Inspection

multi-component coating

It’s All in the Mix – Proper Mixing of Multi-Component Coating Systems

Many industrial and protective coating materials consist of more than one component. A multi-component coating is any product that consists of two or more separate parts that are mixed together at a specified ratio. As the materials are mixed, a reaction occurs that allows the disparate parts to chemically cross-link and form a polymer. The […]

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illumination

Importance of Illumination on Coatings Projects

Industrial coatings project specifications invoke many standards and inspection check points that require visual acceptance. Proper illumination of the work area is vital when determining an acceptable product. If there is insufficient light, it is unlikely that a quality inspection of workmanship can be performed. But requiring excessive light and it may not be practical

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pre-construction conference

How to Conduct a Pre-Construction Conference

The goal of any construction project that involves removal and replacement of protective coatings/linings should be to safely deliver a quality project, executed according to contract documents, on time and on budget. However, there will be many obstacles to overcome throughout the duration of any project. One of the most important steps to help overcome

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sling psychrometer

The Psychrometer Duel: Old School vs. New School

Why do we need to measure ambient conditions? Ambient conditions are the prevailing conditions of air temperature, the moisture content of the air (relative humidity), and the temperature at which condensation will occur (dew point).  Most coating specifications have set requirements for monitoring and documenting results for surface and air temperature, relative humidity and dew

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jobsite surface cleanliness standards

The Importance of Preparing Jobsite Standards for Surface Cleanliness and Surface Profile Depth Prior to Production Operations

Introduction Surface preparation prior to coating installation is generally composed of two goals: achieving the minimum specified surface cleanliness, and achieving the specified range of surface profile (surface roughness). While these goals may be achieved in a single operation (e.g., by abrasive blast cleaning) or two separate operations (e.g., by water jetting or chemical stripping,

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quality assurance quality control qa qc

Roles & Responsibilities of Quality Assurance & Quality Control Personnel on a Coatings Project

Asset owners are tasked with maximizing their return on investment (ROI). This can pose challenges when deciding where to utilize their limited resources, independent of whether the project is new construction or rehabilitation of an existing asset. While most can agree that the success of a project can be determined by maximizing longevity or “quality

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Referenced Requirements in SSPC Standards and Complimentary Industry Standards

Background SSPC: The Society for Protective Coatings, NACE International and other trade organizations have volunteer technical committees made up of subject matter experts that develop consensus standards that are drafted, balloted, approved and published. Development of a new standard can take as short as 3 years and as long as 5-7 years, depending on the

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preparation standards

Cleaning and Painting – Verifying Quality in the Field

The paint systems used on buildings are selected from published performance data, manufacturer’s recommendations, previous experience, and referrals from others.  At the manufacturing facility, the raw materials are blended together in specific proportions in a well-controlled environment, and systematic tests of product quality are made throughout the process.  Despite the controls exercised over manufacturing, the

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Measuring Peak Density Using Optical Grade Replica Tape  

Introduction Most industrial and marine protective coatings rely on a mechanical bond to the substrate to remain attached while in service. This bond is generally provided by a surface profile or anchor pattern that is imparted into the surface prior to application of the coating system and effectively increases the surface area of the substrate

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abrasive cleanliness

The Importance of Monitoring Abrasive Cleanliness

Proper surface preparation is one of the most critical steps towards maximizing the life of a coating system. If coatings are applied to improperly prepared surfaces, the system is much more likely to fail prematurely. Abrasive blast cleaning is the most common and productive form of surface preparation. Abrasive selection is a key component to

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