Oc-Alc/Dir Of Contracting, 3001 Staff Dr Ste 1ag76a, Tinker Air Force Base, OK 73145-3015

J -- MAINTENANCE, REPAIR & REBUILDING DUE 040698 POC For copy, OC-ALC/PKXDA TINKER AFB OK 73145-3015, For additional information contact Ken Thomason/Pkc/[405]736-5370 Potential Sources Sought. This is not a request for proposal. Fuel Tank Topcoat Repair Methods Sought. C/KC-135 and B-52 aircraft have been experiencing situations where the fuel tank topcoating material is breaking down and being released into the fuel. This has led to increased maintenance for inspections of fuel filters and clean up of fuel tanks. We would like to know if there are any companies with experience in the repair or removal of fuel tank coatings and/or the reapplication of these coatings. The primary function for topcoat use in fuel tanks is to protect the structure from corrosion. Four different topcoating materials have been used in C/KC-135 fuel tanks: MIL-S-4383, MIL-C-27725, MIL-C-83019, and BMS 10-20. The primary topcoating material used in B-52 fuel tanks is BMS 10-39. All these materials have demonstrated recent occurrences of breaking down. High pressure water blast and carbon dioxide blast methods have been investigated in an effort to selectively remove loose topcoat without damaging sealant or good topcoat. Neither process proved to be a viable method for accomplishing this goal. The most effective method we have found for removing topcoat without compromising system integrity is using either ROLOC discs or Scotchbrite pads to abrasively remove the defective topcoat. We are currently not replacing removed topcoat and are using alodine as an interim corrosion preventive coating. We are interested in more cost effective/less manpower intensive methods for removing defective topcoat. We are also interested in potential methods or products for removing topcoat that is still properly adhering or for replacing the topcoating. Please provide information, or direct any questions on this subject to OC-ALC/LCRA, 3001 Staff Dr Ste 2AH190, Tinker AFB OK 73145-3019, Attn: Ray Palmer, (405)736-3832, FAX (405)736-5604. (0071)

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