By: Mike Watson, Induron Infrastructure Business Development Manager
At Induron Protective Coatings, we take pride in partnering with experts to restore and protect critical transmission and distribution infrastructure. Our recent collaboration with M&A Electric Cooperative and USM Utility Service and Maintenance showcases how our coatings deliver long-lasting protection, even under the most challenging conditions.
About the project
- Owner: M&A Electric Cooperative
- Contractor: USM Utility Service and Maintenance
- Project Manager: Matt Lindauer (St. Louis, MO)
M&A Electric Cooperative’s 500 MVA McGraw Edison Auto Transformer has served the community for more than 20 years. To ensure its continued reliability, the transformer underwent a comprehensive restoration and coating process. Remarkably, this essential piece of equipment was out of service for just six days, even while the rest of the switchyard remained fully energized.
The coating solution
Our approach combined industry-leading products and meticulous application techniques to provide unparalleled protection:
- Surface Preparation and Priming: Six gallons of Induramastic 85 Epoxy Primer were applied to the transformer’s tank, cabinets, accessories, and radiator edges. This heavy-duty primer ensures superior corrosion protection, laying a durable foundation for the entire system.
- Radiator Coating: Radiators are particularly vulnerable to corrosion due to their thin metal surfaces. To address this, 100 gallons of Armorlux Primer were flow-coated onto the radiators. This technique guarantees 100% coverage, preventing the development of weak points that could lead to oil leaks or more severe issues. Flow coatings prevents corrosion by sealing every surface, especially the intricate and thin areas that are most prone to damage.
- Topcoat Application: One hundred gallons of Indurasil ANSI 70 Gray topcoat were applied to both the radiators and the tank. This finish provides long-lasting durability and resistance to environmental stressors, ensuring the transformer’s longevity.
The project outcome
Completing the restoration within the tight six-day window required precision, coordination, and expertise. With the switchyard remaining energized throughout the process, safety was a top priority. By combining advanced coatings with a proven application process, we successfully delivered a robust and durable solution that will extend the life of the transformer for years to come.
Induron’s coatings, paired with the application expertise of USM Utility Service and Maintenance, ensured the successful restoration of M&A Electric Cooperative’s transformer. This project highlights the value of high-performance coatings in maintaining essential infrastructure. By investing in protective solutions, M&A Electric Cooperative has taken a significant step toward ensuring reliable service for its customers.