Citation
Bean, J. (2001), "Paint detects hot spots", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 30 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/prt.2001.12930aaa.004
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2001, MCB UP Limited
Paint detects hot spots
Paint detects hot spots
A special heat-reactive paint has been developed which provides a visual indication of hot spots on high temperature pipework and process plant. After applying a single coat of this thermal paint, most parts of a high temperature process installation are transformed into what its manufacturer describes as "a real time thermal mapping system".
Applications such as refractory lined steel pipe for liquid ammonia benefit from the ability of thermal paint to change colour at a chosen temperature. With this example, the paint selected would change colour above the normal running temperature of 180°C, which could signify the beginning of a break-down of the protective lining of the pipe.
The thermal paint is made by the TMC Group, based on Deeside, Cheshire, whose expertise has helped process plant managers develop effective procedures for both visual routine inspection and remote monitoring. For example, thermal paints, combined with the use of CCTV cameras, can help to minimise reaction time for remedial action on inaccessible parts of large process networks.
John Bean