scope:

This Standard provides guidelines for the selection and specification of paint coating systems for the protection of structural steel work against atmospheric corrosion. Part 2 and Part 3 of the AS/NZS 2312 series of Standards cover metallic coatings.

This Standard specifically covers the following subjects:

(a) Guidance on the use of the Standard.

(b) Classification of atmospheric and non-atmospheric environments.

(c) Planning and design for corrosion protection.

(d) Surface preparation treatments.

(e) Factors influencing coating selection.

(f) Paint coating systems and methods of paint application.

(g) Maintenance of protective coating systems.

(h) Inspection and testing.

(i) Guidance on the preparation of coating specifications.

This Standard does not cover paint coating systems for light structural steel, such as purlins, roofing or similar sections. Recommendations for paint coating these sections are available from manufacturers. Recommendations for paint coating hot dip galvanized articles are available in AS/NZS 2312.2.

The coating systems described may also be specified for the protection of items of equipment manufactured from steel which are exposed to exterior atmospheric conditions.

This Standard provides advice on, to a limited extent, the protection of steel work which is completely immersed in water or buried in soil, or which is subject to atmospheres severely contaminated with acidic or other chemical vapours such as may be encountered in some chemical manufacturing plants, and also the protection of ships. The systems recommended in this Standard can also be used on internal structures where wet or damp areas exist.

This Standard does not cover in detail powder coatings and wrapping tapes that may be used on steel in internal or external environments. These are briefly described in Appendix H.

It is necessary to understand that the systems recommended have been selected for guidance only and that life expectancy to first major maintenance is an estimate only. In practice, some minor maintenance will be required.

Because particular coating formulations and microclimates vary, the user of this Standard is advised to confirm with the manufacturer or supplier, that the selected system is suitable for the task and can be reasonably expected to protect the steel for a specified time.