This recommended practice encompasses the requirements for expert application of a quality coating system to exterior surfaces of a rail car that have been prepared in accordance with a specified, recognized standard. It is intended to complement NACE Standard RP0386 (latest revision), "Application of a Coating System to Interior Surfaces of Covered Hopper Rail Cars in Plastic, Food, and Chemical Service." Qualified inspection of the completed coating system and testing by the use of adequate, readily available instruments are also covered in this recommended practice. Coating manufacturers, coating applicators, and those who have contracting authority for hopper car internal coating installation should be able to use this recommended practice to determine the facilities, equipment, and personnel needed to satisfy the requirements for rail car exterior coating systems.

This NACE recommended practice was prepared by Task Group T-14C-2, a component of Unit Committee T-14C on Rail Equipment Corrosion, and is issued by NACE under the auspices of Group Committee T-14 on Corrosion in the Transportation Industry.

1.1 This recommended practice describes procedures for the application of a coating system to the exterior surfaces of steel rail cars. The procedures cover all rail cars in general; however, some sections will apply to a particular type (e.g., hopper, tank car).

1.2 The requirements for surface preparation, coating application, inspection, and quality tests necessary for coating a rail car externally are covered in this recommended practice.

Historical Document 1992