As an independent testing facility accredited for IMO PSPC, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and Performance Standards for Protective Coatings (PSPC) test protocols, Element provides testing solutions to ensure your protective coatings meet mandatory regulations for ballast water tanks and cargo oil tanks.
The IMO sets out two regulations, which are IMO Resolution MSC.215 (82) for paint and coating systems and Seawater Ballast Tanks known as the Wave Tank Test and IMO Resolution MSC.288 (87) for Cargo Oil Tanks known as a COT test.
Seawater Ballast Tank test
The wave tank test is designed to mimic a ship as it sails from port to port. The tank is designed to move to produce the effect of waves on the ship and the coatings system. Temperature changes are demonstrated as is the attachment of zinc anode to simulate cathodic protection as would be seen on the ship. The test is carried out for six months.
Cargo Oil Tank test
The COT test mimics the exposure of the coating to the inside of a crude oil tank, and so includes immersion in IMO crude and gas mixture.
The effective selection of the coating system protects sea vessels, enhances the safety of the maritime personnel, and ensures the coating systems reach their target life span.
The Element advantage
Element is accredited independently by Lloyd’s Register to perform both wave tank tests and COT tests to IMO PSPC regulations. For more information on how we can help you to adhere to the IMO PSPC requirements, please contact our experts today.
Find out how we have helped our customers with their requirements in our Subsea7 Case Study.
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