Objective:
The project will evaluate the effects of different blast medias on production and coating performance of Navy coatings. The project will work with a stakeholder team to:
- Identify what and where abrasives are currently utilized across NSRP yards and share associated lessons learned.
- Generate data evaluating the production and consumption rate of different abrasives on a variety or surfaces.
- Compare long-term coating performance and benefits from using different abrasives.
- Based on project results, provide recommendations for shipyard and Navy consideration.
Summary:
The debate on which type of abrasive is better for surface preparation has been a continued discussion for decades in the surface preparation industry. Currently, in NSRP shipyards there is a wide variety of abrasives used in different aspects of the surface preparation process. Many yards need proper guidance from data to help utilize particular abrasives to increase production and provide better long-term performance of coating systems. This study will not only evaluate production while using different abrasives on surfaces seen daily in yards, it will evaluate the long term performance of coatings after abrasive blasting.
Key Deliverables / Benefits:
- Shipyard Demonstration Report
- Final Report (public release) with laboratory results, analysis, and recommendation
- Reduced costs in overall production
- Quicker turnaround times during blasting operations and less time spent in the surface preparation phase
- Provide a longer coating life
Overview
Project Team:
- Elzly Technology Corporation
- Newport News Shipbuilding
- Electric Boat
- NASSCO
- Fincantieri Marinette Marine
March 2024 – March 2025
NSRP ASE Investment: $150K
