What is defined as applying coatings to a substrate that has already been installed and placed in service?

The concept of applying coatings to a substrate that has already been installed and is in service refers to the practice known as maintenance coating operations. This process is essential for protecting and prolonging the life of existing structures and equipment, which may face degradation due to environmental factors, wear, or chemical exposure over time.

Maintenance coatings are typically applied to address issues such as corrosion or wear that have occurred after the initial installation. This is crucial because regular maintenance can prevent more extensive damage that could require significant repairs or even replacement of the substrate.

In contrast, initial coating operations involve the application of coatings to a substrate before it is installed or first put into service. Surface preparation is a process that involves cleaning and preparing a substrate to ensure proper adhesion of the coatings, while demarcation coating generally refers to marking areas, such as safety lines or allocations, rather than serving a protective function for already existing surfaces. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why maintenance coating operations is the correct term for this specific application scenario.