IMO PSPC Coatings Testing of Seawater Ballast Tanks and Cargo Oil Tank

Element offers two specialized tests that replicate the demanding environments your coatings must withstand. The Wave Tank Test simulates dynamic maritime conditions for ballast tanks, while our COT test reproduces the harsh chemical exposure within cargo oil tanks. Both tests are conducted according to strict IMO regulations to provide definitive validation of your coating system's performance.

• Wave Tank Test (IMO Resolution MSC.215) 

• Cargo Oil Tank test (IMO Resolution MSC.288) 

• Six-month extended duration testing 

• Temperature variation simulation 

• Cathodic protection assessment

Seawater Ballast Tank Test 
The wave tank test simulates a ship’s journey from port to port, replicating real-world conditions. The tank moves to create wave effects on the vessel and its coating system. It also simulates temperature fluctuations and includes the attachment of a zinc anode to mimic cathodic protection, just as it would on a ship. This test runs for six months. 

Cargo Oil Tank (COT) Test 
The COT test replicates the conditions inside a crude oil tank, exposing the coating to IMO crude oil and gas mixtures through immersion. Choosing the right coating system is essential for protecting sea vessels, ensuring the safety of maritime personnel, and maximizing the coating’s lifespan. 

Our specialized facilities test a comprehensive range of protective coating systems specifically designed for maritime applications. We evaluate paint and coating systems for seawater ballast tanks and cargo oil tanks under simulated real-world conditions. Our testing examines how your coating materials perform under wave action, temperature fluctuations, and exposure to crude oil and gas mixtures.

• Paint systems for seawater environments 

• Protective coatings for cargo oil tanks 

• Zinc anodes for cathodic protection 

• Coating systems designed for maritime vessels 

• Crude oil-resistant materials 

Our testing methodology precisely replicates the conditions your coatings will face in service. For ballast tanks, we simulate wave motion, temperature fluctuations, and cathodic protection effects over a comprehensive six-month period. For cargo tanks, we reproduce exposure to IMO crude and gas mixtures to validate performance. This real-world approach delivers reliable results you can trust.

• Ship motion simulation with wave effects 

• Temperature cycling to replicate port changes 

• Cathodic protection simulation 

• Crude oil and gas mixture exposure 
• Extended duration testing for reliable results 

Our purpose-built wave tank facility creates authentic maritime conditions to thoroughly evaluate your coating systems. The specialized equipment generates wave motion effects while precisely controlling temperature variables. For COT testing, our advanced systems safely manage crude oil and gas mixtures to accurately reproduce cargo tank environments, delivering consistently reliable results.

• Specialized wave tank simulation equipment 

• Temperature control systems 

• Cathodic protection simulation apparatus 

• Crude oil and gas mixture testing chambers 

• Long-term performance monitoring systems