The Ban of VC 17m – A Turning Point in Antifouling Technology
The decision to ban the thin-film antifouling VC® 17m by International® from Akzo Nobel due to its harmful ingredients by the Finnish authority TUKES has far-reaching consequences. For a long time, VC® 17m was considered the gold standard in the thin-film antifouling segment. This was due to factors such as its particularly easy application and the extremely smooth surface, which was achieved without the need for sanding. However, under the pressure of stricter environmental regulations and the growing demand for biocide-free antifouling, new paths had to be followed.
Since VC® 17m has been banned and may no longer be applied as a new coating since November 2, 2024, boat owners and shipyards are forced to reconsider the old VC® 17m coating and switch to modern alternatives. With Hempaspeed TF, the transition from VC® 17m is seamless – without compromising on protection or durability. This change is not only a reaction to legal requirements but also an important step toward environmentally friendly and sustainable ship maintenance!
Whether re-coating VC® 17m or building a completely new antifouling system, Hempaspeed TF is the ideal choice for those who want a biozide-free and sustainable antifouling system.
Hempaspeed TF – Sustainable, Easy, Affordable
With Hempaspeed TF, Hempel presents a forward-thinking alternative to traditional antifouling coatings like VC 17m. This innovative Hempel antifouling not only delivers excellent technical performance but also allows for easy re-coating over existing coatings like International’s thin-film antifouling VC® 17m. Hempaspeed TF offers numerous benefits that make it an attractive option for boat and ship owners:
-
Sustainability and Environmental Friendliness: In times of stricter environmental regulations and rising demands for biocide-free antifouling systems, it is crucial to rely on sustainable solutions. Hempaspeed TF was developed with sustainability in mind and provides protection against unwanted fouling without harmful biocides. This is a key factor compared to other alternatives for overcoating old VC® 17m coatings. You can read more about alternatives in the blog post ‘VC® 17m Ban – What Are the Alternatives?’
-
Easy Application and Quick Drying: An uncomplicated application and reduced drying times make the coating process significantly easier – ideal for transitioning from VC® 17m to modern systems.
-
Cost Efficiency: Thanks to its long-lasting properties and optimized maintenance effort, the maintenance costs are reduced throughout the lifespan of the coating. Hempaspeed provides a cost-effective alternative for professional boat antifouling use.
-
Compatibility: Hempaspeed is perfect for leisure and racing boats made of GRP, steel, or aluminum and works best in inland waters, rivers, lakes, and freshwater areas with light fouling conditions.
Overcoating VC 17m – Modernizing Existing Antifouling Systems
Many boat owners are faced with the challenge of renewing the tried-and-tested International thin-film antifouling VC® 17m. By overcoating with Hempaspeed TF, existing VC® 17m coatings can be modernized while complying with current environmental regulations. Here’s how easy it is to switch from VC® 17m:
-
Preparation: The existing VC® 17m coating is carefully cleaned, sanded with 80 to 120 grit, and then rinsed with clear water. This creates the optimal surface for the new antifouling system.
-
Adhesion Promoter: To ensure proper adhesion of the new Hempaspeed TF coating and reliable, long-lasting protection, a layer of Hempel Conversion Primer is applied.
-
Protection and Performance: Two layers of Hempaspeed TF are applied over the Conversion Primer for effective long-term protection against fouling. Your new antifouling system is ready!
-
Maintenance: For annual recoating, the existing Hempaspeed TF coating is rinsed with clear water and sanded with 80 grit. Once all dust and loose layers are removed, two new layers of Hempaspeed are applied.
Building a New Antifouling Coating with Hempaspeed TF
Even when building a completely new boat antifouling system, Hempaspeed TF shows how simple the process is.
-
Primer: First, five layers of Hempel Light Primer are applied to the substrate before the Conversion Primer is added for optimal adhesion of the antifouling.
-
Antifouling Coating: Two layers of Hempaspeed TF complete the system, offering optimal protection against marine plants and algae – all without harmful biocides.
-
Sustainable Economy: As an environmentally friendly solution with low maintenance, the complete setup or switch to the biocide-free Hempel antifouling system with Hempaspeed TF is a sustainable investment.
Conclusion
Hempaspeed TF represents a groundbreaking alternative for the VC® 17m systems of the past. Whether overcoating an existing VC® 17m coating or building a completely new antifouling system, the innovative features, easy application, and biocide-free approach make Hempaspeed TF the top choice for modern applications in the antifouling sector. Choose Hempel antifouling and see for yourself how Hempaspeed TF can optimally protect your boat – sustainably, efficiently, and with a secure future.
