What Does
Cargo Hold Coating Mean?
A cargo hold coating is a legislation-compliant coating used in aircraft, ships, trains and other types of cargo carriers. Cargo hold coatings are formulated to withstand the various forms of impact, abrasion, corrosion and mechanical damage from all activities and other operational demands related to the efficient and fast-moving loading/unloading of cargo.
Legislation compliance requires certification from approving authorities like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other government agencies.
Corrosionpedia Explains Cargo Hold Coating
Cargo hold coatings are applied for their aesthetic and protective functions. Generally, the choice of coating is more dependent on protective than aesthetic considerations.
Cargo hold coatings can make the area presentable to inspectors and customers, but their more important role is to protect the cargo hold from physical damage, corrosion and other causes of deterioration without any harm or negative effects on the cargo.
There are two major cargo categories: packaged in crates and other containers, or unpackaged as in the case of bulk cargo. In addition to the wide variety of cargoes, the choice of the type of coating will also depend on the cargo carrier (ship, airplane, train or truck ), travel route and other special requirements. Generally, however, a cargo hold coating should meet the following requirements:
- Resistance to adverse environmental conditions as well as abrasion and other physical impact caused by loading/unloading methods, cargo hardness, weight and sharp edges.
- Resistance to corrosion and other deterioration problems from exposure to explosives, acids, bases, radioactive materials, flammable materials and other dangerous cargo.
- Certified to be compliant with regulatory requirements for cargo as well as the safety of carrier personnel. This is usually required for food-grade cargo like grains.
- Can be used in a wide range of environmental conditions (high or low temperatures, high humidity) the whole year round.
- Easy to clean so that it will not delay the loading of the next batch of cargo.
Other important factors that will help ensure effective and long-lasting cargo hold coatings are proper surface preparation and coating hardening or curing.