REACTIVE PAINT PROVIDES EARLY WARNING OF DANGEROUS LEAKS
Immediate, visual detection of dangerous spray-outs in critical areas in process systems such as pipe flanges, valves, weld sites and sample ports is the main benefit behind the development of “On-Guard an acid alert paint. Recently introduced in the UK by ALLISON ENGINEERING, On-Guard is a modified alkyd acid indicating paint which has been formulated and patented for industrial applications. The early warning of the potential dangers resulting from leaks ensures important protection for employees, expensive process equipment and the environment.
On-Guard is applied like any other exterior paint product to 4mm dry thickness, which equates to 2 to 3 brush strokes, using a brush or roller. Spraying is also an option. A primer coat is required if applied to a raw metal, otherwise it can be applied over existing paint, where surfaces need to be dry, clean and oil free. Should acids or acid vapours pH3 or below escape, On-Guard will instantly change colour from its golden yellow to a vibrant red alerting operatives to the potential dangers.
Once the leak is contained and repaired the painted surface can be flushed with water and a neutralising solution is applied. Then, after a minute or so, the red disappears leaving the On-Guard paint in its original yellow colour, with no requirement for a new coating of On-Guard until at least five exposures to acid.
Another important benefit of this paint system is that it is completely organic, unlike other lead based paint products which do not meet current health and safety requirements.
Under normal conditions On-Guard is designed to be effective for at least 2 years when used outside and for 2½ years when used inside, while under exceptionally harsh conditions, for example operating temperatures in excess of 200F, visual checks are recommended at 6 to 12 month intervals.
Typical applications for the paint are in chemicals processing and refineries or wherever hazardous chemicals, such as citric acid, chlorine, hydrochloric acid and vapour, hydrofluoric acid and vapour, nitric acid, sulphuric acid, phosphoric acid or other similar hazardous liquids are involved in the process. ENDS.
For more information contact Allison Engineering, Basildon, Essex
Tel: 01628 526161. Fax: 01628 533144.
E-mail: generalsales@allison.co.uk Web: www.allison.co.uk
