Global coatings manufacturer Hempel recently introduced the Hempadur 15600 as a high-performance, chemical-resistant, two-component epoxy coating for the offshore industry.

Designed specifically for floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) cargo tank protection, the coating is compliant with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Performance Standards for Protective Coatings (PSPC) for cargo oil tanks.

The coating provides strong resistance to continuous immersion in hydrocarbons, including crude oil, at temperatures up to 194 ˚F (90 ˚C)

“Hempadur 15600 is an important part of Hempel’s range of high-performance coatings for cargo tank protection within the offshore oil & gas industry,” said offshore group manager Maurice Steijger. “It offers the application benefits of a pure epoxy coating with the corrosion protection and temperature resistance of an epoxy phenolic coating. It is particularly suitable for FPSO contractors and owners specifying coatings for their cargo and slop tanks.”

Just Two Coats

The coating is described by the manufacturer as mechanically robust. It can be applied in just two coats to achieve the required dry film thickness (DFT) for most cargo oil tank specifications, Hempel explains.

“This enhanced performance is due to Hempel’s high cross-link density technology, which gives added chemical and corrosion resistance and a hard, glossy surface for easy cleaning,” Steijger said. “Application costs and risks are reduced, and the coating offers resistance to hydrocarbons, including crude oil.”

The high-temperature aspect also ensures excellent performance at temperatures where conventional pure and modified epoxy universal primers can display limited resistance, the company explained.

Extra Shipyard Benefits

For shipyards, Hempadur 15600 delivers fast drying and curing properties resulting in a hard, smooth, and easily clean surface. It can be recoated after six hours, which saves further time and costs during dry-docking and maintenance.

Unlike many other cargo tank coatings, the coating can be applied at temperatures as low as 23 °F (-5 °C), offering more flexibility during winter working conditions.

To assist with the necessary tank inspections, Hempadur 15600 is available in multiple shades including light colors—which are highly resilient to oil staining. This permits easier inspections and the identification of defects following immersion service, according to the manufacturer.

For more information, contact: Hempel, (936) 523-6000, www.hempel.com