How does the weight of metal lath influence the performance of SFRM?

The weight of metal lath plays a crucial role in determining the bond strength of Spray-Applied Fire-Resistive Material (SFRM) to the substrate surface. A heavier metal lath can provide a more rigid and stable framework for the SFRM application, ensuring better adhesion and reducing the likelihood of delamination or failure under thermal or mechanical stress. When the bond strength is optimized, the SFRM is more effective in maintaining the structural integrity of the protected element during a fire, thus improving its overall fire-resistance capabilities.

In situations where lighter lath is used, there may be a compromise in bond strength, which can jeopardize the performance of the fire-proofing layer. Therefore, the careful consideration of the metal lath's weight and its associated properties is essential in fire-proofing applications to achieve the desired fire-resistance rating and maintain structural stability in high-temperature scenarios.