Protective Coatings

Goldfields Protective Coatings (GPC) was engaged by St Barbara Mining for the internal refurbishment of all eight carbon-in-leach (CIL) gold processing tanks at their Gwalia operations.

GPC undertook tank internal abrasive blasting to allow full inspection and any required substrate rectification works. Post mechanical repairs, the surface was prepared for protective coating application. Upon achievement of surface contamination and profile requirements, GPC applied Polibrid 705E (elastomeric urethane) to internal surface areas including walls, floor and baffle plates.

Project Highlights

  • GPC co-ordinated all logistics, access, sentry, mechanical repair and protective coating works with site staff.
  • Stringent quality requirements including abrasive blast to AS1627.4 Class 2.5 with a 90 micron surface profile were adhered to throughout the project.
  • In addition to the application of high performance elastomeric urethane, traditional two component epoxy was also utilised for repairs in areas of the existing epoxy coating.
  • Project was completed to budget and schedule requirements with nil safety incidents.

Elastomeric Urethane

Polibrid 705E was the specified protective coating product due to it’s:

  • Rapid curing properties (tanks can be returned to service as soon as touch dry).
  • Excellent resistance to wear, impact damage and chemical attack.
  • Can be applied to any thickness in a single application.
  • Easy repair characteristics.

We relate the success of this and other projects to our business fundamentals of appropriate personnel training, on site supervision and open & honest communications with our clients.

Reference Sheet