ShieldCrete® International has established a significant presence in Papua New Guinea through a strategic joint venture between Malaysia-based ShieldCrete® International and local partner Workforce South Pacific, creating ShieldCrete® South Pacific (SCSP). This advanced coatings company operates major facilities in Port Moresby and brings over 30 years of specialised experience in abrasive blasting, advanced coatings, and polyurea applications for the heavy industry, mining, and oil and gas sectors.
State-of-the-Art Facilities and Mining Focus
SCSP operates PNG's largest indoor paint and blast facilities in Port Moresby, positioning itself as a key player in the region's industrial coatings sector.
"This is one of the premium standards because it has the largest indoor blast and paint facility, which we believe sets a record in PNG," explains SCSP Director Nigel Marshall.
ShieldCrete® South Pacific has already established a strong footprint in PNG's mining industry, working at prominent sites including Simberi, OK Tedi, and Hidden Valley mines.
Addressing Critical Industry Challenges
PNG's mining operations face unique environmental challenges, from tropical humidity to constant battles against corrosion and asset degradation, which can significantly impact equipment lifespan and operational efficiency. ShieldCrete® South Pacific provides specialised protective coatings that address these challenges head-on, offering solutions for various plant operations and underground mining environments. Their coatings are designed to prevent rust, reduce maintenance requirements, and significantly decrease application times, ultimately minimising costly shutdown hours for mining operations.
In an exclusive interview, SCSP Managing Director Mike McGrory detailed the company’s mission and strategic approach in delivering advanced coating solutions to tackle operational challenges across PNG’s mining and commercial sectors.
“Our coatings can dramatically reduce shutdown hours and maintenance costs,” explains Mr McGrory. “This translates to improved productivity and better returns for mining operations across PNG.”
Diverse Coating Solutions
ShieldCrete® South Pacific offers a wide range of protective coatings, including solutions for corrosion resistance, wear protection, and fire resistance for multiple substrate types. Beyond mining, the company has completed projects for major clients such as Harbourside and has expanded into retail sectors, including supermarkets and vehicle coating applications.
Key products include:
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BeltShield® for conveyor belt repairs
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ShieldPoly Advanced Polyurea Coatings for impact- and corrosion-resistant surfaces
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ShieldPatch™ X1 for quick, hand-applied repairs on steel, concrete, and rubber components
Concrete protection is also a focus, with ShieldSeal and ShieldFoam preventing moisture ingress and long-term deterioration. Fast-curing formulations and customised solutions ensure operations remain productive, safe, and cost-efficient.
Sustainability and International Standards
SCSP places a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility, adhering to ISO-compliant manufacturing processes and using recycled products for blasting operations. All products are sourced from internationally recognised suppliers and promote sustainable practices by extending the life of structures and reducing natural resource consumption.
Global Expertise, Local Presence
The company leverages technical knowledge and resources from its global network, spanning South Africa, New Zealand, Europe, Indonesia, the Philippines, and the Middle East. Its team includes experienced chemists and technical experts who specialise in developing custom solutions for specific industrial challenges.
Current Growth and Future Vision
SCSP is currently managing significant projects, including a 4,000-square-metre roofing project for Food Prime, and is rapidly expanding, offering over 28 job opportunities in PNG. Beyond employment, SCSP is developing comprehensive training programmes and community engagement initiatives, contributing to local skills development in the specialised coatings industry.
With its parent company’s 104-year history, European manufacturing facilities, and €400 million annual revenue, ShieldCrete® South Pacific combines global expertise with local commitment to provide comprehensive services—including stocking, selling, training, and project execution for PNG's industrial sector—while maintaining a strong local presence.
The company’s commitment to sustainability aligns with PNG's environmental priorities, utilising ISO-compliant manufacturing processes and recycled materials where possible. Their products meet international standards and are specifically adapted for PNG's unique operating conditions.
As PNG's mining sector continues to expand, ShieldCrete® South Pacific is well-positioned to support this growth with innovative protection solutions. Its ability to provide comprehensive services from product supply and training to full project execution makes it an attractive partner for both established mining operations and new developments.
With major mining projects on the horizon and increased focus on operational efficiency, ShieldCrete® South Pacific’s specialised expertise in asset protection and maintenance reduction is likely to play a crucial role in PNG's continued mining sector success.
