UNIQUE POLYMER SYSTEMS specialises in providing advanced repair solutions for marine equipment. This case study details the successful restoration of bow thrusters exhibiting significant erosion and corrosion damage, using our UPS 200 EG CERAMIC REPAIR PASTE and UPS 205 FG FLUID GRADE CERAMIC

Bow thrusters, critical for manoeuvring vessels, were found to be suffering from severe erosion and corrosion damage. These issues, if left unchecked, could lead to compromised performance and potential failure, necessitating a robust repair and protection strategy.

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The primary challenge was to rebuild the damaged sections of the bow thrusters and apply a protective coating that would provide long-term resistance to the harsh marine environment. The solution needed to restore the thrusters' integrity while offering durable protection against future erosion and corrosion.

UNIQUE POLYMER SYSTEMS provided a comprehensive repair solution using our UPS 200 EG and UPS 205 FG. The repair process included the following steps:

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Surface Preparation

- The substrate was abrasive grit blasted to remove the existing coating and prepared the surface to Sa2.5 with a 75-micron profile, in accordance with ISO 8501/4 Standard Sa2.5 (SSPC SP10 / NACE2). This preparation ensured a clean and suitably roughened surface for the repair materials to adhere effectively.

Application of UPS 200 EG CERAMIC REPAIR PASTE

- UPS 200 EG was applied to fill all pitted and damaged sections of the steel substrate. This step restored the structural integrity of the bow thrusters, providing a solid foundation for further protection.

Application of UPS 205 FG FLUID GRADE CERAMIC

Two coats of UPS 205 FG were applied by brush at 300 microns per coat to the entire repair area. This coating provided a smooth, durable finish that offers long-term protection against erosion and corrosion in a marine environment.

The application of UPS 200 EG and UPS 205 FG successfully restored the bow thrusters to their original condition, ensuring they could continue to perform their critical function. The protective coatings provided long-lasting resistance to erosion and corrosion, extending the service life of the thrusters and enhancing their reliability.

This case study highlights the effectiveness of UNIQUE POLYMER SYSTEMS' products in restoring and protecting marine equipment. Our comprehensive repair solution not only addressed the immediate damage but also provided long-term protection against further deterioration, ensuring the bow thrusters remain operational and efficient.