NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)

DOCUMENT CODE NO. OF PAGES: 35

PLAN/PRJ/SUB UNIT PHASE DISCIPLANE DOCUMENT TYPE SERIAL NO. REV. NO. DATE
NIOEC 000 EG TP SP 8002 A3 March, 2015

NATIONAL IRANIAN OIL REFINING & DISTRIBUTION COMPANY

NATIONAL IRANIAN OIL ENGINEERING
& CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

NIOEC SPECIFICATION
FOR

PAINTING

SECOND EDITION

MARCH, 2015

THIS SPECIFICATION IS THE PROPERTY OF NATIONAL IRANIAN OIL ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION COMPANY. IT IS CONFIDENTIAL AND ALL
RIGHTS RESERVED TO THE OWNER. NEITHER WHOLE NOR ANY PART OF THIS DOCUMENT MAY BE DISCLOSED TO ANY THIRD PARTY,
REPRODUCTED, STORED IN ANY RETRIEVAL SYSTEM OR TRANSMITTED IN ANY FORM OR BY ANY MEANS WITHOUT THE PRIOR WRITTEN
CONSENT OF THE NATIONAL IRANIAN OIL ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION COMPANY.
 March, 2015 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)

IN THE NAME OF GOD

FOREWORD
By their very nature, technical specifications are continuously subject to modifications and
revisions. To strengthen their merit and usefulness, continuous improvements, addendum,
deletion of disparate information and consequently provision of updated revisions are to be
made in order to ascertain that such Specifications meet the current requirements, inclusive of
Iranian Petroleum Standards (IPS) and the recognized and acceptable national and international
Standards, as well as the optimal codes and practices based on the accumulated in- house know
how and plant knowledge and experiences.

However, in reality, due to several reasons, not to mention the complexity of the matter, the
ultimate goal of continuous direct embedment of the required changes on the relevant
Specifications may be far reaching. Therefore, in the interim periods between the officially
issued revisions, the required changes will appear in other documents related to the engineering
and design work of the on going projects.

In response to the initiative of the Design Division and Directorate, and considering that the task
of the execution of several important and mega projects for the realization of the new oil
refineries, pipelines and oil terminals as well as improvements of the existing facilities, has been
assigned to NIOEC, it was decided to update the NIOEC Specifications and to issue new official
revisions.

The Design and Engineering Directorate was itself entrusted to carry out this important task,
and as such by forming several special technical committees, working in close co-operation and
cohesion and sharing their expertise and knowledge, the updated and revised NIOEC
Specifications were successfully prepared and compiled.

These Specifications are intended to be used for Oil Refineries, Distribution Depots, Oil
Terminals, Pipelines and Pump Stations within NIOEC projects, and have been proven to be of
high value for such purposes. It must however be appreciated that these Specifications represent
the minimum requirements and should in no way be interpreted as a restriction on the use of
better procedures, engineering and design practices or materials.

We encourage and highly appreciate the users and other clear sighted and experts to send their
comments on the Specifications to the Design and Engineering Director of NIOEC for
evaluation and approval.
 March, 2015 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
REVISION INDEX
REV. REV. REV. REV.
PAGE 1 2 3 4 5 PAGE
1 2 3 4 5 PAGE 1 2 3 4 5 PAGE 1 2 3 4 5
1 × 26 × 51 × 76 ×

2 × 27 × 52 × 77 ×
3 × 28 × 53 × 78 ×
4 × 29 × 54 × 79 ×
5 × 30 × 55 × 80 ×
6 × 31 × 56 × 81 ×
7 × 32 × 57 × 82 ×
8 × 33 × 58 × 83 ×
9 × 34 × 59 × 84 ×
10 × 35 × 60 × 85 ×
11 × 36 × 61 × 86 ×
12 × 37 × 62 × 87 ×
13 × 38 × 63 × 88 ×
14 × 39 × 64 × 89 ×
15 × 40 × 65 × 90 ×
16 × 41 × 66 × 91 ×
17 × 42 × 67 × 92 ×
18 × 43 × 68 × 93 ×
19 × 44 × 69 × 94 ×
20 × 45 × 70 × 95 ×
21 × 46 × 71 × 96 ×
22 × 47 × 72 × 97 ×
23 × 48 × 73 × 98 ×
24 × 49 × 74 × 99 ×
25 × 50 × 75 × 100 ×

NOTES:
1) THIS SHEET IS A RECORD OF ALL REVISIONS TO THIS SPECIFICATION.
2) WHEN APPROVED EACH REVISION SHALL BE CONSIDERED AS A PART OF THE ORIGINAL
DOCUMENT.
3) NUMBER OF PAGES EXCLUDES THIS SHEET AND THE COVER SHEET.

4
A.ARMAN
3 MARCH, 2015 J.KHOSRAVI J.KHOSRAVI M.KAREGAR NAJAFI
MOGHADAM
2 JULY, 2009 R. AMIRHASANI S.PAKDEL M.R.FARZAM M.A.A.SAJEDI
1 - R. AMIRHASANI S.PAKDEL M.R.FARZAM M.A.A.SAJEDI
0 JULY, 2005 M.TAVARI S.PAKDEL M.R.FARZAM M.A.A.SAJEDI
REV. DATE PREPARED CHECKED APPROVED AUTHORIZED
 March 2015 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)

CONTENTS: PAGE NO.

1. SCOPE.........................................................................................................................................2
2. REFERENCES ...........................................................................................................................2
3. UNITS ..........................................................................................................................................3
4. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................................3
5. SURFACE REPARATION .......................................................................................................6
5.1. Pre-blasting Preparation .....................................................................................................6
5.2. Blast Cleaning ......................................................................................................................6
6. PAINT MATERIALS ................................................................................................................8
7. PAINTING SCHEDULES AND PAINT SYSTEM ................................................................8
8. PREPARATION OF PAINT BEFORE USE ..........................................................................8
8.1. Storage and Appearance .....................................................................................................8
8.2. Preparation of Paint for Application .................................................................................9
9. APPLICATION OF PAINT ....................................................................................................10
9.1. General ...............................................................................................................................10
9.2. Priming of Ferrous Metals ................................................................................................10
9.3. Shop Painting of Steel........................................................................................................11
9.4. Field and Touch-Up Painting of Steel ..............................................................................11
9.5. Painting of Specific Surfaces ............................................................................................12
10. QUALITY CONTROL AND TESTING................................................................................13
APPENDIX A: PAINT SYSTEM ...................................................................................................18
APPENDIX B: PAINT COLOR SCHEDULE ..............................................................................24

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 March 2015 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
1. SCOPE
This NIOEC Specification covers the minimum requirements of all painting activities include
surface preparation, paint system , application procedure and inspection tests for the internal and
external surfaces of buildings ,steel structures, tanks, equipment and other associated facilities.
This specification is not suitable for use in bellow ground (buried), offshore areas and painting used
for the other purposes than corrosion protection.
Deviations from this specification will only be permitted on obtaining written approval from
NIOEC.
Resolution on cases not explicitly stipulated in this Specification, or on cases where conflicts may
arise among the requirements of the referenced/relevant IPS and the international standards, shall be
made through written consent and approval of NIOEC.

2. REFERENCES
The following standards, codes and specifications, to the extent specified hereinafter, shall
constitute a part of this Client Specification. Latest edition of the undated referenced documents and
the cited edition of the dated references shall apply. The applicability of changes made to the dated
references, after the cited date shall be mutually agreed upon between Client and the Vendor/
Contractor.

ASTM (AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR TESTING AND MATERIALS)

ASTM D-3359 "Standard Test Methods for Measuring Adhesion by Tape Test"
ASTM A123 "Standard Specification for zinc (Hot-Dip Galvanized) Coatings on
Iron and Steel Products"
ASTM D4414 "Standard Practice for Measurement of Wet Film Thickness by Notch
Gauges"
ASTM D4541 "Standard Test Method for Pull-Off Strength of Coatings Using
Portable Adhesion Testers"
ASTM D4752 "Standard Test Method for Measuring MEK Resistance of Ethyl
Silicate (Inorganic) Zinc-Rich Primers by Solvent Rub"
ASTM D5402 "Standard Practice for Assessing the Solvent Resistance of Organic
Coatings Using Solvent Rubs"

BSI (BRITISH STANDARDS INSTITUTION)

BS 381C (1996) "Colors for Identification, Coding and Special Purposes"
BS 410-2(2000) "Test sieves- technical requirement and testing"
BS 6150(2006) "Code of Practice for Painting of Buildings"
BS 7079 "Preparation of steel substrates before application of paints and
related products"

IPS (IRANIAN PETROLEUM STANDARDS)

IPS-E-TP-100 "Engineering Standard for Paints"
IPS-E-TP-101 "Construction Standard for Surface Preparation"
IPS-E-TP-102 "Construction Standard for Painting"
IPS-M-TP-168 "Material and Equipment standard for Acrylic Silicone Finish Paint
for Temperature Applications Up to 230°C"

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IPS-M-TP-190 "Material and Equipment Standard for Coal Tar Epoxy Polyamide
Paint as Primer, Intermediate and Top Coat"
IPS-M-TP-205 "Material and Equipment standard for Zinc Rich Epoxy Paint
(Organic) as Primer, Intermediate and Top Coat"
IPS-M-TP-210 "Material and Equipment standard for Zinc Silicate (inorganic) Paints
as Primer, Intermediate and Top Coat"
IPS-M-TP-215 "Material and Equipment standard for Epoxy Polyamide Primer"
IPS-M-TP-220 "Material and Equipment standard for Epoxy Polyamide Intermediate
Paint"
IPS-M-TP-225 "Material and Equipment standard for Epoxy Polyamide Paint as Top
Coat"
IPS-M-TP-235 "Material and Equipment standard for Two Pack Aliphatic
Polyurethane Paint as Top Coat"

ISO (INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR STANDARDIZATION)

ISO 12944 “Paints and Varnishes-Corrosion Protection of Steel Structures by
Protective Paint System”
ISO 8501-1 "Rust Levels of Steel Structure and Quality Levels for Preparation of
Steel Surfaces for Rust Protecting Surfaces"
ISO 11124 "Preparation of steel substrates before application of paints and
related products. Specifications for metallic blast-cleaning abrasives"
ISO 8503 "Preparation of steel substrates before application of paints and related
products - Surface roughness characteristics of blast-cleaned steel
substrates"

NIOEC SP (NIOEC SPECIFICATION)

NIOEC-SP-00-10 "NIOEC Specification for units"

SSPC (STEEL STRUCTURE PAINTING COUNCIL)

SSPC-Vol. 1 "Good Painting Practice"
SSPE-Vol. 2 "Systems and Specification"

3. UNITS
International system of units (SI) shall be used in accordance with NIOEC-SP-00-10, unless
otherwise specified.

4. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
4.1. All surfaces shall receive an appropriate paint system as specified by the Client with reference
to Appendix (A) with the following exceptions:
- Any equipment furnished completely painted by the manufacturer unless it is specially
required to match a color scheme or to repair damage to the paint film;
- Weathering steel, , monel, brass, copper, aluminum jacketing, unless it is specially required;
- Nameplates, code stampings and push-buttons;

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 March 2015 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
- Surfaces to be fireproofed with cement mortar;
- Concrete, brickwork, tile, glass and plastics, unless specially required;
- Machined surfaces;
- Insulation weatherproofing material or jacketing;
- Rubber, hoses, belts, flexible braided connectors, stainless steel tubing and fittings, gages,
valves, and motor shafts;
- And any surface particularly indicated as not to be painted.

4.2. Surfaces preparation, initial painting and maintenance painting of buildings internally and
externally, e.g. dwellings, offices, light industrial buildings and public buildings generally,
shall be performed in accordance with BS 6150.
4.3. Paint systems are generally specified by dry film thickness of coat(s) and total dry film
thickness of primer, intermediate and topcoat rather than by the number of coats.
4.4. Unless otherwise stated in Appendix (A) or/and restricted by the paint manufacturer, the total
dry film thickness of paint system shall be 100 microns minimum. All paints and paint
materials used shall comply with the specification given in relevant Material Specification and
they shall be obtained from approved manufacturers only.
4.5. All materials shall be supplied in the manufacturer’s original containers, durably and legibly
marked according to relevant Material Specification.
4.6. All mechanical activities include Fabrication, welding, PWHT, bolting… shall be completed
before surface preparation begins.
4.7. All painting shall be carried out in full conformity with this Specification. Particular attention
shall be paid to Manufacturer instructions on storage, mixing, thinning, induction period, pot
life, application conditions, application technique and recommended time intervals between
coats.
4.8. Neither paint is allowed to be used after its pot life nor shall the new material be added to any
of old material left in the pot.
4.9. Unless otherwise defined by Client, Paint shall not be applied under the following conditions:
- When the air temperature and/or substrate temperature is less than 3ºC above the dew point
(DP) of the surrounding air, and/ or the relative humidity(RH%) is higher than 90%;
- When the temperature is below 4ºC;
- When the surface temperature is higher than 40ºC;
- When there is the likelihood of an unfavorable change in weather conditions within two
hours after coating;
- When there is a deposition of moisture in the form of rain, condensation, frost, etc., on the
surface.
Each layer of paint shall be allowed to dry for a period of time within the limits prescribed by
the paint manufacturer, before the next layer is applied.
4.10. Subsequent layers of a paint system shall have a difference in tint or color.
4.11. Sharp edges of metal, e.g. burrs and nibs, should be removed before painting, in accordance
with BS 7079-A3 and strip coat shall be applied to the corners, edges, welds, etc. especially
with respect to the specified minimum dry-film thickness.
4.12. During both application and drying, adequate ventilation shall be provided if the work area is
enclosed.

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 March 2015 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
4.13. All steel constructions or plates shall be provided with priming or coating system to protect
the steel surfaces during the transport, storage, construction and joining stages, e.g. welding of
the project.
4.14. All surface inaccessible after assembly shall be fully painted before assembly.
4.15. It shall be the responsibility of the contractor to coordinate work so that shop primed items
are primed and painted with compatible coating, as specified according to Appendix A.
4.16. Coatings shall be applied by conventional and/ or airless spray in exact accordance with this
Specification and/ or the manufacturer’s instructions.
4.17. Paints include skins, sand or any foreign matters are not allowed to be used.
4.18. Two pack paints shall be carefully mixed in strict accordance with this Specification and/ or
manufacturer’s instructions. The pot life of such paints shall be carefully noted and any mixed
paint which has exceeded its pot life must be discarded irrespective of its apparent condition
(see 8.2.1.14).
4.19. The application shall leave no sags, runs, wrinkles, orange peels, marks or other defects.
4.20. Drying and application time between coats shall adhere to the coating manufacturer’s
recommendations with temperature and humidity conditions taken into account, and shall
generally be kept to the minimum in order to prevent contamination between coats. Where
contamination occurs between coats, this must be completely removed, generally be washed
per manufacturer’s recommendation or otherwise with suitable detergent solution and rinsed
with clean water. The paint surface shall be dry before over-coated application.
4.21. The greatest precaution shall be take in the spraying of inorganic zinc primers to ensure proper
cohesion and adhesion permitted care shall be take not to exceed the maximum film thickness
.Inorganic zinc-rich paints shall be applied by airless spray. If the zinc powder is packaged
separately, mix with the vehicle just before use. They shall be applied at a coverage rate
recommended by Appendix A. Prior to top coating, a barrier or tie coat may be required for
over coating with certain generic coatings. The manufacturer’s recommendations shall be
followed. Complete curing of the zinc-rich primer is necessary before top coating. Over spray
shall be removed with a stiff bristle brush or wire screen. Popping will be eliminated by
scrapping the painted surface with a soft sand paper before over coating.
4.22. Any and all holes and surface imperfections shall be cleaned and filled in an approved manner
before painting.
4.23. Number of coats when specified shall be a minimum number of coats to achieve the specified
film thickness. Maximum dry film thick nesses should not exceed those specified by the
Client.
4.24. All equipment shall be maintained in good working order. Equipment shall be thoroughly
cleaned daily. Worn parts shall be replaced. Effective oil and water separators shall be used
and serviced regularly.
4.25. All points of damage to paintwork incurred at any stage of the work including site welding
operations, shall be re-prepared to the original standard and recoating with the specified
priming coat and finish coat to restore the film thickness. In all such instances preparation
shall extend 25 mm into the sound paintwork and a further 25 mm of sound paintwork shall be
lightly blasted to etch the surface. Repainting shall then cover the prepared surface and the
etched paintwork.
4.26. When painting insulating flanges with paints containing metallic pigments insulating materials
will be covered with protective striping to prevent breaking or “electrically shorting” the
insulating barrier.
4.27. Unless otherwise specified the minimum allowable time before application of intermediate or
finish coat shall be three hours.

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4.28. Maximum allowable time between application of intermediate and finish coat shall be as
recommended by the paint manufacturer but shall not be less than eight hours.
4.29. Painting of buildings can be carried out using pigmented coating, un-pigmented coating and
ancillary materials. The selection of coating systems for building and their suitability for
substrates or groups of substrates shall be determined using tables 12 to 18. of BS 6150.
4.30. Prior to any surface preparation and painting, dew point (DP) and relative humidity (RH %)
shall be measured using whirling/sling hygrometer and DP calculator (or similar). The results
obtained shall meet the requirements of the article 4.8. 4.30 Prior to any cleaning, surface
preparation and painting, the contractor shall protect and mask equipment and areas in need of
protection by suitable materials. Typical items to be masked are fire protection equipment,
weld end preparations, atmosphere sensing head, vent on control equipment, spray head,
lubrication points and flame traps.
4.31. Unless otherwise specified by Client, structures made from stainless steel shall be painted as
mentioned bellow:
a) When buried
b) In contact with other metals
c) Marine and near coastal environment
d) For identification purposes such as color coding/ scheme

5. SURFACE REPARATION
5.1. Pre-blasting Preparation
5.1.1. Prior to any cleaning, surface preparation or painting contractor shall protect and mask
equipment and areas in need of protection. Care shall be taken with use of masking material
to prevent possible malfunction of the plant. Typical items to be masked are fire protection
equipment, weld end preparations, atmospheric sensing head, spray heads, vents and control
equipments, flame traps, lubricated point and name plates.
5.1.2. Hard surface layers (e.g. resulting from flame cutting) shall be removed by grinding prior to
blast cleaning. Sharp edges, fillets, corners, and welds shall be rounded or smoothened by
grinding (minimum radius 2 mm)
5.1.3. The surfaces shall be free from any foreign matter such as weld flux, residue, rogue picks,
oil, grease; salt etc. prior to blast cleaning. Where specified by Client, All surfaces should be
washed with clean fresh water and thoroughly dried prior to blast cleaning.
5.1.4. Any oil and grease contamination shall be removed in accordance with SSPC/SSPM Volume
2, grade SP1, prior to blast operations.
5.1.5. Any major surface defects, particularly surface laminations/ sliver, hackle, Surface pores,
cavities and scabs detrimental shall be reported to Client/ engineer for the more assessment
by NDT tests. Suitable agreed dressing shall be performed where allowed by
Client/engineer. Where such defects have been revealed during blast cleanings, and dressing
has been performed, the dressed area shall be re-blasted to the specified standard. All welds
shall be inspected and if necessary repaired prior to final blast cleaning of the area.

5.2. Blast Cleaning

5.2.1. Blasting operations shall never be allowed in the vicinity of painting work or near to a wet
paint surface or anywhere that blast abrasive, grit or fall-out shall impinge on a freshly
painted surface, or on any uncovered primed surface.
5.2.2. Blast cleaning operations shall not be conducted on surfaces that will be wet after blasting
and before coating, when the surfaces temperature are less than 3ºC above the dew point,

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when the relative humidity of the air is greater than 90%, or when the ambient temperature is
below 3ºC.
5.2.3. The maximum particle size of the abrasives used in blast cleaning shall not be larger than that
passing through a 14-mesh screen B.S 410 Sieve Series. All abrasives shall be free from dust,
moisture and salt. Blasting shall be continued till a uniform white metal surface is achieved.
5.2.4. Blast cleaning is permitted only during the day light.
5.2.5. Where rectification has been necessary on blast-cleaned surface, the particular area shall be
re-blasted to remove all rust and slag, and to provide adequate paint adhesion.
5.2.6. Blast cleaning shall overlap by a minimum of 25 mm into any adjacent coated areas. Any
steel work not primed and/or wetted by rain or moisture shall be re-blasted prior to being
painted if rust develops.
5.2.7. Steel may be blast-cleaned either before or after fabrication. Sometimes it may be necessary
both before and after.
Where steel is cleaned before fabrication it shall be protected with a suitable blast-primer to
avoid rusting before fabrication is completed. During fabrication, the blast-primer will
inevitably be destroyed or damaged in places, e.g. by welding. Such areas shall be cleaned
and re-primed as soon as possible.
Where steel cleaned after fabrication it may still be necessary to apply a blast-primer, but
often the first coat of the full protective system can be applied.
5.2.8. The roughness of prepared surface results from primary roughness already present in the
initial state and which is exposed by the mechanical preparation methods, in particular by
blasting. The roughness parameters (the peak-to valley height) give some basis for
determining the minimum coat thickness necessary for satisfactory embedment and covering
of roughness peaks.
Unless otherwise defined by Client, all surfaces of steel works shall have a roughness
(profile) within 30 to 75 microns. The profile shall be measured using testex replica tape or
needle profile gauge in accordance with ISO 8503.
5.2.9. Surface preparation specified in the schedule (Appendix A) shall be in accordance with the
following Standard, ISO8501-1 or BS 7079:
5.2.9.1. Hand Tool Cleaning ST2
5.2.9.2. Power Tool Cleaning and Power Tool touch up of pre-blasted items ST3
5.2.9.3. Light Blast Cleaning (Sweep blast) SA1
5.2.9.4. Commercial Finish SA2
5.2.9.5. Near White Metal Blast Cleaning SA2, ½
5.2.9.6. White Metal Blast Cleaning SA3

5.2.10. Unless otherwise specified by the Client, the level of cleanliness for prepared steel surface
shall be Sa3 for zinc silicate and Sa2½ for zinc rich epoxy primers, other primers and
organic coatings
5.2.11. A qualified well trained operator shall be employed for the blast-cleaning job. The
qualification of operator must be approved by Client.
5.2.12. When sheets of less than 4 mm thickness are blasted, deformation may occur. This shall be
avoided by:
a) Low air pressure, small grain sizes and the use of a blasting abrasive of low bulk density;

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b) A low angle of blasting with sharp edged grain and a short duration of blasting. With
adhesive scale or fairly thick rusting it may be necessary to carry out preparatory work by
some other methods, e.g. manual cleaning or pickling, before cleaning, measures a(and b)
will result in less efficient blasting.

5.2.13. Residual shot, grit and dust shall be completely removed after blasting, preferably by
vacuum cleaning, but otherwise by oil and water free air blast or fiber brush.
5.2.14. All blasted steel surfaces shall be primed before visible re-rusting occurs or within 4 hours
whichever is sooner.
5.2.15. Sand is prohibited due to safety considerations. An alternative abrasive such as copper slag,
garnet, shot, grit or similar shall therefore be used. It should be noted that all materials
furnished and/or used by the Contractor in connection with his blasting work shall be
subject to inspection and approval by the Client in order to assure the use of material of the
type and quality meet the requirements of SSPC Vol. 1
5.2.16. All surfaces, after completion of the surface preparation and immediately prior to painting,
shall be cleaned by air blasting using clean, dry, oil-free air or vacuum cleaner to ensure that
all traces of abrasives and corrosion product are removed.

6. PAINT MATERIALS
6.1. Only paint system which complies with Appendix (A) shall be used.
6.2. The paint materials supplied shall be certified by the manufacturer and contractor shall obtain
and retain all certificates and manufacturer’s data sheets.
6.3. The contractor shall ensure that all materials supplied for painting operations are clearly
marked according to IPS Material Specification for paints.

7. PAINTING SCHEDULES AND PAINT SYSTEM

Unless otherwise noted, surface preparation and primer, intermediate and finish painting on
Vessels, Exchangers, Equipment and Structural Steel will be done in the shop, and only touch-up
will be required in the field.
Shop primer on piping for rust prevention will be done in the shop and primer, intermediate and
finish will be required in the field.
All surfaces of tank plate shall receive one coat of Pre-fabrication primer at vendor shop and
primer, intermediate and finish will be required in the field.
All surfaces shall receive an appropriate paint system and finish color as specified in Appendix (A)
and B with exceptions which are noted in 4.1.
Temperatures listed in Appendix (A) refer to operating temperature of item, not design temperature.
For building painting see BS 6150 (Painting of Buildings).

8. PREPARATION OF PAINT BEFORE USE

8.1. Storage and Appearance
8.1.1. Paint shall be stored in a well ventilated room, free from excessive heat or direct rays of the
sun and maintained at a temperature recommended by manufacturer in accordance with the
appropriate fire regulations.
8.1.2. The maximum storage time for paints shall be as recommended by relevant Material
Specification. Paints shall not be stored in open containers, even for a short time.

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8.1.3. On operational sites, the storage methods and area shall be approved by Client.
8.1.4. All paint materials consigned to the coating site shall be properly stored in accordance with
the manufacturer instructions at all times to prevent damage and deterioration prior to use.
8.1.5. Paint shall not be used beyond the manufacturer’s stated shelf life.
8.1.6. All containers of paint shall remain unopened until required for use. Those containers which
have been previously opened shall be used first. The label information shall be legible and
shall be checked at the time of use.
8.1.7. Paint which has settled, skined, or otherwise deteriorated during storage shall not be used.
8.1.8. The oldest paint of each kind shall be used first.
8.1.9. All paints shall be prepared adjacent to the location where the painting work is to be carried
out.

8.2. Preparation of Paint for Application

8.2.1. Mixing
8.2.1.1. All paints shall be mixed by powered mixers and/or mechanical agitator to ensure that no
sediment is left. For 5 –liter containers or less hand mixing with the strong metallic paddle
can be considered. In all cases, the manufacturer’s instructions shall be followed.
Paint shall not be mixed or kept in suspension by means of an air stream bubbling under the
paint surface.
8.2.1.2. The condition of the paint shall be checked before preparation begins and any
unsatisfactory materials shall be discarded.
8.2.1.3. All paints shall be prepared adjacent to the location where the painting work is to be carried
out.
8.2.1.4. Any paint includes unusual skins; stiff past and solid settled portion shall not be used.
8.2.1.5. Mixing in open containers shall be done in a well ventilated area away from sparks or
flames.
8.2.1.6. Multi components paint shall be mixed in accordance with manufacturer instruction
manual/data sheets. Induction period and pot life shall be considered as restricted by
manufacturer.
8.2.1.7. Multi component paints have a limited pot life which reflected in manufacturer data sheet.
Paints of this type shall not be used after the stated pot life.
8.2.1.8. When a multi-component paint is being used, new material shall not be added to any of the
old material left in the pot.
8.2.1.9. Paint which does not have a limited pot life (time interval) or does not deteriorate on
standing may be mixed at any time before using, but if settling has be occurred it shall be
remixed immediately before using.
8.2.1.10. Paint shall not be used beyond the manufacturer’s stated shelf life. 8.2.1.11 Catalysts,
curing agents, activator or hardeners which are separately packaged shall be added to the
base paint only after the latter has been thoroughly mixed. The proper volume of the
catalyst shall then be slowly poured into the required volume of base with constant
agitation. Where specified, special continuous mixing equipment shall be used in
accordance with the manufacturer directions.

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 March 2015 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
8.2.1.11. Paint’s drums shall be rolled on its side for some minutes before opening. The entire paint
content shall be poured into an empty clean drum or can, ensure that no heavy paste
remains in the original container. If paste remains, some of paint shall be poured back and
the mixture again stirred thoroughly and returned to the bulk.
8.2.1.12. When mixing two-component paints, check and re-mixes each component individually.
Then blend the two components at low speed until the mixture is completely uniform in
color. Often, the two components are supplied in different colors so that a good mix can be
readily determined.
Unless stated by Client, four or more components paints are not allowed to use.

8.2.1.13. Do not add thinner (solvent) to the paint unless permitted by manufacturer in specified
percentage. When thinning the paint, first be sure that it is well mixed before adding the
thinner. Then thinner shall be added slowly to paint during the mixing process.
8.2.1.14. Safety considerations shall be taken with the low flash point solvents according to the
manufacturer MSDS.

9. APPLICATION OF PAINT
9.1. General
9.1.1. Paints shall be applied in accordance with Manufacture instruction, this Specification and
good industrial practice.
9.1.2. Paint shall not be applied under the conditions described in 4.9. The paint film shall not be
exposed to moisture and contamination before it has dried. Priming and painting under
controlled condition in the shop is preferred.
9.1.3. The degree of cleanliness of surface will be determined by the requirements in respect of
paint system (Appendix A).
9.1.4. The number of coats applied after priming and the total dry film thickness of paint will be
determined by the requirement in respect to paint system and conditions with reference to
Appendix A. The paint total thickness shall never be above 200% of the specified thickness.

9.2. Priming of Ferrous Metals

9.2.1. General
9.2.1.1. Prepared surfaces should be primed generally within four hours or before visible re-rusting
occurs.
9.2.1.2. Blast cleaned surfaces may be protected for short periods by thin coat of pre-treatment
primer or etch primer. Such primers shall be applied as a continuous coating in an even
manner to achieve a minimum film thickness of 20 microns. Such primers do not replace
the full thickness of permanent primer.
9.2.1.3. The paint layers thickness shall be as specified by Appendix A.
9.2.1.4. In order to minimize contamination between successive coats of paint, over coating of the
preceding coat shall be done within the period of time specified by the manufacturer and
shall not delayed beyond the period specified. When delays are unavoidable, the painted
surface shall be thoroughly cleaned and dried to the satisfaction of the Client before over
coating may take place.
9.2.1.5. The primer is applied by spray, except when the Client prefers another method of
application or required by the job and/or material.

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 March 2015 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
9.2.1.6. Primed steelwork, especially if it has been exposed for a lengthy period, shall be examined
carefully before further coats of paint are applied. If the primer has been deteriorated, e.g.
is perished, eroded or poorly adhering, or has been damaged, so allowing corrosion to
develop, the affected areas shall be re-prepared and primed. If there is evidence of
widespread corrosion beneath the primer, it shall be removed and the surface again
prepared and primed.
9.2.1.7. Paints shall not be applied when conditions in the working zone are such that the prepared
surface is likely to become moist during the painting operation.
9.2.1.8. Stripe coating is necessary at edges, weld beads any where specified by Client.

9.2.2. Priming of steel prepared by blasting

9.2.2.1. Blast cleaned steel prepared to SIS Grade Sa 3 or Sa 2½ shall frequently be coated either in
the shop or on site with a pre-treatment or pre-fabrication primer or with original primer.
9.2.2.2. For further priming over the pre-fabrication primers or for direct application to blast
cleaned steel, the priming paint shall be in accordance with relevant Material Specification
for paints.
9.2.2.3. Unless otherwise specified by the Client with reference to Appendix A, it is essential that
the total film thickness of the priming coats (blast or pre-fabrication primer plus second
primer) shall meet the prescribed thickness of 75 micron minimum in all area.

9.3. Shop Painting of Steel

9.3.1. The structural steelwork, surface pipework, towers, vessels, heat-exchanger shells and similar
containers which will not be lagged can be treated in the shop, subject to mutual agreement.
9.3.2. The shop treatments will be determined by requirements in respect to paint system and
conditions such as type of environment transportation, economic, etc.
9.3.3. Handling and storage of shop treated items shall be so that to prevent damage to the treated
surfaces.
9.3.4. Damage resulting from handling in the shop following painting, such as during storage or
loading, is to be repaired as a part of the field painting operations. If the shop coat is
damaged in fabrication, it shall be repaired before leaving the shop.
9.3.5. Contact surfaces shall be painted or left unpainted as specified in the procurement
documents. When painted, at least the first coat shall be applied in the shop, with subsequent
coats being applied in the field while the surfaces are still accessible, unless otherwise
specified.
9.3.6. If the paint specified is harmful to the welding operator or is detrimental to the welding
operation or the finished welds, the steel shall not be painted within 100 mm of the areas to
be welded.

9.4. Field and Touch-Up Painting of Steel

9.4.1. Previously applied shop coating must be dry and free of dirt, oil, or other contaminates. The
manufacturer’s instructions shall be followed if special surface preparation procedures are
required before application of the field coats.
9.4.2. All shop coated items which have deteriorated as a result of transshipment to the extent that
either crumbling or white staining of the coating is evident shall receive. A superficial sweep

11
 March 2015 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
blast cleaning sufficient to remove the degradation and to re-prepare exposed degraded metal
substrate and dust.
9.4.3. Shop coated steel members shall preferably be field painted after erection of such members is
completed. Steel members may be field painted on the ground before erection, provided such
painting is touched-up where damaged with the same number of coats and kinds of paints
after erection. However, the last complete coat of paint shall be applied after erection.
9.4.4. The first field coat of paint shall be applied within a reasonable period after the shop coat(s),
and in any event before the weathering of the shop coat becomes excessive.
9.4.5. When the type of paint for field coats is not specified, it shall be determined that the paint to
be used is compatible with the shop applied coats(s). Paint used in the first field coat over
shop painted surfaces shall not cause wrinkling, lifting, or other damage to the underlying
paint.
9.4.6. Contact surfaces shall be painted or left unpainted as specified in the procurement documents
or required by the job.
9.4.7. Surfaces (other than contact surfaces) of fabricated assemblies those are accessible before
erection but which will not be accessible after erection shall receive all field coats of paint
before erection.
9.4.8. All surface defects, such as surface lamination or inclusion must be referred to the Client
before any dressing is undertaken. All paints shall be applied in such a manner as to ensure a
firmly adherent film, free from misses, tears, runs, sags, etc.
9.4.9. Wet paint shall be protected against damage from dust or other detrimental foreign matter as
much as is practical.
9.4.10. Steel stored pending erection shall be kept free from contact with the ground and so
positioned as to minimize water-holding pockets, soiling, contamination, and deterioration
of the paint film. Such steel shall be cleaned and repainted or touched-up with the specified
paint whenever it becomes necessary to maintain the integrity of the film.
9.4.11. All field welds and all areas within 100 mm of welds shall be cleaned before painting, using
surface preparation methods at least as effective as those specified for the structure itself; all
welds shall either be blast cleaned, thoroughly power wire brushed, chemically scrubbed, or
water scrubbed of all detrimental welding deposits as required.

9.5. Painting of Specific Surfaces

9.5.1. Contact surfaces
Unless otherwise specified by the Client, the following practice shall be followed regarding
painting of contact surfaces:
9.5.1.1. The areas of steel surfaces to be encased or embedded in concrete shall not be painted.
9.5.1.2. Steel to be completely enclosed in brick or other masonry shall be given at least one coat of
shop paint.
9.5.1.3. The areas of steel surfaces to be in contact with wood shall be painted as indicated in
9.5.1.5
9.5.1.4. Surfaces to be in contact only after field erection shall be painted as provided in 9.5.1.5,
except where the paint interferes with assembly or where indicated in 9.5.1.7.
9.5.1.5. Steel surfaces not in direct bonded contact, but inaccessible after assembly shall receive the
full specified paint system before assembly.

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 March 2015 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
9.5.1.6. Bearing-type joints may be painted as required in 9.5.1.5.
9.5.1.7. Contact surfaces of members to be joined by high strength bolts in friction-type joints are a
special case. Unless specifically authorized to the contrary, they shall be left unpainted and
free of oil, grease, and coatings.

9.5.2. Edges
All sharp edges shall be coated to the same film thickness as the adjacent steelwork to
prevent premature breakdown from this area. Corners, services, bolt heads and rivet heads
require similar attention. Where there is any doubt that these areas have received adequate
film thickness the Client may direct that an additional strip coat of paint, be applied to ensure
the full film thickness, without any additional cost to the Client.

9.5.3. Welds
As rolled steel may be blast-cleaned and protected with blast primer before fabrication and
welding. This prevents the serious development of rust, which would be difficult to remove
after fabrication. The use of steel that has rusted heavily during storage should be avoided for
the same reason. When welding metal coated or zinc-dust painted steel, it is necessary to
remove the coating near the weld area, or mask-off the weld area before coating. Most
painted steel can be cut and welded satisfactory provided that the coating thickness is less
than 25 microns. After welding, scale and heat-damaged coating shall be removed by local
blast-cleaning and the area renovated by repainting the original coating.

9.5.4. Zinc rich paints

Inorganic zinc-rich paints shall not apply to the substrates have a service temperature above
60 ° C. Paint containing metallic zinc (Zinc rich paints) are not allowed to:
 Contaminate the stainless steel as this can cause embrittlement.
 Apply within 75 mm of any weld end preparation to avoid vaporization of the zinc during
welding.

10. QUALITY CONTROL AND TESTING

10.1. Manufactures of all materials shall supply test certificates of all tests performed and a
certificate of compliance stating that the material meets the requirements of the applicable
specifications.

10.2. Test shall ensure that the quality of the surface coating is in accordance with that specified
and shall include, but shall not be limited to, thickness testing, adhesion testing, holiday
testing , abrasion testing, solvent testing, etc.

10.3. Humidity Check

The air’s relative humidity and dew point shall be measured with a sling/whirling hygrometer
or aspirated psychrometer and DP calculator. Surface preparation and/or paint application
operations shall not commence until relative humidity is less than the limits set in paragraphs
4.9. Relative humidity shall be measured and recorded a minimum of six (6) times a day and
two (2) times before commencement of work. Moisture on the surface being prepared or
painted shall be measured every day with a surface moisture indicator before beginning

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 March 2015 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
surface preparation operations or applying a coat of paint.

10.4. Roughness Check

Testex replica tape or needle profile meter shall be used in determining anchor pattern of
abrasive blasted surfaces (30-75 micron), or when a fixed anchor pattern rang is required by a
specific painting system.

10.5. Thickness Check

Dry paint thickness (DFT) shall be measured by the non destructive methods using capable
electronic or non electronic gauge. It is imperative that the magnetic probe be calibrated for
each thickness of coating steel support with a non-magnetic block whose thickness is as close
as possible to the coating being checked.
Special gauge may need for measuring of the non ferromagnetic coat thickness containing
magnetic particles (e.g. MIO).
Each coat’s thickness and total thickness shall be checked. Make five (5) separate spot
measurements spaced evenly over each section of the structure 10 square meters in area
(divide the entire surface in 10 square meter areas).
On each spot, make 3 readings by moving the probe a short distance for each new gage
reading. Discard any unusually high or low gage reading that cannot be repeated consistently;
Take the average of the three (3) gage readings as spot measurement.
When specified by Client, paint thickness shall be measured by destructive test using P.I.G or
similar. Tested area shall be subsequently touched up as mentioned before.
Inorganic Zinc Silicate:
Before over coating it shall be checked, with the solvent recommended by the paint
manufacturer, that the hydrolysis is complete by soaking the surface with a rag impregnated
with the recommended solvent.
Thickness checking shall be made after the application of the zinc silicate coat.
Thickness shall be in the range 50 to 90 microns.
For each successive coat, the minimal allowable thickness shall be least 80% of the specified
thickness; the maximum thickness shall not exceed 150% of the specified thickness.
For the total system, the minimal allowable thickness shall be at least 80% of the specified
thickness, the maximum thickness shall not exceed 150% of the specified thickness unless
the paint remained soft or shows mud crack or orange skin or wrinkling pinhole and inter-
coat delaminating which cause rejection of the paint.
Surfaces with coat thickness out of tolerance shall:
- Be abrasive blasted if too thick and repainted.
- Receive and additional paint coat to obtain specified thickness.

10.6. In order to achieve the specified dry film thickness, frequent checks of wet film thickness
shall be carried out during the paint application with the wet film thickness gauges such as
the eccentric wheel gauge or comb/notch gauge.

10.7. In the event of the film thickness not meeting the specified requirements, additional coat (s)
of the paint concerned shall be applied in compliance with the specified requirements.

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 March 2015 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
10.8. The degree of curing of epoxy resin based paint systems shall be checked by the
determination of the resistance of the coating to methyl ethyl ketone (MEK). After rubbing
the coating for one minute with a rag soaked in MEK, the coating shall not be softened and
shall resist scraping with a fingernail.

10.9. Porosity Check (For Internal Linnig Only)

Coating integrity shall be checked with a direct current holiday detector. Continuity of the
internal coating (lining) with a thickness up to 500 microns shall be checked using a low
voltage pinhole detector. The electrode shall consist of an suitable cellulose sponge soaked in
a 1% detergent solution in potable water.
The instrument shall be calibrated and checked every hour to indicate a coating porosity of
80 000 ohms under a voltage of 67.5 volts between the ground and wet sponge a resistance of
90 000 ohms indicates no porosity.
Sponge displacement speed on the surface shall not exceed 0.3 meters per second (18 meters
per minute). The sponge shall be moved back and forth so that is passes over the same area
twice. The measurement is taken on the second pass. A minimum of ten percent of the
painted surface shall be examined.
If there is any porosity, the area shall be repainted and the inspector or Client representative
shall have the entire painted surface inspected.
For the lining with the thickness above 500 microns, current high voltage holiday detector
shall be used. In this case, the voltage between the painted steel surface and the test electrode
shall be calculated as maintained5 volts per one micron of paint coat thickness.
The inspector shall mark defective areas for repair. Any porous area shall be repaired when
the number of pores is greater than 3 per square meter, the entire area shall be blast cleaned
and repainted as per this specification.

10.10. Adherence Check

Paint adherence shall be checked as per ASTM method D3359. Method A (Xcut) shall be
used for paint film thicker than 125 microns, method B (lattice pattern) shall be used for
paint films up to 125 microns.
Test method A: An X-cut is made in the film to the substrate; pressure-sensitive tape is
applied over the cut and then removed. Acceptable rating are 5A (No peeling or removal) or
4A (Trace peeling or removal along incisions or at their intersections).
Test method B: A lattice pattern with either six or eleven cuts in each direction) cross is
made in the film to the substrate, pressure-sensitive tape is applied over the lattice and then
removed, and adhesion is evaluated by comparison with descriptions and illustrations.
Spacing between the cut lines shall be 1 mm for film thickness up to 50 microns and 2mm
for film thickness from 50 to 125 microns. Acceptable results are rate 5B (the edges of the
cuts are completely smooth, none of the squares of the lattice is detached) or 4B (Small
flakes of the coating are detached at intersections, if the test is unsatisfactory, the entire
surface shall be blast cleaned and repainted.
Recoating after this destructive test is at the Applicator’s expense.
Coating film should be inspected visually after each layer application and/or before
application of the next coat in order to verify that the whole surface is free of defects as:
- Mud-cracking/Alligatoring
- Inclusion and cleanliness

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 March 2015 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
- Pinhole/Holidays
- Bubble
- Mechanical damage
- Runs/sags/tear/curtains
- Over spray
- Orange peeling
- Wrinkling
- Chalking
- Bleeding

10.11. Extent of Inspection

In view of the final acceptance, the extension of the inspection shall be as hereinafter
indicated and shall be referred to the following steps of work:
Primed surfaces
Complete painted surfaces.
Paint application shall not be started before previous coat/preparation is inspected and
approved.
Inspection shall be carried out in accordance with the relevant ITP/SIP/FIP which specified
and confirmed by the Client.
All inspection results can be written up into report sheets. All reports shall be submitted to
the Client during provisional acceptance of the paint.

10.12. Repair of Defects or Damage

Any defect or damage that may occur shall be repaired before the application of further
coats and where necessary the particular surface (s) made paint free. Remedial work shall be
carried out prior to packing for shipment.
Failed painted areas due to inadequately prepared surfaces, solvent entrapment or wrinkling,
out of range thickness, bleeding, lack of curing after stated time, mud/alligator cracking,
chalking, the significant number of spots/rashes rust, incomplete paint systems missed
primer/ mid-coat/curing agent lack of required adhesion/ cohesion, delaminated paints,
lifted/detached paints, shall be entirely re-blasted and re-painted with the full paint system
by contractor to meet the required standard.
Areas which are to be over coated shall be thoroughly cleaned free from grease, oil and
other foreign matter and shall be dry. The surfaces shall then be prepared to the standard as
originally specified (for large damaged areas), or prepared to the highest possible standard
using powered operated tools (ST3)
Subsequently additional compatible coats shall be applies, until they meet the specification.
These additional coats shall blend in with the final coating on adjoining area.
During the agreed maintenance period, any observed defective coatings, rusted areas or
failures developing in the paint systems, shall be repaired to the satisfaction of the Client
inspector.
When factory painted or painted surfaces have been marked in handling, the damaged paint
and non-adherent paint shall be removed and the surface thoroughly cleaned.
The edges on the damaged area shall be smoothed. Surface preparation shall extend

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 March 2015 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
approximately 5 cm into the sound coat. The primer and finishing coats shall be applied in
accordance with Article 9.
Where touch up of a shop applied inorganic zinc silicate primer is involved, the type of paint
employed for touch up shall be ethyl silicate based inorganic zinc primer.
Note:
If abrasive blasting is not applicable for any reason to be agreed upon by Client or his
representative, zinc silicate primer shall not be used for touch up repairs. Zinc rich 2
components epoxy primer or an approved epoxy primer formulated for application on hand
or mechanically brushed surfaces should be used instead. The touch up primer shall be
compatible with the paint system.

10.13. Manufacturer’s shop or field applicator shall submit check certified for the following point:
a) Surface profile/degree of cleanliness check
b) Verification of paint documentation
c) Environmental conditions during application
d) Curing check
e) Paint faults check
f) Adhesiveness cross-out check
Note:
1) Acceptable surface profile shall be in accordance to the technical date sheet of the
product.
2) Adhesion degree of each product shall be as for ASTM D-3359 and shall be specified by
the paint manufacturer and approved by Client. After the test, the surface shall be
repaired in accordance with the system applied.

10.14. Contractor reserves the right to witnessed at manufacture’s shop in spot for type/lot the
following inspections and test.
1) Blasting and primer system:
a) Surface profile/degree of cleanliness/appearance
b) Verification of primer documentation
c) Verification of paints maturity
d) Paint faults check
e) Adhesiveness cross-cut check
2) Painting complete system
a) Verification of paint documentation
b) Verification of paint maturity/thickness
c) Appearance film check

10.15. If during the above mentioned inspection, painting defects (such as dripping, blistering,
mud- cracking, over thickness and dry spray) or conditions of preparation, thickness, bond
etc, should be found not to be conforming to the requirements, the manufacturer’s shop or
field applicator at his own expense restore the faulty surfaces to an acceptable degree.

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 December 2014 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
APPENDIX A: PAINT SYSTEM
DFT
PAINT SYSTEM (DRY FILM THICKNESS)
TEMP. IN MICRON
SERVICE RANGE
SURFACE INTERMEDIATE
PRIMER COAT FINISH COAT PC IC FC TOTAL
PREPRATION COAT

ACRYLIC
BOLTING, FLOOR GRATING, LAMINAR MODIFIED
LADDERS, STAIR TREAD, UP TO ZINC-RICH PIGMENTED
SA 2,1/2 TWO-PACK 125 50 225
HANDRAILING, ELECTRICAL 120ºC EPOXY EPOXY POLYURETHANE
50
FIXTURES, STRUCTURAL IPS-M-TP-205
STEELWORK, FABRICATED NOTE 1
STEELWORK, COLUMNS, VESSELS,
TANKS SHELL, HEAT TRANSFER
EQUIPMENT, STEEL STACKS,
PIPING, ETC. SEE NOTE 2.
ZINC-SILICATE
121ºC TO SILICON SILICON
SA 3 PAINT 75 25 25 125
(EXTERNAL SURFACE & UNINSTULATED) 400ºC IPS-M-TP-210
ALUMINUM ALUMINUM
THERMALLY
401ºC TO SILICON SILICON
SA 3 SPRAYED 150 25 25 50
600ºC ALUMINUM
ALUMINUM ALUMINUM
LAMINAR LAMINAR
UP TO
120ºC
SA 2,1/2 Zinc rich epoxy PIGMENTED PIGMENTED 50 100 100 250
EPOXY EPOXY
INSULATED AREAS
121ºC TO
SA 3
Inorganic Zinc -
SILICON
60 - 25 85
400ºC silicate ALUMINUM

MISCELLANEOUS MECHANICAL &

ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT,
FIREFIGHTING AND FIRST AID TO THE MANUFACTURER'S STANDARDS, UNLESS OTHERWISED SPECIFIED
EQUIPMENT, MACHINERY, PUMP,
MOTOR, SWITCH TRANSFORMER,,
ETC.

INSTRUMENTS, INSTRUMENT
TO THE MANUFACTURER'S STANDARDS, BUT WITH SPECIFIED COLOR IF APPLICABLE
PANELS, CONSOLES AND CABIENTS.

NOTE 1) FOR THE TANK ROOF AND SEVERE EXPOSURE, INTERMEDIATE COAT SHALL APPLY WITH THE THICKNESS OF 200 MICRONS.
CLIENT
NOTE 2): THE FIRE PROOFING SURFACES MADE FROM CARBON STEEL SHALL BE PRIMED WITH 60 MICRON OF INORGANIC ZINC SILICATE AND OVER COATED WITH 2
PACK EPOXY TIE COAT IN 30 MICRONS.

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 December 2014 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
PAINT SYSTEM (CONT’D)
DFT
PAINT SYSTEM (DRY FILM THICKNESS)
TEMP. IN MICRON
SERVICE RANGE SURFACE INTERMEDIATE
PRIMER COAT FINISH COAT PC IC FC TOTAL
PREPRATION COAT

CRUDE OIL STORAGE TANKS

(INTERNAL PAINTING)

COAL TAR EPOXY COAL TAR EPOXY COAL TAR EPOXY

1) BOTTOM PLATES SA 2,1/2 150 150 150 450
IPS-M-TP-190 IPS-M-TP-190 IPS-M-TP-190

2) SHELL PLATES

COAL TAR EPOXY COAL TAR EPOXY COAL TAR EPOXY

2.1) BOTTOM COURSE SA 2, 1/2 150 150 150 450
IPS-M-TP-190 IPS-M-TP-190 IPS-M-TP-190

2.2) TOP COURSE (1500 mm)

COAL TAR EPOXY COAL TAR EPOXY COAL TAR EPOXY

I) FIXED ROOF TANKS SA 2, 1/2 150 150 150 450
IPS-M-TP-190 IPS-M-TP-190 IPS-M-TP-190
ZINC-RICH EPOXY TWO-PACK
II) FLOATING ROOF TANKS SA 2, 1/2 EPOXY POLYAMIDE POLYURETHANE 75 150 50 275
IPS-M-TP-205 IPS-M-TP-220 IPS-M-TP-235

2.3) REST OF SHELL SHOP PRIMED ONLY (NO TREATMENT AT SITE)

3) INSIDE ROOF
COAL TAR EPOXY COAL TAR EPOXY COAL TAR EPOXY
I) FIXED ROOF TANKS SA 2, 1/2 150 150 150 450
IPS-M-TP-190 IPS-M-TP-190 IPS-M-TP-190

II) FLOATING ROOF TANKS SHOP PRIMED ONLY (NO TREATMENT AT SITE)

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 December 2014 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
PAINT SYSTEM (CONT’D)

DFT
PAINT SYSTEM (DRY FILM THICKNESS)
TEMP. IN MICRON
SERVICE RANGE SURFACE INTERMEDIATE
PRIMER COAT FINISH COAT PC IC FC TOTAL
PREPRATION COAT

REFORMATE, HCG, OLEFIN

GASOLINE, REGULAR GASOLINE
(INTERNAL PAINTING)

EPOXY EPOXY EPOXY

1) BOTTOM PLATES SA 2,1/2 POLYAMIDE POLYAMIDE POLYAMIDE 100 100 100 300
IPS-M-TP-215 IPS-M-TP-220 IPS-M-TP-225

2) SHELL PLATES

EPOXY EPOXY EPOXY

2.1) BOTTOM COURSE SA 2, 1/2 POLYAMIDE POLYAMIDE POLYAMIDE 100 100 100 300
IPS-M-TP-215 IPS-M-TP-220 IPS-M-TP-225
2.2) TOP COURSE (1500 mm)

EPOXY EPOXY EPOXY

I) FIXED ROOF TANKS SA 2, 1/2 POLYAMIDE POLYAMIDE POLYAMIDE 100 100 100 300
IPS-M-TP-215 IPS-M-TP-220 IPS-M-TP-225
ZINC-RICH EPOXY TWO-PACK
II) FLOATING ROOF TANKS SA 2, 1/2 EPOXY POLYAMIDE POLYURETHANE 75 150 50 275
IPS-M-TP-205 IPS-M-TP-220 IPS-M-TP-235

2.3) REST OF SHELL SHOP PRIMED ONLY (NO TREATMENT AT SITE)

3) INSIDE ROOF
EPOXY EPOXY EPOXY
I) FIXED ROOF TANKS SA 2, 1/2 POLYAMIDE POLYAMIDE POLYAMIDE 100 100 100 300
IPS-M-TP-215 IPS-M-TP-220 IPS-M-TP-225
II) FLOATING ROOF TANKS SHOP PRIMED ONLY (NO TREATMENT AT SITE)

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 December 2014 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
PAINT SYSTEM (CONT’D)

DFT
PAINT SYSTEM (DRY FILM THICKNESS)
TEMP. IN MICRON
SERVICE RANGE SURFACE INTERMEDIATE
PRIMER COAT FINISH COAT PC IC FC TOTAL
PREPRATION COAT

CONDENSATE, NAPHTA, JET

FUEL, KEROSENE, DIESEL
(INTERNAL PAINTING)

PHENOLIC
1) BOTTOM PLATES SA 2,1/2 PHENOLIC EPOXY PHENOLIC EPOXY 150 150 150 450
EPOXY

2) SHELL PLATES

PHENOLIC
2.1) BOTTOM COURSE SA 2, 1/2 PHENOLIC EPOXY PHENOLIC EPOXY 150 150 150 450
EPOXY

2.2) TOP COURSE (1500 mm)

PHENOLIC
I) FIXED ROOF TANKS SA 2, 1/2 PHENOLIC EPOXY PHENOLIC EPOXY 150 150 150 450
EPOXY

ZINC-RICH EPOXY TWO-PACK

II) FLOATING ROOF TANKS SA 2, 1/2 EPOXY POLYAMIDE POLYURETHANE 75 150 50 275
IPS-M-TP-205 IPS-M-TP-220 IPS-M-TP-235

2.3) REST OF SHELL SHOP PRIMED ONLY (NO TREATMENT AT SITE)

3) INSIDE ROOF

I) FIXED ROOF TANKS SA 2, 1/2 PHENOLIC EPOXY PHENOLIC EPOXY PHENOLIC EPOXY 150 150 150 450

II) FLOATING ROOF TANKS SHOP PRIMED ONLY (NO TREATMENT AT SITE)

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 December 2014 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
PAINT SYSTEM (CONT’D)

DFT
PAINT SYSTEM (DRY FILM THICKNESS)
TEMP. IN MICRON
SERVICE RANGE SURFACE INTERMEDIATE
PRIMER COAT FINISH COAT PC IC FC TOTAL
PREPRATION COAT

INDUSTRIAL WATER TANK,

BALAST WATER, SLOPE &
DEMINERALLIZED WATER
(INTERNAL PAINTING)

COAL TAR EPOXY COAL TAR EPOXY

1) BOTTOM PLATES SA 2,1/2 150 150 300
IPS-M-TP-190 IPS-M-TP-190

COAL TAR EPOXY COAL TAR EPOXY

2) SHELL PLATES SA 2, 1/2 150 150 300
IPS-M-TP-190 IPS-M-TP-190

3) INSIDE ROOF COAL TAR EPOXY COAL TAR EPOXY

SA 2, 1/2 150 150 300
IPS-M-TP-190 IPS-M-TP-190

NOTE) INTERNAL SURFACE OF CARBON STEEL POTABLE WATER TANKS SHALL BE PRIMED BY RED OXIDE 2 PACK EPOXY IN 50 MICRONS AND TOP COATED BY 2 PACK
EPOXY (400 MICRONS) WHICH COMPLY THE REQUIRMENT OF BS 6920.

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 December 2014 NIOEC-SP-80-02(3)
PAINT SYSTEM (CONT’D)

DFT
PAINT SYSTEM (DRY FILM THICKNESS)
TEMP. IN MICRON
NON FERROUS MATERIAL
RANGE
SURFACE INTERMEDIATE
PRIMER COAT FINISH COAT PC IC FC TOTAL
PREPRATION COAT

CHEMICAL
NEW GALVANIZED ETCH/RINSE ACRYLIC
ZINC PHOSPHATE
STEEL STRUCTURE, AMBIENT WITH - MODIFIED 2 PACK 60 - 60 120
2 PACK EPOXY
HANDRAIL/LADDERS MORDANT POLYURETHANE
SOLUTION
ACRYLIC
STIFF BRISTLE ZINC PHOSPHATE
WEATHERED GALVANIZED AMBIENT - MODIFIED 2 PACK 60 - 60 120
BRUSHING EPOXY
POLYURETHANE
SWEEP RED OXIDE 2 LAMINAR ACRYLIC
UP TO
AUSTENITIC STAINLESS STEEL ABRASIVE PACK PIGMENTED MODIFIED 2 PACK 50 100 50 200
120ºC
BLAST POLYURETHANE 2 PACK EPOXY POLYURETHANE
SWEEP ALUMINUM
ALUMINUM AMBIENT ABRASIVE PIGMENTED HIGH - - 65 - - 65
BLAST BUILD EPOXY

CONCRETE , WOOD,
SHALL BE SPECIFIED BY MANUFACTURER AND APPROVED BY CLIENT
GLASS REINFORCED PLASTIC, etc

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APPENDIX B
PAINT COLOR SCHEDULE

B.1.1.This Appendix is prepared to define color coding, marking and identification of equipment,
piping, vessels and structural steel.

B.1.2.Colours and letters are used to identify the service of insulated and uninsulated piping and
equipments.
The style and extent of colour coding shall be according to the following.
For piping, lines shall be labeled by identification bands colour.
Bands shall be located on one side of each valve and every 50m. of pipe run.
All equipment shall be identified with labels, label shall consist of item number.

B.2.PREPARATION OF SURFACES

B.2.1.The color coding, marking and identification paint shall be applied to dry, clean, adequately
prepared surfaces, under favorable conditions, and in accordance with manufacturer’s
instructions.

B.2.2.Surfaces shall be free of oil, grease, dirt and other surface contaminants which would
otherwise be detrimental to the adhesion of the paint used for color coding and marking.

B.2.3.All surfaces to receive paint shall be thoroughly washed with solvent and wiped dry with
clean rags.

B.2.4.Bare and rusted steel shall be cleaned by hand or power wires brushing, grinding, chipping,
scraping or any combination of these methods in accordance with the steel structures painting
council specifications SSPC-SP-2 or SSPC-SP-3.

B.3.COLOUR CODING

B.3.1.Finish Colour
This requirement shall not apply to galvanized equipment or stainless steels, aluminium or
other non-ferrous metals.

B.3.1.1.Steel structures
Steel structures shall have the following colours:

- Main steel structures and piperacks Brown beige RAL 1011

- Piping supports Light beige RAL 1001

or Aluminium RAL 9006

- Handrails (excluding toe plate and midrail) Black RAL 9005

-Handrails (toe plate and midrail) Orange RAL 2003

- Stair way (excluding toe plate and midrail) Black RAL 9005

- Stair way (toe plate and midrail) Orange RAL 2003

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- Safety gates Orange RAL 2003

- Platforms lower edges and toe plates,

midrails and safety platforms Orange RAL 2003

- Upper ladders and round platforms and top rails Black RAL 9005

NOTE: Structural steel, platform ladders, handrail etc. including pipe supports shall be
color finished in accordance with the reference drawings attached to this
Appendix.

B.3.1.2.Various equipment
Vessel and similar equipment shall have the following colours:

- Vessels up to 148ºC Light ivory RAL 1015

- Vessels over 148ºC Aluminium RAL 9006

- Exchangers and air cooler header boxed

up to 148ºC White RAL 9010

- Exchangers and air cooler header boxes

over 148ºC Aluminium RAL 9006

- Tanks: (Conform to Employer)

AV-gas,MO-gas,Naphta,Pentane White RAL 9010
Kerosene White RAL 9010
Gas oil Light ivory RAL 1015
Diesel Light ivory RAL 1015
Fuel oil,Crude oil Brown beige RAL 1011
Water Aluminium RAL 9006

- Ducts Aluminium RAL 9006

- Furnaces/boiler
W.H. boiler radiant and convection Aluminium RAL 9006

- Steam turbine generator Manufacturer standard

- Gas turbine generator Manufacturer standard

- Ejectors Same as piping

- Flame arrestors Same as piping

- Forced draft fans Manufacturer standard

- Cooling tower fans Manufacturer standard

- Mono rail/hoist Same as crane

- Strainers Same as piping

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- Silencers Same as equipment

- Tank mixers Manufacturer standard

B.3.1.3.Machinery
Machinery shall have the following colours:
- Pumps, compressors and drivers Manufacturer standard

B.3.1.4.Electrical & Instrument Equipment

- Conduit and Fittings Manufacturer standard

- Switches, starters, etc. Manufacturer standard

- Fuse boxes, electric distribution boards,

motor switches, electric cable metallic joints Blue RAL 5010

- Control panels Manufacturer standard

B.3.1.5.Piping
Piping shall have the following colours:

- Piping up to 120ºC Light ivory RAL 1015

- Piping over 120ºC Aluminium RAL 9006

- Firewater, Foam line Red RAL 3000

-Dangerous, chemicals and gases Yellow RAL 1006

(e.g. Caustic soda, H2SO4)

B.4.Marking by Lettering and colour Bands

B.4.1.The paint shall be applied in adequate coats to readily identify the applicable color.

B.4.1.1. To alleviates color bleed through when using primary and secondary color striping, it may
be necessary to use templates in applying each color. Templates should be designed in
such a manner that one color will not be applied over another color.

B.4.1.2.Piping spools shall be color coded as follows:

A 6” wide color band shall be applied around the circumference of the pipe. The color band
shall be a solid primary color or primary color with secondary color as designated in the
following schedule. Unless otherwise agreed, colour bands shall be arranged at significant
points for plant operation (e.g. where pipes start and end or at branches or at valves).

- Finish colour: see B.3.1.5 colours

- Primary colour: Band, 150 mm wide

- Process piping White RAL 9010

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- Service piping Green RAL 6010

- Secondary colour: Band, 50 mm wide

- Liquid Hydrocarbons DK Brown RAL 8014

- Gaseous Hydrocarbons DK Beige RAL 1011

- Hydrogen Orange RAL 2003

- Asphalt Black RAL 9005

- Amine Yellow RAL 1006

- Sulphur Green RAL 6010

- Caustic and acid -- --

- Inert gas and air Orange RAL 2003

- Steam White RAL 9010

- Water DK Brown RAL 8014

- Drinking water Blue RAL 5010

B.4.1.3. Equipment shall be additionally marked with lettering (e.g. vessel No.). Style and extent of
these markings are indicated here below.
Lettering for equipment shall be placed once on each item of equipment at a clearly
visible location. The letters should have the following height:

- for equipment with dimensions of ≤ 1 m to 5 m : 80 mm

- for equipment with dimensions of > 5 m to 15 m : 300 mm

- for equipment with dimensions of > 15 m to 50 m : 600 mm

- for equipment with dimensions of > 50 : 900 mm

The blank space between the letters should be 10% of the letter height. The type of
letters shall be determined on size. The color of letters shall be blank color RAL 9005.

Lettering for tanks shall be placed at a height of approx 4/5 of the shell height.
Lettering for horizontal vessels and spherical vessels, shall be placed at the height of
the centerline.

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B.5.IDENTIFICATION COLORS DETAILS

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