Quality Coatings - Get it Right or Face Costly Rework [QC12] 2025

While steel is a widely accepted material of construction for highway bridges, buildings, tank, pipe, and other structures, it is subject to deterioration by corrosion if not properly protected. Installation of protective coatings is the primary means of corrosion protection for steel, which can include liquid and powder coatings, thermal spray (metallizing), galvanizing, and even duplex coating systems. Weathering steel is alternative in the right environments and can be coated in zones to prevent rapid deterioration. These protective systems only work if the surface is prepared properly, and the coating system is installed correctly. This presentation will describe common corrosion prevention systems used in various industries, highlight the various stages in the coating process, illustrate what can happen when these processes are not followed, and describe the investigative process when a catastrophic coating failure occurs. The value certified coating inspectors and accredited fabrication shops bring to the steel industry will complete the presentation.

Speaker(s): Heather Gilmer and William D. Corbett