Project Spotlight: Wastewater Infrastructure Coatings and Protection

Gemstone Industrial Services recently completed a Wastewater Infrastructure Project focused on protecting vital steel surfaces from corrosion and chemical exposure while ensuring long-term structural performance. Our team’s precision, adherence to SSPC standards, and use of advanced coating systems delivered results built to last.

Project Scope & Process

To begin, the crew prepared and protected the work area using cardboard and visqueen/poly sheeting, ensuring containment and safety throughout the process. Surface preparation followed SSPC-SP 10 Near White Metal Blast Cleaning Standards for abrasive sponge blasting and SSPC-SP 3 Power Tool Cleaning Standards for grinding, achieving an ideal profile for coating adhesion.

Once surfaces were properly prepped, areas not designated for coating were masked for precision application. The team then applied ten mils of PPG AquataPexy® 190 DTM Epoxy Primer, providing a strong base layer for long-term protection. Small surface repairs were made using PPG ICO-GELIM Epoxy Patching Material and steel panels to restore surface integrity.

To complete the system, eighty mils of PPG AQUATAFLEX® 506 Epoxy/Polyurethane/Polyurea Hybrid Coating were applied, forming a durable, chemical-resistant barrier designed for harsh wastewater environments. Following the application, Gemstone performed a full teardown and cleanup, leaving the site clean, compliant, and ready for service.

Built for Durability and Compliance

At Gemstone, we understand that wastewater infrastructure demands coatings that stand up to constant moisture, chemicals, and corrosion. Our industrial coatings and linings—including epoxy, polyurethane, polyurea, and vinyl ester systems—are engineered to extend asset life, reduce maintenance costs, and preserve environmental integrity.

By following SSPC and OSHA standards and utilizing trusted products from PPG, our team ensured this project met the highest industry benchmarks for safety, quality, and performance.

Protecting Critical Infrastructure

Gemstone specializes in coatings and linings for water and wastewater treatment plants, reservoir tanks, and lift stations, helping municipalities maintain clean, compliant, and corrosion-free operations. This project is a testament to our commitment to quality craftsmanship and long-term protection for the systems that keep communities running.

Want to protect your assets with high-performance coatings and linings?

Contact Gemstone Industrial Services today to schedule a site assessment and custom coating plan.

At Gemstone Industrial Services, our history of excellence in pile jacket installation stretches back decades, with projects completed for both the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). Under our former name, Jewell Painting, Inc., Cameron Jewell, now Manager of Gemstone, led several bonded and prime pile jacket contracts that laid the foundation for our reputation today.