / or wherein the steel component is hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy zinc melt.

[0224] In particular, under such conditions and in such manner, steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coating and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath exhibit a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 at temperatures above 500°C, especially above 550°C, preferably above 600°C, more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, and even more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m In particular, at most 0.65, preferably at most 0.60, more preferably at most 0.55, even more preferably at most 0.50, and / or steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath, have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m Especially in the range of 0.05 to <0.7, preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.65, more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.60, and even more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.55.

[0225] Further details regarding the inventive use according to the fourth aspect of the invention can be found in the above explanations concerning the first to third aspects of the invention, which are also applied in a corresponding manner to the inventive use described in the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0226] Further, particularly special, and / or advantageous common embodiments of these inventive uses are provided for the purposes of the invention according to the second, third, and fourth aspects. The special features of these embodiments have been described and explained above in conjunction with the first aspect of the invention, and are therefore accordingly applied to the uses according to the invention.

[0227] Similarly, according to a fifth aspect of the invention, the invention relates to the use of steel members having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer (particularly steel members having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer that can be obtained by the above-described method according to the first aspect of the invention) as structural members that meet the requirements of fire resistance and / or flame resistance; furthermore, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments according to the invention are provided and explained in detail below.

[0228] Therefore, the subject matter of the invention according to the fifth aspect of the invention is the use of steel components having a hot-dip galvanized layer containing aluminum and / or aluminum alloy, particularly steel components having a hot-dip galvanized layer containing aluminum and / or aluminum alloy, which can be obtained according to the method of the invention as described above, as structural components for meeting the requirements of fire resistance and / or flame resistance, particularly according to DIN EN 135012-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 41022:1977-09.

[0229] Within the scope of the invention's application according to the fifth aspect, it can be particularly provided that steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 at temperatures above 500°C, particularly above 550°C, preferably above 600°C, even more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C, and even more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. m In particular, at most 0.65, preferably at most 0.60, more preferably at most 0.55, even more preferably at most 0.50, and / or steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath, have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m Especially in the range of 0.05 to <0.7, preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.65, more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.60, and even more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.55.

[0230] According to a specific embodiment of the fifth aspect of the invention, it may be further preferred to use steel components having a hot-dip galvanized layer containing aluminum and / or aluminum alloy without the need for and / or additional structural fire protection measures and devices.

[0231] Further details regarding the inventive use according to the fifth aspect of the invention can be found in the above explanations concerning the first to fourth aspects of the invention, which are also applied in a corresponding manner to the inventive use described in the fifth aspect of the invention.

[0232] Furthermore, according to a sixth aspect of the invention, the subject matter of the invention is the use of steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer (particularly steel components obtainable by the methods described above according to the first aspect of the invention, and having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer) as structural components of receiving devices, particularly for housings or containers of energy storage devices or energy converters, such as fuel cells, accumulators, batteries, current elements or the like, particularly for the automotive field, preferably meeting the requirements of flame retardancy and / or fire resistance; furthermore, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments according to the uses of the invention are provided, and explained in detail below.

[0233] Therefore, the subject matter of the invention according to the sixth aspect of the invention is the use of steel components having a hot-dip galvanized layer containing aluminum and / or aluminum alloy, particularly steel components having a hot-dip galvanized layer containing aluminum and / or aluminum alloy, which can be obtained by the method according to the invention as described above, as structural components of receiving devices, particularly for housings or containers of energy storage devices or energy converters, such as fuel cells, accumulators, batteries, current elements or the like, particularly for the automotive field, preferably meeting the requirements of flame retardancy and / or fire resistance.

[0234] Within the scope of the invention's application according to the sixth aspect, it can be particularly provided that steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 at temperatures above 500°C, particularly above 550°C, preferably above 600°C, more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, and even more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m In particular, at most 0.65, preferably at most 0.60, more preferably at most 0.55, even more preferably at most 0.50, and / or steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath, have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m Especially in the range of 0.05 to <0.7, preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.65, more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.60, and even more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.55.

[0235] Further details regarding the inventive use of the invention according to the sixth aspect can be found in the above explanations concerning the first to fifth aspects of the invention, which are also applied in a corresponding manner to the uses of the invention as described in the sixth aspect.

[0236] Similarly, according to a seventh aspect of the invention, the invention relates to a support structure, particularly a steel structure, for construction, especially for a building or part of a building; furthermore, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments of the support structure according to the invention are provided, and are explained in detail below.

[0237] Therefore, the subject matter of the invention according to the seventh aspect of the invention is a supporting structure for construction, particularly for a building or part of a building, especially a steel supporting structure, wherein the supporting structure comprises, as structural design components for meeting fire resistance and / or flame resistance requirements, particularly according to DIN EN 135012-2:2016-12 and / or DIN 41022:1977-09, a plurality of steel structural members having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, particularly a plurality of steel structural members having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer obtainable by the method according to the invention as described above or provided with an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer, wherein the supporting structure has no additional structural fire protection measures and devices and / or the supporting structure has no additional structural fire protection elements.

[0238] Within the scope of the seventh aspect of the invention according to the present invention, it can be particularly provided that steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 at temperatures above 500°C, particularly above 550°C, preferably above 600°C, more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, and even more preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m In particular, at most 0.65, preferably at most 0.60, more preferably at most 0.55, even more preferably at most 0.50, and / or steel components having an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layer and / or steel components hot-dip galvanized using an aluminum and / or aluminum alloy galvanizing bath, have a surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of less than 0.7 in the temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, preferably in the temperature range of 500°C to 800°C. m Especially in the range of 0.05 to <0.7, preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.65, more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.60, and even more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.55.

[0239] For further details regarding the seventh aspect of the invention, please refer to the above explanations of the first to sixth aspects of the invention, which are also applied in a corresponding manner to the seventh aspect of the invention.

[0240] Furthermore, according to an eighth aspect of the invention, the invention relates to a structure including a support structure according to the invention, particularly a building or part of a building; furthermore, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments of the structure according to the invention are provided, and are explained in detail below.

[0241] Therefore, the subject matter of the invention according to the eighth aspect of the invention is a structure, particularly a building or part of a building, which includes the support structure according to the seventh aspect of the invention as described above.

[0242] In the context of the seventh aspect of the invention, it may be specifically specified that the structure has no additional structural fire protection measures and devices, and / or the structure has no additional structural fire protection elements.

[0243] For further details regarding the eighth aspect of the invention, please refer to the above explanations of the first to seventh aspects of the invention, which are also applied accordingly to the seventh aspect of the invention.

[0244] Finally, according to the ninth aspect of the invention, the subject matter of the invention is the use of aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers (particularly aluminum- and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers as described above or defined and / or particularly aluminum- or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized layers obtainable according to the methods or uses of the invention) for producing (manufacturing) flame retardancy and / or fire resistance in iron-based or iron-containing, particularly steel-based or steel-containing articles, and / or providing (equipping) iron-based or iron-containing, particularly steel-based and steel-containing articles having flame retardancy and / or fire resistance; furthermore, particularly special and / or advantageous embodiments of the structure according to the invention are provided, and are explained in detail below.

[0245] Therefore, the subject matter of the invention according to the ninth aspect is the use of aluminum and / or aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coatings for producing (manufacturing) flame retardancy and / or fire resistance on iron-based or iron-containing, especially steel-based or steel-containing articles, and / or for providing (equipping) iron-based or iron-containing, especially steel-based or steel-containing articles with flame retardancy and / or fire resistance.

[0246] For further details regarding the ninth aspect of the invention, please refer to the above explanations of the first to eighth aspects of the invention, which are also applied accordingly to the ninth aspect of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0247] The invention is also described with reference to further drawings and / or illustrations, wherein the relevant statements apply to all aspects of the invention and are by no means limiting; reference may also be made to the following statements according to exemplary embodiments regarding the drawings and / or graphic representations.

[0248] The figure shows:

[0249] Figure 1 Emissivity (emissivity) ε of various steel structural parts (each low-silicon steel, Si content <0.03%) as temperature increases. m A graph showing the change in aluminum content in the coating (for comparison and / or reference, a pure zinc hot-dip galvanized coating with 0% Al, an Al alloy hot-dip galvanized coating with 500 ppm Al according to the present invention, and an Al alloy steel hot-dip galvanized coating with 5 wt% Al according to the present invention), wherein the emissivity value decreases significantly with increasing Al content.

[0250] Figure 2 The component temperature development of various steel components as a function of hot gas temperature was observed in small-scale fire tests (for each low-silicon steel, Si content <0.03%; according to the invention, ungalvanized steel components were used as a control and / or reference, pure zinc hot-dip galvanized coatings containing 0% Al were used as a control and / or reference, aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coatings containing 500ppm Al and aluminum alloy hot-dip galvanized coatings containing 5wt% Al). The degree of component heating decreased significantly with increasing aluminum content.

[0251] Figure 3 Surface emissivity (emissivity) ε of various steel components (each low-silicon steel, Si content <0.03%) at elevated temperature. m The behavior diagram is a function of additional passivation or sealing when the aluminum content in the coating is constant at 5 wt% (for each Al alloyed hot-dip galvanized coating with 5 wt% Al), where the emissivity value is further reduced by additional passivation or sealing.

[0252] Further embodiments, modifications and variations of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the specification, and can be practiced without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0253] The present invention is illustrated by reference to the following embodiments, which are not intended to limit the invention in any way, but are merely illustrative and non-limiting methods for explaining implementation and embodiments. Example

[0254] General test setup and procedures

[0255] Test setup and procedures, especially for small-scale fire tests, include temperature behavior measurements under fire conditions, recording of ETK curves, and measurement of steel surface emissivity (emissivity) ε. mThe determination was based on the emissivity performance tests mentioned in the general description section, detailed as follows: C. Gaigl and M. Mensinger, Technical Report "Thermal Effects of HDG Structures", Technical University of Munich, February 2018; M. Mensinger and C. Gaigl, Paper "Feuerwiderstandverzinkter Stahlkonstruktionen", Stahlbau, Vol. 88, pp. 3-10, January 2019. Surface emissivity (emissivity) ε m The determination process uses so-called emissivity performance testing, where the surface emissivity (emissivity) ε is determined and evaluated based on temperature profiles under continuous and / or increasing thermal loads. m (That is, according to DIN EN 1993-1-2:2006-10) (refer to the explanation in the general description above).

[0256] Temperature measurements in the small-scale experiments were performed using two Optris infrared (IR) sensors. The first model, “LT,” has a measurement range of 8–14 micrometers, while the second model, “3MH1,” is a pyrometer with a measurement range of approximately 2.3 micrometers.

[0257] Depending on the spectral range, only a specific temperature range is covered. At certain wavelengths, measurements can only be taken when the temperature is sufficiently high.

[0258] The higher the radiation intensity, the higher the temperature. The radiation intensity is then shifted to the short-wavelength spectral range. At low temperatures, radiation is almost undetectable within the range of the 2.3-micron sensor. At temperatures above 400°C, the radiation intensity of the 2.3-micron sensor is significantly higher than that measured by sensors in longer wavelength spectra. Higher radiation intensity results in lower sensitivity to measurement bias. For the 3MH1 sensor, only results at temperatures around 200°C are significant.

[0259] To measure the temperature of the steel specimens during the tests, four thermocouples were used, inserted into 5 mm deep holes in the specimens provided for this purpose. Three specimens were provided for each small fire test.

[0260] The emissivity is adjusted in this way to match the temperature of the pyrometer with that of the thermocouple. Therefore, the temperature-dependent emissivity can be determined by acquiring measurement data.

[0261] The evaluation of the results began at a temperature of 200°C, because below this temperature, the IR sensor had not received enough radiant energy.

[0262] Experimental Procedure and Results

[0263] 10 mm thick test pieces were coated with different galvanizing methods. The emissivity of different surfaces was then determined in small-scale fire tests.

[0264] Surface and steel changes:

[0265]

[0266]

[0267] *Not a present invention

[0268] Behavior of low silicon steel

[0269] In small-scale fire tests, the behavior of emissivity with increasing temperature is as follows: Figure 1 As shown, the values ​​are displayed as a function of the Al content in the zinc melt or coating, respectively. Figure 1 This demonstrates the effect of Al content on emissivity behavior with increasing temperature (particularly for steels with low Si content). In the case of conventional galvanized steel components (pure zinc hot-dip galvanized coating), it can be seen that above 500°C, starting at least from 530°C, the emissivity value rapidly increases to 0.6 at 565°C, and then increases at a slower rate from 735°C to above 0.7 (upper curve, not according to the invention). Conversely, even with a low Al content of only 500 ppm in the hot-dip galvanized layer, on the one hand, the increase in emissivity value towards higher temperatures (i.e., 550°C) changes significantly, and on the other hand, the emissivity decreases significantly at higher temperatures (middle curve); the emissivity only reaches 0.6 at a temperature of 615°C (instead of 565°C). When the Al content in the zinc melt below the zinc coating is 5 wt%, these positive developments in emissivity value are again significantly improved (lower curve).

[0270] Figure 1 The study investigated the effect of Al content in the hot-dip galvanized layer of low-silicon steel (Si < 0.03%), indicating that as the Al content increases, the increase in emissivity shifts to higher temperatures, and the increase is relatively small.

[0271] To perform thermal calculations according to DIN EN 1993-1-2, a constant emissivity can be derived segmentally from the test curves, and the temperature development of components under standardized unit fire loads can be calculated. This indicates that, in the event of a fire, a reduced emissivity will cause the steel profile to heat up more slowly.

[0272] Figure 2 (The temperature variations of components with different zinc coatings on low-silicon steel are shown.) A comparison of temperature variations was made between ungalvanized steel type HEM 280 and three zinc coatings (pure zinc = non-inventive; Zn-500ppm Al and Zn-5% Al) under ungalvanized conditions (not according to the invention = reference). Figure 2As shown, when galvanizing with an Al-containing zinc melt, the higher the Al content, the slower the heating for the same composition. The unprotected (i.e., non-galvanized) profile, shown as a reference, heats up the fastest compared to all galvanized variants.

[0273] For typical fire ratings R30 and R60 conforming to DIN EN 13502-2:2016-12, the fire resistance requirements for supporting structures are 30 minutes or 60 minutes, respectively. The following temperatures are calculated based on the corresponding fire duration:

[0274]

[0275] *Not a present invention

[0276] In terms of structural analysis, a lower component temperature during the calculation time (30 minutes or 60 minutes respectively) means that the steel component under consideration can withstand a higher ultimate load, which is therefore advantageous. Alternatively, if the component temperature is maintained, the size of the component under consideration can be reduced, thus saving mass on the steel side.

[0277] The savings achieved by the above embodiments are as follows:

[0278] state model Model weight [kg / m] Temperature after 30 minutes Zn galvanized* HEM280 189 546 Zn-5% Al HEB360 142 547

[0279] *Not a present invention

[0280] The steel profile required to reach the same component temperature after 30 minutes of exposure to fire can be reduced from HEM280 steel profile to HEB360 steel profile, resulting in a weight saving of 47 kg / m.

[0281] Performance of silicon steel

[0282] In the case of steel with a silicon content within a certain range (silicon content > 0.12%), small-scale fire tests using coatings produced in aluminum-zinc molten metal again yielded emissivity / temperature curves, which deviated significantly from those using aluminum-zinc-free coatings as a reference. It can be seen that as the Al content increases, the curve's rise shifts towards higher temperatures. Furthermore, the maximum emissivity value is again significantly lower than 0.7.

[0283] As mentioned earlier, for low-silicon steel, the constant emissivity of these sections can also be derived to calculate temperature development under fire load. The results were then reaffirmed for steel profile HEM280.

[0284] Therefore, the fire-fighting and / or flame-retardant effects according to the present invention are achieved independently of the steel alloy of the steel component.

[0285] Post-processing impact

[0286] Regarding the effects of subsequent passivation or sealing applied to the Zn / Al coating, small-scale fire tests showed that these resulted in emissivity very similar to that of the untreated system. Therefore, although often small, there is a positive effect in terms of temperature development. (See...) Figure 3 ).

Claims

1. A method for providing fire-resistant steel components, characterized in that, The method includes the following steps: Hot-dip galvanizing of steel components requiring fire resistance is performed using an aluminum-zinc molten metal, thereby providing the steel components with an aluminum-zinc galvanized layer. The aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer is applied to the steel member with a thickness ranging from 4 micrometers to 25 micrometers. The aluminum content of the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer is based on the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer being in the range of 4wt% to 8wt%. Hot-dip galvanizing is carried out in such a manner and / or under such conditions that steel components having an aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized coating have a surface emissivity ε ranging from 0.05 to 0.60 at a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. m According to the definition in German standard DINEN 1993-1-2:2006-10; The aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer has the following composition, wherein all of the following amounts are related to the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer and are selected such that the total result is 100 wt%: (i) Zinc (Zn), in amounts of 92 wt% to 96 wt%, (ii) Aluminum (Al), in amounts of 4 wt% to 8 wt%, (iii) Another metal selected from at least one of the group consisting of bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, in an amount of 0.001 wt% to 10 wt%, provided that the magnesium content is less than 0.2 wt%.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Fire resistance can be adjusted and / or controlled by at least one of the following: (i) The thickness of the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer, (ii) The composition of the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer, (iii) The formation of the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer during the hot-dip galvanizing process. (iv) The aluminum content of the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer, And their combinations.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The fire resistance increases with the increase of at least one of the aluminum content and the thickness of the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steel component having the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized coating has a surface emissivity ε ranging from 0.05 to 0.55 at a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. m .

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steel component having the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized coating has a surface emissivity ε of up to 0.40 at a temperature range of 500°C to 650°C. m ; and the steel component having the aforementioned aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer has a surface emissivity ε of up to 0.60 in a temperature range of 650°C to 850°C. m .

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steel component having the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized coating has a fire resistance rating of at least F30 according to German standard DIN 4102-2:1977-09.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steel component having the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized coating has a fire resistance rating of at least R30 according to German standard DIN EN 13501-2: 2016-12.

8. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steel for the steel components is selected from (i) low-silicon steel, based on the silicon content ≤0.03wt% and phosphorus content <0.02wt%; (ii) Sandelin steel, based on the silicon content between 0.03wt% and 0.14wt%; (iii) Sebisty steel, based on the silicon content between 0.14wt% and 0.25wt%; (iv) high-silicon steel, based on the silicon content greater than 0.25wt%; and combinations thereof.

9. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steel components are selected from steel structural elements.

10. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steel component is at least one type of steel component used in the construction and automotive industries.

11. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hot-dip galvanizing is carried out in a temperature range of 375°C to 750°C and a time range of 0.0001 to 60 minutes.

12. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Hot-dip galvanizing, including any pretreatment and post-treatment procedures, comprises the following method steps in the following order: (a) Degreasing treatment of steel components in at least one degreasing tank; (b) Rinsing of the steel components degreased in step (a) of method in at least one rinsing tank; (c) Pickling treatment of steel components that have been degreased in step (a) and rinsed in step (b) in at least one pickling tank; (d) Rinsing the steel components pickled in step (c) of the method in at least one rinsing tank; (e) Flux treatment of the steel component pickled in step (c) and rinsed in step (d) in a flux bath using a flux composition; (f) Drying of the steel component treated with flux in step (e); (g) Hot-dip galvanizing of steel components that have been treated with flux in step (e) and dried in step (f) in an aluminum-zinc molten metal by immersing them in the metal.

13. A steel support structure for buildings, characterized in that, The steel support structure includes: multiple structural steel components, each with an aluminum hot-dip galvanized layer, serving as structural components that meet fire resistance requirements; The steel support structure does not have any additional fire protection measures or devices, and the steel support structure does not include any additional fire protection components. The steel support structure has an aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer, which is applied to the steel member with a thickness ranging from 4 micrometers to 25 micrometers. Each aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer has a surface emissivity ε ranging from 0.05 to 0.60 at a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. m According to the definition in German standard DIN EN 1993-1-2:2006-10; The aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer has the following composition, wherein all of the following amounts are related to the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer and are selected such that the total result is 100 wt%: (i) Zinc (Zn), in amounts of 92 wt% to 96 wt%, (ii) Aluminum (Al), in amounts of 4 wt% to 8 wt%, (iii) Another metal selected from at least one of the group consisting of bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, in an amount of 0.001 wt% to 10 wt%, provided that the magnesium content is less than 0.2 wt%.

14. The steel support structure according to claim 13, characterized in that, The steel support structure is used as a support structure for a building or a part of a building.

15. The steel support structure according to claim 13, characterized in that, The structural steel member having the aforementioned aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized coating has a surface emissivity ε ranging from 0.05 to 0.55 at a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. m .

16. The steel support structure according to claim 13, characterized in that, The structural steel member having the aforementioned aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized coating has a surface emissivity ε of up to 0.40 at a temperature range of 500°C to 650°C. m The steel component having the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer has a surface emissivity ε of up to 0.60 at a temperature range of 650°C to 850°C. m .

17. The steel support structure according to claim 13, characterized in that, The structural steel members having the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized coating have a fire resistance rating of at least F30 according to German standard DIN 4102-2:1977-09.

18. The steel support structure according to claim 13, characterized in that, The structural steel member having the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer has a fire resistance rating of at least R30 according to German standard DIN EN 13501-2:2016-12.

19. The steel support structure according to claim 13, characterized in that, The steel for the structural building steel components is selected from (i) low-silicon steel, based on the silicon content ≤0.03wt% and phosphorus content <0.02wt%; (ii) Sandelin steel, based on the silicon content between 0.03wt% and 0.14wt%; (iii) Sebisty steel, based on the silicon content between 0.14wt% and 0.25wt%; (iv) high-silicon steel, based on the silicon content greater than 0.25wt%; and combinations thereof.

20. The steel support structure according to claim 13, characterized in that, The structural steel components are selected from steel structural elements.

21. A building, characterized in that, The building includes the steel support structure according to claim 13.

22. The building according to claim 21, characterized in that, The building is a structure or part of a structure.

23. The use of an aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer for producing fire-resistant steel components on or to steel components to provide fire-resistant steel components, characterized in that, Hot-dip galvanizing of steel components requiring fire resistance is performed using an aluminum-zinc molten metal, thereby providing the steel components with an aluminum-zinc galvanized layer. The aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer is applied to the steel member with a thickness ranging from 4 micrometers to 25 micrometers. The aluminum content of the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer is based on the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer being in the range of 4wt% to 8wt%. Hot-dip galvanizing is carried out in such a manner and / or under such conditions that the steel components having an aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer have a surface emissivity ε ranging from 0.05 to 0.60 at a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C. m According to the definition in German standard DIN EN 1993-1-2:2006-10; The aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer has the following composition, wherein all of the following amounts are related to the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer and are selected such that the total result is 100 wt%: (i) Zinc (Zn), in amounts of 92 wt% to 96 wt%, (ii) Aluminum (Al), in amounts of 4 wt% to 8 wt%, (iii) Another metal selected from at least one of the group consisting of bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, in an amount of 0.001 wt% to 10 wt%, provided that the magnesium content is less than 0.2 wt%.

24. A method for providing a fire-resistant iron-based article, characterized in that, The method includes the following steps: Hot-dip galvanizing of iron-based articles requiring fire resistance is performed using an aluminum-zinc molten metal, thereby providing an aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer to the iron-based articles; The aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer is applied to the iron-based article with a layer thickness ranging from 4 micrometers to 25 micrometers, and The aluminum content of the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer is based on the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer being in the range of 4wt% to 8wt%. Hot-dip galvanizing is carried out in such a manner and / or under such conditions that iron-based articles having an aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer have a surface emissivity εm in the range of 0.05 to 0.60 at a temperature range of 500°C to 850°C, as defined in German standard DIN EN 1993-1-2:2006-10. The aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer has the following composition, wherein all of the following amounts are related to the aluminum-containing hot-dip galvanized layer and are selected such that the total result is 100 wt%: (i) Zinc (Zn), in amounts of 92 wt% to 96 wt%, (ii) Aluminum (Al), in amounts of 4 wt% to 8 wt%, (iii) Another metal selected from at least one of the group consisting of bismuth (Bi), lead (Pb), tin (Sn), nickel (Ni), silicon (Si), magnesium (Mg) and combinations thereof, in an amount of 0.001 wt% to 10 wt%, provided that the magnesium content is less than 0.2 wt%.

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