By: Rob Burckley, Induron Technical Sales & Service Manager
Induron Protective Coatings is proud to spotlight a recently completed project by Semper Fi Coatings out of Kentucky at a federal prison involving the recoating of a 1.0 million-gallon water tank, commonly referred to as a “Flute.” This complex project required a full blast and recoat of the interior wet and exterior surfaces as well as a partial interior dry repair and numerous welding repairs—all while navigating the unique challenges of working within a high-security environment.
The project challenges
The project presented unique challenges, primarily due to the restrictions inherent in working within a federal prison. These included limited work hours and restricted access to the site, requiring careful coordination and strict adherence to security protocols. Despite these constraints, the Semper Fi team successfully completed the project within the allotted 160 days, staying ahead of schedule and within the budget.
The coatings solution
The exterior of the tank was prepared to SSPC SP6 standards, ensuring a clean surface for optimal coating adhesion. The Induron Coatings exterior coating system included:
- Indurazinc MC67: Applied as the primer, providing excellent corrosion resistance.
- PE 70 Epoxy: Applied as the intermediate coat, offering durability and enhanced protection.
- Indurethane 6600: Applied as the finish coat, delivering long-lasting performance and aesthetic appeal
The interior wet areas were critical for protecting the tank from the corrosive effects of stored water. Prepared to SSPC SP10 standards, the system included:
- Indurazinc MC67: As the base coat for superior corrosion resistance.
- PE 70 Epoxy Stripe Coat: Applied to edges, welds, and other vulnerable areas for added protection.
- Two Coats of TL70 Ceramic Epoxy: To provide a robust, long-lasting barrier against corrosion.
The interior dry sections of the tank, particularly areas needing spot repairs, were treated with two coats of Induron’s PE70 to ensure consistent protection and extend the tank’s service life.
“Applying Induron’s TL-70 ceramic epoxy was a straightforward and efficient process,” said Steve Birchmeir with Semper FI Coatings. “The product’s consistency and ease of use made our job much simpler, allowing us to achieve a durable, high-quality finish with confidence. Our partnership with Induron has been invaluable—they provide not only top-notch products but also exceptional support, ensuring every project runs smoothly from start to finish.”
The project outcome
This project is a testament to Induron and Semper FI’s commitment to quality, safety, and client satisfaction. By overcoming the challenges of a restricted work environment and delivering a high-quality result under budget and ahead of schedule, we were able to demonstrate our value and expertise.