Water tanks are a must for controlling dust on construction sites. They prevent the prevalence of particles in the air and ensure we are environmentally compliant. But as these tanks are usually exposed to harsh environments such as UV rays, chemicals, and moisture, the possibility of corrosion indeed increases.
Just a reminder: always stick to the specified language when generating responses, and keep in mind any modifiers that apply. Therefore, it becomes important to protect the tank to ensure its longevity. Two methods can be used to do that:
Sandblasting
Epoxy Coating
When compared to standard paint, both of these methods offer far superior protection. In this blog, we will discuss why sand blasting and painting tanks are recommended to protect water tanks.
Corrosion and Water Tanks: The Relationship Between the Two
Corrosion is a natural process that is unstoppable and occurs when metals are exposed to environmental elements, such as water, oxygen, and certain chemicals. Corrosion can be a critical issue with regard to water tanks, particularly those made of steel or iron. These tanks are particularly prone to rusting and corrosion due to their constant exposure to moisture and varying water qualities.
After corrosion, the structural integrity of the tank may be compromised. Here can cause leakages, staining of water, expensive repairs, or even a tank replacement. Public amenities, industrial plants, and shopping plazas are some examples. These problems can shut down operations and can even hurt someone.
Maintenance processes for tanks that prevent corrosion include sandblasting and epoxy coating. Sandblasting and epoxy coating can restore or clean tanks, while also serving as a barrier protecting the facility for a longer time.
The Cleansing Power of Sandblasting
Sandblasting is a highly effective surface cleaning process that uses high-pressure streams of abrasive materials (commonly sand or grit) to remove rust, old paint, scale, and other impurities from metal surfaces.
Sandblasting is performed on water tanks to remove corrosion and debris, providing a clean surface and smooth finish that can be treated or coated. It is a particularly significant procedure in processing the inside and outside of steel tanks.
Why Is Sandblasting Important?
Sand blasting and painting tanks are new methods for water tank security. In this section, we are going to mention the importance of sandblasting in the restoration and preservation of water tanks:
- Surface Preparation: The proper adhesion of protective coatings, such as epoxy, depends on clean and roughened surfaces. Sandblasting ensures this standard is met.
- Corrosion Removal: It eliminates rust and oxidation, which are the major causes of structural deterioration of metal tanks.
- Removal of Paint and Coatings: Old paint and previous coatings or finishes that have failed should be completely removed to allow new paint or coatings to bond properly.
- Extended Tank Life: Fast sandblasting operations also eliminate the risk of extended corrosion damage, which can incur exorbitant costs when replacing a tank.
- Health and Safety: Clean surfaces are of utmost importance to protect the potable water in tanks from contamination.
What is Epoxy Coating?
Epoxy coating is a chemically resistant coating composed of a blend of epoxy resin and a hardener. When mixed and cured on a project surface, this will create a durable, resistant film that can resist moisture, corrosion, chemicals, and wear. Epoxy coatings can be used to paint the interior or exterior of water tanks, depending on the purpose for which they are being coated.
Why is Epoxy Coating Crucial for Water Tanks?
Water tank epoxy coating is a preventative method with many benefits:
- Corrosion Protection: Epoxy keeps metal surfaces safe from corrosive elements like water and chemicals.
- Easy to Clean: A smooth and sealed interior surface makes maintenance easy and less frequent, thereby lowering downtime and operational costs.
- Economical Guarding: Epoxy coating can now save on future repair costs, as it reduces the need for high repair or replacement expenses for the entire tank.
- Regulatory Compliance: The majority of industries are required to comply with the regulations regarding tanks that should be clean and corrosion-free. The compliance is easily achieved because of the epoxy coating.
Choosing a Sandblasting and Painting Tank Service Provider: Key Considerations
Choosing a vendor for sandblasting and painting of tanks, many factors have to be considered in order to end up with the best quality, durable, and safe result. The following are some of the pointers to remember:
Experience
Go for a provider who has experience in handling sand blasting and painting tanks. Ask for case studies or references. A company specializing in industrial coatings for tanks will likely have the specialized equipment and trained personnel to do the job correctly.
Safety Protocols
Painting and sandblasting can be pretty hazardous, so it’s crucial for the provider to have solid safety measures in place. This includes proper containment strategies to avoid any environmental contamination, ensuring that employees have the right personal protective equipment (PPE), and adhering to all relevant safety standards, like OSHA.
Don’t hesitate to ask about their safety record and the training they provide!
Quality of Materials
The longevity and performance of the coating depend mainly on the materials used. A well-known supplier will employ quality abrasives to do the sandblasting job and the right coating systems (primers, intermediate coats, topcoats). They will fit your tank contents and exposure to the environment. Explain which type of coatings they would suggest and why.
Equipment & Technology in Sandblasting
To get maximum efficiency and effectiveness in sandblasting, painting, and finishing, it is essential to utilize up-to-date and well-maintained equipment, including new sandblasting machines, adequate ventilation, and precise spray-painting equipment. Don’t hesitate to ask them about their equipment and how they guarantee it’s being used to its maximum potential!
Surface Preparation
Proper surface preparation is essential for coating adhesion and long-lasting wear. Sandblasting should provide the correct surface profile for the job, regardless of whether the client is familiar with the SSPC/NACE standards or not. Describe their surface preparation methods and how they ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free of contaminants before painting.
Warranty & Support
A trustworthy service provider will always back up their work. It is also a good idea to inquire about the warranty they provide on their services as well as on the materials they use. Also, consider their after-sales services. Will they be available to perform checks or repairs where necessary?
Bottom Line
To ensure your water tank remains in working condition in the long term, apply modern and effective methods. Among the most common methods are sand blasting and painting tanks. The techniques offer permanent and durable protection against rust and adverse weather conditions.
Therefore, when negotiating with your contractor, you should certainly ask if they are familiar with the techniques mentioned above. Be smart and keep your tank in the long run.