Ballastic Epoxy

SML Ballastic Epoxy Overview

Developed by SML Paints, Ballastic Epoxy is a high-performance, two-component epoxy coating specifically formulated for hull blacking applications. Designed to provide exceptional corrosion resistance and durability, it offers long-term protection for steel hulls, making it ideal for vessels operating in harsh marine environments. When applied by brush or roller over correctly prepared surfaces with a minimum of three coats, Ballastic Epoxy can deliver protection exceeding ten years with minimal maintenance.

Key Product Features

• High Volume Solids - Ensures a robust and durable coating with fewer applications.
• Excellent Corrosion Protection - Provides superior defence against rust and environmental degradation.
• Extended Durability - Offers long-lasting protection, reducing the frequency of maintenance cycles.
• Black Colour - Provides a traditional and aesthetically pleasing finish for hulls.

Suitable Uses and Applications

Ballastic Epoxy can be used on bare steel and prepared existing coatings and is suitable for the following applications

• Marine Vessels - Ideal for narrowboats, canal boats, and other steel-hulled vessels requiring durable hull protection.
• Maintenance and Repair - Suitable for overcoating existing bitumen paints provided they are well rubbed back to a firm surface, facilitating straightforward maintenance procedures.

Basic Application Guide for Ballastic Epoxy

For more information on applying SML Ballastic Epoxy, please see our detailed application guide here

Step 1 - Surface Preparation

• Ensure surfaces are clean, dry, and free from contaminants such as oil, grease, and loose material.
• Remove loose rust and previous coatings through appropriate mechanical methods.
• Existing single pack paint systems should be rubbed back as close to bare metal as possible to avoid cracking
• Abrasive blasting to Sa 2.5 is recommended for optimal results.

Step 2 - Mixing

• Combine the base and curing agent components thoroughly in the correct mix ratio in accordance with the application guide
• Mix only the amount that can be used within the product's pot life to avoid waste.

Step 3 – Thinning

• If thinning is required when spraying, Shield Epoxy Thinners is a suitable agent

Step 3 - Application Methods

• Temperature - Apply when ambient and surface temperatures are between 10°C and 30°C.
• Humidity - Ensure relative humidity is below 85% to promote proper curing.
• Brush, roller or airless Spray can be used

Step 4 - Drying and Recoating

• Touch Dry - Approximately 4 hours at 23°C.
• Recoating Interval - 24 hours at 23°C.
• Full Cure - Achieved after 7 days at 23°C.

Step 5 - Cleanup

• Clean tools and equipment immediately after use with Jotun Thinner No. 17 or SML Epoxy Thinner to prevent hardening.

SML Ballastic Epoxy Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

The FAQ's below are for general guidance only.  For specific questions, please refer to the application guides and data sheets on our product pages, or give us call and we will answer any questions that you have.

Q. What substrates can Ballastic Epoxy be applied to?
A. Ballastic Epoxy is designed for application to steel hulls. It provides a long-lasting, durable protective barrier against corrosion and water exposure.

Q. Is a separate primer necessary before applying Ballastic Epoxy?
A. No, Ballastic Epoxy is a primer.

Q. How long does Ballastic Epoxy take to dry?
A. At 23°C, Ballastic Epoxy becomes touch dry in approximately 4 hours, allowing for efficient project turnaround. The drying process may take longer in colder temperatures or high-humidity conditions.

Q. Can Ballastic Epoxy be applied over existing bitumen paint?
A. Yes, provided it is well rubbed back.  Applying Ballastic Epoxy over a thick coating  of an existing single pack bitumen paint is liable to result in cracking.  For good results the existing coating should be as thin as possible.

Q. What application methods are suitable for Ballastic Epoxy?
A. Ballastic Epoxy can be applied using brush, roller, or airless spray, providing flexibility for different project scales.

Q. How should the surface be prepared before application?
A. Surfaces should be clean, dry, and free from oil, grease, and contaminants. Loose rust and coatings should be removed by mechanical methods, with abrasive blasting to Sa 2½ recommended for optimal adhesion.

Q. Is thinning required for Ballastic Epoxy?
A. Thinning is not typically required. In cold conditions it is better to warm the paint to room temperature prior to application.  Jotun Thinner No. 17 or SML Epoxy Thinner may be used up to 10% ensuring compliance with local VOC regulations.

Q. What is the coverage rate of Ballastic Epoxy?
A. Ballastic Epoxy provides coverage of approximately 7 square meters per litre at the recommended dry film thickness (DFT) when applied by brush or roller. Coverage may vary depending on surface roughness and porosity.

Q. Can Ballastic Epoxy be used for immersion service?
A. Yes, Ballastic Epoxy is designed for continuous water immersion, making it an ideal long-term protective solution for steel hulls. It provides superior corrosion resistance and durability in marine environments.

Q. How should tools and equipment be cleaned after use?
A. All tools should be cleaned immediately after use using Jotun Thinner No. 17 or SML Epoxy Thinner. If left to dry, the epoxy coating will harden, making cleanup more difficult.

Q. How long should I wait before launching my boat after applying Ballastic Epoxy?
A. Ballastic Epoxy requires a minimum of 3 days at 23°C to cure before the vessel is launched. Lower temperatures may extend this curing time.

Q. How many coats of Ballastic Epoxy should be applied?
A. A minimum of three coats by brush or roller is recommended to achieve optimal protection. Optimal protection can be achieved in 2 coats when applied by airless spray.  Each coat should be applied at the specified dry film thickness (DFT) for maximum performance and longevity.

Q. Is Ballastic Epoxy resistant to chemicals and fuels?
A. Yes, Ballastic Epoxy offers moderate resistance to chemicals, fuels, and oils. However, for areas with high chemical exposure, a dedicated chemical-resistant topcoat may be required.

Q. Can Ballastic Epoxy be applied in cold weather?
A. Application should be avoided at temperatures below 10°C, as cold weather can slow down curing and affect adhesion. If applying in colder conditions, ensure proper ventilation and drying times.

Q. Does Ballastic Epoxy require a topcoat?
A. Ballastic Epoxy is designed as a standalone system for hull blacking. However, if additional UV resistance or colour customisation is required, a compatible topcoat can be applied such as SML Silicone Alkyd or Polyurethane.