Hempel Coating Systems for Crude Oil Tankers Meet Latest IMO Performance Standards

Hempel protective coating systems, including a range of HEMPADUR products and shop primers have passed the laboratory tests required by the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) performance standard for protective coatings for cargo oil tanks (PSPC/COT).

The tests ensure that coatings for cargo oil tanks in crude oil tankers comply with the specifications of the IMO MSC.288(87) SOLAS regulations. The performance standard requires approved coatings to remain in “GOOD” condition for a period of 15 years from initial application. The regulation applies to all building contracts placed on or after 1 January 2013 for newbuildings over 5,000 deadweight tons.

Testing was performed by COT bv in the Netherlands, an independent laboratory accredited to carry out tests in accordance with MSC.288(87). The coatings are applied on panels and subjected to a 90-day gas-tight chamber test, which simulates the cargo tank environment in loaded and unloaded condition, and a 180-day immersion test, which simulates conditions in a loaded crude oil tank. The test panels are then examined for blisters, rust and other defects.

Hempel welcomes such IMO regulations, which aim to improve the safety of life at sea. With the Type Approval Certificates in place before the IMO PSPC/COT regulation comes into force, shipyards and owners can rely on the approved Hempel products to meet the PSPC coatings requirements for cargo oil tanks. Hempel also offers a strong PSPC compliant coating assortment for ballast tanks.