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Top Advantages of Plural Component Coatings

Written by T Bailey, Inc. | May 22, 2025

When it comes to protecting steel structures in demanding environments, plural component coatings have become a go-to solution for industries seeking superior durability, faster application, and environmental compliance. At T BAILEY LLC, we’ve embraced this advanced coating technology to ensure our customers benefit from high-performance protection and reduced long-term maintenance costs.

With decades of experience in industrial coatings for water tanks, penstock, marine structures & gas & oil tanks, T BAILEY LLC is proud to offer plural component coating services from our state-of-the-art facility in Anacortes, Washington.

What Are Plural Component Coatings?

Plural component coatings are high-performance, two-part systems composed of a base (Component A) and a curing agent (Component B). These are heated and mixed at the spray gun during application, eliminating the need for thinners and enabling precise, on-demand mixing. Unlike single-component and traditional coatings—which rely on ambient air and heat to cure—plural components offer fast-setting, high-build performance that significantly speeds up project timelines.

This method is ideal for high-volume, high-precision work, such as industrial coatings for tanks and pipes, and is commonly applied using plural component spray systems.

Key Advantages of Plural Component Coatings

When selecting a coating system for industrial or marine steel, plural component coatings offer a distinct edge. Known for their rapid cure times, exceptional durability, and environmental compliance, this plural component paint outperforms traditional methods in both performance and efficiency. Below are the key advantages that make plural coatings a smart choice for high-demand applications.

1. Fast Curing for Quick Turnaround

Once applied, these coatings can be fully cured and ready for handling in just hours—a dramatic contrast to the 24–48 hours often required for traditional coatings.

“Some plural coatings can be fully cured and ready for handling the same day they’re applied,” says T BAILEY LLC’s coatings expert. “It’s a quicker turnaround for both us and our customers.”

This efficiency benefits fabrication, shipping, and field deployment timelines, especially on large-scale jobs.

2. Outstanding Durability and Corrosion Resistance

Protective coatings for steel deliver long-term protection, especially in marine and industrial environments where corrosion is a serious concern. Their thick, high-build properties form a robust barrier against moisture, abrasion, and chemical exposure.

“A properly applied plural system can last 20 to 30 years,” the team shared. “It’s just a very durable, thick-applied coating”

This makes plural coatings ideal for protective coatings on steel infrastructure, pipelines, and tank interiors.

3. Low-VOC and Environmentally Friendly

Because plural component coatings do not require thinners and are applied at controlled temperatures, they emit very low levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds)—making them compliant with strict environmental regulations in states like Washington and California.

These coatings are also approved for use on potable water tanks, making them a smart choice for environmentally sensitive applications and health-critical systems.

Applications in Industrial & Marine Projects

Plural component coatings are used extensively across sectors where durability and compliance are critical. At T BAILEY LLC, we apply these coatings on:

  • Marine infrastructure
  • Water tanks and reservoirs
  • Penstocks for hydroelectric dams
  • Piping systems and ASME pressure vessels
  • Oil & gas storage tanks
  • Army Corps of Engineers and Bureau of Reclamation projects

“We use plural on projects for the Corps of Engineers, and a lot of dam penstocks as well,” the team explained. “It’s just ideal for that level of structural and environmental demand.”

Why Choose T BAILEY LLC for Plural Component Coatings?

T BAILEY LLC’s facility is designed for maximum capacity and precision, with dual 30' x 110' heated paint and blast booths equipped for large steel components. For surface prep, T BAILEY LLC uses a Wheelabrator system that delivers a uniform blast profile and supports a clean handoff to the coating phase.

T BAILEY LLC is the only company in Washington state with a vertical Wheelabrator. Unlike manual blasting, it processes both sides of steel simultaneously, prepping up to 800 square feet in just 20 minutes. Its continuous operation with recycled media improves efficiency, reduces downtime, and ensures a superior coating-ready surface every time.

In addition to advanced equipment, T BAILEY LLC’s coatings team includes a Level 3 NACE inspector, ensuring all projects meet or exceed standards such as SSPC, AMPP, AWWA, and other industry-specific protocols.

Their ability to quickly and precisely apply plural coat systems reduces downtime, improves quality, and delivers exceptional performance—whether it's for corrosion resistant coatings, fast curing industrial coatings, or coatings for marine and industrial use.

Final Thoughts

Plural component coatings have proven their value in some of the most demanding industrial and marine environments—offering faster turnaround, longer lifespan, and environmentally responsible performance. With the advanced equipment, experienced team, and high-capacity facility at T BAILEY LLC, you can be confident your steel structures are protected by the best the industry has to offer.

Ready to extend the life of your tanks, pipes, or marine infrastructure? Contact T BAILEY today to discuss your project, and discover the benefits of partnering with Washington’s leader in industrial coatings.