How to select the right paint system
The selection of the most appropriate paint
system for protection against corrosion
requires taking into account several factors to
ensure an effective and cost-efficient solution
is achieved. This document outlines the most
important factors to keep in mind when
selecting a protective coating for any project.
A: Environmental Corrosivity:
The operating conditions for the structure,
facility, or installation must be defined
accurately to select a suitable paint system.
Factors that influence environmental.
corrosivity include:
• Humidity and temperature (service temperature and temperature gradients) • The presence of UV radiation • Chemical exposure (e.g., specific exposure in industrial plants) • Mechanical damage (impact, abrasion, etc.) • Porosity, ground structures, and ground conditions (in the case of buried structures) • Dampness and pH of the terrain • Biological exposure to bacteria and microorganisms • Type and chemical composition of water in water-containing systems Impact of Environmental and Corrosive Conditions: The type of paint used for protection, the total thickness of the paint system, the surface preparation required, and minimum and maximum recoating intervals are all influenced by the corrosive environment. Surface preparation must be more thorough in highly corrosive environments, and recoating intervals must be strictly followed.ISO 12944 Standard: Part 2 of the ISO 12944
standard provides a general evaluation of
corrosion classifications for atmospheric
conditions, soil, and water based on the
corrosion time for carbon steel and zinc.
While it does not consider specific chemical,
mechanical, or temperature exposures, it may
still serve as a useful indicator for paint system
projects.
Conclusion: By taking into account the factors
outlined above, one may select the right
paint system for protection against corrosion
effectively and economically.
SAMCO›s skilled Engineers are readily
available to help customers choose the most
suitable coating system based on their specific
needs and requirements. For more information,
customers can reach out to their local SAMCO
representative for assistance.
B: Type of protected surface:
• When designing a coating system, it›s
important to consider the construction
material to be protected.
• Common construction materials include
steel, hot dipped galvanized steel, spraymetallized steel, aluminum or stainless steel.
• The surface preparation, paint products
(especially the primer), and total system
thickness will depend on the material being
protected.
• Coating systems can be tailored to meet the
specific needs of each construction material,
ensuring the best possible protection
against corrosion.
• With proper selection and application of
coating systems, construction materials can
have a significantly longer lifespan, resulting
in reduced maintenance costs and overall
improved performance over time.
C: The durability required for a paint system:
• When assessing the durability of a paint
system, it›s important to consider the length
of time that can pass before extraordinary
maintenance is needed.
• ISO 12944 specifies four categories, or time
frames, to classify the durability of paint
systems based on their expected lifespan.
• The expected lifespan of paint systems can
vary based on factors such as the type of
surface being protected, environmental
conditions, and the quality of surface
preparation and application.
• By selecting paint systems that are designed
for specific environmental conditions and
properly preparing the surface before
application, it›s possible to extend the
lifespan of paint systems and reduce the
need for maintenance or reapplication over
time.
• When assessing the durability of a paint
system, it›s important to consider the length
of time that can pass before extraordinary
maintenance is needed.
• ISO 12944 specifies four categories, or time
frames, to classify the durability of paint
systems based on their expected lifespan.
• The expected lifespan of paint systems can vary based on factors such as the type of
surface being protected, environmental
conditions, and the quality of surface
preparation and application.
• By selecting paint systems that are designed
for specific environmental conditions and
properly preparing the surface before
application, it›s possible to extend the
lifespan of paint systems and reduce the
need for maintenance or reapplication over
time.
D: Planning the paint application process:
• When planning the application of a paint
system for a building project, it›s important
to consider the building schedule and
various stages of construction.
• The timing and sequence for applying the
paint system will depend on the specific
project and timing of prefabrication and onsite construction stages.
• Consideration should be given to materials
at the prefabrication stage, as well as when
building components are being fabricated
both off-site and on-site.
• As building stages are completed, additional
considerations should be given to applying
the paint system based on timing and
accessibility of different areas of the
building.
• Proper application of paint systems can
help ensure the long-term durability and
appearance of a building while protecting
against environmental factors and wear and
tear over time.