SUBMARINE FREE-FLOOD AREAS

Coating systems used in submarine free-flood areas and recesses include anti-corrosive and anti-fouling coatings (areas above the boot-top do not have anti-fouling applied). Certain epoxy coatings may be used for touch-up repair when specified in the governing preservation document. Rubber piece parts of pipe hangers are allowed to be painted in free-flood and recess areas. MIL-PRF-23236 Type VII, Class 7/18 specifies coating systems for use in these areas.

To ensure proper coating adhesion, special attention should be paid to surface preparation of this area. All surface preparation work must be accomplished in accordance with NAVSEA Standard Item (NSI) 009-32 and Submarine Maintenance Standard (SMS) 6310-081-015 – Submarine Preservation.

For Depot repairs, refer to Submarine Maintenance Standard (SMS) 6310-081-015 – Submarine Preservation and NSI 009-32. NSI 009-32 is the governing document for preservation requirements.

Free floods and recesses are usually not entered by submariners between availabilities but if they need to enter for any reason Naval Ships’ Technical Manual: Chapter 631 (NSTM 631), Preservation of Ships in Service – General provides requirements, instructions, and guidance for surface preparation and coating application.

New construction submarines are painted in accordance with the submarine build specification for that class of submarine.

SUBMEPP provides centralized life-cycle maintenance solutions and support for U.S. Navy submarines and submersibles. SUBMEPP is under the Submarine Directorate of the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA).
Brandon Wohl
SUBMEPP
(207) 438-6198.

The Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA 05) is the technical authority for in-service submarine preservation-related work.
Kevin Klucher
Naval Sea Systems Command, SEA 05
(202) 618-4167