Protection standards for your offshore installations

What is NORSOK M-501?

NORSOK is a series of standards developed by the Norwegian petroleum industry for oil and gas companies. The NORSOK M-501 standard provides surface preparation and protective coating requirements for offshore installations and their facilities. To help you protect your assets optimally, the standard mandates a series of systems based on generic coating type and minimum scheme thicknesses.

We have a range of resources available to help you navigate the NORSOK M-501 standard.

NORSOK systems guide

System 1

Coating system 1 applies to structural steel and equipment exteriors, vessels piping and uninsulated valves exposed to operating temperatures less than 120°C (248°F).

System 2

System 2 applies to areas with operating temperatures above 120°C/248°F and/or areas under insulation etc.

System 3

System 3 applies to internal surfaces of carbon steel tanks and vessels, such as potable water tanks, ballast tanks, process vessels and more.                                    

System 4

Coating system 4 applies to walkways, escape routes and lay-down areas.

System 5

System 5 applies to epoxy-based fire protection (5A) and cement-based fire protection (5B).

System 6

System 6 includes other metals where painting is required, including stainless steel and aluminium, hot dip galvanized steel and insulated stainless steel piping and vessels.

System 7

System 7 applies to submerged carbon and stainless steel, including the splash zone.

System 8

System 8 applies to structural carbon steel with a maximum operating temperature of 80°C (176°F) in internal, fully dry and well-ventilated areas.

System 9

System 9 applies to bulk-supplied carbon steel valves with operating temperatures up to 150°C (302°F).

Downloads and resources

The complete guide to NORSOK M-501

Get the complete guide on Hempel NORSOK coating systems, including frequently asked questions.

Introduction to NORSOK M-501

Get an understanding of NORSOK M-501 and why Hempel provides systems that specifically correspond to the standard.

FAQ NORSOK M-501

See a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions about the NORSOK M-501 standard and each Hempel NORSOK coating system.

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