Adequate surface protection is fundamental in coatings work. The surface finish or coating should have a pleasant appearance and be able to protect the structure against deterioration from its more or less corrosive surroundings and to some degree from mechanical loads and impacts.
The psychologically positive effect of an aesthetically successful coating should not be underestimated, even in ships’ ballast tanks. This is clearly demonstrated by the lengthy discussions about the IMO/SOLAS recommendation of using light-colored coating, 5–6 which basically was introduced to facilitate inspections.
The “market” concerned with protective coatings for ships includes not only ship owners and shipyards but also maritime authorities, ship brokers, the coating industry, the ships’ crew, and really the general public.
In simple terms, shipyards have a fundamental interest in building ships quickly and effectively. The market generally wants ships to be in good shape, nice looking, safe, and economical in operation.
Surface protection, including steel preparation and application of coating materials, adds considerable cost to a ship, so an optimal coating quality at an acceptable cost must be sought.
Critical areas for corrosion on single hull tankers.
Critical areas for corrosion on double hull tankers.
Typical areas under consideration in the after peak and fore peak ballast tank on a tanker and bulk carrier.
Special Thanks to Capt. Harry González