TUFF STUFF UTE LININGS PROTECTS UNDER THE LONG WHITE CLOUD Tradespeople, service engineers and transport workers need a form of protection for vehicles that will minimise damage and corrosion from their everyday activities. 44 July 2017 A U T O M O T I V E By using surface protection, the service life of a vehicle can be extended, in addition to reducing servicing and repair costs. In addition to the work environment, variable climates— from maritime coasts through freezing alpine highlands to sulphurous steam in active tectonic sites—can also be damaging to any truck, ute or car. Rhino Linings Australasia's (RLA) Tuff Stuff is a premium sprayapplied lining product that has a thick, textured surface that provides enhanced slip resistance for cargo and maximum protection against corrosion, scratches and dents. The lining forms a permanent air and water-tight bond that prohibits rust, corrosion and surface abrasion. The nonporous lining is easy to clean and the non-abrasive surface texture helps keep cargo in place. John Papas, regional sales director at RLA, says that selecting the correct product is important which is why all RLA dealers and applicators receive the same comprehensive and intensive training. After initial training they then have access to a network of experienced and knowledgeable staff. “We have technically experienced staff in Australia, but we can also call on the expertise of our overseas counterparts, particularly in the US, for specialist advice,” he says. This depth of knowledge and experience for which products can be used and in what situations is just a phone call or email away for applicators. “The beauty of the digital age is that we can provide customers anywhere in the region with videos and photographs of best practices done by people anywhere in the world.” Most other companies just provide the material and a datasheet and that is all. “RLA can give that human factor,” Mr Papas adds. According to Peter Morgan, general manager of RLA, the structure of the polymer used for ute linings has to be resistant to abrasion and chemical attack. The material’s strength comes from the bonding and crosslinking of the resin and hardener. “When considering a coating you have to think about the physical characteristics of what might be stored in a ute; tools and equipment are often heavy, with sharp edges,” Mr Morgan says. “You also have to consider the physical environment where a vehicle might be used.” RLA’s Tuff Stuff is warranted not to crack, warp or peel even under extreme temperatures. It is used extensively to protect vehicles such as utes, trucks, 4WDs, prime movers, trailers, boats
EN-July2017-eMag6
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