Aluminum Boats and Bottom Paint
- By YACHT Solutions
Aluminum Boats and Bottom Paint
Why aluminum hulls and conventional toxic paints containing heavy metals don’t work well together:
Multiple coats of epoxy barrier paint are often used to protect aluminum hulls from copper based antifouling paint. This creates a protective layer that helps prevent electrolysis. However, epoxy coatings are heavy. As a result, they can add noticeable weight and reduce overall performance.
An alternative solution is SEA SPEED V 10 X ULTRA. This coating system was developed and tested over seven years. In fact, it has been used by demanding operators such as U.S. Navy SEAL teams. As a result, it delivers strong performance, durability, and a lifecycle of up to ten years.
SEA SPEED uses a silane siloxane coating that does not contain heavy metals such as copper or zinc. Because of this, it eliminates the risk of electrolysis. In addition, the coating is non permeable to water and gases, which helps prevent oxidation and maintain a clean finish.
Another advantage is its versatility. The coating performs well on boats that are regularly taken in and out of the water or stored on trailers. Unlike traditional coatings, its effectiveness does not change during wet and dry cycles.
Smooth and Slick Anti-Fouling Bottom Paint
The coating creates an extremely smooth surface, with less than one micron of roughness. As a result, performance improves, requiring less power and fuel while also supporting higher top speeds. In addition, the surface is easy to maintain, either through regular use or a quick wipe down.
Application is simple and flexible. It can be applied as a spray on or roll on coating, either directly to blasted aluminum or over an epoxy barrier. SEA SPEED V 10 X ULTRA is available in clear, ultra white, or USN black. Alternatively, the clear option can be applied over SEAPOXY 73, which is available in eight different colours. However, hulls that have been disc sanded will still require an epoxy barrier.
From a cost perspective, the coating offers strong long term value. At approximately $2.10 per square foot for materials, it provides protection that can last up to ten years. As a result, it is an efficient and cost effective solution for aluminum hull protection.
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