Industrial Project Climate Control Ensures Paint Protection for Wisconsin Industrial Tank Project

Wisconsin – An industrial painting company undertaking the first phase of an interior tank painting project enlisted REIC Specialty to manage climate control. With a diameter exceeding 200 feet and a floating ceiling, the tank required surface blasting and steel preparation ahead of the industrial paint application in phase two.

Unpredictable Midwest Weather Challenges

Conducting the project during the fall in the Midwest presented significant weather challenges. Temperatures fluctuated drastically, ranging from near-freezing at night to highs of 70°F during the day. This inconsistency created risks of flash rusting and damage to the exposed steel, which could jeopardize the entire project. REIC Specialty was tasked with maintaining stable interior conditions throughout the surface preparation phase to mitigate these risks.

Integrated Heating and Dehumidification Solutions

REIC Specialty deployed a combination of heating and dehumidification equipment to ensure the steel was protected and stable. Two 60kW in-line heaters were paired with 5,000-CFM dehumidifiers, working in tandem to maintain consistent steel temperatures and a controlled dew point within the tank.

Maintaining Critical Conditions for Surface Preparation

As the industrial painters blasted and cleaned the tank’s interior, the system delivered a steady flow of warm, dry air, effectively safeguarding the steel against potential rust and damage. This consistency in temperature and humidity was vital, especially given the unpredictable shifts in weather throughout the day and night. Maintaining a stable environment during surface preparation is an insurance policy, ensuring the steel remains in optimal condition for painting. The rental heating and dehumidification system was operational for six weeks, providing continuous protection and climate control throughout the critical surface preparation phase.