CASE STUDY
Coal-tar Epoxy Patch Repair
OVERVIEW
The topside tanks on-board the Bulk Carrier had previously been coated with coal-tar epoxy. Areas within these tanks were showing signs of corrosion damage and required to be patch repaired.
CHALLENGE
Finding a coating system which was compatible with coal-tar epoxies. Also, due to equipment and supply restrictions, abrasive blasting or hydro blasting could not be used to conduct surface preparation.
SOLUTION
Mechanical power tooling was utilised as the surface preparation method to remove all the loose rust and existing damaged coating. This was followed by a fresh water wash. One coat of solvent-free, wet & rust tolerant epoxy Epo-chem™ RS 500P. This was followed by one topcoat of solvent-free, wet tolerant epoxy Epo-chem™ RA 500M.
OUTCOME
The unique characteristics of Epo-chem™ RS 500P allowed the system to be applied with no compatibility issues and with strong adhesion to the coal-tar epoxy.
BENEFITS
• Solvent-free
• No grit blasting
• No dehumidification required
• No disruption to others working nearby (including hot work)
• Reduced H&S and Fire Precaution
• Reduced contract duration
• Compatibility with coal-tar epoxy
• Work carried out by riding crew
Completed Patch Repair
