Stepping up to the challenge

By APF Polymer Surfaces. 

Solving contamination and safety issues at a Marine Corps Logistics Base with the correct coating. 

APF Polymer Surfaces got the chance to help support those that are keeping us safe when a project for the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany, Georgia, needed a helping hand. The main challenge was their vehicle maintenance bay which has been put to good use over the years, leaving it with a patchwork mixture of old and newer coatings. Because of the lack of complete and consistent coverage, the slab that is the bay’s floor had become contaminated with oil. There were also spalled joints in some parts of the floor from years of heavy use. On top of all of that, the area as a  whole was dark and visibility was limited, making it difficult for those working on vehicles and equipment. The shop manager was highly concerned about safety and maintenance and subsequently got in contact with a contractor to help them out! 

The contractor 

Option 1 Logistics, a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), provides a variety of services for government agencies, including project management for floor coatings installation, HVAC, electrical, plumbing and more. Option 1 called upon APF to suggest a flooring system to meet the facility’s needs. APF met with the building owners to discuss their issues, needs and expectations and survey the condition of the floors. 

The solution 

APF recommended the following flooring system to address oil contamination and create a safe floor: 

• Oil stop primer — Oil stop primer is a 100% solids, low viscosity resin designed to prime concrete that has been contaminated by hydrocarbons, such as motor oil, solvents, cutting oils and hydraulics fluids. 
• Epoxy 400 — Epoxy 400 is a 100% solids, low viscosity resin system used in a variety of flooring applications. It cures blush-free and provides outstanding strength, flexibility and chemical resistance. 
• Polyurethane 325 — Polyurethane 325 is a three-component, high solids aliphatic moisture urethane that features flexible, impact-resistant films. It is ideal for high traffic areas like automotive facilities and aircraft hangars and offers superior cleanability.  

The installation 

Option 1 was able to complete the project in two phases, effectively installing a safe, durable floor that fit the facility’s needs and budget. APF educated the facility owners on proper daily and weekly maintenance to extend the life of the floor. 

The facility owners were impressed with the outcome of the floor and have asked APF to make recommendations for flooring systems in other areas of the base. 

Original article source: APF Polymer Surfaces