
Barrier coatings form a protective non-porous layer over a substrate that prevents the surrounding environment from affecting the base metal. If a barrier coating is applied to the base metal without any other coating or film and is damaged by impact or chemical attack, the substrate is then unprotected. Film thickness and solid content significantly affect the lifespan of the protection.
Inhibitive porous coatings form a passive layer on a substrate that reacts with metal and humidity as it penetrates the film. The corrosion protection offered by inhibitive coatings significantly reduces over time and is why these coatings are regularly used in primers that are overcoated.
Sacrificial coatings act as an additive over a substrate which sacrificially corrodes to protect the material below. Unlike barrier coatings, sacrificial coatings remain effective if the film is damaged, however the level of protection offered is dependent on the additive content level and type of paint binder used.
When looking to choose a suitable partner for your anti-corrosion coating requirements it is important to check for several factors:
– Are barrier, inhibitive and sacrificial coatings all available?
– Is a Norsok approved inspector available if required?
– Is there suitable technical support to understand your challenge and recommend the best type of anti-corrosion coating?
– Does the potential supplier have the flexible capacity to cope with your volumes and process within your timescales?
– Are there sufficient facilities to cope with the size and geometry of your components?