Preserving a Historical Landmark
Recognised as one of the most iconic landmarks in the area, the White Bay Power Station is currently undergoing remediation to ensure its longevity and cultural significance. As part of the Bays West Place Strategy and precinct planning, NSW Government led by Placemaking NSW has confirmed that the power station will be retained for cultural and creative purposes.
The Importance of the Chimney Stacks
Integral to the power station's identity are the chimney stacks, which have become an iconic symbol of its industrial heritage. However, the presence of lead-based paint on the stacks requires careful attention to ensure their longevity and safety. FDC Construction & Fitout, the builder responsible for the restoration, has enlisted the expertise of Australian Leader as the applicator to carry out the necessary surface preparation and coating.
Thorough Surface Preparation
With the assistance of Dulux® Commercial Account Manager, Glenn Smith, Australian Leader carried out the surface preparation work in accordance with AS4361.1 2017.
"Our aim was to ensure a clean and prepared surface for the subsequent coatings. This was achieved through a thorough high-pressure water blast washdown, which eliminated any dirt, debris, or loose paint. By doing so, we created a smooth and optimal surface, ready for the application of the specified coating system.", explains Glenn.
The Coating System for Lead Based Paint
The coating system specified by Dulux® Protective Coatings Business Development Executive, Adam Hockey, ensures the durability and protection of the chimney stacks. The system consists of the following layers:
• 1st coat: Dulux® Luxepoxy® Sealer @ 40-microns (µm) DFT, effectively seals the substrates, ensuring the adhesion of subsequent coatings even with minimal surface preparation
• 2nd coat: Dulux® Duremax® GFX @ 200-microns (µm) DFT, a high-build glass flake surface-tolerant epoxy that is an ultra-premium coating providing superior corrosion resistance and protection against abrasion
• Topcoat: Dulux® Weathermax HBR @ 75-microns (µm) DFT. These layers act offer excellent weather resistance and extending the lifespan of the chimney stacks
The Coating System for Aged Paint Surfaces
When dealing with aged painted surfaces that fall under AS/NZS 2312.1:2014 Category C4 (high corrosivity), it is crucial to implement a robust coating system to ensure long-lasting protection. In such cases, the following coating system is recommended:
• 1st coat: Dulux® Zincanode® 402 @ 75-microns DFT, is specifically designed for use over abrasive blast cleaned steel surfaces, particularly when overcoating is required without special mist or seal coat techniques. This first coat acts as a protective layer, providing excellent adhesion and corrosion resistance.
• 2nd coat: Dulux® Duremax® GPE MIO @ 125-microns DFT, a high-performance protective coating developed specifically for Australasian conditions. Utilising the latest epoxy technology, it is formulated with micaceous iron oxide pigment to enhance barrier protection
• Topcoat: Dulux® Weathermax® HBR @ 75-microns DFT
"By following this PUR4 coating system, you can confidently overcome the challenges presented by aged painted surfaces in high corrosivity environments. The combination of Zincanode 402, Duremax GPE MIO, and Weathermax HBR forms a formidable protective barrier, effectively shielding the substrate from further deterioration and significantly extending its lifespan. This comprehensive solution ensures a robust and enduring defense, safeguarding your surfaces with utmost reliability." says Adam.
Images courtesy of Toby Peet.
