Coating Inspection - NACE/ICorr

Protective coatings are the first line of defence against corrosion for valuable assets. Thorough coating condition surveys are critical for asset preservation, providing essential data on the state of the coating system, identifying areas of breakdown or potential failure, and informing maintenance strategies. Early detection and intervention prevent costly steelwork repairs and extend asset lifespan.

Meticulous Oversight of Application Processes

The longevity of a coating system depends heavily on correct surface preparation and application. As NACE/ICorr certified inspectors, we provide meticulous oversight throughout the entire process:

• Surface Preparation: Verifying surface cleanliness (e.g., Sa 2.5, St 3), profile roughness, and removal of contaminants before coating application begins.

• Coating Application: Monitoring environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, dew point), correct mixing of materials, application techniques, and adherence to specified wet and dry film thicknesses (WFT/DFT).

Comprehensive Coating Testing & Analysis

Verification is key to quality assurance. We perform a range of critical tests to ensure coating integrity and compliance:

• Dry Film Thickness (DFT) Measurement: Ensuring the coating meets the specified thickness range for optimal protection.

• Adhesion Testing (Pull-Off): Quantitatively measuring the bond strength between the coating and the substrate, or between coats, to ensure proper adhesion.

• Holiday (Pinhole) Detection: Identifying microscopic defects, pinholes, or discontinuities in the coating film that could lead to premature localised corrosion. The results of these tests provide crucial insights into the quality and potential longevity of the coating system.

Clear, Actionable Inspection Reporting

Our inspection reports are comprehensive, clear, and designed to provide actionable insights. They typically include:

• Detailed descriptions of inspected areas and work performed.

• Summaries of environmental conditions and equipment used.

• Tabulated results of all tests conducted (DFT, adhesion, holiday testing, etc.).

• High-quality photographic evidence documenting conditions and findings.

• Clear identification of any non-conformances (NCRs) with reference to the specification.

• Objective conclusions and, where appropriate, recommendations for remedial action.

Commitment to International Standards

All inspections are conducted with rigorous adherence to relevant international standards (e.g., ISO, NORSOK, ASTM, SSPC) and project-specific requirements. This commitment ensures that coating work meets globally recognised benchmarks for quality and performance, providing clients with confidence and assurance.