BS 6949 is a British Standard that discusses bitumen-based coatings. The main aim of BS 6949 is to provide best industry requirements for bitumen-based coatings to ensure they offer adequate corrosion protection and waterproofing.
BS 6949 specifies performance and marking requirements for a range of bitumen-based, solvent-borne coatings. It covers coatings for cold application by either brushing, spraying, rolling, or dipping processes intended to give a coat for the corrosion protection and waterproofing of substrates including iron and steel.
Two types, each with three classes, are included. All of these are suitable only for applications where the coating will not be in contact with potable water. The level of gloss of the finished film is not specified in BS 6949.
Note 1: These bitumen coatings, are neither intended to withstand hot conditions, as on boilers, smoke stacks, etc., for which special coatings should be obtained, nor to resist contamination with mineral oils or paint solvents, all of which conditions will cause softening of the film.
Note 2: Guidance on the use of bitumen-based coatings is given in Appendix A, BS 5493 and BS 6150.
Note: The titles of the publications referred to in BS 6949 are listed on the inside back cover.
BS 6949 on bitumen-based coatings for cold application is useful for:
BS 6949 contains requirements for bitumen-based coatings unsuitable for use in contact with potable water.
BS 6949 provides you with test methods to demonstrate the performance of your bitumen-based coatings.
Guidance on the use of bitumen-based coatings for cold application is also covered in BS 6949.
As a result, if you are a manufacturer, you can determine whether or not your products are capable of providing adequate corrosion resistance and ultimately enhance shelf-life of the end-product.