At the Albert Ellis Airport near Jacksonville, North Carolina, the arrival of an advanced technology coating system from Tnemec was “On Time” for the exterior renovation of several fuel storage tanks and pipes distressed by years of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light and the coastal environment. “They wanted the tanks to look attractive,” according to Tnemec coating consultant Joseph Saleeby. “We gave them more than attractive tanks – we specified a coating system that will protect the tanks for a long period of time. And the owner really loved it.”

Ranging in size from 400 to 12,000 gallons, the tanks were prepared in accordance with SSPC-SP10/NACE No. 2 Near-White Metal Blast Cleaning, then primed with Series 27WB Typoxy, an advanced generation, high solids, water-based epoxy. After a stripe coat was brush-applied around weld seams and sharp edges, a full coat was spray-applied.

Series 27WB Typoxy is an all-purpose industrial maintenance epoxy primer and intermediate coating which is thinned with potable water for ease of application. It offers 100 percent solids by volume, is virtually odor free and volatile organic compound (VOC) compliant.

A finish coat of Series 740 UVX, an advanced technology polyurethane that offers less than 100 grams/liter VOC content along with superior color and gloss retention, was then spray-applied. Series 740 provides a hard, durable film that stands up to abrasion, exterior weathering and UV light.

“The contractor had been using standard polyurethane coatings in his shop, but when he applied this product in the field he really liked the gloss and thought it was better than what he’s used to seeing,” Saleeby recalled. “Through this project, the applicator has become a strong believer in Tnemec Coatings and will use these products again.”

“The low VOC levels in both coatings are a definite benefit,” Saleeby added. “Currently in North Carolina, there isn’t an issue with tight VOC regulations, but the day is soon approaching when these types of products will be prominent in specifications.

Located in Onslow County, N.C., the Albert Ellis Airport is mostly used for general aviation but is also served by two commercial airlines.