Bituminous Primers for Pipes Containing Gilsonite
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A primer improves bond between steel and the main coating.
Composition
Gilsonite and/or bitumen dissolved in fast-evaporating solvents.
Benefits
- Fast drying
- Excellent wetting of blasted steel
- Compatible with hot enamels and tapes

Application
Apply a thin, even coat by brush, spray or roller to clean, dry steel.
Why primer is critical
Even the best enamel or tape fails if it does not bond to steel. Primer wets the blasted surface, fills the surface profile and provides a compatible base.
Typical primer properties
| Property | Target |
|---|---|
| Solids | low to moderate, for good penetration |
| Drying time | fast, so coating can follow quickly |
| Compatibility | matched to enamel or tape system |
Application tips
- Prime immediately after blasting, before rust forms.
- Apply a thin, uniform film; avoid puddles.
- Allow solvent to flash off before applying hot enamel.
Gilsonite benefit
Gilsonite gives the primer a firm, non-tacky film that resists dust pick-up and bonds well with hot enamels.
See pipe coating grade gilsonite. Related: bitumen enamel.
Recommended product
Data sheet
Coating & Waterproofing Grade Gilsonite
| Property | Typical value | Test method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Black powder | Visual |
| Softening point (R&B) | 150 – 200 °C | ASTM D36 |
| Ash content, max | 5 % | ASTM D3174 |
| Moisture, max | 1 % | ASTM D95 |
| Solubility in TCE, min | 97 % | ASTM D2042 |
| Particle size | ≤ 200 mesh | Sieve |
| Typical dosage | 5 – 25 % of compound | |
| Packing | 25 kg bags palletized; 1 MT jumbo bags. | |
Typical values. The final specification is confirmed in the COA of each shipment.


