Tugboat External Repair – Port of Antwerp – MIPC

A fleet of tugboats stationed in the Port of Antwerp required to be refurbished. Specifically, the wheelhouse externals of the tugboats were showing clear signs of discolouration and loss of gloss. A new coating system was required.

This project was carried out by MIPC.

The current paintwork was a 5 coat system and was fading in colour/gloss after only 6 months in operation.

The new system had to provide long term colour stability, UV resistance and corrosion protection in as few coats as possible.

Due to the nature of the refurbishment, and location of the tugboats, grit blasting was not permissible.

In order to effectively reach all areas of the surface, mechanical preparation was undertaken.

One stripe coat and one full coat of solvent-free, wet & rust tolerant epoxy primer Epo-chem™ RS 500P were then applied; followed by one coat of Epo-chem™ RC 500GTC.

This coating system was chosen due to its chemical and UV resistant properties, as well as its ability to provide long-term, high gloss colour retention in only one coat.

The first batch of tugboats were completed on time, within budget and were showing excellent results.

The client stated they were happy with the finish and plan to use the same system throughout their fleet.

• Exceptional chemical and UV resistance
• Excellent colour retention and high gloss finish
• Outstanding opacity in just one coat
• Long term, high quality performance
• Amine and NCO free
• Long pot life and short drying time
• Superior alternative to isocyanate-based products