Fire and corrosion protection coating systems for data centres

Although a coating system may be fully compliant with standards when building data centres, challenges often arise later in the project. Changes in supply chain routes, on-site conditions, or missing practical considerations can all lead to unexpected issues. At inspection stage, missing documentation or deviations can result in delays or rework.

Why you should work with us in data centre projects

Teknos coating systems are designed to support consistent performance across design & engineering, application, and inspection. Not just in theory, but in real project conditions. This is ensured not only through the coating systems themselves, but also through the dedicated support and expertise of our Teknos specialists.

We support both specifiers in selecting the right coating system and applicators during the coating process.

Talk to a data centre coating expert

datacentre04.png

Complex standards. Multiple stakeholders. Limited control in execution.

Data centre projects involve multiple stages and stakeholders, from design and engineering to application and final inspection. Even when systems are clearly defined, alignment across these stages is not always guaranteed. 

For Architects, Engineers, and Consultants

You are responsible for defining coating systems that meet fire and corrosion protection standards and hold up under scrutiny.

Once the system is approved, however, you are no longer in control of how it is applied on site. Small mismatches between specification and execution can lead to issues later in the project, even when everything appears correct on paper. These gaps often only become visible during inspection or handover.

Make the right decision from the start

Teknos works closely with architects and consultants to ensure coating systems are correctly integrated into project specifications from the start.

Our systems are based on tested performance, including fire protection tested according to EN 13381 and classified under EN 13501, BS and UL requirements, as well as corrosion protection aligned with ISO 12944 for environments up to C5. All system components are defined upfront, including layer compatibility, documentation, and application parameters.

So you can make a decision you do not have to worry about later.

  • Proven system compatibility minimizes application errors and rework
  • Stable and predictable application results → consistent film build and finish quality
  • Reduced risk of coating failures, delays, or costly corrections on-site
  • Systems aligned with project specifications and international standards (ISO, BS, UL, EN, ETA)
  • Supports smooth approval processes → less risk of rejection or substitution
  • Confidence that materials meet fire protection and corrosion requirements
  • Long-term partner for multiple projects and repeat specifications

For Contractors and Applicators

You are responsible for making the coating system work on site.

Specifications do not always reflect real conditions. Incompatible layers, unclear requirements, or adjustments in the supply chain requirements can lead to wrong product selection, costly rework, and delays, even when the specification is followed.

Layer compatibility, surface preparation, environmental conditions, and timing all influence the final result.

Issues often only become visible when systems are selected, before/during application or inspection.

Get it right the first time

Teknos systems are fully defined upfront, including compatibility between layers, required thickness, and application guidance, considering both on-/offsite application conditions. This reduces uncertainty during execution and helps avoid issues that typically lead to rework or delays.

So you can apply the system as specified and pass inspection without surprises or rework.

  • Easy application systems designed for both shop and on-site conditions
  • Fast drying times to support tight construction schedules
  • Compatible coating systems (primer + fire protection + topcoat) → reduced complexity
  • Reliable performance under challenging environmental conditions (humidity, temperature)
  • Access to expert technical support throughout the project 

datacentre03.png

Compliance you can prove in practice

Meeting the standard is expected. The challenge is being able to demonstrate compliance during approval and inspection.

Teknos systems are built on tested performance aligned with EN, BS, UL and ISO standards, supported by certifications and complete documentation that is ready when you need it.

So you can move through approval processes with confidence, without gaps or uncertainty.

  • Coating systems fully aligned with project specifications and international standards (ISO, EN, BS, UL, ETA)
  • Designed to support efficient approval processes, reducing the risk of rejection or substitution
  • Proven performance ensures full compliance with fire protection and corrosion requirements
  • Comprehensive technical documentation including data sheets, system specifications, and certification support

Designed to work on site

Things do not always work the way they look on paper.

If application requirements are unclear, application processes will change problems that can arise during execution. These issues often lead to rework, delays, or complications at inspection.

Teknos systems are designed for real site conditions, with defined compatibility and clear application parameters.

So you can apply the system as specified and pass inspections with confidence.

  • Optimized systems help reduce application time and labor costs
  • Improved coating systems or integrated systems → increased efficiency per project
  • Lower total cost through reduced rework, downtime, and maintenance need
  • Suitable for both: Shop-applied system and site-applied solutions

Built to last over time

Long term durability is not optional in critical infrastructure.

Once systems are in place, access is limited and any issues can be costly to resolve.

Teknos coating systems are designed to maintain fire protection and corrosion performance over time, even in demanding environments, including conditions with high humidity, temperature variation, and long service intervals.

This reduces the risk of unexpected maintenance and helps avoid disruptions during operation.

  • Durable systems designed for >25 years service life
  • Reduced need for maintenance → lower lifecycle cost for end clients
  • Coatings that support uptime and reliability of data centre operations

datacentre01.png

Sustainable Coating Systems Aligned with European Standards

Sustainability is a key requirement in modern data centre projects — not only in terms of energy use, but also material selection and lifecycle performance. Teknos supports with coating systems designed to meet environmental standards while maintaining long-term performance and reliability. Our approach focuses on durability, low emissions, and transparent documentation, helping you meet project requirements without compromising on safety or performance.

  • Low VOC and waterborne technologies aligned with European environmental regulations and supporting green building frameworks such as LEED and BREEAM
  • Durability driven sustainability, where long service life reduces maintenance cycles, material use, and lifecycle impact
  • Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and VOC data available to support project documentation and certification processes
  • Coating systems designed to support sustainability assessments and documentation requirements
  • Solutions developed with lifecycle considerations in mind, including compatibility with steel recycling processes 

Proven in practice, not just on paper

In data centre projects, it is not enough to say a system works. It has to be proven. Approval, inspection, and long term performance depend on tested systems, clear documentation, and consistent application, including documentation required for regulatory approval and project audits.

Teknos coating systems are supported by:

  • Fire protection systems tested according to EN 13381 and classified under EN 13501 as well as according to BS and UL standards
  • ETA certified intumescent coatings
  • Corrosion protection aligned with ISO 12944 for environments from C2 to C5 for >25 years durability
  • Fully documented systems ready for approval and inspection
  • Defined compatibility across primer, fire protection, and topcoat layers

So you have the evidence required for approval and the confidence that the system will perform as expected on site. 

datacentre02.png

Proven in demanding steel structures

Data centre projects may differ, but the requirements are the same. Fire protection, corrosion resistance, and long term performance all have to work together.

Teknos systems are used in projects where performance, compliance, and durability are critical, and where systems must perform reliably in practice, not just in specification. 

Efficient fire protection for structural steel

Steel Structure Construction, Stockholm

Intumescent coating systems applied to protect structural steel while supporting efficient construction processes.

Result:

  • Simplified fire protection process
  • Faster construction timelines
  • Reliable system performance

Relevant for:

Structural steel in data centres requiring certified fire protection and efficient execution.

Learn more about the case

Durable protection with architectural quality

AC Hotel Times Square, New York

Epoxy polyurethane coating systems protecting exposed steel structures while maintaining a consistent architectural finish.

Result:

  • Long term corrosion protection
  • High quality surface appearance
  • Resistance to environmental exposure

Relevant for:

Visible structural steel and environments requiring both durability and a controlled appearance.

Read more about the case

Fire safe structures with long term performance

Central Library Oodi, Helsinki

Coating expertise applied to a complex public structure requiring fire safety, durability, and precision in execution.

Result:

  • Fire protection compliance
  • Structural durability
  • Long term performance

Relevant for:

Projects with strict safety, compliance, and lifecycle performance requirements.

Get familiar with the case

Designed for every critical area of a data centre

Different areas of a data centre place different demands on fire protection and corrosion resistance. Structural steel, cooling systems, and external elements are exposed to varying conditions such as humidity, temperature changes, and environmental exposure.

Teknos coating systems are designed to meet these requirements across all relevant areas, with systems that remain consistent from specification to application and inspection. Each area requires systems that perform reliably under specific conditions, not just in theory.

Examples:

  • Structural steel frames and load bearing elements
  • Mechanical and cooling systems including HVAC structures
  • External steel structures exposed to weather and humidity
  • Service corridors and fire protection zones
  • Visible steel elements requiring a controlled architectural finish 

Make sure it works from the start

Make sure your coating system works not just on paper, but on site and over time. Get support in specifying and delivering coating systems that perform consistently across all project stages.

Talk to a data centre coating expert