Fifteen fuel main transmission vaults at O’Hare Airport were experiencing significant corrosion on all existing piping as a result of aged coatings and exposure to the elements. Specialty coating reapplication was necessary to protect the functionality and extend the lifespan of the piping system.
The crew at N.A. Logan sandblasted all piping to a near white metal blast using crushed glass abrasive for a “greener” alternative to coal slag but as effective of a profile. All work was conducted overnight during the winter months on airport premises—requiring the team to have security clearance and authorization to access the job site. The crew used a variation of the specified coating system for a product that was rated for cold weather application. Two coats of the epoxy urethane system were used, an epoxy prime coat followed by a urethane finish coat. This job also required confined space certification and involved having one worker stand outside the vault who was dedicated to monitoring the safety and air quality inside.
Even with the overnight winter conditions and the confined space application, N.A. Logan ensured the piping was cleaned and coated with the highest standard of quality.
