Blakes ( Hempel) Paints And Antifoul Click To View
| Blakes (Hempel) Paints Antifoulings | ||||||
 |
||||||
|
There continues to be many changes in the technology used to stop the growth of the three main types of fouling ( slime, weed and barnacles ) onto hulls and to prevent the damage caused by burrowing organisms on immersed wooden structures. Small marine organisms attach themselves to the surface and develop into slim, crustacea and weed, all of which can be extremely difficult to remove.
Erodible The most widely used antifoulings at present are the erodible (self polishing) products. By adjusting the nature of the resin systems used it is possible to modify the characteristics and the polishing rate of the antifouling. The resin system is packed with active ingredients (added to repel/discourage fouling growth), which once immersed break down in a controlled manner, continually exposing a fresh layer of biocide to the water. In this way they provide consistently good performance throughout the sailing season and reduce the unwanted build up of spent antifouling on the hull. The new generations of erodible antifoulings are faster polishing that their predecessors, this gives you the advantage of not having the build up of many layers of old product and gives a more efficient antifouling. Traditional/soft Traditional/soft antifoulings are based on long established technology. Their simple resin formulation means the active ingredients are dispersed along with the binder, offering good protection at an economical price. Traditional antifoulings should not be sanded and should not be overcoating with hard or erodible antifoulings, unless a sealer coat is used, such as Underwater Primer. This type of antifouling needs to be immersed shortly after application - always check immersion times. Hard Hard antifoulings work on a principle known as contact leaching. The resin of a hard antifouling has a high proportion of insoluble resin which does not allow it to erode. The resin is packed with active ingredients so that each particle is in direct contact with its neighbour and as each particle is dissolved by the water the particle immediately behind it is exposed. Due to the hard nature of the antifouling it is resistant to abrasion which makes it ideal for high speed power boats, vessels which are mud berthed and racing yachts where, if required, a smooth hull can be achieved by burnishing the antifouling with wet abrasive paper prior to the boat's launch. Fouling grows faster in sunlight and is therefore first seen on the waterline and the rudder. Dirt and pollution in the water surface can close the active material in the antifouling. It is therefore recommended to apply extra layers of antifouling on the rudder and the waterline to make these areas resistant to frequent washing. |
Products
