Hangar floor coatings are an essential component of aviation facilities, providing not only a clean and polished look but also ensuring safety and durability. These coatings need to withstand heavy aircraft traffic, oil and chemical spills, and constant wear and tear. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of hangar floor coatings and reveal the secret to their long-lasting performance.
The Importance of Hangar Floor Coatings
Hangar floors play a pivotal role in ensuring the efficiency and safety of aviation operations. But what makes hangar floor coatings so important? These coatings are designed to:
- Protect Against Corrosion: Hangar floors are exposed to various chemicals, including jet fuel. Coatings act as a barrier, preventing corrosion and extending the life of the concrete floor.
- Enhance Safety: Smooth, well-coated floors reduce the risk of accidents, ensuring the safety of both personnel and aircraft.
- Improve Aesthetics: A well-maintained hangar floor creates a professional and inviting environment.
Selecting the Right Hangar Floor Coating Materials
The key to a durable hangar floor coating lies in choosing the right material. Epoxy, polyurethane, and polyaspartic coatings are popular choices. Epoxy coatings, for example, are known for their exceptional adhesion, chemical resistance, and durability. Polyurethane coatings offer excellent UV resistance and flexibility. Polyaspartic coatings provide rapid curing, ideal for minimizing downtime during application.
Surface Preparation Is Critical
Achieving a long-lasting hangar floor coating is not just about the material; it’s also about proper surface preparation. Surface preparation includes:
- Concrete Repair: Identifying and repairing any cracks or damage in the concrete substrate is crucial. Neglecting these issues can lead to premature coating failure.
- Cleaning and Degreasing: Thoroughly cleaning and degreasing the floor ensures proper adhesion of the coating.
- Profile the Surface: Creating the right surface profile using methods like shot blasting or diamond grinding is essential for coating adhesion.
Application Techniques for Longevity
Proper application techniques are paramount. Two key phrases that you should always remember during the application are “even application” and “adequate curing time.” An even application of the coating ensures uniform protection, while allowing the coating to cure properly maximizes its durability.
Regular Maintenance
To truly unveil the secret of lasting hangar floor coatings, regular maintenance is crucial. A proactive approach to maintenance includes routine cleaning, inspection for damage, and timely touch-ups or reapplications as needed.
In conclusion, hangar floor coatings are the unsung heroes of aviation facilities, offering a multitude of benefits. By selecting the right materials, preparing the surface diligently, applying coatings properly, and maintaining them regularly, you can ensure that your stand the test of time. Longevity and durability are no longer secrets when it comes to; they are the results of meticulous planning and maintenance.