AS/NZS 2312:2002

Provides guidelines for the selection and specification of coating systems for the short, medium and long term protection of structural steel work against interior and exterior atmospheric, and non-atmospheric corrosive environments. The following aspects are covered in detail: Atmopspheric environments, planning and design, surface preparation treatments, metallic and paint coatings, maintenance of coating systems, inspection and testing, and preparation of coating specifications. Contains comprehensive details of modern paint systems, including properties and typical applications.

This Standard provides guidelines for the selection and specification of coating systems for the protection of structural steel work against interior and exterior atmospheric environments. The Standard specifically covers the following subjects: (a) Guidance on the use of the Standard. (b) Classification of atmospheric and non-atmospheric environments. (c) Planning and design for corrosion protection.(d) Surface preparation treatments. (e) Metallic coatings. (f) Paint coating systems and methods of paint application. (g) Factors influencing coating selection. (h) Powder coatings and wrapping tapes for corrosion protection. (i) Maintenance of protective coating systems. (j) Inspection and testing. (k) Guidance on the preparation of coating specifications. (l) Health and safety requirements. (m) Economics of corrosion protection. This Standard covers the protection of structural steel work against interior and exterior atmospheric corrosion and also the protection of items of equipment manufactured from steel which are exposed to exterior atmospheric conditions. The Standard also covers, to a limited extent, the protection of steel work which is completely immersed in water or buried in soil, or which is subject to atmospheres severely contaminated with acidic or other chemical vapours such as may be encountered in some chemical manufacturing plants, and also the protection of ships. The systems recommended in this Standard can also be used on internal structures where wet or damp areas exist. It is necessary to understand that the systems recommended have been selected for guidance only and that life expectancy to first major maintenance is an estimate only. In practice, some minor maintenance may be required. Because particular coating formulations and micro-climates vary, the user of this Standard is advised to confirm with the manufacturer or supplier, that the selected system is suitable for the task and can be reasonably expected to protect the steel for a specified time.

First published as part of MA 1.5-1967.
Revised and redesignated in part as AS 2312-1980.
Second edition 1984.
Jointly revised and designated as AS/NZS 2312:1994.
Fourth edition 2002.