Coatings manufacturer Carboline recently broke ground on a full-scale passive fire protection testing facility at its research, development, and innovation (RD&I) center in St. Louis, Missouri. The $4-million investment is scheduled to be complete by the end of 2018.

The new space will be the first manufacturer-owned, UL-approved fire testing facility in North America.

Redesign and Rebuild

With the facility, Carboline will be able to test products on its own timeline and not rely on an outside testing agency's schedules. Carboline’s current fire lab was built in the 1970s, and although it was upgraded over the years, this project represents a total redesign and rebuild of its capabilities.

The company explained that it felt the upgrade and expansion were necessary to address new developments in the industry.

Faster Speed to Market

“Our new testing facility will increase our speed to market for new fireproofing products, give us the ability to receive approvals for alternate raw materials, and fulfill testing requirements for ever-changing codes and regulations,” said Jim Rippe, executive vice president for fireproofing/engineering sales.

Founded in 1947, the company produces performance coatings, linings, and fireproofing products in more than 20 manufacturing facilities around the world.

For more information, contact: Carboline, (314) 644-1000, www.carboline.com