UNIQUE POLYMER SYSTEMS provides advanced protective solutions for critical infrastructure in industrial environments. This case study details the successful protection of petrol storage tanks at a European refinery using UPS 510 UN UNI-NOX, an environmentally friendly, UV-stable coating.
At a European refinery, aged petrol storage tanks exhibited signs of heavy surface corrosion due to the deterioration of the existing protective coating. The refinery needed a new coating that was both environmentally friendly and UV stable to prevent further damage and extend the tanks' service life.
The challenge was to effectively remove the failed coating, prepare the surfaces, and apply a new protective coating that would adhere well and provide long-term resistance to corrosion and UV degradation.
UNIQUE POLYMER SYSTEMS provided a comprehensive protection solution using UPS 510 UN, a single-component water-based acrylic membrane known for its UV stability and anti-corrosion properties. The application process involved the following steps:
Surface Preparation
- Where possible, the tank surfaces were hydro-blasted to remove the existing coating and prepare the substrate for the new application.
- For areas where hydro-blasting was not feasible, mechanical hand grinders were used to abrade the surface, ensuring proper adhesion of the new coating.
Application of UPS 510 UN UNI-NOX
- Two coats of UPS 510 UN were applied to the prepared surfaces using airless spray equipment. Each coat was applied at a nominal wet film thickness of 350 microns, providing a robust and durable barrier against environmental factors.
Walkways and Handrails Protection
- The walkways and handrails on the tanks were mechanically abraded and coated with UPS 908 MP METAL PRIMER. These areas were then top-coated with UPS 509 UVST UV STABLE TOPCOAT to provide additional protection and ensure UV stability.
The application of UPS 510 UN successfully protected the petrol storage tanks from further corrosion and UV damage. The environmentally friendly coating provided a long-lasting solution that maintained the structural integrity and appearance of the tanks.
This case study highlights the effectiveness of UNIQUE POLYMER SYSTEMS' protective coatings in maintaining and extending the life of critical industrial assets. Our advanced materials and precise application techniques delivered a reliable solution that ensured the durability and safety of the petrol storage tanks.
