Shop and field coating each have advantages. The right approach depends on asset mobility, size, operating constraints, transport, access and the degree of environmental control the specification requires.
Advantages of Shop Work
An enclosed facility can improve control of preparation, ventilation, lighting and application conditions. It may also simplify containment and allow work to continue through some weather changes.
Advantages of Field Work
Field application avoids transporting fixed or oversized assets and allows work to integrate with outages, erection or maintenance activities. It requires careful planning for access, containment, weather and nearby operations.
Consider Handling Damage
Shop-coated components may need touch-up after loading, securement, transport and installation. Lift points, dunnage and sequencing should be discussed before coating.
Use a Hybrid Plan
Many projects benefit from shop preparation and coating followed by field repairs, connection coating and final inspection. Responsibilities and acceptance criteria should be written into the scope.
Plan the Work Around the Asset
Coating recommendations should be confirmed against the substrate, exposure, owner specification, product data sheets and actual site conditions. A field assessment is the correct starting point.
