Belzona Bracket Bonding on a Warship
Industry: Military (MILI)
Application: SOS-Ships and Offshore Structures (SOS)
Substrate: Carbon steel
Customer Location: Devonport, New Zealand
Application Date: April 2026
Products: Belzona 1161 (Super UW-Metal)
Problem: New safety barrier chains were required in all RADHAZ areas of the upper deck, conventional methods of attaching the brackets to which the chains will attach were deemed an unnecessary risk and expense. The client reached out and requested that we provide a cold-bonding method of attaching the brackets with good adhesion and longevity.
Client demonstrated the optimum location for the installation
an MBX was used to remove existing paintwork and profile the area outlined for installation
Surface profile was measured to an acceptable 55-65 microns in the installation areas
Belzona 1161 (Super UW-Metal) was chosen due to unpredictable weather conditions, once the brackets had been applied, tape was used to secure the bracket into position whilst curing
Application Situation
The vessel was due on active service later that month and time was a major factor for all intended refurbishments. This particular project was deemed a priority but due to safety concerns around welding and issues with approvals for conventional work the client needed a cold bonding solution with high adhesion and longevity. The Belzona 1161 (Super UW-Metal) solution provided a fast, safe and long-lasting solution.
Application Method
No specialist tools were required for this application; Surface preparation was completed using a battery grinder and an MBX to ensure it complied with the SSPC-SP11 specification. Belzona 1161 (Super UW-Metal) was mixed in small quantities and applied using a short, bristled brush to both the bracket and the bulkhead. The 1161 (Super UW-Metal) on the bracket was peaked in the centre with an applicator to ensure good squeeze out upon contact, this extruded product was then removed with a clean spatula.
Belzona Facts
The client had no alternative that fit with the timeframe for this modification. Belzona provided a fast and safe solution that ensured that off-limits areas of the upper deck remained safe during periods when the vessel was transmitting.