Eptec awarded $66 m contract for blast and paint work on Collins subs

Engineering firm Eptec Group has been awarded a $66 million, six-year contract with ASC to provide blasting and painting services as part of the Collins Class submarines’ full-cycle dockings in Adelaide.

According to a statement from ASC on Tuesday, the contract would see Eptec’s blast services used to clean components and systems on the submarines, with painting services to include anti-corrosion protection for hulls and internal structures.

“As part of the Royal Australian Navy’s program to build sovereign capabilities, Eptec is proud to work in partnership with ASC on this important project,” said Eptec CEO Geoff Knox, who added that over 100 workers would be enlisted for each docking to perform the work.

Adelaide is the location of ASC’s two-year full-cycle dockings for the Collins Class, with mid-cycle and intermediate dockings carried out by ASC at Henderson, Western Australia. Full-cycle dockings deliver upgrades and deep maintenance after each decade of service at sea by a submarine.

Eptec is the preferred blast and paint supplier for the next two full cycle dockings, with the option to extend for a third.

“It is critical work being done in Adelaide, with Australian suppliers, to support our national security,” said ASC CEO Stuart Whiley.

“Strong local supply chains are important for ASC and the Collins program. Partnerships like this increase ease of access to services, while supporting Australia’s industrial resilience.”

Picture: New contractors Eptec’s Theo Kaldis – Blaster and Painter, and Mitchell Horne – Senior Project Engineer (ASC)

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