A pump, valve or motor can look ready for service while still carrying protective coatings, trapped moisture or materials left over from storage. Before commissioning, check what was applied, what needs to be removed and whether the equipment meets the manufacturer’s requirements.
This equipment de-preservation checklist helps maintenance and commissioning teams work through those checks. Use it alongside the equipment manufacturer’s instructions and your approved site procedure.
What is equipment de-preservation?
Equipment de-preservation is the process of preparing preserved equipment for commissioning after storage or shipment. It includes reviewing preservation records, removing protective materials where required, cleaning and inspecting surfaces, and completing the specified readiness checks.
Removing a protective coating is only one part of the process. It does not, by itself, mean the equipment is ready to start.
1. Review the preservation records
Start with the storage history. Identify the protective products applied, the surfaces treated and any inspections or maintenance completed during storage.
Check the instructions for coating removal, operating lubricants and pre-start inspections. If the coating is unknown, confirm its identity before choosing a cleaner.
2. Inspect the equipment before cleaning
Inspect the equipment as it comes out of storage. Look for corrosion, moisture, damaged packaging, loose or missing covers and signs of contamination.
Pay particular attention to exposed metal, connections, seals and places where water may have collected. Record defects and have any damage assessed before proceeding with the affected work.
3. Confirm which coatings need removal
Not every preservation film needs to come off. The decision depends on the product, the treated surface and the equipment manufacturer’s requirements.
Check each area separately, especially sealing faces, electrical contacts and friction surfaces. Leave a film in place only when the equipment instructions permit it and compatibility with the operating fluid or lubricant has been confirmed.
4. Choose a compatible removal method
Match the cleaner to the coating and the material beneath it. Check its suitability for nearby paint, plastics, elastomers and other components.
Test a small, representative area before wider application. Check whether the coating is removed effectively and whether the underlying surface is affected.
Tectyl 150 is a solvent-based remover for solvent-based Tectyl coatings. Tectyl Biocleaner is a water-based cleaner with application-specific dilution and rinsing requirements. Choose the product using the coating details, equipment restrictions and current technical instructions.
For a comparison and practical removal guidance, read our Tectyl coating removal and de-preservation guide.
5. Protect sensitive components
Before cleaning, plan how to keep liquids and loosened residue away from electrical assemblies, bearings and other sensitive areas unless the approved procedure permits contact.
Follow the current Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for application instructions and the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for hazards, ventilation, personal protective equipment and handling precautions. Collect cleaning waste according to site requirements.
6. Clean, dry and inspect again
After cleaning, check for remaining coating, cleaner residue and moisture. Where rinsing is required and permitted, follow the approved method and dry the equipment thoroughly.
Inspect the exposed surfaces for corrosion or damage that may have been hidden beneath the film. If commissioning is delayed, confirm whether temporary protection needs to be restored.
7. Complete the commissioning checks
Remove designated storage plugs, covers and restraints according to the equipment instructions. Confirm that the correct operating lubricants, filters, connections and guards are in place.
Complete the required mechanical, electrical and functional checks. Record the equipment’s readiness and obtain the required authorisation before start-up.
Remove only the tags and protective items designated for removal under the approved procedure.
Quick-reference checklist
- ☐ Preservation records reviewed and coating identified
- ☐ Initial inspection completed and defects assessed
- ☐ Removal requirements confirmed for each treated surface
- ☐ Cleaner compatibility checked and test area inspected
- ☐ Sensitive components protected; current TDS and SDS reviewed
- ☐ Surfaces cleaned, dried and inspected again
- ☐ Designated storage items removed; lubricants, connections and guards checked
- ☐ Required commissioning checks and start-up authorisation completed
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does every Tectyl coating need removal before commissioning?
No. Removal depends on the coating, its location and the equipment manufacturer’s requirements. Leave a preservation film in place only when the equipment instructions permit it and compatibility with the operating fluid or lubricant has been confirmed.
What should I do if the protective coating is unknown?
Check the preservation records, product labels and supplier documentation. Confirm the coating’s identity and removal requirements before selecting a cleaner.
Can I use any degreaser to remove a preservation coating?
Do not assume a general degreaser is suitable. Check the coating manufacturer’s recommendations, confirm compatibility with the underlying material and nearby components, and test a small area before wider use.
What is the difference between Tectyl 150 and Tectyl Biocleaner?
Tectyl 150 is a solvent-based remover for solvent-based Tectyl coatings. Tectyl Biocleaner is a water-based cleaner whose concentration and application method depend on the coating and cleaning conditions. Product selection should follow the current technical instructions and equipment compatibility requirements.
What if commissioning is delayed after coating removal?
Review the equipment’s exposure conditions and preservation requirements. Newly exposed surfaces may need temporary protection until commissioning takes place. Follow the equipment manufacturer’s instructions and the approved site preservation plan.
Is equipment ready to start once the coating is removed?
No. Coating removal alone does not establish readiness. Complete the required inspections and commissioning checks, confirm operating lubricants and connections, and obtain the required start-up authorisation.
Need help identifying a Tectyl coating?
For Tectyl product identification and removal-product enquiries in the UAE and GCC, contact White House General Trading LLC.
Share the product name, equipment type, treated surfaces and any available preservation records. These details help our team identify the relevant product guidance.
Product References
Disclaimer: This checklist provides general guidance and does not replace the equipment manufacturer’s instructions, current product Technical Data Sheets and Safety Data Sheets, or approved site procedures. Cleaning methods and coating removal requirements vary by product, material and equipment. Confirm compatibility before use. Equipment readiness and authorisation for start-up must be assessed by the responsible site personnel.