Ballast Tank Refurbishment

The Dr Bird Generator Barge (No.1) provides around 15% of Jamaica’s electricity. Under the Local Authority and Classification Legislation of Jamaica, the Barge had to undertake a major overhaul of steel replacement and re-coating works (over 8,000m²) in the ballast tanks to achieve class.

The barge had to continue to provide power from its diesel generators while the work was carried out. Dry-grit blasting was not possible due to the risk of contamination to the generators and the pollution risk was unacceptable under the strict H&S standards set by the Jamaican Authorities. Solvent-based paints were unsuitable and would have been a major H&S hazard requiring shut-down of the plant.

Following high pressure washing to WJ-3 (800 bar) Epo-chem™ RS 500P solvent-free, rust & wet tolerant primer was applied to a DFT of 100µ. This was followed by one coat of Epo-chem™ RA 500M solvent-free, wet tolerant glassflake epoxy @ 200µ. Total DFT 300µ.

The work was carried out safely, on time and with major cost savings; reduced environmental and H&S impacts for the contractor and operator. The client was delighted with the result; consequently when the paint system on the new Dr Bird Generator Barge (No.2) failed, Chemco was asked to supply the repair system for its ballast tanks in May 2010.

• Hot-work carried out nearby while coating
• Reduced contract duration
• Reduced H&S and Fire Precaution
• Reduced cost of plant and equipment
– No de-humidification necessary
– No additional ventilation requirement
• Chemco system will protect the steel substrate in excess of 10 years