To ensure the long-term viability of this state-of-the-art establishment, Blacktown City Council collaborated with architect Sam Crawford Architects and enlisted Sydney based as applicator and Ideal Fencing & Gates as the fabricator. As part of this remarkable project, the mesmerizing 100-meter-long 'Bird Screen,' a vibrant artwork of vertical blades created by Lymesmith, has been incorporated into the space, adding a captivating burst of color and artistic beauty.
Preserving BARC: The Power of Three Coats
To protect the steel substrate used in the construction of BARC, the project team opted for a three-coat system all spray applied.
The first coat was Dulux® Duremax® GPE ZP, a general-purpose epoxy primer enhanced with zinc phosphate pigment. This primer provides inhibitive corrosion protection on mild steel and is specifically formulated for Australasian conditions. It acts as a barrier to prevent corrosion from reaching the steel surface.
The second coat applied was Dulux® Duremax® GPE, which offers versatile protection against corrosion. This epoxy coating provides an additional layer of defense and enhances the durability of the steel structures at BARC. By employing a barrier protection mechanism, Duremax GPE effectively shields the steel from the damaging effects of moisture and environmental elements.
The final topcoat used was Dulux® Quantum V92, a two-pack fluoropolymer with superior weathering and gloss retention properties. This topcoat was specifically chosen to address the westerly facing fence that would be exposed to extreme UV radiation. Quantum V92 ensures long-term color and gloss retention, making it an ideal solution for maintaining the aesthetic appeal of BARC over time.
Seamless Collaboration: Elevating BARC's Coating Selection
The selection and application of coatings at BARC required close collaboration between the asset owner, architect, applicator, and fabricator. Working closely with the applicator, the team navigated the challenges of color selection and obtaining approvals. As the original specifications included the use of Duration T80, the release of the superior V92 coating prompted the need for 16 color samples to be made and approved, following the AS2700 color standard.
"Choosing a coating with long-term gloss and color retention was crucial for a project of this magnitude. With numerous colors and intense UV exposure, it was vital to select a coating that would keep its vibrant appearance for years to come.", explains Grant Lowe, NSW Technical Sales Representative.
By employing high-quality coatings on the steel structures of BARC, the project team ensured that the facility would not only provide a haven for animals but also retain its visual appeal in the face of harsh environmental conditions. The choice of Duremax GPE ZP, Duremax GPE, and Quantum V92 coatings offers long-term corrosion protection and superior gloss retention, making BARC a shining example of excellence in animal rehoming centers across Australia.
