Introduction: The scope of this project is to undertake laboratory tests and practical trial applications of six proposed new coatings (identified during a recent Energy Innovation Centre, EIC ‘Call for Innovation’) on a sample of pylons, sufficient to measure the suitability and performance of the coatings in this UK application. The project also undertakes additional testing such that successful coatings can be adopted quickly into BaU.

Objectives:

Stage 1

• Engage with the coating suppliers to ensure that each coating is applied to the samples according to the recommended instructions. Where it may be not possible to follow these for UK application on pylons, alternatives will be agreed;
• Identify a trial circuit for the practical application;
• Specify laboratory tests and practical tests;

Stage 2

• Carry out laboratory tests to estimate longevity and supplementary tests if necessary to meet 'Electricity Company Approved' status;

Stage 3

• Engage approved contractor to carry out practical application of the coatings on a test circuit;

Stage 4

• Produce a report evaluating the coatings against the applicable sections of the Electricity Company Approved specification;
• Rate the performance of the coatings by analyzing test data and life-cycle cost relative to the control paint (Alkyd based complying with Electricity Company Approved requirements);
• Recommend the best coatings and any additional work necessary before wide-scale adoption.

Expected Benefits:

1. One or more coating systems are identified that allow the repainting interval to be increased from 12 years
2. The repaint interval for one or more can be increased to 25 years or more
3. The life-cycle cost for one or more is less than the present method