Yacht-Paint News

Interlux starts with Copper free antifouling in the USA

In a statement from Union today, Interlux Vice President of Marketing Bob Donat said “Interlux is proud to introduce Pacifica Plus, the first antifouling paint with Econea for pleasure craft. Econea is a new antifouling agent that targets shell fouling. Pacifica Plus provides an alternative to boat owners, boatyards and those in the boating community looking for a copper free antifouling paint.”

Formulated to meet the most stringent VOC regulations in the country, Pacifica Plus uses a controlled biocide release mechanism to combat fouling and Biolux® Technology to control slime. It erodes away over time, which reduces paint build-up and minimizes surface preparation when it is time to recoat. Boatyards will love the fast-dry properties of Pacifica Plus, which allow boats to be painted and launched the same day.

Pacifica Plus will be available in late spring 2009 (in the U.S. only) in clean, crisp, bright colors including blue, black and red and is compatible with most other antifouling paints. Being copper free, Pacifica Plus is ideal for use on all underwater metal surfaces including fiberglass, wood and aluminum. The high solids, low VOC formula has proven effective for power and sail boats.

ECONEA™, a metal-free antifouling agent, protects boat hulls without accumulating in the marine environment. Compared to metal-based antifouling products, ECONEA™ offers clear advantages: Effective at low usage levels, Better for the environment,Long-lasting protection,Better color selection,Better color stability,Ideal for all types of boat hulls,Extended service life,Enables weight reduction.

Awlgrip announces important staff changes

Ken Hickling, Global Manager, Awlgrip recently announced the following personnel changes.

Effective immediately, David S. Halcomb, formerly General Manager of North America and with awlgrip since the early years, will become Vice President, Awlgrip Global Business Development. Mr. Halcomb has been involved with Awlgrip since the creation of the brand. In his new capacity, He will focus his 30 plus years of coatings experience on enhancing Awlgrip business and customer relationships world wide.

Nick Hall has been promoted to Vice President, Sales and will handle the day-to-day marketing and sales management of Awlgrip in North America. Mr. Hall has been an integral part of Awlgrip’s success for the past 30 years. His position will be focused on OEM and Distributor relationships and the total satisfaction of all Awlgrip end customers.

In making his announcement, Ken Hickling said, “Awlgrip is one of the foremost brands in the marine market place. Giving David Halcomb the opportunity to head growth worldwide allows our customers to know that we have no intention of relinquishing our leadership role. Nick Hall brings the level of experience and commitment Awlgrip requires to support our sales staff, distributors, and OEM clients in North America. These key changes will enhance and benefit our customers experience with the company."

Ultrasonic Antifouling : A new smart system without using paint

Ultrasonic Antifouling is adding 'intelligent' switch mode technology to its Ultra system with the new Ultra 10 dual and Ultra 20 dual.

This smart recognition technology recognizes the power supply available and automatically switches to the best option, removing the possibility of the unit being accidentally switched off.
The benefit of this technology is that the Ultra system works constantly to protect your hull from fouling, so if you have a pontoon berth and you remove your shore power, the system will automatically switch to your boat's battery supply.  Conversely, when you return to your berth, the system will automatically switch back to shore power supply. This new addition means that Ultrasonic Antifouling now recognizes when the power supply changes and switches to compensate, so you can fit it and forget it.  There's no maintenance and now with the new smart recognition technology, once fitted, you never have to give antifouling another thought.

Ultrasonic Antifouling has many benefits over other sonar products in the market.  The Ultra system uses just one transducer for boats up to 10 metres and only two for boats up to 20 metres.  Other systems may claim smaller power consumptions, but use many more transducers.  The Ultra system is neat and unobtrusive and can be self-installed.  Other systems have to be installed by a specifically trained engineer at extra cost, or risk negating the warranty.  The Ultra system is simple and easy to install for any DIY handyman - and the warranty stands whoever fits it.  Units are available and can be despatched from stock straight away, there's no waiting for product to arrive and the Ultra system is now available worldwide either through a dealer network, or direct from the UK.  Best of all is the price - it costs around 50% less than other similar products (and that's even before you take into account the cost of installation for other systems).

Ultrasonic Antifouling has now been fitted to hundreds of boats all over the world with fantastic results.  See www.ultrasonic-antifouling.com for testimonials from some of Ultrasonic Antifouling's happy users or for more information.

Specification and prices

Dual voltage units: switching between 12 - 24v and 100 - 240v incorporating a smart recognition feature.
Power consumption: maximum 20watts (depending on power source)
Weight: 2.5 kg approx depending on model

Ultra 10 dual System, single transducer - £899 ex VAT
Ultra 20 dual System, twin transducers - £1599 ex VAT

Ultrasonic Antifouling has appointed three new retailers, selling to both trade and consumers, in the territories of France, The Caribbean and Finland.  All will specialise in the sale and installation of Ultrasonic Antifouling equipment.

In France, Ultrasonic Antifouling will be represented by TIBONOTIK, in Finland by MarineMan and in the Carribean, Guadeloupe, St. Martin and Martinique, by Madco.

The French company TIBONOTIK has been set up by Thibaut Lehouck specifically to sell Ultrasonic Antifouling products. Thibaut was so impressed with the units that he started up TIBONOTIK exclusively to retail and promote them.

Located in Helsinki, MarineMan imports and provides specialist components for the Marine industry. Ole Sandaman, Managing Director of MarineMan, has over 40 years experience in the marine industry and recognised the potential of Ultrasonic Antifouling.  He is now delighted to have the rights to Ultrasonic Antifouling as part of MarineMan’s portfolio.

Madco are a large, established company, specialising in the sale and distribution of marine equipment.  Hervé Claret of Madco is well known and respected, with extensive contacts, and is looking forward to promoting Ultrasonic Antifouling throughout the islands of the Caribbean.

Head Office remains in the UK and will continue to sell and distribute product throughout the rest of the world.

David Sothcott, Managing Director of Ultrasonic Antifouling, commented, “The three new ‘concessionaires’ are professional retailers of marine equipment and we are very pleased they have agreed to represent us in their respective countries.  We are looking forward to working with all of our new retailers to significantly grow the Ultrasonic Antifouling brand presence within these markets. Ultrasonic Antifouling already has a strong presence across the world and we plan to extend that in the coming years by providing an excellent sales network for Ultrasonic Antifouling products.”
Hundreds of Ultrasonic Antifouling units have now been fitted to boats in almost every country across the world, with fantastic results. Over 400 units have been sold in the last 12 months to boat owners in the UK, Europe, Australia, The Middle East, the U.S.A and The Far East, making it likely to be the biggest selling of the ultrasonic antifouling products.

The appointment of these three new retailers will increase the level of sales and service support for existing and future Ultrasonic Antifouling customers

 

Environmentally friendly antifouling study names Vivid Free one of best performimg paints

The Port of San Diego successfully completed the panel testing phase of the Safer Alternatives to Copper Antifouling Paints Project.  This extensive study's first phase evaluated 46 coatings on fiberglass panels over a four month period.  Of the 18 zinc-based, 4 organic-biocide and 24 non-biocide paints, Vivid Free from Pettit Marine Paint was selected as one of the top-performing anitfoulants, and now moves into the project's second phase where it will be tested on a boat hull. 

Employing the latest biocide technology and a unique controlled erosion process, EPA-approved Vivid Free is completely free of copper.  Offered in 24 vibrant colors, it can be safely used on fiberglass, aluminum and wood hulls to protect against slime, algae, barnacles and other marine fouling.  Boats using non-oxidizing Vivid Free can be hauled and re-launched without recoating.  Effective in all water types, it retails for $199 per gallon and is available at boatyards and West Marine stores nationwide. 

The Port of San Diego and Institute for Research and Technical Assistance were awarded an EPA Pollution Prevention Grant to identify viable alternates to copper hull paint and encourage the transition to these paints.  The project is testing the antifouling coatings for effectiveness, environmental impact, cost and maintenance/cleaning requirements. 

 

Polycraft offers solution against fouling inside hull

This innovative technology is normally added to anti-foulants, but in Polycraft’s case it is incorporated into the raw material form which the boats are moulded.

Hire boat groups, commercial fishing operators and government agencies will be among the beneficiaries of an exciting innovation being offered by Bundaberg-based Polycraft, manufacturer of the popular moulded boat range.

After extensive evaluation in cooperation with a European chemical firm, Polycraft boats are now offered with a unique process which greatly inhibits the need for regular anti-fouling.

Polycraft director Grainger McFarlane, said the company was not promising that anti-fouling would be eliminated, but he said fleet owners with boats left in the water for long periods would find the time and effort in bottom painting 'extremely minimized.'

'We have been working closely in evaluating and testing this product for more than 12 months,' he said.

'It is technology is perhaps best described as a rapidly biodegradable settlement inhibitor and allows Polycraft to offer a hull which resists the growth of marine organisms without the constant need for e-painting,' he explained.

The innovative technology is normally added to anti-foulants, but in Polycraft’s case it is incorporated into the raw material form which the boats are moulded.

'Importantly, it offers global environmental acceptance and compatibility with range of key features and benefits,' McFarlane added.

'It is a highly-effective anti-fouling agent inhibiting the growth of bacterial slime, algae, barnacles, tubeworms and other marine growth.

'This is a product which has gained the first-ever Green Chemistry Challenge Award for the design of safe chemical products granted by the United States Environmental Protection Agency,' he added.

In addition to boat and ship hulls, it is equally effective employed on buoys and other structures such as marina arms and wharf piling.

The technology achieves its ability to control marine growth by interfering with the micro-organism settlement process, preventing the initial colonisation to the area applied by marine organism.

'We are quite excited to be introducing this innovation to the Polycraft range and initially it will be offered as an option on all models ordered in white or safety yellow,' he explained.

'Being brand-new technology, the raw material is only available in limited quantity and we have chosen those two colours for their popularity, as far as white is concerned, and for high visibility with the yellow.

'It may become available through the entire colour range, but that’s a decision we shall leave for the future,' he added.

For information, contact Darren Morgan, Polycraft, Bundaberg, telephone (07) 4131-3452 or e-mail darrenmorgan@polyindustries.com

 

Hempel claims to have the answer with Hempasil X3

Cutting-edge hydrogel fouling technology – HEMPASIL X3 has a unique blend of silicone polymers
that form a hydrogel microlayer between the paint surface and the seawater. The result is dramatically enhanced fouling release properties, and improved self-cleaning potential.

Document fuel savings as you go – HEMPASIL X3 is backed up by the innovative SeaTrend
software programme. Designed by FORCE Technology, SeaTrend monitors the performance of
your paint, enabling you to track your fuel consumption.

Fuel savings guarantee – fouling release coatings work because they reduce hull friction,
thereby improving fuel effi ciency. So it stands to reason that the better the coating, the
better the savings. Suffice it to say that we’re so confident in HEMPASIL X3’s performance,
we’re guaranteeing it will save you money on fuel.

Save at lower speeds – unlike most fouling release coatings, HEMPASIL X3 works just as
effectively at lower speeds. In fact, HEMPASIL X3’s self-cleaning ability is equally as potent
at 8 knots as it is at 15 knots.

Longer service intervals – most fouling release coatings work well for the first two or three
years and cease being effective after five years. HEMPASIL X3 is different. It offers fuel
savings over an impressive 90-month period, dramatically reducing drydock cost.

Demand of Marine paints continues to grow in Asia

Total marine paint demand for the 24 countries covered in the report was estimated to be
approximately 700,000 tonnes in 2007 and is anticipated to grow to around 1,078,000 tonnes
by 2012 at a mean rate of 8.4% pa.

Marine Paints
Unsurprisingly, the marine paint market is now most concentrated in the Asia-Pacific region,
where the shipbuilding and ship-repair industries are most active. This region accounts for
three-quarters of all marine paint demand, as shown in the following chart.

Split of the Global Marine Coatings Markets by Region, 2007 (%)

Middle East/Africa 5%

The America         6%

Europe                14%

Asia-Pacific         75%
Source: IRL

Blakes Paints develops new training programme with Princess yachts

The Blakes SeaTech Underwater System is used on all Princess Yachts As part of a highly successful ongoing relationship with Princess Yachts International, Blakes Paints is to develop a new training programme with this world renowned builder of premier motor yachts. For many years Blakes Paints has supplied top quality coatings to Princess Yachts and the training initiative will be a specially designed bespoke programme for thirty members of staff.

“We have a long standing and very good relationship with the company and the new extended training programme develops from previous training courses we have held for them in the past,” commented Blakes Paints Area Sales Manager John Rogers.  “The course will look at key areas of the coating process and will cover everything applicators need to know to make the work go as efficiently as possible. It will also include the instruction of in house specialists who will be able to train new employees.”

Princess Yachts is a dynamic company which builds luxury power craft from 42 to 95 feet, many of which are exported. John highlighted the fact that it is the technical expertise which Blakes Paints offers as well as the quality of the products which plays a crucial part in their role as coatings supplier. He added: “With such a major boat building operation inevitably situations can occur where they need our help - and when they do we’re in there straight away to sort things out.”

Blakes Paints supplies Princess Yachts with coatings across the range including varnishes, topcoats and antifouling. All craft use the SeaTech Underwater System and these waterborne products have excelled in comparison tests against competitors’ products offering significant advantages to a production builder of this capacity.

“SeaTech products, which are designed for professional application, don’t give off harmful solvents so are ideal to use inside when other operatives are around,” explained Martin Ingram of Blakes Technical Services. “They are surface tolerant so are suitable for the conditions common in a big boat production facility,” he added, concluding: “SeaTech applied correctly out performs many conventional antifoulings and Princess Yachts have been very impressed with just how good it is.” for more info see www.blakespaint.com

The metallic look continues to be a hot styling trend

As product manufacturers continue their search for that new color that differentiates their brand from the competition, the metallic look continues to grow in popularity. While the demand for metallic effects increases, paint and coatings manufacturers are developing newer, more eye-catching metallic finishes to help their customers’ products stand out in crowded and competitive marketplaces.

Metallic pigment suppliers to the paint and coatings industry are at the forefront of this consumer styling trend, continually developing innovative technologies that produce cooler metallic looks.

Among the trends in the metallic pigments market, silver consistently tops the list of most popular colors for metallic effects. However, other metallic effect colors are catching up.

“Silver has continued to lead the metallics market in terms of popularity, however as seen in recent interior and consumer markets, bronze, copper and gold effects are beginning to make a push into the every day life of the consumer,” said Martha Davies of Sun Chemical Corp.’s Performance Pigment Group. “Designers continue to style with aluminums by producing various shades of silver from very bright, bold silvers to the more muted grays expanding the palette of metallics. In addition, the use of silver metallics in combination with the classical pigments is also becoming a design of choice providing metallic shades of green, blue orange among others.

“The market continues to ask for the full spectrum of products from very fine, smooth and brilliant to the more sparkle appearance of coarser products depending upon the application,” Davies continued. “The molten look is still a desire, and technology is driving to provide this appearance via products that are more universal than the VMP products in terms of coatings formulations and applications.” 

SodaBlast to use ArmaKleen product for eco-friendly boat hull cleaning

Under an agreement with the ArmaKleen Company, SodaBlast Systems, manufacturer of eco-friendly boat hull cleaning systems, will use ARMEX®, the industry-leading baking soda-based blast media from the makers of ARM & HAMMER® Products.

“Partnering the pioneer of soda blasting equipment with the originator of baking soda media was a logical next step,” said Benny LeCompte of SodaBlast Systems.

“One of the most attractive aspects about this partnership is the focus of SodaBlast Systems to promote the technology and continue to develop equipment to meet application demand. Now they are able to provide their customers with a specially-formulated bicarbonate abrasive to remove paint and marine growth that complements the SodaBlast Systems equipment,” said Delia Downes, ARMEX product manager.

In the SodaBlasting process, a non-destructive stream of air-driven, specially formulated baking soda under high pressure is first used to strip the antifoulant paint and open the blister. Then, to prepare the surface for repair and repainting, the affected area around the blister is feathered by split-second, swirled "micro-blasting”. This finishes the surface in preparation for repair. The entire process can be accomplished in 1/10 the time as traditional techniques, resulting in a properly prepared surface that is ready for blister repair and painting.

The SodaBlasting hull cleaning service is available from a network of over 160 company-trained, Preferred SodaBlasting Contractors worldwide.

Shot and soda blasting is the Professionals' preferred solution:

To clean and prepare surfaces before applying a coating / paint / resin / , but also  To remove old coatings, rubbers on airports, or to remove marking on roads, highways, runways, industrial floors… and last but not least to regenerate grip and improve safety on roads.

for more info see www.Sodablastsystems.com

Copper prices and fuel efficiency remain hot issues

As fuel prices continue to rise, with no relief in sight, increasing fuel efficiency is a key issue for ship owners and operators. While marine coatings are most often credited with providing protection from corrosion due to weathering and fouling from barnacles and other organisms, they are also crucial components in increasing a vessel’s fuel efficiency and environmental impact.

“With an estimated 300 million tons of fuel consumed annually by the world’s fleet, there is an ever increasing focus on shipping’s environmental footprint,” said Jim Brown, marketing operations manager, worldwide marine, International Paint. “At this level of consumption the industry currently emits some 960 million tons of CO2 and nine million tons of SO2 annually. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) estimates that without corrective action and the introduction of new technologies, air emissions, due to increased bunker fuel consumption by the world shipping fleet, could increase by between 38% and 72% by 2020.”

Antifouling coatings are one way to increase fuel efficiency. “Antifouling coatings are used to improve the speed and efficiency of ships by preventing organisms such as barnacles and weeds from sticking to the underwater hull, restricting the ship’s movement through the water,” said Brown. According to Brown, if ships didn’t use antifouling coatings, fuel 
consumptioncould be increased by as much as 40%—with current fuel use consequently rising by 120million tons per year to a total of 420 million tons per year. “It is estimated that antifouling coatings provide the shipping industry with annual fuel savings of $60 billion and reduced emissions of 384 million tons and 3.6 million tons respectively for CO2 and SO2 annually,” he added.

Growth in the marine coatings market can be also be attributed to a surge in new building in the Asia-Pacific region, as well as high demand for exported goods from the region.

“The general high demand for freight of goods from Asia to Europe and the U.S., as well as raw materials like iron and coal into China, has led to a significant increase in new buildings, which again leads to a high demand for marine coatings,” said Morten Eikenes, group category manager antifoulings, Jotun Coatings. “Northeast Asia is the fastest growing market these days. The yards in South Korea have proven to be highly effective in new buildings. China is up and coming with a tremendous growth in new buildings and demands for marine coatings. As an example of the high new building activity in China, Jotun recently signed a contract for 80 new buildings which is the largest contract every for Jotun.”

On the pleasure craft front, growth has been less robust. “In the yacht coatings market in general we are basically flat and stable,” said Robert Donat, vice president marketing–North America, Interlux Yacht Finishes. “The area where there is growth is in the super-yacht business. There seems to be no shortage in demand for super-yachts.”

“Growth for us is in the primers and topcoats because these types of yachts require a lot of finishing,” Donat continued. “The rest of the pleasure boat market—10 to 100 feet—is stable to flat. New boat ownership is down and roughly 70% of the boats sold in the U.S. are used. Boat builders are holding off. The downturn in the economy has certainly trickled down to the yacht business.”

Copper prices continue to rise

Raising copper prices have continued to put pressure on marine coatings manufacturers. “The high increase in copper prices the last year has somewhat increased the prices for the customers as well as reduced the margins, especially for the upper segment of the premium products,” said Eikenes.

“Unfortunately, the drop in copper prices observed in the last half of 2006 was only temporary and in 2007 copper prices continued their rise at the same average rate since 2003,” said Brown. “Demand for copper is still strong, especially in China, which has seen a nine percent increase in demand during 2007, with a further 11% increase forecast for 2008. Despite China heavily investing in local copper mines, global supply is not increasing significantly and, due to strike action at various mines, demand is likely to remain high.”

During 2007, International stopped surcharging and added $2.50 onto the selling price of its products. “In February 2008, copper jumped to its highest price since May 2006,” said Brown. “Future antifouling price rises remain a possibility if the current trend of rising copper costs continues.”

“The cost of copper has had a major effect on the market by driving and increasing the cost of antifoulings significantly,” agreed Donat. “It has raised our price by at least 15%. Our overall objective is to lead in technology and be environmentally responsible. Because of the increase in copper, we are doing what we can to meet the needs of the boat owner from a performance perspective and a cost perspective.”

IMO  Treaty takes effect

One of the most significant developments in the marine coatings market over the last few years has been the IMO’s ban, which went into effect January 2008, on organo tin tributyltin (TBT) compounds.

“The five global antifouling suppliers voluntarily agreed to phase out TBT-containing products from January 1, 2003, although the IMO restrictions were not legally entered into force,” said Eikenes. “Since then Jotun has focused on TBT-free antifouling paints. Today the only things that affect us from the IMO antifouling treaty are the cost and bureaucracy related to Class Societies requirement for certificates stating that our products are TBT-free. More significantly is the high cost related to the EU Biocidal Products Directive. Customers docking in Europe must be prepared for higher costs of antifoulings compared to markets outside the EU.”

Jotun phased out all TBT containing antifouling paints by the end of 2002. “The replacement products, SeaQuantum series, are performing well thanks to a superior silyl-acrylate binder system,” said Eikenes. “Our customers’ awareness of the superior performance of the SeaQuantum series are now well established.”

“IMO has affected the market in a positive way by forcing the market to stop selling tin-based paint,” said Donat. “International Paint made a decision back in 2002, before the treaty came onto effect, to stop manufacturing and selling tin-based coatings. The positive for us is we recognized that this global ban was coming and developed technology that works the same or better and have been selling this technology since 2002.”

Sourse: Coatings World  Article : Kerry Pianoforte

Akzo launches new corporate brand and logo

Tomorrow's Answers Today.

In addition to the subtle name change and new logo, a new brand architecture has also been introduced, along with updated company values and a new brand philosophy, according to the company.

"This is the new AkzoNobel. We are one company, with a powerful new global brand which will propel us into a new era of competitiveness and opportunity," said CEO Hans Wijers. "Our new brand concept typifies our desire to create new ideas. To stay one step ahead and continually seek out new and better answers for our customers. It means we think about the future, but we act in the present."

Wijers added that the introduction of Tomorrow's Answers Today is central to the new brand. "It is the heartbeat of the transformed AkzoNobel," he said. "It drives our creativity, our product development and lies at the core of all our activities. It will focus our efforts on further strengthening our position as being the world's largest paint and coatings producer and one of the leading global suppliers of specialty chemicals.

"What does that concept mean exactly? It means we believe that what is good for our customers today is not necessarily good enough for them tomorrow," he added. "So that constant search for answers is what drives us. It focuses the whole company and inspires us to achieve great things for all our stakeholders, and for ourselves."

The decision to retain AkzoNobel as the company name was a strategic one, based on extensive research, which indicated that the name commanded too much value, heritage and respect for it to be discarded. Therefore, ICI will be discontinued as a corporate name, the company said.

"The new brand is about creating brand equity, not destroying it," said Wijers. "Our studies confirmed that there is considerable value in the name of AkzoNobel. It is well respected throughout our industries and is synonymous with trust and quality, so there was no reason to change it. Our strategy now is to combine the strong AkzoNobel business-to-business reputation with the former ICI's excellent consumer brands reputation. This will create a powerful brand with significant global reach and incredible potential for growth.

"The logo, however, has changed. It was already a very strong and distinctive asset, but it has been made more relevant for the 21st century and now has a greater sense of power and energy," Wijers continued. "It is an embodiment of our Tomorrow's Answers Today positioning." The chairman added that the logo will now be used to endorse all the company's brands. The ICI logo, meanwhile, will continue to appear on relevant products during the forthcoming migration period.

Also central to the whole positioning of the new AkzoNobel are its five new company values, which provide the bedrock on which the new brand is built.

They are as follows: focusing on customers' future first; embracing entrepreneurial thinking; developing the talents of our people; the courage and curiosity to question and integrity and responsibility in its actions.

"These company values determine how we operate and behave as individuals and as a business," said Wijers. "They will be integrated into all aspects of our operations to ensure that we continue to excel and deliver outstanding service and value to all our stakeholders. They will ensure that we remain a competitive and exciting company committed to delivering Tomorrow's Answers Today."

Launched at a special event held in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, the new AkzoNobel brand will be rolled out globally during the next 18 months. A worldwide corporate advertising campaign is also scheduled to start shortly.

MarineMax goes for Interlux

Interlux has announced that they have partnered with MarineMax to be the preferred antifouling used in all MarineMax service locations. Tom Martin, MarineMax vice president of parts and accessories, said, "By selecting Interlux we will be able to provide our customers with standardized, premium bottom paint services throughout our network. It is our ongoing goal to partner with premium manufacturers like Interlux so that we can provide consistent services that enhance our customers boating experience."

Bob Donat, vice president of marketing for Interlux, said, "We are excited to be able to offer MarineMax, a complete antifouling solution for their customers featuring our Micron Technology antifouling, Micron Extra. Micron Technology formulations are second to none and will provide the longest lasting performance for both power and sail boats in all waters, at all times."

MarineMax is the nation’s largest and most successful boat retailer with over 88 retail locations in 22 states. MarineMax is the industry leader, selling new and used recreational boats and related marine products and provides yacht brokerage services. Focused on premium brands such as Sea Ray, Boston Whaler, Meridian, Cabo, Hatteras, Grady White, and the Ferretti Group (including Ferretti Yachts, Pershing, Riva, Mochi Craft, Apreamare and Bertram), the company complements its industry leading brands with exclusive, value-added services, such as dedicated delivery captains, classroom and in-water customer training, professionally organized Getaways cruises, our unique value-price no-haggle approach, and unparalleled after-sale service. MarineMax focuses on the customer and the philosophy of "Delivering the Boating Dream," which is the driving force behind MarineMax. Whether our customers want to spend time cruising, fishing, skiing, tubing, or simply relaxing, MarineMax helps them get away from the stresses of everyday life and makes boating a fun and easy activity for the whole family. It is our ability to deliver a premiere boating experience that keeps propelling MarineMax's industry-leading performance year after year.

Biggest ever newbuilding contract signed by Jotun in China

Jotun COSCO Marine Coatings (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd, (JCMC) signed contracts for 30 NB's with Jiangsu Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Co., Ltd (old yard) and Jiangsu New Yangzi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd (new yard), both yards belonging to the Jiangsu yard group. The vessels to be built include 10 x 2,500 teu for Seaspan Ship Management, Canada and 20 x 4,250 teu for Reederei Rudolf Schepers, Reederei Karl Schulte, Hammonia Reederei and Reederei Thomas Schulte—all from Germany and Seaspan Ship Management, Canada

The vessels will be built at the Jiangsu yard group's two construction sites close to Jiangyin city in the Jiangsu Province, some 200km north-west of Shanghai.

The total volume of marine coatings is 6.85 million liters. This represents the biggest single contract ever signed in the history of Jotun.

Boero presents last years sales figures

Italian paint and coatings specialist Boero has announced that its year-end sales for 2006 grew by 9.1 per cent over the previous year to €115.6 million, with strong growth across all three of its business segments. In the Architecture and Decorative paints division, sales were up by 7.1 per cent to €78.7 million, Naval Marine products were up by 20 per cent to €15.5 million and paints to the Yachting market grew by 9.2 per cent to €21.4 million.

According to a company statement, strong sales and high-volume shipments softened the impact of growing operational costs, which were influenced by a rise in the price of raw materials. The resulting effect, thanks also to minor depreciation, had a positive outcome on earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) with a 13.8 per cent rise over 2005 to of €11.4 million. For the first time ever, net profits grew by 5.6 per cent to just over €5 million.

"We have accomplished our planned objectives and I can say that this was not an easy task," says Andreina Boero, group president. "However, in these times it is not wise to rest on our laurels. As you may be aware, in the next few months we shall commence working on a new plant in Rivalta Scrivia near Tortona, which will cover an area of 100,000sq m. In three years' time the plant should be at full working capacity enabling us to double our production output." The long awaited move should create the needed space to grow.

The Boero Group is a leading manufacturer of industrial and consumer coatings. Established in 1831 in Genoa, the group has plants in Genoa-Molassana, Pozzolo Formigaro and Aprilia and manufactures over 30,000 tonnes of paint products per year. When completed, the new plant in Rivalta Scrivia will be capable of producing another 30,000 tonnes annually, effectively doubling the company's output.

see also www.boero.it

Hempel signs agreement with DuPont

Hempel has signed an agreement with DuPont Performance Coatings to provide a full paint-system to the Superyacht industry. The missing link happened to be the Topcoat.

Full range for ProSystem
The new ProFinish topcoats will complement Hempel’s existing ProFiller and ProBuild products to create a distinctive and durable range for every aspect of superyacht coating, from form to finish. Available in a wide range of high gloss colours, including metallic and pearlescent, the topcoats can be repaired, and larger areas buffed and polished at application, offering flexibility during the project.

“Both companies are focused on innovative technology, so we are delighted to cooperate with DuPont,” said Jacqui Knott, Group Marketing Yacht Manager at Hempel. “Our reputation in the superyacht sector is growing rapidly, and adding quality high gloss topcoats based on DuPont technology to our range helps further to make ProSystem the ideal coatings solution. We’re extremely positive about the way ProSystem is developing.”

ProSystem’s flexibility is highly-rated by superyacht project managers and applicators, on both new builds and refits. The breadth of product choice means any changes in project conditions can be met. The range also includes one of the lightest fillers on the market.

Meeting clients' needs
Hempel – already a key player in the yacht and marine markets for 90 years – is rapidly establishing ProSystem as a leading and recommended superyacht coatings system. In addition to its cooperation with DuPont, Hempel is investing substantially in tailored support and service solutions to provide the kind of partner-based approach superyacht projects need.

For more info see www.hempel.com

2007 Top-list paint companies

This ranking is based on annual sales of paint, coatings, adhesives, sealants and related products. For companies based outside the U.S., sales are translated into U.S. dollars using the average currency exchange rate for the company’s fiscal year/reporting period. For more detailed info click here

1. Akzo Nobel (The Netherlands) $7.8 billion
2. Henkel (Germany) $6.921 billion
3. ICI Group (UK) $6.387 billion
4. Sherwin-Williams (USA) $6.348 billion*
5. PPG Industries (USA) $6.324 billion
6. DuPont (USA) $4.095 billion
7. RPM (USA) $3.008 billion
8. Valspar (USA) $2.978 billion
9. BASF Coatings (Germany) $2.935 billion
10. SigmaKalon (The Netherlands) $2.386 billion
11. 3M (USA) $2.2 billion*
12. Kansai Paint (Japan) $1.795 billion
13. Nippon Paint (Japan) $1.732 billion*
14. Sika (Switzerland) $1.5 billion*
15. H.B. Fuller (USA) $1.472 billion
16. Comex (Mexico) $1.4 billion
17. Masco (USA) $1.277 billion
18. Jotun (Norway) $1.249 billion
19. AB. Wilh. Becker (Sweden) $1.190 billion*
20. DAW (Germany) $1.130 billion
21. Rohm and Haas (USA) $1.055 billion
22. Hempel (Denmark) $980 million
23. Benjamin Moore (USA) $950 million*
24. Asian Paints (India) $893 million
25. Kemira Coatings (Finland) $707 million
26. Forbo (Switzerland) $584 million
27. Brillux (Germany) $538 million*
28. Dai Nippon Toryo (Japan) $516 million*
29. Chugoku Marine Paint (Japan) $453 million*
30. Orica (Australia) $403 million
31. Barloworld (South Africa) $400 million*
32. Arch (USA) $358 million
33. KCC (South Korea) $350 million*
34. Wattyl (Australia) $320 million
35. Berger (India) $306 million
36. Helios (Slovenia) $303 million
37. Kelly-Moore (USA) $300 million
38. Dunn-Edwards (USA) $298 million*
39. Yasar (Turkey) $285 million*
40. Renner (Brazil) $282 million*
41. Dyrup (Denmark) $280 million
42. Altana (Germany) $277 million
43. National Paints (Jordan) $260 million
44. DIC (Japan) $250 million
45. CIN (Portugal) $248 million
46. Flugger (Denmark) $244 million
47. Rock Paint (Japan) $211 million*
48. Grebe Group (Germany) $210 million*
49. Tigerwerk (Austria) $188 million*
50. Yung Chi (Taiwan) $182 million*
51. Industrias Titan (Spain) $180 million*
52. DPI (South Korea) $166 million
53. Cloverdale Paint (Canada) $165 million*
54. Shinto Paint (Japan) $161 million*
55. M.A.B. Paints (USA) $155 million*
56. Ace Paint (USA) $150 million*
57. Vogel Paint (USA) $147 million
58. Boero Group (Italy) $145 million
59. Looser Holding AG (Switzerland) $141 million
60. Toa Paints (Thailand) $140 million*
61. Tohpe (Japan) $133 million*
62. Empils (Russia) $116.2 million
63. Russian Coatings (Russia) $116.1 million
64. Spraylat (USA) $110 million
65. Inver SpA (Italy) $106 million
66. RedSpot (USA) $105 million*
67. Tnemec (USA) $96 million

Akzo Nobel presents new Director of Technology

Akzo Nobel has announced that Jo Lennartz (57) will become the company’s new Director of Technology. Two further management changes resulting from his appointment have also been confirmed.

Formerly General Manager of the company’s Functional Chemicals business, Dutch-born Lennartz will officially take up his new position on September 1. He will be succeeded by Bob Margevich (50), currently General Manager of Akzo Nobel Polymer Chemicals. Alan Kwek (50)—presently Manager of the Powder Coatings activities in Asia Pacific—will in turn take over at Polymer Chemicals.

“Jo Lennartz has been instrumental in successfully reshaping the Functional Chemicals business and he will bring to his new role a wealth of experience gained while working for a number of different Akzo Nobel businesses,” said Akzo Nobel Board member Leif Darner.

His new role will include establishing links and interacting with relevant external technology and science communities, as well as leading the development of the technology community within Akzo Nobel.

Currently based in Chicago in the United States, Bob Margevich has almost 30 years of experience in the international chemicals business and has been General Manager of Akzo Nobel Polymer Chemicals since 2003. An American citizen, Margevich will move to Amersfoort in the Netherlands.

Alan Kwek joined Akzo Nobel after the acquisition of Courtaulds in 1998, where he held a regional role for Marine and Protective Coatings in Asia.

Barcelona Boatshow will start displaying Superyachts over 40 metres

The Barcelona International Boat Show will be marked by growth, taking up five pavilions of the Gran Via exhibition centre and two docks in Port Vell, where the on-water exhibition will feature megayachts, of over 40 metres, for the first time. With this feature the show will challenge the two other Mega-yachtshows in the South of Europe of Genoa and Monaco. The total area amounts to 115,000 sq mtrs.

From the 3rd to the 11th of November in the Catalan capital, 650 exhibitors from all sports and recreational boating segments will showcase all the latest products of a booming sector. The pavilions 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6, and outside areas of the exhibition centre, will house the biggest and most important show held to date, featuring everything from motor and sail boats, accessories, engines, fishing, inflatable boats and electronics to jet skis, accessories, under water activities and boat charters.

Port Vell will showcase around 225 large boats in the Espanya and Barcelona docks. The latter will showcase larger boats and even megayachts, including vessels over 40 metres long, a new addition to the Barcelona Boat Show from 2007.

Large new production facility in Turkey for SIKA

Sika has opened a new production plant in Turkey. The 19,000 square- meter facility, located in a modern industrial park in Tuzla on the Asian side of Istanbul, employs 40 people in manufacturing admixtures, mortars, coatings as well as resins for flooring. Its modern equipment not only makes the new plant a state of the art facility but also contributes to a substantial increase in Turkish production capacities.

Turkey is a significant market for Sika, because it has a large wooden Yachtbuilders industry and an important production base for supplying customers also in Central Asia and the Gulf region. The new plant represents another step in Sika's expansion in growth markets in the IMEA—India, Middle East, East Africa—region.