New Cargo Hold Coating

Bulk carriers’ cargo holds are the areas affected by severe operating environments. Without excellent coating protection, the structural integrity of holds can be compromised, jeopardising continuing vessel profitability and safe operation. International Paint is introducing Intershield®803Plus, a new cargo hold coating specifically designed to address the key issue of impact damage from the loading of dry bulk cargoes.

Growing exports of hard cargoes such as coal and iron ore have increased the potential for significant coating damage to occur during loading. This is particularly prevalent from the loading of coal by high speed belt conveyor systems, leading to the phenomenon of ‘shooting’ damage in cargo holds. This may occur when loaders project coal at right angles to the bulkhead. The impact can fracture and detach coatings over a short period, leading to loss of steel protection and subsequent corrosion. Often these areas of damage are high on the bulkhead and are therefore difficult to repair in service.

Once suffering this form of impact damage, owners and operators are faced with more frequent repair, increased costs and potential downtime of their vessels.

The new Intershield®803Plus has, according to the company, excellent impact resistance, offering the effective protection against ‘shooting’ damage. It also provides good general abrasion resistance and corrosion protection, VOC compliance with 75% volume solids, fast drying times and all year round workability. The product has a smooth surface for easy cleaning, is certified for the carriage of grain and is FDA compliant.