Steelpaint partnership with BW Epic Kosan underscores importance of zinc primers in protecting structural steel

Steelpaint’s long-running relationship with BW Epic Kosan continues to strengthen as the gas-carrier operator standardises the Stelpant-PU-Zinc primer across much of its fleet. The partnership began in 2017 and the latest shipment, delivered two weeks ago, will be applied during the forthcoming drydocking of the Liberia-flagged Epic Sunter in the United Arab Emirates.

Several BW Epic Kosan vessels have now completed a number of drydocking cycles with the same zinc-rich polyurethane system, usually requiring only localised touch-ups. Steelpaint director Frank Müller said: “Repeat orders from the shipowner reflect long-term satisfaction with Stelpant’s corrosion resistance and the confidence BW Epic Kosan places in the system to safeguard its vessels.” He added that the fleet operates in harsh environments with wide temperature variations, making durability a priority.

The single-component primer is used from the boot-top to the railing and on exposed deck structures. According to Steelpaint technical manager Dmitry Gromilin, customers typically report noticeably smaller repair areas than with epoxy-based products. He said: “The obvious advantages of both the application process and the unique formulation of this coating demonstrate that our customers’ decisions are economically, environmentally and technologically sound.”

BW Epic Kosan’s technical manager Niraj Singh noted consistent long-term performance: “With Stelpant-PU-Zinc, we’ve consistently seen smaller repair areas and less surface degradation between dockings.”

Steelpaint says the programme shows how polyurethane zinc primers can slot into existing specifications, cure quickly in varied climates, and reduce maintenance downtime.