Steel Piling Protection: A Case Study

5th December 2024

Steel pilings supporting a bridge across the River Thames were exposed to harsh environmental conditions, leading to significant corrosion and erosion. These challenges required a durable steel piling protection solution that could withstand the harsh environment and prevent further damage. The customer needed a protective coating capable of being applied and cured underwater to ensure the pilings remained structurally sound and resistant to future deterioration.

Resimac’s Steel Piling Protection Solution

Loose corrosion and marine growth removed to prepare the surface.
208 Ceramic UW applied to protect pilings from further damage.
Coating designed to cure underwater for effective splash zone protection.

Application Details

The repair was conducted from floating pontoons, allowing access to pilings exposed to air and the splash zone below the high-tide mark. Preparation involved the use of handheld needle guns to remove loose corrosion and marine debris, ensuring a rough surface profile for optimal coating adhesion. A debris mesh was deployed to capture contaminants and maintain water quality during the process, followed by thorough cleaning with fresh water to eliminate remaining particles.

Resimac 208 Ceramic UW was applied in two coats, each at a thickness of 1mm, using a plastic applicator. This underwater curing coating formed a durable barrier against further corrosion and erosion. Its performance was especially crucial below the waterline, where conditions were most severe, providing enhanced protection for the pilings in this challenging environment.

Products Used

208 Ceramic UW

Results and Benefits

The application of 208 Ceramic UW ensured long lasting protection for the steel pilings, resisting both corrosion and erosion in the highly aggressive splash zone environment. Its underwater curing capability made it ideal for these conditions, allowing the repair to be carried out without dewatering or disrupting the river’s flow. The durable coating extended the lifespan of the pilings, reduced future maintenance demands, and reinforced the structural integrity of the bridge. This cost effective solution addressed both immediate damage and future risks, providing a reliable safeguard for this critical infrastructure.