Ballast Tank Protection: A Case Study

6th December 2024

The ballast tanks of a vessel were suffering from corrosion due to exposure to harsh marine conditions, which threatened the structural integrity of the tanks. To ensure long term durability, a comprehensive ballast tank protection solution was needed to prevent further deterioration and extend the lifespan of the tanks.

Resimac’s Ballast Tank Protection Solution

Surface preparation conducted using abrasive blasting and mechanical grinding for restricted areas.
Stripe coating carefully applied to edges and angles for enhanced coverage.
Two full coats of 501 CRSG applied uniformly to protect all surfaces.

Application Details

The surface preparation process was essential to ensure the coating adhered effectively. Areas with full access were abrasive blasted to ISO 8501/4 Standard SA2.5, achieving a minimum profile of 75 microns for maximum coating adhesion. In areas where access was restricted, mechanical hand grinders were used to meet ISO 8501/4 ST3 standards.

Once prepared, a stripe coat of 501 CRSG was carefully applied to edges, welds, and other challenging areas to enhance protection. Two full coats of 501 CRSG were then applied across all tank surfaces using brush and roller techniques. Each layer was applied at a nominal thickness of 250 microns, creating a uniform, robust barrier designed to resist the harsh marine environment and prevent further corrosion.

Products Used

501 CRSG – Surface Tolerant Epoxy

Results and Benefits

The application of 501 CRSG provided durable and reliable ballast tank protection, safeguarding the vessel’s tanks against ongoing corrosion and erosion. The coating system significantly extended the lifespan of the tanks, reduced maintenance demands, and lowered associated costs. By delivering effective protection in both accessible and restricted areas, the solution supported operational efficiency and long term vessel performance.

This cost effective approach prevented further structural damage, ensured the tanks’ integrity, and offered a dependable, long lasting solution for ballast tank maintenance in demanding marine conditions.