Revitalizing Dublin Port’s Infrastructure

Galco recently completed a comprehensive restoration project at Dublin Port, which involved the removal and refurbishment of old ladders. This project was carried out on behalf of one of our clients – Murphy International.

The refurbishment process was meticulously planned and executed, beginning with the removal of the old ladders.

The initial phase involved thoroughly cleaning the ladders to remove all contaminants, preparing them for the subsequent treatments.

Following the cleaning, an acid strip process was employed to remove any old paint and rust, ensuring that the surface was perfectly prepared for galvanizing.

Re-Galvanizing For The Future

The core of the restoration process, re-galvanizing, involved dipping the cleaned ladders into a molten zinc bath. This method, known as hot-dip galvanizing, is renowned for its ability to provide superior corrosion protection, significantly extending the lifespan of the metal structures.

The final step involved applying advanced protective coatings to further enhance the durability and resistance of the ladders against harsh environmental conditions.

The specification provided by Murphy International  was the following:

• Hempadur Multi-Strength 45703, 350μm: A self-priming, two-component, high-build, aluminium pigmented pure epoxy paint. This product is known for its abrasion and corrosion-resistant properties, making it an ideal primer for systems exposed to immersion and splash-zone service.
• Hempathane HS 55610, 50μm: As the topcoat, this high-build finishing coat is designed for the protection of structural steel in severely corrosive environments. Its robust formulation ensures long-lasting protection and durability.

Benefits of Duplex System

The combination of hot dip galvanizing with the Hempadur paint system provides a multitude of benefits, including:

• Enhanced Durability: The galvanized coating acts as a sacrificial layer, protecting the steel from corrosion, while the advanced paint system adds another layer of protection against chemical, mechanical, and UV damage.
• Long-Term Cost Efficiency: This dual protection system significantly extends the maintenance-free life of the structures, reducing long-term costs associated with repairs and replacements.
• Environmental Responsibility: Galco’s selection of coatings emphasizes sustainability. The hot dip galvanizing process is environmentally friendly, producing minimal waste and emissions. The chosen paints are formulated to minimize environmental impact, ensuring compliance with strict environmental regulations.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Beyond functionality, the final finish provided by the Hempathane HS 55610 topcoat offers a visually appealing aesthetic, ensuring that the structures not only perform well but also contribute to the visual landscape of the area.

The Dublin Port ladder restoration project stands as a testament to Galco’s expertise in delivering high-quality paint services, tailored to meet the rigorous demands of maritime infrastructure.

Through meticulous preparation, the strategic use of hot dip galvanizing, and the application of advanced protective coatings, Galco has significantly enhanced the longevity and performance of the port’s ladders.