The Innovation Centre - which provides innovative AgriTech and FoodTech companies with commercialisation and funding opportunities - is the landmark of the precinct. The Shire of Murray team were clear from the outset; this building had to be as stunning as it is state-of-the-art.
Making the Dulux Protective Coatings choice
According to WA Business Development Executive Michael Filmer, two key factors were behind the decision to select Dulux® Protective Coatings as the coatings supplier for this project.
"First was our product development and ability to deliver the desired look and finish while also achieving excellent corrosion protection. The second factor came down to service and our ability to provide product specifications, colour services and samples rapidly, both during the design phase and also during construction."
A tailored four-part system
A fantastic aesthetic was achieved with the following four-part coating system, which utilised Luxathane SPX as both coat three and the topcoat:
- Dulux® Zincanode® 402 at 75-microns (µm) DFT (dry film thickness) was used to prime the steel. This zinc rich epoxy dries fast and offers cathodic corrosion resistance.
- Dulux® Duremax® GPE at 125-microns (µm) DFT. Duremax GPE is a versatile, two pack epoxy to further protect the steel against corrosion and abrasion.
- Dulux® Luxathane® SPX (Black) at 50-microns (µm) DFT. Luxathane SPX is a high performance two-component acrylic polyurethane with a smooth, satin finish.
- Dulux® Luxathane® SPX (Black) at 50-microns (µm) DFT.
"This four-coat system was used across the entire project, applied via airless sprayer to ensure consistent achievement of the required DFT," Michael says.
"As well as its excellent UV resistance and gloss retention, a major advantage of Luxathane SPX is its durability and satin finish aesthetic. It is ideal for projects where extended maintenance periods are required."
Advanced protection from corrosion in a C3 environment
A core architectural feature of the Innovation Centre was steelwork. Proximity to the coast meant a system that adhered to the C3 atmospheric corrosive category rating was required.
"Our team engaged with the architect during the design stage, and then with the builder and applicator, during construction," explains Michael.
"A key achievement was to work in tandem with the applicator, Complete Corrosion Control - who had never used the product before - to obtain a consistent and uniform finish with Luxathane SPX. We also provided technical advice to both the building and application teams to ensure the airless spray application method was successful."
A creative, solutions-focused team
Achieving an outstanding, long-wearing result for the Shire of Murray, the asset owner, was at the heart of this project.
"Our coatings system was central to realising a stunning, uniform finish for this state-of-the-art steel building, which is now ideally placed to retain its striking beauty and resist corrosion for many years to come."
