Understanding NACE Coating Inspection and Its Importance  

Asset protection is paramount for industries such as energy, marine, oil and gas, infrastructure, and mining. Protective coatings are lifesavers for these and many other industries. However, while applying industrial coatings, it is essential to ensure that the coating system is applied properly so that it performs well over time. This is where NACE Coating Inspection comes in.  

Whether you are a factory owner, contractor, or project manager, it is important for you to understand why you need NACE inspection. It can help you save significant money, time, and hassle in the long run.  

An abbreviation of the National Association of Corrosion Engineers, NACE was founded in 1943 to deal with corrosion issues in the pipeline industry. At present, it is a part of the global authority on corrosion control and protective coatings known as AMPP (Association for Materials Protection and Performance). A globally recognised certification system, the NACE Coating Inspector Program (CIP) was designed to ensure that proper training is provided to coating inspectors for evaluating protective coating systems in different industrial environments.  

NACE Coating Inspection Explained  

NACE Coating Inspection is a systematic process where the quality and integrity of protective coating systems are evaluated by inspectors certified under the NACE Coating Inspector Program (CIP). These inspectors receive elaborate training to examine and assess different coatings used to protect critical industrial assets and infrastructure from environmental degradation, wear, and corrosion.  

Protective coatings are indispensable components of asset management across different industrial establishments. However, if the coatings are not applied correctly or the surface is not adequately prepared, even the most advanced coatings systems are likely to fail. This is why independent inspection of coating systems is essential.  

Functioning as a neutral third party, NACE coating inspectors ensure that 

  • The right coating materials are used. 
  • Surface is prepared as per the specified standards 
  • Coatings are applied under appropriate environmental conditions. 
  • Coating systems are applied as per the recommended curing requirements and thickness. 
  • Any deviations or defects are promptly identified and addressed. 

In addition to ensuring compliance with industry standards and specifications, this inspection process also guarantees the long service life of the coating systems.  

Benefits  

In a large infrastructure or industrial project, coating inspection often appears to be a small part. However, please remember that its impacts are far-reaching.  

  • Assets involved in managing offshore rigs, port facilities, steel plants, or bridges are very expensive and they often operate in extremely harsh conditions. Coatings can protect these assets by functioning as a defensive shield against abrasion, moisture, chemicals, UV exposure, and corrosion.  
  • Poor application techniques and inadequate coatings can result in unplanned maintenance, early recoating, and even or even full asset replacement.  A certified NACE inspector can help extend asset lifecycle and minimise maintenance costs by ensuring that everything is done right the first time.  
  • Many industries need to comply with specific coating and inspection standards. By engaging a NACE-certified inspector, these industries can demonstrate due diligence and avoid legal liability, insurance issues, and fines.  
  • In sectors such as chemical processing and offshore drilling, serious safety hazards can be caused by corroded platforms or pipes.  NACE inspections help these industries build safer working environments by ensuring that coatings are applied and maintained in accordance with standards.  
  • Finally, NACE-certified inspectors can play a critical role in demonstrating a commitment to professionalism and quality. It enhances the reputation and credibility of a business and can influence the process of winning project approvals and tenders.   

At Coating Management Solutions, we have a team of independent NACE-certified coating inspectors with an excellent track record. Please contact us today for all your coating inspection-related requirements.