PECM Issue 29 2017 | Page 127

3. In order to extend the life of process equipment’s, are there key considerations (from the end-user) when selecting the appropriate paint and coating? Coating selection is a specialized task and requires knowledge of multiple engineering disciplines as well as a thorough understanding of the requirement of intended applications. Apart from ensuring that the surface finish of the material to be coated is properly prepared, the effect of temperature and pressure on coating’s adhesion and permeability are just few key selection parameters to be primarily evaluated. The electrical properties of the coating are also a factor in the selection process in certain applications. 4. pipelines and storage tanks, there are practical and cost effective technologies available that keep the surface of the coating clean from debris and deposits. In a given environment, if the coating surface is not kept clean, corrosion can develop under the deposit and debris and the protective role of paint and coating is severely compromised. 5. What are the plans for the future, from the industry stand point? The paints and coatings industry can be categorized into three sectors which are: (i) decorative and architectural, (ii) general purpose industrial and (iii) special purpose coatings. All the three sectors have their own needs, requirement and future projections. Some of the common requirements of the 03 sectors could be listed as (i) faster application and preference of single layer rather than multiple layers, (ii) short curing time, (iii) improved chemical and abrasive resistance, (iv) ‘smart’ properties such as self-healing or ability to transmit certain electrical or thermal signals as well ability to dampen those signals for defense application. 6. From your viewpoint, what are the high-level best practices you typically propose? I would greatly emphasize that coating selection to be carried out by individuals having the required knowledge and expertise of material properties and their behaviours in various environments. What are some best practices you can offer end-users in the areas of design, specification and maintenance of paints and coatings to ensure their long-term performance? To ensure long-term performance, the foremost and important step is to select an appropriate paint and coating for the application. Economic factor also comes into consideration in coating selection in view of the anticipated designed life of the equipment to be coated. A very importance parameter in ensuring long- term performance of coatings is to keep the coating surface clean as practical as possible. With specific reference to Issue 29 PECM 127