Building Trust through Industry Excellence
Playing a crucial role in the construction of the helipad, Dulux® Protective Coatings provided a comprehensive three-coat system that not only offered vibrant colours but also ensured a non-slip surface through a straightforward roll-coat application. This collaboration between Dulux Protective Coatings and the applicators, Attention to Detail, highlights the trusted reputation and strong partnerships fostered.
“What they really love about our team is the technical support and how we see business as a partnership. It’s about aligning themselves with a premium brand, a great reputation and high-quality industrial coatings,” explains Dulux Protective Coatings Trade Specialist, James Davide.
The success of this project was made possible through collaboration with various stakeholders, including NSW Health Infrastructure, Murrumbidgee Local Health District, and Richard Crookes Constructions.
Ensuring Long-lasting Protection through Solid Foundation Work
Before the coatings could be applied, the helipad surface underwent meticulous preparation, including evenness and smoothing through diamond grinding.
“The end result is directly proportionate to the degree of preparation. Prepping the surface well helps ensure long-term coating adhesion,” explains James.
Following the preparation phase, Dulux Protective Coatings' three-coat system was implemented, providing durable and chemically resistant protection:
- Primer: Dulux® Luxafloor® LGE, a high solid, semi-gloss epoxy floor coating, was applied at 75-microns (μms) thickness. This primer offers excellent durability and chemical resistance against various solvents.
- Second coat: Dulux® Luxafloor® PTX also applied at 75-microns (µms), was incorporated with Dulux® Luxafloor® Aggregates for slip-resistance. This combination ensures a secure and non-slip surface.
- Topcoat: Dulux® Weathermax® HBR at 75-microns (µms), is a high build recoatable polyurethane coating designed for roller or brush application. It exhibits superior gloss and colour retention, providing an aesthetically pleasing finish.
The entire system was applied using roll coat. As James explains, “The coatings in this system are conducive to a brush and roll application and offer good flow properties, a nice lay off the roller and outstanding finish.”
Vibrant Colours and Enhanced Safety: The Finishing Touch
The helipad's functionality and safety were prioritised during the coating selection process. To ensure safe landings, the helipad needed to be easily visible day and night. Weathermax HBR, available in a wide range of over 5,000 colours, offered superior gloss and colour retention. For this project, vibrant Y14 Golden Yellow and R14 Warratah Red were chosen to enhance visibility.
Another essential requirement for the helipad was a non-slip surface to facilitate the quick and secure transfer of patients from the helipad to the hospital. Both Luxafloor LGE and Luxafloor PTX are available in slip-resistant finishes, and in this instance, Luxafloor Aggregates were added to the second coat of Luxafloor PTX to achieve the desired level of slip resistance.