Given that the technologies used in conventional UHP water jetting based surface preparation are well established, what differentiates one company’s approach from another is largely down to the blend of pressures, jet sizes and configurations and how they are used together. In addition to optimising these in the development of its own surface preparation service, Tube Tech has gone further by looking at the water itself. Their use of polymeric water gives the cleaning process more impact as it keeps the pressure jet tighter and more concentrated, even below the waterline. Cleaning is faster, with noticeably better results and less waste.

Once cleaned back to the bare metal, there is limited time available to recoat the surface before oxidation begins. Tube Tech opts for a quick drying poly-urea coating that is not solvent based but which is highly adhesive and more tenacious than epoxy coatings. Called Permacoat, it dries fast and is extremely tough whilst exhibiting great flexibility. It is also impervious to long term salt water and chemical exposures typically of marine environments.

Although Permacoat is not yet approved for hull coating on large ships, it is well suited for areas subjected to heavy wear and tear, both above and below the waterline, where its flexibility helps to protect vulnerable moving parts.

As the blasting and coating technology can be used below the waterline, there are instances where it can eliminate drydocking and its associated costs. As a service company, Tube Tech brings its technology to the customer’s site, shipyard or drydock for marine applications.