Pune, India | September 04, 2025
Hempel has unveiled a significant advancement in fire protection coatings with the launch of Hempafire Extreme 550. This state-of-the-art epoxy intumescent coating provides up to four hours of passive fire resistance for structural steel exposed to cellulosic fire scenarios. The product represents a major leap in both fire safety and environmental responsibility, aligning with the growing needs of the commercial and industrial construction industries.
Hempafire Extreme 550 goes beyond basic protection. It enables architects and engineers to reimagine structural designs by allowing the use of lighter steel profiles without compromising fire performance. This flexibility promotes more efficient use of materials and can lead to reduced construction costs. The coating surpasses conventional safety benchmarks, delivering strong protection that supports extended evacuation periods and preserves structural integrity during fire events.
Hempel formulated this product to resist both mechanical damage and challenging environmental conditions. The coating remains effective for over 25 years, even in aggressive C5-level corrosive environments found in marine and industrial settings. Unlike many traditional coatings that contain solvents, Hempafire Extreme 550 is completely solvent-free. This innovation significantly cuts VOC emissions and reduces embedded carbon by up to 40% when compared to typical intumescent coatings. For environmentally conscious developers, this makes it a compelling, future-ready choice.
Another standout feature of Hempafire Extreme 550 is its application efficiency. Its high-build characteristics allow for the application of thicker layers with fewer coats. This reduces both labor costs and material waste while also accelerating project timelines. The coating cures to handling strength within just 24 hours at 20°C, allowing teams to move quickly on large and complex steel installations.
At the launch event, Roger Soler, Group Product Manager at Hempel, described Hempafire Extreme 550 as a true “game-changer.” He emphasized the coating’s reliable performance from specification through to application. Hempel’s product development team successfully combined the toughness of epoxy systems with the user-friendliness of water-based coatings. The result is a versatile, high-performance solution that caters to the expectations of specifiers, architects, and applicators.
Architects particularly appreciate the product’s design flexibility. Hempafire Extreme 550 is compatible with a wide range of topcoats and finishes. It supports architectural-grade coatings in various colors and gloss levels. This compatibility allows designers to meet both fire protection and aesthetic requirements—an uncommon combination in passive fire protection products.
Specifiers also gain an advantage with this coating’s broad profile compatibility. Because it suits most steel configurations, it simplifies product selection and project planning. Fire protection strategies become more adaptable and less constrained by product limitations. To support this process, Hempel offers HEET Dynamic, a proprietary software tool that enables users to model fire protection needs with greater accuracy and speed.
On-site applicators have praised the product for its performance and durability. Hempafire Extreme 550 applies smoothly and resists damage during transport and handling. These features reduce the need for rework and contribute to maintaining tight project schedules. The solvent-free composition also enhances workplace safety by minimizing exposure to flammable chemicals and VOCs.
To meet international standards, Hempel obtained key third-party certifications for Hempafire Extreme 550. The product complies with leading fire protection standards, including EN 13381, BS 476, and AS 4100. It also carries an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD)—a formal recognition of its low environmental footprint. These credentials assure project stakeholders that the product supports both safety and sustainability goals.
As structural steel remains central to modern infrastructure and high-rise construction, the demand for high-performance fire protection solutions continues to grow. Hempel’s latest innovation meets that demand with a smart combination of strength, speed, and environmental responsibility. Hempafire Extreme 550 delivers exactly what today’s fast-paced, eco-conscious construction sector requires.
With this launch, Hempel doesn’t just follow trends—it sets them. Hempafire Extreme 550 reinforces the company’s long-standing dedication to saving lives, safeguarding infrastructure, and advancing sustainable building practices. Through this innovative yet practical product, Hempel continues to lead the way in shaping the future of protective coatings—layer by layer.
