When it comes to preserving and restoring the beauty of luxurious yachts like the M/Y Nyla, our Yacht Paint department has established itself as a trusted name. In this project, ptw Shipyard took on the challenge of refitting M/Y Nyla, and the results were outstanding. Join us as we delve into the meticulous craftsmanship and techniques employed by our Yacht Paint experts to breathe new life into this vessel.
A Close Inspection Reveals Hidden Challenges
As we pulled the MY Nyla out of the water, the first step was to ensure that every inch of the vessel was pristine. This meant thorough washing to remove any contamination or impurities that may have built up over time. During this process, the team discovered something unexpected – two large blisters on the surface. This discovery would prove to be a pivotal moment in the restoration process.
Our Head of Yacht Paint recommended immediate repair of these blisters, citing the potential for them to grow larger and pose a significant problem in the future.
Surface Preparation
We knew that the key to a durable finish lay in proper surface preparation. Max Cor CF was applied directly to grit-blasted steel, adhering to the strict standards of SSPC-SP10. This ensured a profile of 2-3 mil (50-70 microns), providing a solid foundation for the subsequent steps.
Alternatively, the use of power grinders with 16 to 36-grit discs was an option to achieve the desired profile, showcasing ptw’s adaptability and commitment to delivering the requested results.
Layering on Protection
The next step involved applying Hullgard Extra directly to the grit-blasted steel, once again following SSPC-SP10 standards. This time, the goal was to achieve a 2-3 mil (50-75 micron) per coating, ensuring maximum corrosion protection for the vessel’s hull.
With the foundation of corrosion protection in place, we moved on to applying filler. We chose AWLFAIR LW for this crucial step. However, precision was key here, as applying more than 5-6mm of filler per application could lead to air entrapment and defects.
Finishing Touches
After the filler had fully dried, the next step was to advance in the process. We began by sanding the surface using 80-grit sandpaper to ensure it was properly prepared for the application of AWLGRIP’s Ultra Build Epoxy Primer D8008/D3018. The recommended wet film thickness (WFT) for this application ranged from 25 to 30 microns (625-750 microns).
Following the epoxy primer, we applied a 545-finishing primer to achieve comprehensive coverage. We meticulously sanded the surface to a smooth finish, using 320-grit sandpaper, before proceeding to spray on the top coat.
Yacht Paint: Antifouling and Beyond
For a yacht like the MY Nyla, antifouling is not just a cosmetic concern; it’s essential for maintaining performance and efficiency. We were well-prepared for this phase of the restoration.
We ensured all fouling and contamination were removed, even the leached layer. This method involved a high-pressure freshwater wash (3000 psi) and/or scraping and wet sanding with 80-grade paper. Subsequently, two coats of Microm 99 were applied, with a total dry film thickness (DFT) of 6 mils to ensure 24 months of peak performance.
The meticulous yacht paint approach extended to applying an extra coat on specific areas like the leading and trailing edges, waterline, rudder, and keel. We applied a full coat in the antifouling area and an additional coat in the waterline, ensuring maximum protection for this magnificent vessel.
Yacht Restored
From the discovery of blisters to the meticulous surface preparation and the application of advanced coatings, every step of the yacht paint process was executed with careful precision. With our service, the M/Y Nyla is not just back on the water; she’s ready to cruise the seas with elegance and grace.
For those looking to refit their yacht, ptw Shipyard has proven time and again that they are the shipyard of choice in Spain for all areas of expertise, including its renowned Yacht Paint department.
Your yacht’s refit journey begins with us!
