A newly certified protective coating system from German manufacturer Steelpaint GmbH is making waves in the UK rail sector after winning Network Rail approval. The system, called Stelcatec, is designed to cut application times while improving durability, offering contractors a faster and more flexible approach to protecting steel infrastructure.
The implications are particularly relevant for the rail freight industry, where robust handling puts a strain on the resilience of coatings, and infrastructure, particularly rolling stock and containers, is subject to frequent handling. The development also feeds into a wider industry conversation about the performance of protective coatings on steel surfaces.
Network Rail approval
Stelcatec is a three-layer moisture-cured urethane coating distributed in Britain by Recoat UK. The product was formally listed under Network Rail’s XM92/M24 specification in January this year, following field trials that demonstrated its ability to protect steelwork under realistic site conditions.
In March, the system was tested at Specialist Painting Group’s Peterborough facility. Three “gingered” steel samples were manually cleaned to St3 standard, then coated entirely within four hours using rollers. Pull-off adhesion testing confirmed the coating’s performance on marginally prepared substrates, showing the potential to simplify maintenance in difficult conditions.
Contractor response
“This isn’t about just meeting the spec,” said Andreas Engert, Technical Director at Steelpaint. “This is about optimising steel protection, application process and cost efficiencies. Applicators were surprised at how easily they could finish a job in one shift, not three.”
Network Rail representatives attended the demonstration alongside leading contractors and consultants. Their presence highlighted the appetite for alternatives to traditional multi-pack systems, which often demand tight environmental controls, complex mixing and long drying times.
Operational benefits
Steelpaint Director Frank Müller said the Stelcatec system reflects a more agile approach to infrastructure maintenance. “Rail infrastructure development and maintenance must be more agile. What we are providing Network Rail is a product that can be used by small teams, under real-world conditions, with minimal disruption to rail operations.”
Recoat UK has positioned the system as a breakthrough for contractors. “It’s a rare opportunity when something comes along that saves time, reduces risk, and performs to the highest standards,” said Recoat UK Director Perry Poppelaars.
Applications ahead of shared concern
Unlike conventional epoxy coatings, Stelcatec does not require hazardous hardeners or complex mixing. The one-component polyurethane can be applied straight from the can, cures rapidly even in damp conditions and bonds strongly to imperfect surfaces. This makes it particularly valuable for bridges and platforms where blast cleaning is not practical.
Recoat has already secured its first application on Transport for London infrastructure, with Stelcatec scheduled for use on the bridge at Roding Valley station. The company expects wider adoption across the UK rail network as contractors gain experience with the system. Steelpaint also recently won a contract at London Gateway, where there are significant plans for rail freight development.