Diesel Generator Painting in Somerset, NJ
Rackspace Technology
Commercial Painting Project in Somerset, NJ
In September 2024, CertaPro Painters® of Mountainside completed a two-week painting project for Rackspace Technology in Somerset, NJ.
The project focused on restoring the exterior of diesel backup generators that had begun showing signs of deterioration from water penetration, rust, and prolonged sun exposure. The exhaust chimneys also had peeling paint caused by the extreme heat generated during operation.
The generators had developed:
- Rust and deterioration around the bases and other areas
- Fading from prolonged sun exposure
- Peeling paint on the exhaust chimneys
Our team was hired to restore and protect the generators while working carefully around sensitive machinery supporting a critical data center.
Services Completed
- Rust and peeling paint removal
- Feather sanding and surface preparation
- Scuff sanding of smooth exterior surfaces
- Application of Kem Bond Oil-Based Primer
- Application of heat-resistant coating to exhaust chimneys
Project Challenges
Working Around Sensitive Machinery
The diesel generators are critical backup equipment for a data center, making careful work practices essential. The painting crew needed to work around sensitive components without interfering with the machinery or compromising its operation.
Protecting Equipment From Overspray
Because the generators contained numerous components that needed to remain protected, extensive masking and covering were required before painting. The team carefully covered the equipment to prevent overspray from reaching sensitive areas.
Coating Surfaces Exposed to Extreme Heat
The exhaust chimneys are exposed to extremely high temperatures during generator operation. Standard exterior paint would not be suitable for these surfaces, requiring a specialized high-temperature coating designed specifically for heat exposure.
Our Approach
Careful Rust and Surface Preparation
The team began by carefully scraping rust and peeling paint from the generators. Edges were feather sanded to smooth transitions between existing coatings and exposed surfaces, while the smooth exterior surfaces were scuff sanded to promote proper adhesion.
Rust-Inhibiting Primer
After preparation, the generators were primed with Kem Bond Oil-Based Primer, a rust-inhibiting primer designed to help protect prepared metal surfaces from further corrosion.
Heat-Resistant Chimney Coating
The exhaust chimneys required a specialized coating due to the extreme temperatures they experience during operation. CertaPro Painters of Mountainside used Sherwin-Williams Heat-Flex Hi-Temp 100, a heat-resistant coating rated for temperatures up to 1,000°F.
The specialized coating provided a finish suited to the demanding conditions of the generator exhaust system while helping protect the chimneys from continued deterioration.
Detailed Protection and Application
Before painting, the team thoroughly covered and protected the generators and surrounding components. This allowed the crew to apply the coatings carefully while minimizing the risk of overspray reaching sensitive equipment.
The Result
After two weeks of specialized preparation and painting, the diesel backup generators received refreshed and protected exterior surfaces.
The completed project:
- Removed rust and deteriorated paint
- Helped protect metal surfaces from further corrosion
- Restored faded and worn exterior finishes
- Applied a heat-resistant coating to the exhaust chimneys
- Improved the overall appearance of the generator equipment
- Protected sensitive components throughout the painting process
By combining detailed surface preparation, rust-inhibiting primer, specialized high-temperature coatings, and careful equipment protection, CertaPro Painters® of Mountainside successfully completed the project while working around critical backup power equipment.
Before and After Photos
Planning a Commercial Painting Project?
Whether your facility needs interior or exterior painting, industrial equipment painting, protective coatings, surface preparation, or long-term maintenance, CertaPro Painters® of Mountainside has the experience and specialized crews to manage demanding commercial painting projects with care and attention to detail.
