Coatings Specialist
Saltwater corrosion, cavitation, and bimetallic galvanic action are relentless forces in the maritime industry. Discover how advanced polymer coatings, such as Belzona, can restore worn machinery surfaces, seal micro-cracks, and provide long-lasting, heavy-duty protection against the harsh elements.
The Threat of Marine Corrosion
Unprotected metal operating in seawater acts as a battery. Electrons flow from the anode (the weaker metal) to the cathode (the stronger metal), causing the rapid deterioration of critical components like propeller shafts, rudder pintles, ship hulls, and heat exchanger tube sheets.
Beyond Paint: Advanced Polymer Systems
Traditional marine paint only provides a thin barrier. When dealing with fluid flow equipment (like pumps and bow thrusters), the sheer velocity of the water causes cavitation—the rapid formation and collapse of vapor bubbles that literally tear chunks of metal away.
To combat this, Leon International utilizes advanced composite polymers (such as Belzona applications) which offer:
- Exceptional Adhesion: Bonding at a molecular level to steel, bronze, and aluminum.
- Erosion/Corrosion Resistance: Formulated with ceramic particles to withstand extreme fluid abrasion.
- Cold Curing: These polymers cure at ambient temperatures, eliminating the need for hot work (welding) which can distort sensitive, accurately machined surfaces.
Key Application Areas
Protective coatings provide the ultimate ROI when applied to:
- Pumps & Impellers: Regaining lost efficiency by smoothing out pitted surfaces and reducing hydraulic turbulence.
- Heat Exchangers / Condensers: Protecting the delicate tube sheets from galvanic corrosion where copper tubes meet steel bodies.
- Propellers & Kort Nozzles: Protecting against severe cavitation damage created by rapidly spinning blades.
"A $5,000 polymer coating application on a main cooling water pump can easily save a vessel from a $50,000 replacement bill down the line."
Leon International's surface treatment specialists are factory-trained in surface preparation (grit blasting) and precise application of specialized industrial coatings, ensuring your equipment achieves its maximum possible lifespan.
