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.