Client and Facility Overview
Manheim Dallas Auto Auction, located in Dallas, Texas, operates a large-scale auto auction facility that includes essential infrastructure for vehicle operations. The facility maintains a 6,000-gallon diesel fuel tank that serves their operational needs. As a Cox Automotive company, Manheim Dallas plays a crucial role in the automotive wholesale marketplace.
Requested Maintenance
The client required comprehensive painting services for their diesel fuel tank to address deterioration and maintain compliance with safety standards. The project scope included:
- Surface Restoration: Complete refinishing of the fuel tank's exterior, including removal of existing notification stickers and treatment of rusted areas
- Protective Coating: Application of a specialized coating system to ensure long-term protection against environmental factors
- Operational Consideration: Maintaining fuel pump accessibility throughout the project while ensuring proper cure times for coatings
Decision Driver and Timing
The project was driven by the need to address surface deterioration and maintain the integrity of the fuel storage infrastructure. Timing was carefully planned for weekday execution over a 2-3 day period, allowing for proper coating cure times while maintaining facility operations. The schedule was specifically designed to accommodate the 4-6 hour drying periods required between coating applications.
Scope of Work
Surface Preparation:
- Thorough wire brush and sanding of rusted areas
- Power washing to remove dirt and failing paint
- Strategic masking to protect existing decals and prevent overspray
Primer Application:
- Application of PPG AK600 rust-inhibitive primer
- Carefully timed application to allow for proper curing
Finish Coating:
- Implementation of PPG Amershield urethane in white
- Selected specifically for UV protection and chalk resistance
- Applied with attention to uniform coverage and thickness
Access Management:
- Maintained accessibility to fuel pump throughout project duration
- Established clear communication regarding touch-free periods during coating cure times
Notable Details
Safety Protocol Implementation:
- Established comprehensive Controlled Access Zone (CAZ) with red boundary tape
- Deployed full PPE including protective gloves, spray suits, facial respirators, hard hats, steel toe boots, and safety glasses
- Installed safety cones and caution tape to protect workers and facility users
Operational Considerations:
- Coordinated work schedule to minimize impact on facility operations
- Maintained continuous access to fuel pump for essential services
- Implemented specific timing for coating applications to ensure proper curing
Quality Control Measures:
- Strategic masking to protect critical decals and markings
- Careful surface preparation to ensure coating adhesion
- Precise application of both primer and topcoat systems
Client Satisfaction
The project met all specified requirements while maintaining strict safety protocols and minimal operational disruption. The newly coated fuel tank provides enhanced protection against environmental factors while maintaining compliance with facility standards. The professional execution of the project, including careful attention to surface preparation and coating application, ensures long-term durability of the fuel storage infrastructure at Manheim Dallas Auto Auction.