Over the last few years, advances in material science have increasingly been realized in the form of new industrial coatings. These coatings not only provide standard protection against hazards in the industrial environment but often enhance a substrate’s performance in other ways.

 

It was not long ago when water tank painting required tanks to be drained before work began. Condensation on the exterior made it impossible to paint a tank in service. Even quality coatings would fail duetothe moisture. This was another reason water tank painting was typically confined to summer, even though summer weather leads to peak water demand in most communities. As discussed in a previous post, difficulty developing a coating that adheredwell and cured quickly in winter was another big factor.

Painting a water tower can be challenging work. Water tank painting has traditionally been among the more complex commercial painting services. There is rarely a “good” time for a water tank to be out of commission. The requirements of coating application may be in conflict with the needs of those who rely on the water tower.

Advancements in containment and heating have made it easier to paint water tanks later in the year. This is significant because taking tanks out of service in the summer creates a variety of issues. Water tank painting is important, but it must be balanced against the ability to deliver water at the seasonal peak of demand. Downtime can cause significant service interruption.

Water tanks can exhibit a variety of performance characteristics based on their size, design, and the material of their construction. Selecting the right tank also helps ensure many years of service through easier maintenance.

When looking for quality industrial coatings, it is not unusual to hear about urethane or polyurethane coatings. They are common when discussing flooring systems for the most intensive applications. Their chemical properties make them more resilient and easier to maintain than epoxy flooring, which itself is usually looked at as an upgrade from concrete floors.

Choosing the right flooring system makes a substantial difference in how your facility performs. Your floor must resist abrasion from foot and vehicle traffic, have enough compressive strength to stand up to the equipment you use, and offer grip qualities that match your needs. Flooring also helps you with other environmental challenges, such as saving on energy use and making your space safer.

There are many floor coatings and treatments that can be appropriate in a commercial or industrial setting. Choice of flooring ultimately comes down to factors like the work environment, any special performance needs, cost per square foot, and the dimensions of the floor.