Ballastic Black

SML Ballastic Black Overview

For any steel or wooden boat that spends any length of time in water needs to be adequately protected in order to prevent rust or rot. It can even be used on GRP.  Traditionally narrowboats, canal boats and other inland waterways vessels have always used a bitumen based paint. These have the advantage of being extremely waterproof, easy to use and are reasonably priced.

Developed by SML Paints, Ballastic Black is a high-build, flexible bitumen coating designed for use primarily on steel surfaces, particularly in marine environments. It serves as both a primer and topcoat, making it a cost-effective solution for hull blacking on vessels operating in inland waterways. Its high volume solids content ensures a thicker protective layer per application, enhancing durability and extending maintenance intervals.

Key Features of Ballastic Black

• High Volume Solids - Provides a thicker coating compared to similar products, offering superior corrosion protection.
• Flexible Coating - Adapts to structural movements and resists cracking, ensuring long-term durability.
• Dual Functionality - Acts as both a primer and topcoat, simplifying the coating system and reducing application time.
• Cost-Effective - Offers an economical solution without compromising on quality, making it accessible for various projects
• Versatile Application - Suitable for use both above and below the waterline, enhancing its applicability across different applications

Ballastic Black contains much solvent than other leading bitumen brands meaning that when applied at the same spreading rate Ballastic Black will provide superior corrosion protection.

Suitable Uses and Applications

Ballastic Black can be used on the following substrates;

• Bare steel
• Existing bitumen-based coatings meaning Ballastic Black can be applied on virtually all existing coatings which saves on the time and expense of taking the hull back to bare steel.

Ballastic Black can also be used in many different applications both above and below the waterline

• Marine Vessels - Ideal for hull blacking on narrowboats, canal boats, and other inland waterway vessels, providing robust protection against freshwater corrosion.
• Below and Above Waterline Protection - Effective in safeguarding areas both submerged and exposed to atmospheric conditions, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

Application Guide for SML Ballastic Black

If painting outdoors it is important to make sure the atmospheric conditions are suitable. If you paint when it is too cold, too hot or too windy, application may be harder which may result in a substandard finish. The ideal painting conditions are cool, calm and dry.

For more information on how to apply Ballastic Black, please refer to our data sheets

Step 1 - Surface Preparation

• Steel Surfaces - Remove all mill scale, rust, and contaminants to achieve a clean surface. Abrasive blasting to a minimum standard of Sa 2½ is recommended.
• Previously Coated Surfaces - Ensure the existing bitumen coating is sound, clean, and free from contaminants. Remove any loose or flaking material by scraping or wire brushing.

Step 2 - Thinning (if required)

• If you do find yourself having to paint in conditions that aren't perfect then keeping Ballastic Black warm (for example by keeping it indoors overnight) will reduce the viscosity and help it to flow out better.
• A similar effect can be achieved by thinning with SML Alkyd Thinner

Step 3 - Application Methods

• Do not apply if the temperature of the surface being painted is likely to exceed 30˚C i.e. avoid painting on hot sunny days.
• Brush/Roller - Suitable for small areas or touch-ups. Apply evenly to achieve the desired film thickness.
• Airless Spray - Recommended for large areas to ensure uniform coverage and efficiency.
• Apply a minimum of two coats to achieve optimal protection.

Step 4 - Drying and Curing

• Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.
• Touch Dry - Approximately 12 hours at 23°C.
• Recoat Interval - Minimum of 12 hours at 23°C.
• Full Cure - Achieved after 7 days at 23°C.

SML Ballastic Black Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

The FAQ's below are for general guidance.  For specific questions, please refer to the application guides and data sheets on our product pages, or give us call and we will answer any questions that you have.

Q. Can Ballastic Black be applied over existing coatings?

A. Yes, it can be applied over existing bitumen-based coatings, provided the surface is clean, dry, and free from contaminants.

Q. Is Ballastic Black suitable for use below the waterline?

A. Yes, it is designed for both above and below waterline applications, offering excellent protection against freshwater corrosion.

Q. How does Ballastic Black compare to similar products?

A. Ballastic Black has a higher percentage of volume solids than comparable products, resulting in a thicker coating and enhanced corrosion protection when applied at the same spreading rate.

Q. What is the recommended drying time between coats?

A. A minimum of 12 hours at 23°C is recommended between coats.

Q. Can Ballastic Black be applied in cold temperatures?

A. Application is recommended at temperatures above 5°C to ensure proper drying and curing.

Q. Is thinning required before application?

A. Thinning is not typically necessary. However, if required, consult the technical data sheet for appropriate thinning guidelines.

Q. What is the shelf life of Ballastic Black?

A. When stored in original, unopened containers in a cool, dry place, it has a shelf life of a minimum of 12 months.

Q. How should tools and equipment be cleaned after use?

A. Clean all tools and equipment with SML Alkyd Thinner immediately after use to prevent hardening.

Q. Is Ballastic Black resistant to chemicals?

A. It offers moderate resistance to mild chemicals but is not suitable for areas exposed to strong solvents or acids.

Q. Can it be used on non-steel substrates?

A. Ballastic Black is specifically formulated for steel and wooden surfaces. For other substrates, consult SML Paints for suitable alternatives.

Q. What safety precautions should be taken during application?

A. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, ensure adequate ventilation, and avoid inhalation of vapors.

Q. How should Ballastic Black be stored?
A. Ballastic Black should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent contamination and solvent evaporation.