MPI Update

Get to Know the Redesigned MPI 500 Series

Using the wrong coating system can create catastrophic failures, especially with fuel tanks and pipelines, waterfront steel structures, steel pilings, and other mission-critical infrastructure. MPI developed the 500 Series of Industrial Performance Standards in collaboration with industry experts and the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to improve safety and establish consistent, rigorous product performance testing criteria for industrial assets. Here’s what you need to know about these redesigned standards, including new opportunities to get involved and get listed on MPI’s Approved Products List (APL).

The Evolution of the 500 Series
MPI's partnership with the United States Navy's Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) led to the development of the 500 Series, which adapted a series of Navy standards to the MPI standards and testing format. This comprehensive set of verified standards for coatings was developed to protect critical assets, including interior carbon-steel fuel tanks, auxiliary handling equipment, welded fuel tank interior structures, steel sheet piling, and waterfront steel structures.

What Makes the 500 Series Different
The MPI 500 Series is in the process of being updated to meet the demanding requirements of NAVFAC and DoD mission-critical projects. The new, rigorous testing requirements make 500 Series products the preferred choice for any project that requires reliable performance and an extended coating lifecycle. 

The standards also include material-based requirements to protect personal and environmental safety. Products must be free of lead and chromate, benzene, chlorinated compounds, and ethylene-based glycol ethers and their acetates. Maximum VOC limits and flash point requirements ensure these coatings meet safety and environmental standards without sacrificing durability.

These 500 Series Standards have been completed in the last year:

• MPI 505: Interior Steel Fuel Tank Coating
• MPI 510: Low-VOC, Self-Priming Splash Zone Coating
• MPI 515 (formerly two standards, now combined): Non-Zinc, Flexible, Epoxy Barrier Coating and Fluoropolyurethane Exterior Topcoat, Steel Structures, Atmospheric Exposure

Standards incorporate rigorous performance testing that includes impact testing, six-month immersion testing in a matrix of fuel and water testing mixtures, and other requirements including adhesion and flexibility to verify performance.

Stay updated on 500 Series progress, including standards currently in development, at the 500 Series webpage.

New Opportunities for Manufacturers
Starting with MPI 505 in June 2026, an MPI 500 Series listing will be required to be selected for DoD coatings jobs. The DoD is expected to spend over $500 billion in deferred maintenance in the coming years, and many global facilities will also be specifying MPI 500 Series coating systems to take full advantage of the time and cost savings of using approved products from the MPI APL.

The MPI 500 Series creates new opportunities to demonstrate product performance in industrial applications. Whether you produce epoxy systems for fuel tanks, protective coatings for waterfront structures, or specialty coatings for splash zones, MPI 500 Series product testing provides a pathway to the MPI Approved Products List (APL) and increased global reach.

Get Involved: Two Ways to Participate

1. Help Develop Standards
The MPI Standards Community has formed a dedicated Community of Interest to review and update the MPI 500 Series. These meetings take place in-person at industry conferences and virtually throughout the year. Your expertise can help shape the future of industrial coatings standards. Your input matters! To learn more about joining the 500 Series Community of Interest, contact Terrance Mayes at terrance.mayes@mpi.net.

2. Get Your Products Listed
If you manufacture industrial coatings that protect fuel tanks, waterfront steel, or related infrastructure, consider having your products tested and listed under the 500 Series standards. Visit www.mpi.net/500/ to learn more about the testing requirements, application process, and the benefits of listing your products on the MPI Approved Products List.

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