ipcm_Protective Coatings n. 44 - December 2022

The most important industry events at your fingertips

myFAIR is a free web app that can be accessed from both desktop and mobile devices, which allows you to stay up-to-date with the leading events of the surface treatment sector.

Alessia Venturi Editor-in-chief

Say farewell to ipcm®_Protective Coatings: Corrosion Protection magazine is born!

After ten years of publication the one you have in your hands is the last published issue of ipcm®_Protective Coatings, which will retire to make room to the new publication. The first issue of Corrosion Protection will be released in January 2023 and it will have a new publication schedule, a new graphic layout and will encompass the entire world of corrosion protection in terms of products, processes, technologies, and services.

For almost fourteen years now, the ipcm® brand has been synonymous with authoritative and high-quality technical publishing, becoming a benchmark for anyone wanting to keep up to date with the latest news from the world of surface treatments. In order to achieve these goals and boast a widespread international presence, we have had to build on our own experience, but also to be ready to evolve in order to anticipate market trends and not simply follow them. In short, to break the mould of what is often perceived as traditional and unimaginative publishing just because it deals with technical content.

It is within this framework that we decided to launch a rebranding operation of our ipcm®_Protective Coatings magazine, which is now called Corrosion Protection.

Why this rebranding, you may ask.

One of the issues we found while visiting fairs and talking to people was that the title ipcm®_Protective Coatings wasn’t representing the entire scope of what the publication dealt with, as many thought we only dealt with coatings when in reality we had been covering several different products, technologies, processes and services for corrosion protection and prevention.

ipcm®_Protective Coatings has served as a primary source of information about organic and inorganic protective coatings, surface engineering, surface preparation in the heavy industry.

Corrosion Protection has been designed to be the ultimate technical-scientifical journal for corrosion prediction, prevention, protection, and mitigation.

A few things – the ones that have always set ipcm® apart, I dare say – will remain the same: the policy of transparency towards both customers and readers, the commitment to truly disseminate and distribute content both digitally and in print, and the extreme care in content selection.

All this said, enjoy the reading of this last issue of ipcm®_Protective Coatings, but do not be sad: we will see you soon on the pages of Corrosion Protection!

Happy Holidays from the editorial team.

Covestro Unveiled its 1,000th Polyurethane Resin Wind Rotor Blade

The ongoing partnership between Covestro and TMT supports the development of longer wind blades.

Covestro and Zhuzhou Times New Material Technology (TMT), a pioneering Polyurethane (PU) wind turbine manufacturer, have recently announced the launch of their 1,000th wind turbine blade. Covestro and TMT have signed a memorandum of cooperation about a year ago and now their wind turbines are being used in commercial wind farms throughout China.

TMT produces polyurethane wind blades ranging from 59.5 to 94 meters in length, also with different designs and layups in order to meet the growing demand for longer and larger structures. The 94-meter wind turbine blade, capable of generating 8 MW of energy, is the largest polyurethane application for Covestro so far. “We are very pleased to reach the important milestone of the launch of the 1000th blade with TMT. We believe that industrial collaboration is fundamental to addressing global warming and energy shortage issues, and it is also an important part of Covestro’s commitment to a circular economy,” has stated Christine Bryant, the global head of the Tailored Urethanes Division at Covestro.

Under its current five-year plan, China aims to double its wind and solar power output by 2025. Polyurethane resins in windblade production, which have penetrated the epoxy-dominated market in recent years, are a transformative innovation: through an efficient manufacturing process, they provide a more costeffective production solution with better mechanical properties than conventional fiberglass-reinforced epoxy blades. “PU wind blades cater to the growing demand for longer wind blade designs. We hope to further collaborate with Covestro to improve the competitiveness of wind energy through continuous technology innovation,” has declared Binbin Hou, the general manager of the Wind Business at TMT.

For further information: www.covestro.com

Zinc Flake Systems for Components with Difficult Geometry

People from all over the world attended a three-part webinar organised by DÖRKEN and focused on zinc flake system coatings for components with difficult geometry.

In October, DÖRKEN broadcast a three-part network series called “Zinc flake system coating process for bolts with internal drive” via an online seminar from Herdecke (Germany) into the world. Experts from different industries held presentations on the coating of components with difficult geometries, in this case bolts with internal drives. The goal was to transfer the knowledge that such components can also be coated with a zinc flake system in a reliable way for series production. Experts from DÖRKEN as well as from renowned companies from the fields of bolt production and plant engineering were chosen as speakers. The following presentations were given as part of this series:

• Bolt knowledge and the technology internal drive – Michael Stähler (DÖRKEN) and Robert Kupczyk (Camcar Innovations)

• Parameters and adjustment for standard coating lines –Martin Grün (DÖRKEN)

• State of the art: presentation of current concepts of different coating line manufacturers – Janis Barth (WMV), Bruno Forster (Forplan) and Lars Hayen (Sidasa). 63 people from Europe and the USA came together digitally to watch the insightful presentations. Among them were representatives of coating companies, bolt manufacturers and automotive OEMs. Of course, the experts were also available to answer open questions.

“We are very pleased that the event series was so well received”, says Tobias Kleyer, Team Lead of the DÖRKEN Coatings Academy and organiser of the events. “The great feedback shows us that there is a huge interest in this topic. We are sure that we were able to show the decision makers in an informative and entertaining way that zinc flake solutions are also ideal for bolts with internal drives.”

For further information: www.doerken.com

Minimizing Cost of Corrosion: Budgeting for Industrial Asset Preservation

Jeni Duddeck Cortec® Advertising Agency jduddeck@cortecvci.com

What happens when a simple pump fails at an oil and gas facility and all the backups are rusty? While a pump may be one of the least expensive assets on site, the ultimate price tag of unusable critical spares can be millions of dollars if production is shut down for weeks or months while waiting for a replacement to be delivered. That is why Cortec® Corporation recommends advance budgeting for corrosion

protection as a critical part of industrial facility management, especially in the energy sector. Since the urgency of the matter is often not realized until a failure or accident occurs, the tips below are intended to help maintenance, purchasing, or corporate teams start budgeting for that important step of VpCI® preservation before an emergency happens.

Tip 1: Do a Cost-Benefit Analysis for Asset Preservation

Maintenance and purchasing departments are often evaluated based on how much money they save, not on how many headaches they avoid. It is therefore helpful to do an overall cost-benefit analysis before presenting a preservation budget to superiors. This should take into consideration asset value, cost of restoration, cost of shutdown, safety factors, and lead time for replacement parts. The last three factors are especially critical. Although millions of dollars of assets often sit unprotected in an oil and gas facility yard or warehouse, the true price of losing an asset to rust is the cost of losing the equipment’s function. What happens if there is no replacement for a critical part? What is the estimated loss of production per day? While a typical approach is to say,

“Just get a new part,” this is easier said than done. Many refineries are located in distant areas where shipment itself takes a long time. If there is a supply shortage or the asset is a custom part, procurement may be delayed for months or years longer. The effect of these delays must be considered, as well as the potential safety risks if one were to install a rusty part.

Tip 2: Find a Preservation Advocate

Often, critical preservation does not happen without someone taking ownership of the problem. Understandably, most departments will not want to take responsibility for a preservation budget that has no immediate return and just looks like another request for more money. Maintenance may shift the responsibility to purchasing, and vice versa. Workers may know there is a problem but not be heard. If this is the case, the first step is to appeal to company specifications, which almost always include a preservation requirement and essentially obligate corporate management to provide funding. How much money management is willing to allot may depend on the size of the facility, so maintenance and purchasing departments should leverage this factor in their discussions when appropriate based on the potential impact of failure. Whether maintenance or purchasing should take the bulk of the responsibility depends on whether the assets are warehouse spares (maintenance jurisdiction) or new incoming equipment that needs preservation until installation (purchasing jurisdiction). If management is still ignoring requests, sometimes all that is needed is to call in a preservation consultant to reiterate what employees have been saying all along and advocate for change.

Tip 3: Estimate Preservation Costs

Once management has approved a preservation budget, the appropriate department will want to call in a preservation services company to evaluate preservation needs and estimate total costs, if they have not already. The service provider may evaluate the condition and value of assets onsite, then calculate Cortec® VpCI® material costs, worker costs, and estimated days needed to reach a stable state. The preservation services provider may offer full turnkey preservation services or simply training and materials to the facility’s existing employees. Estimating the full costs of these preservation options will help departments provide a more precise budget to management for further review, discussion, and final decision-making.

Well Worth the Cost

The initial cost of preservation is negligible compared to the multiple millions of dollars’ worth of assets saved, not to mention the tens or hundreds of millions of dollars that might otherwise be lost from an extended shutdown. Over and above this is the intangible value of protecting worker safety. When taking these factors into account, budgeting for asset preservation is well worth the cost. ‹

Edited by CIN Performance

CIN is a company committed to excellence in the supply of products and services. Its mission is to offer the best solutions with the best team in the market, meeting customer needs and taking a leading position. Always mindful of sustainability and its environmental impact, CIN Performance Coatings formulates products to decorate and protect any surface, implementing the most advanced technologies and complying with the strictest regulations. CIN Performance Coatings is therefore the perfect business partner for the most diverse market sectors. When it comes to large-scale engineering works, safety, aesthetics, and durability are crucial, their safeguard is based on three main elements: corrosion protection, passive fire protection and integral protection of concrete and floors - all pillars of CIN Performance Coatings.

Bridges and viaducts

On major engineering works, such as bridges and viaducts, the proper and effective protection is key, to prolong their durability. Whether they are made of steel or concrete, CIN Performance Coatings offers the best solutions for this infrastructure.

C-POX® PRIMER ZP230 FD and C-THANE® S350

With just these two products, it is possible to protect steel structures in C2 to C5 environments in a single day’s work, thanks to their short drying times.

C-POX® PRIMER ZP230 FD is a polyamide epoxy primer pigmented with zinc phosphate, which provides high-performance corrosion protection for metal structures in industrial or marine applications. Applied in one coat, it guarantees high durable corrosion protection for the category C4, according to European standard ISO 12944.

C-THANE® S350 is a polyurethane topcoat with excellent outdoor performance. Recommended for the corrosion protection of metal structures in aggressive environments, it can be included in coating systems certified according to Parts 5 and 6 of European standard ISO 12944. With excellent weathering resistance, proven in QUV-A accelerated ageing tests, it features excellent colour and gloss retention when exposed to UVA radiation and condensation cycles, even after 6000 hours of testing.

C-CRYL® W680 MATT

It is an acrylic coating for concrete protection. Formulated using the most innovative technologies on the market, it is the best matt water-based solution to increase the durability of the concrete by preventing aggressive agents ingress into. This product has excellent anti-carbonation properties.

C-CRYL® W690 FLEX

It is a flexible acrylic coating for complete protection of concrete structures by preventing the ingress of aggressive agents into, with proven long-term durability. This coating also provides moisture control to protect concrete structures and has excellent anticarbonation properties.

Buildings and infrastructure

All over the world, the beauty of numerous engineering works lies in their exposed steel structures. CIN Performance Coatings’ intumescent products make these safer, as they guarantee higher collapse times in the event of a fire, safeguarding lives and assets.

C-THERM® S100 and C-THERM® S110

They are intumescent acrylic coatings for passive cellulosic fire protection of metal structures for indoors and outdoors use, provided they are combined with the appropriate topcoat.

© CIN

Formulated to expand when exposed to high temperatures, C-THERM® products produce a foam with very low thermal conductivity, giving the steel excellent insulation properties for up to 120 minutes.

Tunnels and road structures Road tunnels are subject to a range of aggressive agents. Painting their internal surfaces is effective in protecting their structures, but also improving visibility and traffic safety.

C-POX® W210 HB

It is a water-based epoxy coating specially formulated for the protection of concrete road infrastructure (particularly tunnels) subjected to the action of various aggressive agents generated by vehicle engine combustion. With excellent anti-carbonation properties, high water vapour permeability, and low water permeability, C-POX® W210 HB enhances structural protection while having a positive impact on road safety in tunnels, thanks to its adequate reflectivity characteristics for the visual comfort of drivers.

About CIN

With over one hundred years of experience in the coatings industry, CIN is the market leader in the Iberian Peninsula. In 2021, it achieved a turnover of 365 million Euros, ranking as the 11th largest paint manufacturer in Europe (according to European Coatings Journal, June 2022) and the 39th one worldwide (Coatings World Top Companies Report, July 2021). CIN operates in all the four main market segments (Civil Construction, Industry, Corrosion Protection – the last two being combined in Performance Coatings – and Yachting and Naval), with around 1,800 employees, in more than fifteen countries, with a direct presence in Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Poland, Angola, Mozambique, South Africa, and Mexico, and with exports to various markets in Central Europe, Latin America, and Africa.

Arkema’s Kynar Aquatec Used to Protect NASA’s Iconic Logo as it Blasts Off to Space

The innovative protective coating has been selected to protect NASA’s iconic logo on the Artemis 1 Space Launch System (SLS).

The historic Artemis 1 SLS lifted off from Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Nov. 16 with the mission to send the Orion spacecraft approximately 1.3 million miles, orbiting the Moon. After 3+ weeks, the uncrewed Orion moonship made its splashdown on December 11, 2022. Arkema and its partner, Acrymax®1 Technologies Inc., developed an innovative coating which was able to provide extreme durability to keep NASA’s red “worm” logo on the solid rocket boosters intact while soaring to space. These are the largest, most powerful solid propellant boosters ever built for flight.

The clearcoat protecting the logo is powered by Arkema’s Kynar Aquatec®2 PVDF latex to design a water-based protective coating with exceptional durability in low VOC, air-dry systems.

“We work hand-in-hand with partners like Acrymax® Technologies to create custom solutions. Their ability to extend this partnership to NASA and develop a formulation strong enough to withstand the intensity of the most powerful rocket in the world is spectacular in many ways,” said Paul Lavallee, global market manager Kynar® Coatings at Arkema. “Kynar Aquatec® PVDF latex is really unique in that it delivers such world-leading performance in a user-friendly fashion. No baking or post-treatment is required.”

1 Acrymax® is a registered trademark of Acrymax Technologies Inc

2 Kynar Aquatec® is a registered trademark of Arkema Inc.

Arkema shares its technology with formulator partners through an exclusive licensing program governed by rigorous quality and performance requirements.

About Arkema

Building on its unique set of expertise in materials science, Arkema offers a portfolio of first-class technologies to address ever-growing demand for new and sustainable materials. With the ambition to become in 2024 a pure player in Specialty Materials, the Group is structured into 3 complementary, resilient and highly innovative segments dedicated to Specialty Materials - Adhesive Solutions, Advanced Materials, and Coating Solutions - accounting for some 85.5% of Group sales in 2021, and a well-positioned and competitive Intermediates segment. Arkema offers cutting-edge technological solutions to meet the challenges of, among other things, new energies, access to water, recycling, urbanization and mobility, and fosters a permanent dialogue with all its stakeholders. The Group reported sales of around €9.5 billion in 2021, and operates in some 55 countries with 20,200 employees worldwide.

For further information: www.KynarAquatec.com and www.acrymax.com

© NASA/Ben Smegelsky

EnviroTech Launched the New Corrosion Inhibitor

SuperCORR A

SuperCORR A by EnviroTech was specifically developed to protect avionic and electronic components.

EnviroTech Europe Ltd has presented SuperCORR A, a corrosion inhibitor specifically developed to protect avionic and electronic and electrical components from systems failures caused by corrosion, as well as preventing the corrosion of metal surfaces.

SuperCORR A is a unique and proprietary formulation with long-lasting anti-corrosion inhibitors and components providing a superior lubrication coefficient and protection against moisture, wear, general and fretting corrosion, static electricity, corona and other electro migration problems. The non-flammable film is only 7 microns thick and is formulated without sulphates, chlorides, petroleum-based material or halogens, to meet the EU RoHS directive. The water displacing lubricant and corrosion protection compound was

originally developed for the U.S. Air Force to comply with Mil-DTL-87177B (formerly Mil-L-87177A) specifications and has then become the industry standard for electrical corrosion protection, for in service maintenance by both military and commercial aircraft major repair and overhaul (MRO) facilities worldwide.

SuperCORR A is packaged in aerosol cans, in order to make access to component parts easy for the engineering crew in difficult locations and conditions. Unpainted mild steel will not rust on exterior surfaces directly exposed to sea water environments for at least 6 months, thus protecting electrical connectors, switches, chains and drive shafts from corrosion while maintaining lubrication on moving surfaces.

For further information: www.envirotech-europe.com

© EnviroTech

Hempafire Pro 400 Received the EN13381-8 Certification and CE Mark

The international paints manufacturer Hempel has recently announced that its Hempafire Pro 400 passive fire protection coating has been certified according to the EN13381-8 standard and granted the CE mark, complementing the already existing BS-476 and ApplusFire certifications. Passive fire protection (PFP) coatings insulate steel against high heat, extending its load-bearing capacity in the event of a fire, thus providing valuable extra time for evacuation and emergency response. Hempafire Pro 400 allows to maintain the stability of steel structures in case of a cellulosic fire for up to 120 minutes.

The intumescent coatings from the range Hempafire Pro have already proved their performances thanks to the exceptionally low thicknesses required to protect steel, that results in reduced total paint consumption, fewer coats to apply and protection delivered in shorter process times.

“We’re very pleased to make Hempafire Pro 400 available to customers that require the EN 13381-8 standard and CE mark. After a very successful launch last year in the UK and Middle East with the BS-476 standard, we can now provide the same cost advantages and project efficiencies to customers in mainland Europe. Moreover, during this last year we have also further improved the BS-476 loadings at 2 hours and we received an Environmental Product Declaration. Thanks to the reduced quantity of paint needed in a project, Hempafire Pro 400 can contribute to reducing the PFP-related carbon footprint of buildings,” has stated Roger Soler, the product manager for the PFP division at Hempel.

Hempafire Pro 400 is fully compatible with Hempafire Pro 315, which is optimised for 30 and 60-minute fire durations.

Both products are third party certified according to EN 133818/9 and BS-476 20/2, are available in Fast Dry versions to provide the best results in different climatic conditions and can be used as a single solution for most common steel sections for both in-shop or on-site applications. In addition, they can be used in Type X exterior conditions and C4-High according to ISO 12944. Third party verified Environmental Product Declarations (EPD) are available.

For further information: www.hempel.com

Hempafire Pro 400 maintains the stability of steel structures in the event of a cellulosic fire for up to 120 minutes.

© Hempel

Cortec Launched the CorroLogic® CUI Inhibitor Injection

In order to tackle the dangerous and costly corrosion under insulation (CUI) in the oil and gas industry, Cortec Corporation has developed CorroLogic® CUI Inhibitor Injection, a new Vapour phase Corrosion Inhibitor® technology that simplifies protection for insulated pipes reaching a high range of temperatures. The corrosion under insulation happens when moisture and other corrosive media enter insulation after water barrier wraps or jackets are compromised or when condensation builds up, often unnoticed, beneath the insulation. The threat is potentially greater on offshore platforms or in other marine environments with chloride-rich sea and with piping that undergoes wet-dry or high-low temperature cycling. Even worse, undetected CUI on pipes carrying hazardous liquids may lead to leaks and potential explosions.

CorroLogic CUI Inhibitor is a new hightemperature 100% VpCI that can be injected directly into insulating material. The corrosion inhibiting vapour migrates along the pipe to form a hydrophobic long-lasting protective layer on the metal surfaces that can withstand temperatures up to 350° C. Once piping is installed and insulation is in place, it is difficult to see and correct the problems that may be going on beneath the surface. The new solution developed by Cortec allows a wider timeframe in which to apply preventative measures, increasing the chances of inhibiting and arresting corrosion. CorroLogic® CUI Inhibitor Injection helps pipes last longer and reduces cumbersome repairs on insulated surfaces. In addition, it also minimises the risk for corrosion-related failures, increasing overall plant safety while reducing maintenance costs.

For further information: https://corrologic.com

The new VpCI® technology of Cortec simplifies protection for insulated pipes reaching a high range of temperatures. © Cortec ©

INNOVATIONS: PRESENT & FUTURE

The King™ Continues to Reign

Tom Vandevenne Graco Distribution BV – Maasmechelen, Belgium tom.vandevenne@graco.com

Graco launches its new Contractor King™ pneumatic protective coatings sprayer and the Silver Plus (HP) spray gun.

Responding to requests from contractors for a lighter, more mobile, protective coatings sprayer that could increase their productivity, Graco has launched its new Contractor King™ airpowered sprayer.

“We have designed a sprayer that offers outstanding performance and durability yet is compact and mobile at the same time,” says Tom Vandevenne, Graco. “It’s 38 kg lighter and has a 45% smaller footprint than comparable sprayers in its class, which makes it a dream to manoeuvre around a job site and lift on and off a truck.”

XL 6500 air motor with de-icing technology

The beating heart of the Contractor King™ is the powerful XL 6500 air motor which incorporates anti-icing technology to keep the unit spraying. For example, the externally mounted pilot valves are thermally insulated to prevent icing. De-ice bleed control allows air to bleed, which again keeps the system ice-free during heavy icing conditions. In case icing should occur, a manual reset button allows the air pump to be quickly restarted. In addition, the air motor’s durable aluminium, steel and

The Contractor King family.

© Graco

© Graco

The Contractor King 70:1.

composite construction resists common jobsite abuse, while the heavy-duty modular air valve offers unmatched performance for worry-free operation. The oversized muffler shroud protects the air motor while providing quiet operation, and the heavy-duty air regulator with ball valve and pressure gauge offers total air control.

Endurance™ pump with QuikChange™ design

“Another great feature to increase productivity is the Endurance™ pump with QuikChange™ design for fast pump removal,” explains Vandevenne. “It allows the pump to be removed in three easy steps: remove the rod coupling, inlet hose and paint hose; loosen the jam nut; and spin the pump to remove. On-site troubleshooting and maintenance have never been easier and quicker!”

Other features of the pump include its Chromex™ rod and stainless steel cylinder for maximum life and performance; Xtreme Seal™ UHMWPE and leather packings for ultimate durability; and the QuickAccess™ intake valve for easy access to the lower ball check. The overall result is that the pump delivers sharp, smooth changeovers for the best finish.

Compact cart for easy mobility and one-person loading

The cart for the Contractor King™ is equipped with integrated lift handles, which contribute to stability and also makes it very easy for one person to lift the unit on and off a truck. The cart’s rugged, welded steel construction incorporates chrome plating for maximum protection and durability. Heavy-duty flat-proof tires ensure trouble-free transport.

Multiple configurations

The Contractor King™ is available in three different pressure ratios:

• The 45:1 has a maximum fluid pressure of 310 bar and a maximum flow rate of 17.4 l/min. With this high flow rate it’s the ideal sprayer to use for multiple guns and can handle the most common epoxies.

• The 60:1 has a maximum fluid pressure of 415 bar and a maximum flow rate of 12.8 l/min. It can handle epoxies, polyurethanes and high solids.

• The 70:1 has a maximum fluid pressure of 500 bar and a maximum flow rate of 10.9 l/min. With its high fluid pressure it’s the sprayer to choose for difficult coatings, 100% solids, and applications where long hoses are needed.

Each model comes in three different configurations: the bare unit; a complete package with 15 meters of hose, whip hose, a Silver Plus (HP) gun, and guard & spray tips; and the “Big 150” configuration with 45 meters of hose, whip hose, a Silver Plus (HP) gun, and guard & spray tips.

What’s more, the Contractor King™ can be built the way it’s needed. It can be upgraded with an optional lift hook, a 45-liter stainless steel paint hopper, an air filter and lubrication kit, a heater mounting unit, and a paint outlet filter kit.

A further benefit is provided by the QuikChange™ Endurance lowers which can be purchased separately and quickly fitted to spray specific coatings, without having to buy additional pumps.

A new Silver Plus spray gun

Launching simultaneously with the Contractor King™ is Graco’s new Silver Plus spray gun, which is rated to work with maximum fluid pressures of up to 500 bar. The Silver Plus gun is delivered with the 45:1 package; the Silver Plus HP (high pressure) gun is delivered with the 60:1 and 70:1 configurations and comes with a 4-finger or 2-finger option. This latter feature, plus the fact that the Silver Plus (HP) spray gun is lighter than competitive guns, leads to reduced operator fatigue and maximum control when spraying.

The Silver Plus (HP) spray gun is packed with beneficial features. Heavy-duty design ensures maximum performance and long

life; the spray gun is guaranteed for life against breakage. As it’s rated at 500 bar (7250 psi) it’s ideal for use on any sprayer up to this pressure, which reduces a contractor’s inventory of spray guns to just one model. The stainless steel fluid tube routes fluid directly to the tip for maximum performance, and is colour-coded to match the high-pressure hose. Here’s the verdict of the Contractor King™ from a Swedish company that tested it at their facilities. They used it to spray a two-component, durable and non-chalking semi-gloss polyurethane paint as a generalpurpose topcoat for constructional steelwork and machinery: “We loved its mobility. We frequently perform external jobs on large sites or vessels, and the Contractor King™ is so easy to manoeuvre around without any problems. We also see a big benefit in the QuikChange™ feature of the pump. It enables our operators to simply swap the pump when there is a leakage and service the lower later. We are delighted with the higher productivity that this new sprayer from Graco gives us, and after the trial period was over we immediately placed an order.”

Contractor King™

hits the sweet spot

“Overall, I believe the Contractor King™ is an exceptional product,” summarizes Vandevenne. “It hits that sweet spot for contractors by offering the combination of outstanding mobility due to its compactness and weight, and maximum productivity thanks to its high performance and easy maintenance. Throw in the lightweight, comfortable and 500-bar rated Silver Plus (HP) gun and I am expecting the Contractor King™ to sell like the proverbial hot cakes!” ‹

© Graco

Contractor King’s hose and gun.

SUCCESS STORIES

Horizontal Blasting of Liquid Gas Storage Tanks

The STAG GmbH company implemented the AGTOS blasting plant with high-performance turbines in order to manage the existing plant much more economically than before.

STAG GmbH based in Genthin (Germany) has gone through a very eventful history.

In the process, it has always been possible to expand its market position, so that in the meantime almost all well-known gas suppliers are on the customer list. In addition to the production of sustainable compact and individual container ranges, new technical

solutions are being sought and the manufacturing processes optimised. Flexibility and reliability are among the most important success factors.

Of course, in addition to various product-related certifications, the company has a certified QA system according to DIN EN ISO 9001 and UM system DEN EN ISO 14001. The blasting process

A glance into the combined blast room and turbine blasting plant. On the right the turbine carriage, on the left the workpiece (gas tank).

© AGTOS

Workpieces (gas tanks) after blasting. The bottoms are also optimally cleaned.

is essential for cleaning and roughening the workpiece surfaces before coating. For this purpose, the company has been operating a combined blast room and turbine blasting plant for years. The gas containers to be processed are moved to the blast room on a rail wagon and processed there by two turbines also mounted on a rail wagon. These are AGTOS high-performance turbines, each with six blades attached to a single-disk blasting impeller. This system has the advantage over the previous one - it has better materials and fewer wear parts that need to be replaced due to the process.

The blades throw the cast steel abrasive at high speed onto the containers, which rotate slowly around their own axis. The abrasive is collected in the lower section of the blast machine, cleaned and fed back to the turbines via a conveyor belt.

The special feature is that the turbines are arranged horizontally, whereas in conventional blast machines they are mounted vertically. This fact places new demands on the inner workings of these components, especially on the seals of the motor bearings. After the turbines of the blast machine in particular had previously caused high repair costs, AGTOS replaced them with new, horizontal high-performance turbines. Thanks to the experience gained with other customers, these were developed in such a way that they are durable and work reliably.

From now on, the replacement of turbine motors and all wearing parts can be drastically reduced. The turbine now runs reliably and economically.

The existing saddle plate on which the turbines are mounted was completely replaced. A threaded spindle allows the angle of

inclination of this saddle plate to be adjusted by means of a rotary axis. This also allows the turbine jet to be adjusted to the horizontal centre of the gas tanks. A necessity, as these vary in diameter from 600 to 1400 mm. The new saddle plate has also been further developed into a wedge saddle. From now on, the sides and also the bottoms of the tanks are processed more effectively. This is because the turbine jet now hits the rounded bottoms at a more pointed angle. This considerably reduces the need for manual blasting of the bottoms.

Wear-resistant guiding plates additionally direct the turbine jet in such a way that the abrasive hits the workpieces directly. No abrasive can miss. The rubber lining of the blasting chamber is therefore optimally protected. This means that it too can continue to exist in a more sustainable and cost-effective manner. This described modernisation took place in 2019. Since then, the new concept has proven itself and worked to the customer's advantage. ‹

© AGTOS

A glance at one of the two horizontally mounted AGTOS high-performance turbines.

A glance at both AGTOS high-performance turbines.

Sherwin-Williams Launched the Single Leg Spray Solution FIRETEX® FX6010

FIRETEX® FX6010 expands the award-winning intumescent passive fire protection range of Sherwin-Williams.

The division Protective & Marine Coatings of Sherwin-Williams has launched FIRETEX® FX6010, a single leg spray solution that expands the award-winning intumescent passive fire protection range of the company which has been specifically developed for high value infrastructure projects such as sports arenas, schools, hospitals, transport hubs and office blocks.

FX6010 also offers up to two hours of passive fire protection and can be exposed to C5 high corrosive environments. In addition, in order to enable greater flexibility and allow applicators to use it with more standard application methods, FX6010 ensures also extended pot life (25 years with an appropriate topcoat) and working time while still maintaining durability and quick curing qualities in as little as three hours.

Once applied in shop or on site, it can then be exposed to weather after four hours and its mechanically toughened qualities ensure reduced damage during installation. “Our FIRETEX range is changing the dynamic of passive fire

protection and is already being used to protect buildings across Europe. By adding our new FX6010 system into the range, we can offer greater flexibility in its use, meaning applicators can use their original single-spray equipment and still benefit from the quick curing, durability and fire protection benefits,” has stated Carl Burrell, the Global Product Director – Fire at Sherwin-Williams Protective & Marine. “The benefits of this technology make it ideal for large transport, commercial and public buildings, which require structural fire protection as well as long lasting aesthetics for exposed steelwork, particularly due to its quick curing capabilities for faster project completion and strong durability.” Projects using fire protection coatings offered by Sherwin-Williams include the Y-Towers in Amsterdam and a sustainable office building in London.

For further information: http://protective.sherwin-williams.com

© Sherwin-Williams

The Croatian Specialty Chemical Plant of Cortec Will Be Fully Solar Powered

Cortec is already able to achieve savings from energy costs as high as 97%.

CorteCros®, the daughter company of Cortec® Corporation specialised in the manufacturing of corrosion protection solutions, has recently announced that its production site in Split (Croatia) is almost fully solar powered. The company is now able achieve savings from energy costs as high as 97%.

The site is located in Dalmatia, a Croatian coastal region that offers maximum sun exposure. In order to face the increasing energy prices and develop a more sustainable activity, the company decided to install solar panels during October 2022, thus collecting clean renewable energy from the sun and converting it into electrical energy to power the facility and its logistics centre.

The green transition towards a carbon neutral plant and the adjustment to the energy resources of CorteCros are of huge importance for Cortec. As it is the main production and distribution point in Europe for its chemical corrosion protection solutions, the company has recently expanded the production and storage capacity of the site.

“Since the global climate change is progressing, it has become more important that we do whatever we can to reduce the pressure on our atmosphere from the emission of greenhouse gases. Solar panels have no moving parts, require little maintenance and

last for decades. This green project is another step towards our full commitment to sustainable corrosion protection technologies” has stated Boris Miksic, the CEO and owner of Cortec.

For further information: www.cortecvci.com

SUSTAINABILITY

Accelerating the Energy Transformation with the Help of Protective Coatings for the Hydrogen Industry

Edited by Teknos Group OY – Helsinki, Finland

Hydrogen is expected to play a crucial role for the future of the energy industry, so it is important that the related infrastructures are protected and perform well. Teknos is researching new protective coatings solutions and setting industry standards to support the acceleration towards a greener transformation.

The energy sector is currently experiencing a transition that has recently been accelerated by the energy crisis that many European countries have to deal with. In addition, from the perspective of climate, humanity is in a hurry to move from burning fossil fuels to using more sustainable sources of energy. At the centre of this green transition can be found hydrogen, a clean-burning molecule that is everywhere in the nature.

Industrial carbon emissions can be significantly reduced with the help of hydrogen and green hydrogen is a way to replace the use of fossil fuels. Hydrogen is a way to store energy in the form of gas from renewable sources that are not stable in production – like wind and solar power –

and it can be used as an energy raw material in many different places. As a matter of fact, renewable and low-carbon hydrogen is determined to be crucial for meeting the Paris Agreement goals and, subsequently, to decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors.

As a result, the global hydrogen market is predicted to grow significantly over the coming years. The European Hydrogen Backbone (EHB) initiative1 shows that by 2030 there will be five pan-European hydrogen supply and import corridors with almost 28,000 km of initial pipelines, connecting industrial clusters, ports and hydrogen valleys. Moreover, in the strategic vision of the European Union for a climate-neutral continent2, published in November 2018, the share of hydrogen in

© AdobeStock

Europe’s energy mix is projected to grow from the current less than 2% to 13-14% by 2050.

With its strong focus on sustainability and innovation, the Finnish coatings manufacturer Teknos is looking to ensure that its products meet the needs of the future energy industry. Protective coating solutions can protect hydrogen pipelines and make the storage and transportation of hydrogen safer and more efficient.

Protective coating solutions for the hydrogen industry

However, on the way towards the visions for hydrogen, there are still several uncertainties to tackle. For example, the challenge in transporting and storing hydrogen in pipelines is that it may detrimentally influence the steel surface of the pipes.

“Green hydrogen can contribute to the growing energy demand, but we need to overcome some challenges. Hydrogen degrades the mechanical properties of most metals, accelerating fatigue and decreasing the fracture resistance of pipes, especially at dynamic pressure variations, which can cause pipeline parts to fail,” has explained Andreas Karpow, the R&D Manager Energy from Teknos Group. “Coatings can protect steel against the impact of hydrogen and in addition can significantly decrease the friction inside the pipe for more efficient transfer of gas.”

Teknos has a long history and track record in developing high-quality protective coating solutions for the energy sector, and the company is also currently undertaking research with its products to ensure the safety and durability of future hydrogen infrastructure.

“We are proactively searching for solutions to support the hydrogen industry using our extensive experience gained from many years supporting the energy sector,” has continued Karpow.

Standardisation for a greener transition

Hydrogen is also expected to play a key role not just in the creation of electricity but also in replacing fossil fuels in other areas such as aviation, maritime and heavy transport. As a result, the global hydrogen market is predicted to grow significantly over the coming years. In the report “A Hydrogen Strategy for a climate-neutral Europe”3, analysts estimate that clean hydrogen could meet 24% of the world’s energy demand by 2050, with annual sales in the range of €630 billion. “Failures in the energy sector not only cost time and money but can also have a massive environmental impact. As a result, strict codes and standards have been created to ensure that the assets are well protected. Teknos has a history of working in some of the most highly regulated environments such as Nuclear, Oil & Gas, and Renewables where quality, functionality, and durability are key requirements for coating suppliers. The Hydrogen industry will be no different and so we

1 https://ehb.eu/

2 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52018DC0773

3 https://www.europarl.europa.eu/legislative-train/carriage/eu-hydrogen-strategy/report?sid=6001

© AdobeStock

are creating high-quality solutions to ensure the safety and efficiency of the green energy transition,” has commented Clare McDermott, the Business Development Director from Teknos Group.

As the industry is still in the early stages of development, there are no fully defined standards or requirements for protective coatings used in hydrogen pipelines or storage tanks. To accelerate the development of the industry, Teknos is working closely with its partners and proactively taking the initiative in developing standardised practices. “We follow the development of the industry and aim to predict standards. Testing products and creating standards and guidelines are at the centre of our

operations. This is important because it contributes to the safer use of hydrogen as a source of energy,” has also added McDermott.

Successful field testing for Teknos' coatings

The company has then conducted a product testing together with MÜLHEIM PIPECOATINGS GmbH, as part of the hydrogen research programme of EUROPIPE GmbH’s. Teknos tested different coatings in pure hydrogen, in order to evaluate their suitability for use in hydrogen transport. The testing proved to be successful, showing that the protective coatings formulated and manufactured by Teknos can increase the durability of hydrogen pipelines. TEKNOPOX 3296-06 and TEKNOPOX 3297-00 coating systems performed especially well when

tested in the pure hydrogen environment; no blistering, degradation or reduction of adhesion was observed.

“EUROPIPE’s pipes were internally coated with Teknos coatings. This was an important milestone indicating that our coating solutions can be used for hydrogen pipelines, supporting the transition toward green energy and demonstrating our strong commitment to sustainability,” has clarified Karpow.

“At Teknos, we will continue our research into how our coatings can help the hydrogen industry by creating increased durability and transportation efficiency. The best solutions are found in cooperation and we will continue to work with our industry partners,” has concluded McDermott. ‹

New Zinc Flake Pigments Provide Sustainability and Cost Savings for Heavy-Duty Corrosion Protection

The new ProFlake® Zn 3000 zinc flake pigment developed by ECKART GmbH is a sustainable and cost saving corrosion protection solution for heavy-duty industry.

Arecent revision of DIN 12944 and also AMPP (formerly SSPC) with newly generated Paint 29 allow the formulation of compliant, performance-based corrosion protective paints. Thus, there is now more flexibility in formulation compared to the former mandatory use of zinc rich primers.

With the new ProFlake® Zn 3000 zinc flake pigment, ECKART responds to that change by providing a product solution that allows for significantly lower zinc content in formulations - a key for more sustainable corrosion protective formulations for heavy duty, including a greatly reduced CO2 footprint compared to currently applied corrosion protective paints. The percolation between these zinc flakes as well as their additional barrier layer formation ensures ideal corrosion protection, providing a clear advantage over zinc rich primers.

Other technical benefits are simple handling and application of the ProFlake® Zn 3000 zinc flake-based paint as well as its limited settlement properties.

Lean production processes of ProFlake® Zn 3000 guarantee an

attractive price-performance ratio. The new 31 µm (D50) product is ideally suited for use in marine, ship or bridge construction coatings, among others.

About ECKART

The ECKART Group, a company of ALTANA AG, is one of the world's leading manufacturers of effect pigments. With 1,750 employees worldwide, the group develops, produces and distributes metallic effect and pearlescent pigments in powder, paste and pellet form as well as concentrates, dispersions and printing inks. ECKART products are used in the coatings and printing industries, the plastics and autoclaved aerated concrete industries as well as in cosmetic products. In the future, ECKART will also drive the optimisation and development of metal powders for 3D printing, thus opening up new areas of application. ECKART is present in over 70 countries.

For further information: www.eckart.net

© ECKART GmbH

Established ProFlake® zinc flakes used in a commercial three-layer corrosion protective system formulated acc. to DIN 12944 applied onto a railway bridge - result after 25 years outdoor exposure.

Hycrome Aerospace Confirms its Ecological Conversion with the New Name HycAero

Hycrome Aerospace, a company specialising in chrome plating and chromic acid anodising in the aerospace and oil & gas industries, will convert these processes in alternative and more sustainable coating methods and will change its name in HycAero.

From January 1st, 2023, Hycrome Aerospace will become HycAero, to better reflect the future direction and capability of the business as it operates alongside its sister company, Hycrome Europe.

The rebrand marks a new chapter for its business, its employees, customers, partners and suppliers.

Managing Director Andrew Bailey, who started out at an apprentice with Hycrome over 40 years ago, explains the reasons behind the move: “For many years Hycrome has been recognised as a key supplier of protective coatings, precision machining and other special processes to the aerospace and oil and gas industries under the Hycrome Europe and Hycrome Aerospace banners. As the name ‘Hycrome’ suggested, our company has a long legacy of specialising in chrome plating and chromic acid anodising, two processes which we will discontinue by the end of 2023 in favour of more environmentally friendly protective coatings. We recognise that, for some time now, the company name hasn’t truly represented the scope or direction of our organisation, particularly within the aerospace sector, which is why we have decided that, on January 1st, 2023, Hycrome Aerospace will evolve to become HycAero. HycAero is a change in name only and the new brand will slowly begin to evolve within the business in the coming months. As part of the Score Group, our business will continue to thrive and maintain its place as one of Europe’s leading suppliers of special processes and precision machining to the aerospace industry. Since the early 2000s our strategy has been to stay in front of environmental demands and to move away from the use of chemicals containing chrome in our hard coating, anodising and painting processes. In support of this strategy, we have

invested heavily in alternative coating methods. These include HVOF, Plasma and Wire Arc thermal coatings along with Tartaric Sulphuric Anodising (TSA) and thin film Sulphuric Anodising (SAA), all applied by robotic and automated systems.

As well as finding innovative solutions to complex problems, we have a strong track record of collaboration and are special process provider of choice for aerospace’s Prime and Tier 1 companies”.

Each of Hycrome’s processes have achieved NADCAP, AS9100 accreditations and multiple customer approvals including Airbus, Rolls Royce, Safran and GE Aviation.

“Key to the success of Hycrome Aerospace to date has been our ability to evolve, adapt and diversify to meet the requirements of an industry that is at the forefront of technological innovation. Our move to HycAero marks an exciting new era for the business and further demonstrates our longterm commitment to the aerospace sector”, Andrew added.

For further information: https://hycaero.com

10 Things Not to Do on Social Media

Barbara Pennati eos Mktg&Communication Srl info@eosmarketing.it

We all know the best practices for managing a brand on social media. But are we sure we also know what shouldn't be done when it comes to communication and branding on social platforms? In this article, we list 10 practices to avoid to successfully promote a brand on social networks.

There is always a tendency to talk about best practices on how to use social media to promote your business – important lessons to always keep in mind. However, it is equally important to keep in mind what not to do in order to be successful on social media and avoid causing damage to the brand reputation. In fact, social media

platforms can be a double-edged sword: if, on the one hand, they help us to expand the visibility of our brand, on the other, if not used with common sense, they can cause more damage than one might think.

So, here are 10 behaviours to avoid to ensure our brand and our followers have a smooth and pleasant experience on social media.

1. Not being up-to-date

Social media, as well as the entire digital world, are in constant turmoil. New features, new formats, new platforms –sometimes it's easy to get overwhelmed by all these novelties.

However, staying up-to-date with the latest from the social media world is essential to be able to easily adapt our communication strategy, follow trends and anticipate them. Many marketing sites are usually updated daily with the latest news. We also do our best to bring fresh news to those who follow us: every Monday, on our Instagram1, LinkedIn2 and Facebook3 channels, we publish a compendium of the most important updates released by the platforms. In addition, once a month, we send out a newsletter summarizing the latest news from the digital world.

2. Wanting to take part in every trend at all costs

Staying up to date does not necessarily translate into participating in every trend launched on social networks. In fact, what becomes popular online does not always match the tone of voice, style and reputation of our brand. So, let's not get caught by FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). The risk is to sound insensitive, out of place and off topic.

3. Confusing the company account with a personal one

To this day, despite the fact that social media management has acquired a key role in the digital landscape, there is still a tendency

1 https://www.instagram.com/eosmktg/ 2 https://www.linkedin.com/company/eos-mktg-and-communication-srl/ 3 https://www.facebook.com/EosMktg/

to think of it as a light-hearted activity, which requires little time and not too much planning.

Truth is, it is quite the opposite: although updating social networks can certainly be more fun than many other more monotonous activities and although social networks lend themselves to a more direct approach, one must never forget the professionalism and planning required by the communication of a brand.

You can choose a funny and ironic tone of voice but this should not distract from the fact that we are still speaking on behalf of a brand. Everything that is said must be in line with the values and vision of the brand and not reflect the opinion or personal style of those who manage its social networks.

In addition to having a professional approach, it is also important to carefully plan your content with an editorial calendar. Otherwise, the risk is to post too sporadically or massively and without a real strategy.

4. Not providing truly useful content

Selling is the ultimate goal of any business but our followers don't follow us just to hear about how great our products are. Therefore, let’s avoid sounding like a salesman. Rather, let’s use social media to promote our products while also providing ideas and tools that can be useful to those who follow us.

Let's think, for example, of tutorials, video training, white papers, checklists, interviews and testimonials.

5. Not interacting with the followers

Social networks have been created to connect people. Only later did the platforms expand to include company pages and businesses. However, the same rule applies: we must not think of our company pages as mere showcases but as a meeting place for people sharing the same interest. A virtual place to build and nurture our community. For this reason, it is important to interact with those who follow us, actively encouraging participation in the conversation.

So, let’s provide feedback to comments and DMs, even in case of critics.

6. Being impersonal

This sixth point is closely related to the previous one. If we want to build a community and encourage engagement, those who follow us should feel like they’re interacting with real people and not with an impersonal brand.

So, let's not confuse being professional with being cold and "all

business". Let’s show instead moments of our everyday working life, what it means to work for the brand and our face: this will facilitate the process of identification and loyalty to the brand.

7. Wanting to be everywhere, every time

There are many social platforms and sometimes it feels like they pop up like daisies in the sun. Only in the last years two new platforms have been launched – Clubhouse and BeReal, for instance – which add to an already well populated panorama. Therefore, it is unthinkable to be present on every platform. Not only would it be counterproductive in terms of time and resources but also useless target-wise: there is an overlap of users between platforms. This means that having a channel on the two/three main platforms actually allows us to potentially reach the entire pool of social users. Furthermore, it is always better to think in terms of target rather than platform: TikTok is certainly the social network of the moment but if our target is not among TikTok users, our presence may be superfluous.

8. Buying followers

Buying followers is a more common practice than one might think and the matter is complicated. Although it is not illegal per se, it is certainly an incorrect practice and could actually prove to be counterproductive. Often, in fact, these followers are bots which accounts get suspended by the platforms, engaged in the fight against fake accounts. So, the risk is that our "investment” would be for nothing. More importantly, buying followers means creating a fictitious following and for what? Increase the mere number of followers? But what’s the point of increasing this number if the engagement rate remains the same?

The advent of influencer marketing, combined with a systemic decline in engagement, has generated much more awareness on how to read the so-called “vanity metrics", that is, the number of followers, likes and comments. Since it is very easy to cross-check these metrics and notice if there are fake accounts among the comments and followers, the risk is to ruin the reputation of our brand just to satisfy our craving to see a few more zeros in the follower count.

If you want to learn more about this topic, Hootsuite has run an experiment on the effectiveness of buying followers. You can find the report at this link: https://blog.hootsuite.com/buy-instagram-followersexperiment/

9. Forgetting the content mix rule

Sometimes there is a tendency to share only one’s own content. However, adopting a content mix strategy is always a winning choice.

This allows us, in fact, to differentiate the content offering not only by drawing on authoritative and recognized external sources, but also by exploiting user-generated content, which strengthens the sense of community and the relationship with one's audience.

10. Forgetting to listen

On our blog we have often talked about social listening4 and we will never tire of repeating how important it is. It allows us to better understand our audience, market trends, the positioning of our brand and consequently implement a more effective marketing strategy.

The first thing to do to implement an effective social listening strategy is to evaluate, in addition to quantitative and statistical data (vanity metrics), also qualitative data, which are usually more difficult to understand precisely because they are not linked to metrics. To obtain these data we must ask ourselves why, how, how much and when. We have to analyse topics, hashtags, conversations and keywords relevant to our brand. We have to observe how people interact and discuss a certain topic. We have to launch polls, interviews and collect testimonials. ‹

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Coating Inspections - Inspection of Concrete Surface Preparation, Part 2

Massimo Cornago

Following the previous article regarding the inspection of the preparation of surfaces made in concrete1, which may account for the largest total surface area of all construction materials, we will now describe the tests available for surface contamination after surface preparation.

Incompletely neutralised residual chemicals

Some residual chemicals, such as those left behind from chemical cleaning or etching, may adversely affect the adhesion and performance of coatings applied over prepared concrete surfaces. The Inspector may therefore be required to test the surface pH of the concrete, before

NACE International Certified Coating Inspector, NACE CIP PEER Reviewer cornago@ipcm.it

any coating is applied. To do this, the surface is rinsed with water and the pH (alkalinity or acidity) of the rinse solution is measured. The procedures for testing the pH of a concrete surface are given in the ASTM D 4262 standard. The Inspector should also verify than the surface is vacuumed if specified. This test method is also appropriate for steel surfaces, because it tests rinse water and not the surfaces themselves. The pH test paper strip used should have a range from 1 to 11 pH units, with a capability to measure increments of 0.5 pH units. The procedure is as follows:

• After wetting the surface with potable water, place a pH test paper strip in the residual rinse water.

• After colour develops on the test strip, select the closest match with the ones included in the standards on the colour chart provided by the pH strip manufacturer.

Grease and oil

After surface preparation, the Inspector may again be required to verify than the surfaces free of grease and oil contamination.

Dust

After abrasion, the concrete surface should be blow down and tested for residual dust. This can be detected visually by applying and removing a piece of transparent adhesive tape or rubbing the surface with a dark cloth, as follows:

• Wrap a piece of clean cloth around the index fingertip and make a 150-mm stroke across the surface with medium pressure.

• Remove the cloth and visually inspect both the cloth itself and the surface for any traces of dust.

Testing for concrete surface profile (CSP) after surface preparation

After preparing concrete surface for coating, the coating surface profile (CSP) can be determined by visual comparison to the moulded replicates available from the International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI). These standards range in roughness from a low of CSP 1 to a high of CSP 9 and include surfaces prepared to different levels by acid etching, grinding, shot blasting, scarification, and scabbling. They

represent degrees of roughness suitable for application of sealers, coatings, and polymer overlays, up to a thickness of 35.6 mm. A chart (Method Selector) provided by ICRI indicates the normal recommended CSPs for these products and the recommended surface preparation methods to obtain them.

Testing for retained moisture (ASTM D 4263)

Retained moisture in concrete may be detrimental to the performance of certain coating systems. The Inspector may therefore be required to test the concrete for retained moisture. Testing for retained moisture may be required before surface preparation. It may also be required after surface preparation if a “wet” surface preparation method such as acid etching or water blasting is used. Here below, we list the most common tests available.

a) Plastic sheet method (ASTM D 4263) – One commonly-used method for retained moisture is the plastic sheet method (ASTM D 4263), where a plastic sheet is taped on the concrete surface and left in place for at least 16 hours; thus, when required, this test will delay work by about one day. ASTM recommends testing every 47 m2 for floors, walls, and ceilings, unless otherwise specified. This should include representative sections of each pour.

b) Moisture meter – A moisture meter may also be used to detect moisture on or under the surface of concrete. However, it is considered to be more appropriate for plaster or wood than for concrete and to be best used to detect surface rather than interior moisture. The meter uses two needles or probes protruding from a continuity gauge. When the needles are placed on the surface, the gauge indicates whether or not moisture is present there. To detect interior moisture, the substrate must be penetrated by appropriately spaced concrete nails driven 6.4 or 13 mm into the concrete surface.

c) Calcium chloride dome test – Another method of testing the retained moisture is the calcium chloride dome test method, under review by ASTM. This method is used to obtain a quantitative value for the rate of moisture emission from a horizontal concrete surface such as a floor. In this method, a pre-weighed sample of anhydrous calcium chloride is placed on the concrete surface and is covered with a sealed plastic dome. After a designated amount of time (60-72 hours), the plastic dome is removed and the calcium chloride sample is weighted to determine the mass gain due to moisture. Moisture emission is then computed from the mass gain, the contact area of the calcium chloride on the concrete, and the exposure time.

Conclusions

Surface preparation of concrete is necessary to remove contaminants that inhibit coating adhesion and to roughen surfaces to improve coating adhesion. Concrete surfaces should be prepared for coating only after they are adequately cured. Prior to surface preparation, concrete may require grinding or stoning to remove protrusions or fill surface holes and indentations. There are several methods of concrete surface preparation that are not intended to roughen the surface profile. These include:

• Broom, vacuum, and air blast cleaning, used for removing surface dirt, dust, and other loose materials.

• Water, detergent, and steam cleaning, used for removing grease and oil.

• Wire brushing, used for removing efflorescence. There are also several methods of concrete surface preparation methods that do roughen surface profile:

• Abrading by procedures such as power tools, water blast cleaning, and abrasive blast cleaning.

• Acid etching, e.g. with a 10% solution of muriatic acid.

Whatever surface preparation methods are used, the Inspector should monitor them and verify that the specified results are attained. During surface preparation of concrete, the Inspector should also verify that the level of surface contamination (e.g. acidic contaminants, grease or oil, and dust) is within the range allowed by the specification. The Inspector may also be required to test the concrete surface for retained moisture. ‹

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LAMIERA 2023: a Good Trend for the Applications to Exhibit

The collection of applications to exhibit is going on expeditiously for the next edition of LAMIERA, the international exhibition dedicated to sheet metal forming and cutting machines and related technologies, scheduled to take place at fieramilano Rho (Milan, Italy) from 10 to 13 May 2023.

Promoted by UCIMU-SISTEMI PER PRODURRE, the Italian machine tools, robots and automation systems manufacturers' association, and organised by CEU-CENTRO ESPOSIZIONI UCIMU, LAMIERA – the only trade show exclusively focused on the sector – will again take place in odd-numbered years. Considering the economic framework, which is still favourable despite some factors of uncertainty, LAMIERA is getting ready to receive positive feedback from the enterprises of the sector. Besides the foreign markets, they will have a very dynamic and receptive Italian market at their disposal, also thanks to the Government incentives in force until after 2023.

After an extremely positive 2021, in the first six months of 2022 the Italian industry of the sector confirmed its growth trend, registering double-digit increases in the international trade data concerning the exchange of sheet metal forming and cutting machines.

“Supported by the Government incentives 4.0, in effect for the whole year 2023 and afterwards - pointed out Alfredo Mariotti, general manager of UCIMU-SISTEMI PER PRODURRE - domestic demand will certainly reward the exhibitors participating in LAMIERA”. The organisation secretariat is observing a great attention to this event, given not only by the “habitués”, the usual exhibitors, representing all major segments in the repertoire, but also by new enterprises, as well as by companies that have decided to exhibit again at LAMIERA after years of absence.

“Confirmations, new entries and returns - added Alfredo Mariotti –show how significant the interest is in this event, which, edition after edition, has been stabilising its position as the only trade fair of reference for the sector in Italy and improving its appeal even to foreign operators, thus strengthening its image worldwide”. Machines, systems, equipment for sheet metal processing and cutting, tubes, sections, wires, metal structural work, presses, dies and moulds, welding, surface treatments and finishing, parts, components, accessories, tooling, fastener materials, technical and industrial subcontracting are some of the “traditional” technologies on show. Besides the large offering of machinery, plants and equipment for sheet metal processing and cutting, tubes, sections, wires, metal structural work, the exhibition will focus on 6 technological themes that have an increasingly crucial impact on the sector today. FABBRICAFUTURA/

© Ucimu

FACTORY OF THE FUTURE, dedicated to software and technologies for connectivity, data management, automation, robotics and digital systems applied to sheet metal processing; SALDATECH, offering an overview of the wide and diversified world of welding, one of the most important sheet-metal joining technologies; FASTENER INDUSTRY, presenting a proposal of screws, bolts, fastening and clamping systems; WORLD OF HEAT AND SURFACE TREATMENTS, hosting machines, systems, accessories and consumables centred on pre- and postproduction treatments, for ferrous and non-ferrous materials, offering a complete overview of this segment that is continuously developing; METROLOGY & TESTING, focused on testing, measuring and qualitycontrol systems and machines, which are essential for production in this field; BLECH ITALY SERVICE, technical subcontracting and services for

the industry of the sector.

In addition, as usual, LAMIERA will propose a full programme of in-depth cultural, thematic meetings arranged by the organisers and the exhibitors. The meetings will be hosted at LAMIALAMIERA, a real arena that will be set up within one of the exhibition halls to facilitate a free participation of the present operators.

The trade show will take place in partial conjunction with Made in Steel, the exhibition dedicated to the production chain of steel, which will be held in the halls next to those occupied by LAMIERA, thus enabling operators and journalists to visit the two separate but complementary events on one business trip.

For further information: www.lamiera.net

© Ruggiero Scardigno

© Ucimu

StocExpo Launches Registration with a New Look and Feel for 2023

StocExpo, the world’s longest and largest running event for the tank storage and future fuels industry, will be celebrating the evolution of the energy industry when it returns to the Rotterdam Ahoy (Netherlands) from the 14-16 March 2023.

Registration is now open for next year’s StocExpo, the highlight event of the tank storage and future fuels industry. As always, the threeday exhibition and conference will provide an opportunity to learn from the brightest minds in the industry, see the latest innovations from the supply chain, and rub shoulders and strike deals with key decision makers.

Held as part of StocExpo, the FETSA Tank Storage Conference will be Europe’s largest tank storage conference and will attract terminal operators, ports, traders, policy makers, future fuel, chemical and oil & gas producers from around the globe. Brand new for 2023, StocExpo will also be running an Asset Management & Maintenance conference alongside the FETSA Tank Storage Conference focusing on safety, innovation and efficiency targeting HSE managers, asset managers and maintenance managers.

Rikki Bhachu, StocExpo’s Head of Marketing, says, “For 2023, we are focusing on inspiring, connecting and sharing knowledge across the bulk

liquid storage community. Thought leaders from around the world will be gathering – alongside exhibitors and visitors – to discuss the future of the industry. As ever, it is a perfect event for networking, doing business and boosting careers. Highlights will include an incredible exhibition and conference, the StocExpo Forty Under 40, Women in Tanks and the Global Tank Storage Awards. The last StocExpo was an incredible success, and we can’t wait to bring everyone back together again. See you in March!”

About StocExpo

StocExpo is a three-day exhibition and conference for the tank storage and future fuels industry. Industry leaders will meet to stay ahead of the competition, network and gain new business at the Rotterdam Ahoy, Netherlands from the 14-16 March 2023.

For further information: www.stocexpo.com - use code 8501 to register for free.

ZOOM ON EVENTS

EniProgetti, TotalEnergies, Petrobras and Enbridge Employee Services Canada to Participate at Pipeline Coating in Vienna, Austria

The 16th edition of the Pipeline Coating event will take place on 13-15 February 2023 in Vienna (Austria).

AMI, leading provider of market intelligence and events for the global plastics industry, has released the agenda for the 16th edition of the Pipeline Coating event on 13-15 February 2023. Taking place at the Austria Trend Hotel Savoyen in Vienna, Austria, this event is the annual meeting place for industry experts to connect and discover the latest developments in the world of pipeline coatings. The agenda will start with a detailed overview of the market looking into new trends, current situation, and future forecasts. Speakers and panellists will discuss strategies and solutions within the hydrogen economy, share views on how the industry is transitioning into greener technology, and compare steel pipes and composite pipes for hydrogen transportation. Several oil and gas operators will participate in a panel debate surrounding the impact of global energy diversification on product transportation and position of pipelines. There will also be a session on cutting-edge innovative coating solutions, developments, and application technology, as well as insightful presentations on field joint coating. This event attracts operators and asset owners, contractors and lay engineers, raw material suppliers, pipe coaters, specifiers, machinery suppliers, researchers and testing and certification organisations.

Speakers and panellists include:

• Dr Haralampos Tsaprailis, Coatings Specialist, Enbridge Employee Services Canada, Canada

• Denis Melot, Expert Non Metallic Materials and Coatings, TotalEnergies, France

• Michele Castano, Senior Coating Engineer, EniProgetti, Italy

• Thierry Kerzerho, Integrity Engineer, GRT Gaz, France

• Guilherme Eller Haverroth, Mechanical Engineer – Technology of Polymers Consultant, Petrobras, Brazil

• Dr Somaieh Salehpour, Vice President, Technology and Strategic Marketing, Seal For Life, USA

• Dr Jeffrey D. Rogozinski, Global Product Director, The Sherwin-Williams Company, USA

• Dr Boris Kuzmanović, Segment Sales Manager, Akzo Nobel Powder Coatings.

Alongside the two-day agenda, Pipeline Coating offers over 12 hours of face-to-face networking, two evening receptions and a lively exhibition space. This event is a perfect place for the entire supply chain to re-establish their network, make new business connections, and gain insights into the latest research contributions and business trends.

For further information: www.ami.ltd/event-pipeline-IPCM

ZOOM ON EVENTS

SIFER 2023 – Coming Back at Full Speed

The 13th International Exhibition of Railway Technology will take place from 28 – 30 March 2023 at Lille Grand Palais in France.

SIFER is a unique international railway meeting point in France. For over 20 years, the event has been reuniting all the stakeholders of the industry: rail operators, infrastructure authorities, vehicle builders, suppliers, rail transport policy makers and planners.

After two challenging years affected by the pandemic, the organisers at Mack-Brooks Exhibitions are happy to continue supporting the rail sector by holding the next edition of SIFER. The event aims at reinforcing the commitment to meet stakeholders’ expectations in terms of networking, business opportunities and keeping up to date with market trends.

New at SIFER 2023 – The Innovation Hub

In line with the recovery plan set up by the government, aiming at renewing and modernising the rail network, SIFER 2023 is looking at the future with the creation of an Innovation Hub at the heart of the show. This space will be dedicated to startups with highly innovative and creative solutions to tomorrow’s challenges.

SIFER has always proved to be at the forefront of the sector tendencies and innovations. The organisers have continuously amplified the importance given to rail infrastructure, reflecting the trends of the market.

Exhibitors and partners renewing their trust

Numerous exhibitors have renewed their attendance at this next edition, proving the influence of SIFER in the railway market. 85 companies are already on the participants’ list to showcase their solutions next March, of which several of the big names of the industry, such as ABB France, ROV Development, Rail Europe Solutions, Sirail, Direct SAS or ACC M. 15% of registered exhibitors are new participants that will show their products for the first time at the event.

All official partners of the show will also be present, including the following: Hauts-de-France region, Unife, the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) and Railcoop.

Throughout the 3 days of the show, visitors will be able to enjoy:

- A comprehensive programme of activities aimed at fostering networking, knowledge exchange and keeping up to date with the latest innovations;

- Conferences addressing the key topics and future trends of the industry such as sustainability and digitalisation;

- An on-track display: sections of track laid in the exhibition hall to showcase rail mounted vehicles and track-related equipment, allowing visitors to experience all rail products in real life.

About the organiser

Mack-Brooks Exhibitions specialises in the organisation of B2B events of dedicated to specific industrial sectors and works globally.

It is a leading organiser of the most important railway shows in Europe, including partner shows:

• Railtex: 9 - 11 May 2023 NEC, Birmingham, UK

• EXPO Ferroviaria: 3 - 5 October 2023, Fiera Milano Rho, Milan, Italy

For further information: www.sifer-expo.com

ZOOM ON EVENTS

Successful Start of the Trade Show Trio

The start of the trade show trio Solids, Recycling-Technik and Pumps & Valves which took place on 22-23 June in Dortmund (Germany), was successful.

Good things come to those who wait. After the break caused by Corona, the trade show trio Solids, Recycling Technology and Pumps & Valves 2022 in Dortmund proved to be an indispensable business platform. In summery temperatures and despite the new challenges caused by the crisis, almost 4,000 visitors finally exchanged views with the experts of the 430 exhibitors face-to-face again, followed the numerous technical lectures and live explosion demonstrations and explored the exhibition along one of the four topical tours. For many, it was important to be able to turn to the experts with concrete concerns for technical challenges. “Like everyone involved, we were very pleased to finally be back on site in Dortmund with the trade shows. The large number of well-known companies and the intensive discussions at the stands clearly show us how important the personal exchange and how useful the new trade show combination is for the industries”, confirms Sandrina Schempp, Head of Processing Cluster from the organiser Easyfairs Deutschland GmbH. For the first time, the representatives of three trade shows presented themselves at the same time in Dortmund. The combination of Solids, Recycling-Technik and Pumps & Valves was very well received by exhibitors and the public, because the sectors around the processes of pouring, recycling and pumping are closely linked.

High quality contacts and satisfied exhibitors

With more than 3,800 trade visitors from various sectors, the trade show trio was therefore well attended despite the new crisis-related challenges such as high inflation, sharply rising energy prices and still disrupted supply chains. Representatives of renowned companies such as BASF, Caterpillar, Estato Umweltservice, Haribo, Volkswagen or

Stahlwerke Bochum went in search of new technologies on the two days of the trade show. The visitors were often looking for very specific solutions to technical challenges in their plants. Optimally prepared, the representatives of bulk solids, recycling, valves and pump technology showed their possibilities and were able to make numerous valuable contacts. This ensured great satisfaction among visitors and exhibitors.

Cynthia Günther, Strategic Buyer at Thyssenkrupp Steel Europe, can also confirm this: "I was at the trade show because we have a design problem with a slide valve. I was hoping to find a supplier or dealer at SOLIDS, RECYCLING-TECHNIK and PUMPS & VALVES Dortmund who would support us with our request, and fortunately we did. I have found someone who is now taking on the project together with us."

Show programme impresses the visitors

In addition to the promising innovations, the visitors were also enthusiastic about the informative show programme. Many listeners followed the high caliber lectures on the stages of the Innovation and Solution Centres and picked up valuable and practical suggestions. The pre-planned topical tours were also well received. Numerous visitors took advantage of the opportunity to explore the exhibition along one of these routes and obtained specific information on certain core topics. In addition, there was still plenty of room to discuss markets that are under pressure. Besides process automation and sustainable production, fire and explosion protection, agricultural and feed technologies were on the tour programme.

Into the future with the trade show trio

The successful debut of the three trade shows in Dortmund and the positive response of the participants encourage the trade show organiser Easyfairs Deutschland GmbH to continue to rely on the trio in the future. Just in time for the end of this year’s event, participants can already start thinking about the next edition of the big three on 29th and 30th March 2023. Until then, the organisers and experts will keep the community of Solids, Recycling-Technik and Pumps & Valves Dortmund up to date via blogs, LinkedIn and Twitter.

For further information: www.pumpsvalves-dortmund.de/en/

© Easyfairs ©

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EDITORIAL BOARD

Prof. Massimiliano Bestetti Department of Chemistry, Material and Chemical Engineering, Politecnico of Milan - Section of Applied Chemistry and Physics

Prof. Paolo Gronchi Department of Chemistry, Material and Chemical Engineering, Politecnico of Milan – Chemical Engineering Section

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Ing. Luca Valentinelli Materials Engineer, PhD, Nace inspector lev.3

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