4 Water Tank Painting Considerations for Industrial Plants

Water tanks are a must-have component in many industrial plants. They’re the primary reservoir for water used in all sorts of processes. Maintaining these tanks is essential not only for operational efficiency but also for ensuring water quality and compliance with regulations.

Paint plays a big role in that maintenance. It can help protect the tank, extend the tank’s lifespan, and ensure your facility meets applicable rules and regulations. However, not all paints will do. Here are four water tank painting considerations for industrial plants.

Types of Paint Used for Water Tank Painting

When painting an industrial water tank, selecting the right paint is a must. Industrial-grade paints are formulated to withstand the challenging environments these tanks are often exposed to, including chemicals, temperature fluctuations, and constant moisture.

These paints may include:

• Epoxy paints: These are incredibly popular for water tanks due to their strong adhesive properties and resistance to chemical and water degradation. Epoxy paints offer a durable, waterproof barrier that can withstand extreme conditions, so they’re ideal for long-term use in industrial settings.
• Polyurethane coatings: These coatings, known for their flexibility and resistance to UV light, are an excellent choice for water tanks. They offer a robust finish that resists scratches and chipping, making them suitable for external tanks exposed to weather elements.
• Zinc-rich primers: This is often used as a base coat to create a protective layer that prevents corrosion. It works great for steel tanks, as the zinc sacrifices itself to protect the metal beneath.
• Acrylic paints: This type of paint, while not as durable as epoxy or polyurethane, can be used for water tanks that aren’t exposed to extreme conditions. They’re quick-drying and environmentally friendly, so they can be a solid choice for some industrial applications.

4 Factors Influencing the Choice of Paint

Here are a few water tank painting specifications to keep in mind when choosing paint for your industrial water tank:

1. Tank material: Tanks crafted from steel, concrete, or plastic each require specific types of paints to ensure proper adhesion and protection. Epoxy coatings, for example, are popular for steel tanks, whereas elastomeric paints are better suited to concrete surfaces.
2. Tank purpose: The purpose is another factor to keep in mind. For example, if the tank is portable, it must have FDA-approved coatings to ensure safety. Tanks used for chemicals might need special, ultra-durable paint.
3. Environmental conditions: The conditions the tank will face, both internal and external, are another important factor to consider. The paint will need to accommodate those environments to ensure durability, whether that includes UV radiation, corrosion, microbial growth, or all of the above.
4. Durability requirements: Industrial settings demand paints that can hold up to more rigorous demands. This exceptional durability helps minimize the frequency of maintenance and downtime.

Benefits of New Coatings and Paints

Repainting or adding a new protective coating to a water tank offers all sorts of perks that make it well worth the time, effort, and money. These benefits include the following:

• Enhanced durability: This is arguably one of the best perks. Modern paints are engineered to withstand abrasion, impact, and extreme conditions, prolonging the lifespan of the tank.
• Improved safety standards: New coatings are crafted to meet stringent safety and environmental regulations to reduce risks associated with contamination or hazardous materials. By investing in new paint or coatings, you can ensure you meet applicable regulations.
• Reduced maintenance costs: Old paint can lead to more maintenance. High-quality coatings require less frequent applications and repairs, providing long-term cost savings.
• Corrosion resistance: advanced paints provide robust protection against rust and corrosion, a common headache for water tanks in industrial settings.
• Aesthetic appeal: A fresh coat of paint boosts the overall look of the tank, reflecting a professional and well-maintained facility.

Risks of Old Paint

After a while, all paint wears out, regardless of how high-quality it is. Unfortunately, the longer you wait to refresh old paint, the more roadblocks you’re likely to encounter. These might include:

• Corrosion and structural damage: Old paint loses its protective properties over time, leaving the tank vulnerable to rust and eventual structural failure.
• Non-compliance issues: Regulatory standards often require the use of specific coatings, especially for potable water tanks. Failing to abide by these regulations can lead to big issues, namely fines and reputational damage.
• Contamination risks: Peeling or flaking paint can contaminate the tank’s contents, which can be a health hazard or compromise industrial processes.
• Increased maintenance costs: Neglected paint can accelerate deterioration, demanding more extensive and expensive repairs over the long run.

A fresh coating or paint can eliminate these issues, especially when you address old coatings proactively. This way, you can maintain operational efficiency while avoiding these common risks.

Refresh Worn-Out Paint With McLean Company

Paint doesn’t last forever, regardless of its quality. While some paints last longer than others, all will require a refresh after a while. When this time comes, selecting the right paint and addressing the issue sooner rather than later will go a long way in improving the performance and longevity of your industrial water tank.

Ready to refresh water tank paint that has seen better days? McLean Company is here to help. Our team serves the greater Boston area, providing top-notch commercial and industrial painting services to businesses throughout Massachusetts. We’re committed to safety, efficiency, environmental responsibility, and customer satisfaction.

Whether you’re searching for an indoor water tank painting company or a water tank tower painting company, we’re here to help. Contact us today to get started with a free quote for personalized industrial painting services.