During any crime scene investigation, there is the collection of samples (evidence) that are subsequently analyzed in a forensic laboratory and used to help solve the crime. This process is very similar (albeit a lot less serious) when a coating fails prematurely. Samples of failing and non-failing coating are gathered as evidence, along with a […]
Introduction Occupational exposure to respirable crystalline silica in the coatings industry may occur during, or while working alongside dust-producing operations involving a concrete substrate, while using sand as an abrasive (silica may be present in the abrasive), or as a component of the coating (silica may be an extender used in coatings). Operations using sand
Respirable Crystalline Silica Exposures in the Coatings Industry Read More »
Background Color is used in the coatings industry for safety (e.g., safety yellow), identification (e.g., pipes coated blue indicate gas flowing through them) and for branding (e.g., company color schemes). The color of a protective coating changes over time; these changes may be caused by aging of the coating and/or exposure to solar radiation (ultraviolet
Measuring Color Difference in the Coatings Industry Read More »
A 1930s-era riveted steel tank with a capacity of 1.5 million gallons was one of the largest water tanks in the world at the time of its construction. A radial cone-design tank with a 6-foot-diameter riser and 20 legs, it is approximately 175 feet in height and 80 feet in diameter. The available painting history
Investigating Failure: Elevated Water Tank Coating Warranty Repairs Read More »
Proper surface preparation is one of the most critical steps towards maximizing the life of a coating system. If coatings are applied to improperly prepared surfaces, the system is much more likely to fail prematurely. Abrasive blast cleaning is the most common and productive form of surface preparation. Abrasive selection is a key component to
The Importance of Monitoring Abrasive Cleanliness Read More »
When coating parts or structures, there are several application methods to consider, ranging from simple brush and roller to various types of spray application. The application method selected can be based on a variety of factors and conditions. This article focuses on two spray methods: conventional (air) spray and airless spray. Conventional (air) Spray Conventional
When to Use Conventional versus Airless Spray Read More »
“Do I have to maintain inspection gage calibration and certification? Why don’t they retain their calibration over time? Do I need to verify gage accuracy on a regular basis? How often? What is the difference between calibration and verification of accuracy?” These are common questions in the coatings industry. A simple answer is that without
Introduction Airborne dusts, fumes and mists all pose an inhalation hazard to humans, depending on the type and amount of the airborne material. Acute doses (large amounts in a relatively short time period) can be very harmful, but even smaller doses over a long time period can build-up in the body and cause latent health
Respiratory Protection in the Coatings Industry Read More »
Rather than describe a failure that has already occurred, this article addresses key steps to follow when painting bolted connections in order to prevent failures from occurring by focusing on surface preparation and painting practices that have been used successfully on bolted bridge connections such as splice plates and gusset connections for new construction projects
Click Below Download KTA’s Free eBook on Painting Bolted Connections KTA President, Ken Trimber, delivers a compelling eBook filled with topics such as: Testing of Coatings for Use in Slip-Critical Bolted Connections Coefficient of Friction (COF) Testing Tension Creep Testing Classification of Slip Coefficient and Tension Creep Results 13 Frequently Asked Questions & Answers Additional
