Rope Access Painting & Stenciling of Storage Tanks Using Aluminum Paint – A Project Success Story by AIMMS Group

In the demanding environments of the Middle East and South Asia—where salt-laden air, scorching heat, and operational urgency are part of daily life—industrial infrastructure requires more than just routine upkeep. It demands specialized, high-quality maintenance that protects, performs, and lasts.

At AIMMS Group, we’re proud to share the story of one such successful project: a rope access-based storage tank painting and stenciling job completed in the UAE, using aluminum-type protective paint and stringent quality control measures.

The Challenge: High Tanks, Tight Schedules & No Downtime

Our client, a major player in the oil & gas sector, contacted us with a critical request:

“We need our storage tanks repainted and stenciled without disrupting operations, and the finish must withstand coastal weather for years.”

The brief included:

• Complete repainting of large steel storage tanks

• Application of industrial stencils for safety, identification, and branding

• Execution via rope access, with zero impact on ongoing operations

• Strict compliance with QA/QC and HSE standards

Planning First: Safety & Compliance as a Priority

Before mobilization, our engineering team conducted a detailed site assessment, identifying all structural, access, and environmental factors.

We then prepared and submitted a comprehensive Risk Assessment and Method Statement (RAMS) to the client. Upon review and approval, we commenced the work—ensuring every step was planned, documented, and compliant from day one.

Phase 1: Surface Preparation with High-Pressure Hydroblasting

The first step was to remove all contaminants, rust, and old coatings using high-pressure hydroblasting. This crucial stage guarantees proper bonding of the new coating system.

QC Inspection After Surface Preparation:

• WFT (Wet Film Thickness) test during initial base coat application

• Surface Profile Measurement to ensure proper anchor profile and roughness

Only after the surfaces passed these QC benchmarks did we proceed to the coating stage.

Phase 2: Rope Access Painting with Aluminum-Type Coating

With a clean surface and approved safety plan in place, our IRATA-certified rope access team began the painting phase.

Coating System: Three-Layer Application Using Aluminum Paint

To provide long-term corrosion protection, heat reflectivity, and visual clarity, we used a three-coat system featuring aluminum-based paint:

1. Base Coat

   • A high-adhesion primer suitable for corrosion protection on steel structures

2. Intermediate Coat

   • A high-build protective layer enhancing durability and coating strength

3. Final Topcoat – Aluminum-Type Paint (300 Microns DFT)

   • Reflects sunlight to reduce surface heat

   • Resists UV degradation and harsh weather

   • Provides a clean, metallic finish with superior protective strength

Why Rope Access?

Our rope access method allowed painters to reach every section—roofs, curved walls, spiral staircases, and railing systems—without scaffolding or boom lifts. This saved time, cost, and space, and allowed plant operations to continue uninterrupted.

Phase 3: High-Contrast Stenciling for Compliance & Safety

After curing, we proceeded with industrial stenciling, applying:

• Safety markings (e.g., “DANGER – FLAMMABLE”)

• Flow direction arrows

• Equipment ID numbers and codes

• Company branding and logos

We used reusable, weatherproof stencils, applied with high-contrast industrial paints for long-lasting legibility—even under direct sunlight and dust exposure.

QC Inspection After Project Completion

To ensure every standard was met, our quality control inspectors carried out:

• Adhesion Testing – Ensuring the coating bonds securely to the steel

• Final DFT Measurement (Dry Film Thickness) – Confirming the aluminum paint reached 300 microns across the surface

• Visual QA/QC Checks – Uniformity, color consistency, and stencil sharpness

All results were compiled in a comprehensive digital project report, submitted to the client for records and compliance audits.

Project Outcome: Long-Term Protection & Operational Confidence

Thanks to AIMMS Group’s rope access expertise and quality-first approach, the client achieved:

• Extended tank life through corrosion protection

• Improved safety with clear, compliant markings

• Zero downtime during plant operations

• Documented compliance for health, safety, and environmental audits

Why Clients Choose AIMMS Group for Rope Access Services

Across the UAE, India, and Saudi Arabia, AIMMS Group is known for:

• Expert Execution – IRATA-certified rope access specialists

• Reliable QA/QC – Inspections using WFT, DFT, adhesion tests, and surface profiling

• Speed & Efficiency – Lean teams, fast mobilization

• Top-Tier Safety Compliance – RAMS, permit-to-work, HSE certifications

• Sustainable Practices – Low VOC materials, reduced waste, reusable stencils

Our Commitment to Sustainability

• Eco-Friendly Coatings: Long-lasting, low-VOC, aluminum-based paint

• Reusable Stencils: Minimize material waste

• Smaller Carbon Footprint: Rope access reduces emissions compared to scaffolding and machinery

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What type of paint was used?
We used a specialized aluminum-type topcoat, providing UV resistance, heat reflection, and corrosion protection.

2. Is rope access safe for industrial jobs?
Absolutely. All AIMMS technicians are IRATA-certified, and every job follows international rope access safety standards.

3. Can painting be done during live operations?
Yes. Our rope access methods ensure zero disruption to ongoing plant processes.

4. What QC processes are involved?
We conduct WFT, DFT, adhesion tests, and surface profile checks throughout the project lifecycle.

5. Do you operate in multiple countries?
Yes. AIMMS Group provides rope access solutions across the UAE, India, and Saudi Arabia.

Let’s Work Together

Are you looking for efficient, safe, and long-lasting industrial painting and stenciling services?
Whether it’s a single tank or a full facility, AIMMS Group brings you:

• Expertise at Height

• Certified Quality Control

• Faster Project Delivery

Get in touch today to schedule a site visit or request a proposal.