Solvent Free Epoxy Coating - Climate and Humidity Control

Epoxy Linings - Solvent-free but not Problem-free

Solvent-free epoxy coatings have been widely specified and used over recent years in Australia as linings for a variety of immersion service exposures, specifically for potable water storage and tank linings for some petroleum products. However, they have not always delivered the durability or performance hoped for. There have been disappointments and some failures which could have been prevented if a wider understanding existed about the nuances of specifying and applying solvent-free epoxy materials.

Of key interest to Humiscope, is how climatic conditions are critical during certain phases of curing.

Solvent Free Epoxy Coatings are Susceptible to Humidity

Problem:

Certain solvent-free epoxy coatings are susceptible to high relative humidity and/or condensing moisture during a certain window of time after application.

This can create intercoat adhesion problems or blistering if the coating system involves multiple applications of solvent-free materials. If these critical issues are not properly addressed or understood, the coating may look satisfactory but it might not work as well or for a satisfactory length of time.

Thus, the problem of condensation on freshly sandblasted or painted tank surfaces needs to be addressed. In order for surface protection to yield good, durable protection, the surface must be kept clean and corrosion-free during the interval between grit-blasting (surface preparation) and painting.

Dehumidifiers for Solvent Free Epoxy Coating Applications

Solution:

Provide dehumidification so that the climatic conditions inside the tank are to be approximately 40°C and a low relative humidity. 

Humiscope provides rental dehumidification for this exact purpose. Our desiccant dehumidifiers not only lower humidity levels but also provide heating. This is as a by-product of the desiccant technology is heat gain to the process air stream.

You can improve your productivity and quality of coat with Humiscope’s short and long term rental options. 

Humiscope Dehumidifier Hire Rental Systems:

• Surface preparation can be carried out regardless of outside factors such as air temperature, pollution or season

• Blasting can be done without double or triple shifts, which can save up to 20% in labour costs

• The painting contractor can plan and carry out his work with no risk of expensive downtime.

 Please check out our Dehumidifier Hire Brochure for more detailed information

We have a wide range of gear available. Call us on 1300 686 822 to discuss your project requirements.