For 70 years, ANSTO, Australia’s Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation have been internationally recognised as a leader in nuclear science and technology.
The nuclear research reactor at the Lucas Heights Science and Technology Centre, known as OPAL, is key to this reputation.
Operating reliably since 2007, it was time for OPAL’s cooling towers to receive an extra layer of protection. Dulux® Protective Coatings were honoured to support this infrastructure maintenance project, which helps ensure important nuclear research can continue safely.
An environment unlike any other
Dulux Protective Coatings are no stranger to unique and intense environments. From mining to water and wastewater, power plants and heavy equipment – we specify coatings for some of the harshest conditions around the country.
But, there is only one facility with a nuclear research reactor in Australia, and only a few reactors like it in operation around the world.
The reactor facility's cooling towers absorb heat from the cooling system and dissipate it into the environment, keeping the reactor running well. The cooling towers operate in a wet environment, though not immersed. Our coating system had to resistance from moisture, as well as offer a simple and quality application.
“There was some concern about having overspray in the environment. For this reason, brush and roller was chosen as a more suitable application process,” explains Business Development Executive Adam Hockey.
Providing the ideal maintenance coatings
With our extensive knowledge of maintenance solutions, we recommended a reliable system that allows for brush and roller application, plus superior protection.
A three-coat system was applied to the fibreglass towers:
• Primer: Dulux® Durebild® STE at 125-microns (µm)
• Second coat: Dulux® Durebild® STE at 125-microns (µm)
• Topcoat: Dulux® Weathermax® HBR at 80-microns (µm)
Durebild STE is recognised as an ideal maintenance coating, with high performance protection and great surface tolerance.
“It provides excellent surface tolerance capability for tightly adhering coatings prepared with power tools, which offers more flexibility in an environment like this with restricted preparation,” says Adam.
Weathermax HBR is a trusted coating that offers excellent brush and roller application, high durability and low maintenance. It was selected as a topcoat for its superior gloss retention, as well as performance in extreme UV exposure and severe industrial and marine environments.
Strong partnerships built on trust
We worked closely with a wide range of partners on this project, including; ANSTO Nuclear Operations and Specialised Remediation Services.
Our teams are recognised around Australia for their technical expertise, communication and ongoing support on any project. According to Adam, it’s what sets Dulux Protective Coatings apart.
“A big part of our relationships is that we are around after the project finishes as well. We offer support for the lifetime of your coating system.”
It was our trusted relationship with ANSTO over many years which saw Dulux Protective Coatings selected for this infrastructure maintenance project.
“A lot of the relationships we have are built on trust from working on projects in the past. Our partners recognise we will find the best outcome for their asset, one that is achievable and that works for their specifications.”
