Corrosion protection specialist Steelpaint GmbH has secured a further Network Rail approval, extending the use of its Stelcatec moisture-cure polyurethane coating system from maintenance and refurbishment work to newbuild rail infrastructure projects across the UK.

The certification confirms that Steelpaint’s Stelcatec system meets the requirements of Network Rail specification NR/L3/CIV/039 for new steel structures. This allows the protective coating to be applied on first installation on newly constructed bridges, stations, platforms, and associated rail assets.

The Stelcatec system is a one-component, moisture-cured polyurethane coating designed for steel structures exposed to challenging site conditions. 

Unlike conventional multi-pack epoxy and polyurethane systems, it requires no mixing, tolerates variable humidity, and cures reliably and quickly under conditions commonly encountered on UK rail sites, including restricted access/weather windows and night-time working.

“This second approval is a major step forward for us in the UK rail market,” said Frank Müller, Director at Steelpaint. “Until now, Stelcatec was limited to repair and maintenance applications. With the newbuild certification in place, it can now be specified from the outset on new rail structures, simplifying corrosion protection strategies and reducing long-term maintenance burdens.”

The approval comes as the UK rail sector continues to progress a pipeline of newbuild and enhancement programs involving substantial volumes of structural steel.