Located in Norfolk, Virginia, USA, the coatings and corrosion division at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center (MARMC) is working to modernize the way non-skid is applied to naval vessels.
As part of this unique process, a spray-on non-skid was recently applied to the James E. Williams (DDG-95) from bow to stern. This photo by Harrison Cox, U.S. Navy, shows the spray-on, non-skid applicator.
A Homogenous Coating System
Spray-on non-skid is described by MARMC officials as an innovative effort to modernize the way ship decks are maintained and coated. With spray-on non-skid applied to a deck, there is more contact on the surface while utilizing less product in significantly reduced time.
The material is constructed from polysiloxane, which is typically used for billboards and anti-graffiti paint. It also does not fade in color.
“The spray-on non-skid is a homogenous coating system,” said Noel Parker, an engineering technician from Code 241. “Unlike traditional roll-on non-skid, which is porous and allows materials to seep through, the spray-on actually creates a seal coat. The roll-on also doesn’t protect the decking underneath.”
“We’re trying to come up with a way to create something that will help protect the deck, preventing erosion and deterioration, while also minimizing the materials used to maintain a non-skid surface,” Parker added. “Where you’re gaining the advantage is time. Applying spray-on non-skid takes only a third of the time compared to roll-on methods, and only requires two people compared to the 10 or 12 people needed for roll-on.”
Cost Advantages of Spray On
In total, the spray-on applicator cost $10,000 to construct and significantly improves efficiency, according to Navy officials.
“With typical non-skid, you get about 18 to 30 square feet per gallon (0.4 to 0.7 m2/L),” said Michael Hall, a naval architect within the coatings and corrosion division. “With spray on non-skid, it ranges from 40 to 60 square feet per gallon (1.0 to 1.5 m2/L).”
The new coating provides a flat contact surface, increasing friction efficiency. “Ships love it,” Hall said. “It’s easy to clean and simplifies maintenance.”
Parker highlighted its success on USS Laboon (DDG 58), where the spray-on non-skid applied six years ago has outlasted the typical three-year lifespan of roll-on coatings. Additionally, training personnel to operate the spray-on applicator is quick and straightforward.
Further Implementation Plans
“Learning to use it takes about 20 minutes,” Parker explained. “It involves assembling the gun, understanding the air system, and handling just four components.”
This advancement aligns with broader Navy modernization efforts, since it offers longer-lasting, cost-effective, and easily applicable non-skid solutions. Parker and Hall said they are already planning to implement this system on new Constellation-class frigates (FFGs) in the near future.
As a field activity under Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), the mission of MARMC is to provide surface ship maintenance; management and oversight of private-sector maintenance; and fleet technical assistance to ships across the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States.
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