Steelpaint’s Stelcatec is a corrosion-resistant coating system that boosts durability, safety, and operational efficiency for port and maritime equipment.
German coatings specialist Steelpaint has re-entered the Indian market after more than 16 years, delivering its Stelcatec corrosion-resistant system
for trial application on cranes at the Port of Chennai.
The manufacturer, recognised across Europe for its high-performance protective coatings used in ports and shipyards, has supplied its Stelcatec LPR primer and Stelcatec LTC topcoat for use on RTGs and ship-to-shore cranes. The field trial begins this month in partnership with Kaptel Overseas, Steelpaint’s newly appointed regional representative based in New Delhi.
“After many years away from India, we are very pleased to be back with a trusted local partner. Our Stelcatec system has delivered outstanding results in Germany’s major seaports, and we are confident it can help operators in Chennai and across the sub-Continent extend asset life and reduce maintenance costs,” has stated Frank Müller, Director of Steelpaint.
The Stelcatec system has already proven itself on ship-to-shore cranes and container-handling machinery in Hamburg, Wilhelmshaven and Cuxhaven, offering durability in demanding marine environments. Designed to combine ease of application with strong resistance to corrosion, it has gained favour among European terminal operators seeking longer maintenance intervals.
“The Indian market is price sensitive, but we believe our field trial will show that using high-performance protective coatings is an investment rather than an expense. Extending intervals between maintenance cycles means less downtime, greater safety and better operational efficiency. Being present at INMEX India is important for us. It shows that Steelpaint is committed to the Indian market and ready to engage directly with port authorities, terminal operators, ship managers and shipyards,” has added Frank Müller.
India’s expanding port sector is pursuing similar benefits. Harsh operating conditions — including salinity, heat and humidity — accelerate the deterioration of steel structures, creating challenges for both shipowners and terminal operators. Equipment availability is a critical factor in safeguarding schedules.
“India is investing heavily in its maritime sector, with new projects such as the Vizhinjam International Seaport and a $1 trillion infrastructure roadmap that will transform port operations nationwide. The government’s Indian Ports Bill, 2025 has also reinforced the sector’s focus on modernisation and sustainability. As such, we see strong potential for Steelpaint in India as its coatings technology not only improves asset durability and availability but can withstand the toughest maritime conditions,” has commented the CEO, Nishanth Maliyekkal.