Metallic shades for Frankston’s sparkling rail bridge

Graffiti, extreme UV exposure, corrosion, exhaust fumes and all the dirt, dust and atmospheric contaminants of a high traffic zone. These are the biggest challenges for maintaining the integrity and finish of all concrete and steel substrates on the Skye Road Rail Bridge in the Melbourne outer suburb of Frankston.

Completed in 2018, this important project was part of the Victorian Government’s initiative to remove 110 dangerous level crossings and replace them with rail bridges. This has reduced congestion at this busy intersection and created a much more pleasant and safe experience for cyclists and pedestrians.

Specifying in collaboration with architects and applicators

Dulux® Protective Coatings, Chris Eldred worked closely with the architect, Wood Marsh Architecture and the applicator, Opat Contracting, to meet these objectives:

• High performance corrosion resistance for steel components

• Graffiti resistance and tolerance of repeated high-pressure cleaning with graffiti removal agents

• Colour and gloss retention and resistance to fading from UV exposure

• Distinctive metallic grey shades to highlight the concrete architectural features

Three coat system featuring innovative application of Quantum FX

A recommendation of a prime coat using Dulux® Durebild® STE @ 80-microns (µm) to provide excellent barrier protection for all bridge components. This surface tolerant epoxy was designed specifically for Australian conditions and is an ideal maintenance coating for a wide range of substrates.

The grey shades on the panels were achieved with a coat of Dulux® Quantum® FX @ 60-microns (µm) in Fine Metallic in two brilliant colours - Skyfall and Zinn. This two pack acrylic polyurethane was designed to create visual impact with a striking, highly durable finish that will resist weathering and chemical exposure. Wood Marsh requested the colour coat be applied by brush and roller to ensure a precise finish.

“This was the first time Quantum FX was applied by brush and roller on a major infrastructure project,” explains Chris. “Since this project, the same system has also been used on the Buckley Street rail bridge in Essendon. This method of application may not deliver time or cost savings, but it does achieve the best possible result when precision is required.”

A 40-microns (µm) coat of Dulux® Quantum® Clearcoat provided the final layer of protection for all surfaces. With excellent graffiti resistance, this two pack clear acrylic polyurethane was designed to enhance the colour and gloss of Quantum FX and extend the service life of the finish.

From traffic hazard to community asset

Whether they’re walking, biking, running, driving or travelling by bus, locals and visitors are now enjoying easier and safer access to Frankston station. Green zones line the pathways, complemented by the rail bridge architecture and painted panels. The advanced technology of the Dulux Protective Coatings system will extend the time between required maintenance coats, maintaining a high quality, sleek finish for all commuters to enjoy.