H53-201 Marine Epoxy Ballast Tank Coating
Product Description
H53-201 Marine Epoxy Ballast Tank Coating
Product Introduction:
H53-201 is a two‑pack, heavy‑duty epoxy anticorrosive coating specifically formulated for the protection of seawater ballast tanks in all types of ships. It delivers exceptional corrosion resistance and is approved under IMO Resolution MSC.215(82) for the Performance Standard for Protective Coatings (PSPC) by CCS, ensuring full compliance with international regulations for dedicated seawater ballast tanks. The coating is also suitable for low‑temperature application, offering flexibility in various climatic conditions. With a VOC content of less than 230 g/L, it balances high performance with environmental responsibility.
The paint features a high volume solids content of 72% ± 2%, enabling efficient film build with fewer coats. It dries to a matt finish and exhibits excellent adhesion to properly prepared steel substrates. Like all epoxy‑based coatings, H53-201 may show chalking when exposed to prolonged UV light, but this does not compromise its anticorrosive performance inside ballast tanks.
Intended Uses:
This coating is designed for use in seawater ballast tanks aboard all vessel types. It is suitable for newbuilding projects, as well as for maintenance, repair, and on‑board touch‑up during service, providing long‑lasting protection in the highly corrosive environment of ballast tanks.
Mixing And Application:
The product is supplied with a mix ratio of 3:1 by volume (4.3:1 by mass). No induction period is required. For large‑scale work, airless spray is recommended, using a tip size of 0.38–0.53 mm and an output pressure of at least 17 MPa. Air spraying is also possible with a tip size of 2.0–3.0 mm and a minimum pressure of 0.4 MPa. Brush or roller application is acceptable only for small touch‑up areas. Thinner (HX‑501) is generally not recommended; if absolutely necessary, it should not exceed 5% of the total volume. Equipment cleaning should be done with HX‑501.
Film Thickness & Theoretical Coverage:
| Parameter | Minimum | Standard | Maximum |
| Dry Film Thickness (DFT) | 100 μm | 160 μm | 320 μm |
| Wet Film Thickness (WFT) | 139 μm | 222 μm | 444 μm |
| Theoretical Coverage | 7.2 m²/L | 4.5 m²/L | 2.2 m²/L |
Drying & Overcoating Data:
| Parameter | -5℃ | 5℃ | 15℃ | 25℃ | 35℃ |
| Touch Dry | 6h | 4h | 3h | 2h | 1h |
| Hard Dry | 36h | 24h | 24h | 20h | 16h |
| Pot Life | 6h | 4h | 3h | 2h | 1h |
| Overcoating - Min | 36h | 24h | 24h | 20h | 16h |
| Overcoating - Max | 14d | 10d | 10d | 7d | 5d |
Surface Preparation:
Proper surface preparation is essential and must follow IMO Resolution MSC.216(82) (PSPC) for dedicated seawater ballast tanks. All surfaces must be cleaned with high‑pressure fresh water or fresh water washing to remove soluble salts and contaminants. For newbuilding, blast cleaning to Sa2.5 (GB/T 8923.1‑2011) is required, with weld seams cleaned to St3 using power tools. Coating should be applied before oxidation occurs; otherwise, re‑blasting is necessary. For repair and on‑board maintenance, mechanically clean the repair area to P St3 or blast to P Sa2.5 (GB/T 8923.2‑2008), and abrade the surrounding edges to minimise overlap.
Application Limitations:
Curing is incomplete below ‑5°C; for best performance, ambient temperature should be above 5°C. Application should only proceed when relative humidity is below 85% and the substrate temperature is at least 3°C above the dew point. Avoid prolonged inhalation of solvent vapours and paint mist, and prevent skin/eye contact. Adequate ventilation and fire precautions must be maintained during use.
Storage And Packaging:
Store in a cool, dry, well‑ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and open flames. Containers must remain tightly closed. Shelf life is a minimum of 12 months at 25°C (subject to re‑inspection). Packaging: Part A – 22.7 kg / 15 L in a 20 L container; Part B – 5.3 kg / 5 L in a 6 L container. Flash point: Part A >31°C, Part B >29°C, mixed paint >31°C.