Protective Coating Reinstatement Works for Bulk Fuel Storage Infrastructure
Tankline recently completed protective coating reinstatement works to a series of bulk fuel storage tanks located within the Outer Hebrides, Scotland.
Working in remote locations across the Scottish islands is always slightly different from mainland industrial projects. Between long ferry crossings, rapidly changing weather conditions, and avoiding more sheep than traffic on the roads, the project certainly provided a unique working environment for the team.
Despite the remote location, the works required the same high standards of industrial surface preparation, corrosion protection, and protective coating application expected on critical fuel storage infrastructure throughout the UK.
Scope of Works
The project involved the refurbishment and protective coating reinstatement of existing bulk fuel storage tanks following inspection and NDT testing.
Works included:
- Localised coating removal and preparation
- Surface preparation to ST2/ST3 standards
- Hand and power tool cleaning
- Application of corrosion protection coatings
- High-build epoxy intermediate coats
- Polyurethane topcoat application
- Full roof refurbishment
- Installation of anti-slip safety banding
Tank Inspection and Preparation
Prior to coating works commencing, the tanks had undergone NDT inspection to identify areas requiring remedial attention and coating reinstatement.
Due to the operational nature of the site and localised repair requirements, preparation works were completed using hand and mechanical power tools to achieve ST2/ST3 surface preparation standards.
All prepared areas were cleaned and inspected prior to coating application to ensure suitable surface condition and coating adhesion.
Where appropriate, Tankline also carries out abrasive blast cleaning and other specialist industrial surface preparation services for large-scale coating refurbishment projects.
Protective Coating System Application
Following preparation, the repaired areas were coated using a multi-layer protective coating system designed for long-term atmospheric corrosion protection within harsh coastal environments.
Primer Coat
Application of Interseal 670HS Aluminium by hand application to provide enhanced corrosion resistance and additional barrier protection.
Intermediate Coat
A secondary high-build coat of Interseal 670HS was subsequently applied to achieve the required coating build and long-term durability.
Topcoat Finish
The prepared areas were then finished using Interthane 870 polyurethane topcoat to provide UV resistance, colour retention, and long-term weather protection.
Roof Refurbishment and Anti-Slip Installation
The tank roof areas were found to be in particularly poor condition due to prolonged exposure to severe coastal weather conditions commonly experienced within the Outer Hebrides.
These areas underwent extensive refurbishment works including:
- Localised repairs and preparation
- Multi-colour coating reinstatement
- High-build protective coatings
- Installation of new anti-slip safety banding to designated walkways
The completed roof refurbishment significantly improved both the appearance and long-term protection of the tanks while enhancing operator safety during inspection and maintenance activities.
Challenges of Working in the Outer Hebrides
Industrial coating projects within the Outer Hebrides always present unique logistical challenges.
With ferry crossings, unpredictable Atlantic weather, remote fuel infrastructure, and roads often occupied by wandering sheep rather than vehicles, careful planning was essential throughout the project.
However, these remote environments also highlight the importance of durable protective coating systems capable of withstanding aggressive coastal exposure and harsh Scottish weather conditions year-round.
Completed Result
The completed coating reinstatement works successfully restored corrosion protection to the bulk fuel tanks while extending the operational lifespan of the assets.
Tankline specialises in industrial tank refurbishment and protective coating systems throughout Scotland and the UK, including remote and challenging environments such as the Isle of Man and other coastal infrastructure locations.
View more industrial tank coating case studies or contact Tankline via our contact page.
